Sanctifying Interpretation

In this constructive monograph, Pentecostal theologian Chris Green offers an alternative to the standard Evangelical models of Scripture and scriptural hermeneutics. Instead of beginning with the usual epistemological questions about how the biblical texts can be understood as God’s Word, Green’s work begins with soteriological concerns: how does God use the Scripture in readying the church to fulfill her calling? And how are we to read the Scripture so that we are drawn along by the Spirit into Christlikeness? Green explores the profound and dynamic interrelatedness of vocation, holiness, and the interpretation of Scripture. Through close readings of biblical texts and searching engagement with the church’s spiritual and theological traditions, he develops a model that creates room for God to use the always difficult and sometimes overwhelming work of interpreting of the Scriptures to form the people of God for faithful and sanctifying participation in the divine mission. This Second Edition is substantially revised throughout and includes more than 50 pages of new material, which enhances the discussion at many points. Also new are biblical interpretations that illustrate the heart of Green’s significant and engaging proposal.