Book Critic: Stéphan Weilbach
Introduction
Ever increasingly people are asking or being asked about the Bible. There are so many facets to consider when speaking of such a large library of works, formulated in one book. With that said, at the heart of the discussion lies inerrancy. An easy search of the word would only yield the tip of the iceberg. In that same search, the trails of a schism are evident. The schism then, not as wide or dire as one would think. This is then where a helpful book to explain a little bit more on the topic would be handy. Fortunately, Zondervan's Five Views on Biblical Inerrancy, was birthed a few years ago.
Summary of Its Contents
As most people would agree, introductions are important. No different here. This book's premise is clearly explained and delineated in the introduction. This is also very necessary to fully understand the rest of the book. The following five chapters consist of one author’s essay on the topic and the other four author’s responses. Therefore, five views, hence the title, are given on a certain topic, all varying in conviction and belief. This book takes inerrancy and separates it into three main focuses. The first part discusses the history and common perspectives on inerrancy. The second part discusses inerrancy in an international sense, that is non-Western ideas of inerrancy and the importance thereof. The third section discusses recasting or renewing inerrancy for present times. All three of these parts are then integral to discussing, as a whole, inerrancy.
Some crucial points also discussed in the book, are each author’s views on: a) God and his relationship to his creatures, b) the doctrine of inspiration, c) the nature of Scripture, and d) the nature of truth. These form foundational concepts surrounding how people view inerrancy. It also kindles an introspective discussion of one's own thoughts and beliefs on these points.
There is much to say on the topic, this book does well to thoroughly explain and dissect why the authors believe what they do. Then in response to that the other authors explain at length how they view the same topic, whether it differs entirely, or only on certain parts.
Critical Evaluation
This book is excellently written, mindfully crafted and presented logically. This book discusses five different views on a topic and the authors present their work in a manner that is not offensive, attacking another or petty. This is extremely uncommon in present day discussions that differ on a topic. There is a call to understand and love, while still holding true to what each author believes. The only thing to be aware of would be that it’s a very weighty book, a lot of thought and focus has to be expended to fully grasp all that it is written. This is truly a book that serves either people that question the inerrancy of the Bible themselves, or if they have people in their lives that question them about it.
Conclusion
This was truly a fantastic, and challenging read. One both enjoys, and is forced to think hard. That to me is a winning recipe. There is a clear line which is followed and not much said off topic which allows for an easier read. I would recommend this book in a heartbeat. There is a strong sense of good theological and hermeneutical thought processes that each author adopts and showcases. This is great to learn from. I will end with a section of this book “This book is not an end in itself but a means to and end, that end being a charitable, fruitful conversation designed to enrich the life and faith of evangelicals.”
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