Prima Scriptura: An Introduction to New Testament Interpretation

by N. Clayton Croy

In this volume an expert teacher of the Bible provides an introduction to New Testament exegesis that will appeal to students across the spectrum. Clayton Croy begins with the preparation of the interpreter, proceeds to analysis of the text, and concludes with appropriation of the message of Scripture in the context of modern faith communities. He combines a step-by-step plan for historical exegesis with substantive discussion of broader hermeneutical issues. The book interacts with recent scholarship and is academically rigorous but is written in an engaging style, incorporating anecdotes, humor, scriptural illustrations, and examples of the practical payoff of disciplined interpretation. Each chapter includes discussion questions and suggestions for further reading.

Genres: Theology

289 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 1, 2011

Reviews

[Ethan Highfill · Rating 3 out of 5]

Croy had several helpful exercises and lots of good pointers for biblical exegesis and its application. But much of the information in this book seemed a little basic. As a textbook for a class, it was generally helpful. But I feel that there are probably several other and better resources that I would have benefited more from.

[Paul Dubuc · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've read a few introductions to New Testament study and interpretation. I can't imagine one being better than this one. Written as a seminary text book, it should also be quite valuable to, and essential reading for, anyone who teaches or preaches from the Bible, or who wishes to seriously study it and apply its teaching in individual and community life. Certainly anyone in this position or with this intent should understand the things that this book explains about interpreting the New Testament.

The core of the book is the second chapter on analyzing the text of the New Testament. This is a very good introduction to the various forms of writing found in Scripture and how each are best studied and interpreted, along with good methods, resources and considerations for effective and fruitful study. This chapter covers the technical aspects of studying the New Testament very well. Good treatments of these can also be found in other books of this kind.

Where Dr. Croy's book really stands out, in my opinion, is in the other parts of the book. Don't skip the preface and introduction. They definitely help the reader understand the author's perspective and get the most out of the book. Chapter one, on analyzing and preparing the interpreter helps the reader consider the effect that his or her own predispositions have on their understanding of the New Testament. For those who consider the Bible to be in any way authoritative for them, being a 'virtuous reader' of the text through reflective and prayerful preparation is important. The third chapter, "Evaluating and Contemporizing the Text," deals with very important issues that confront present day interpreters and teachers of the Bible. There is an extensive and valuable discussion of the roles and relationships that tradition, reason, and experience have along with scripture. The final chapter, Appropriating the Text and Transforming the Community," adds the very important message that "The work of Scripture is not complete until interpreters and their communities respond to its message and are transformed." Unless we are prepared to be changed by what we study and understand, the effort that we expend in doing so will be largely wasted.

I highly recommend this book for any serious student of the Bible.

[Ron W. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although I am not a Bible scholar, I did pick this book up after completing a Masters degree in Religion. I found it very helpful in learning how to read the New Testament in its proper context without having to go through all the process of learning 1st century Greek. I recommend this book to anyone wishing to engage in any real interpretation and insight into the gospels at an introductory level.

[Devin Morris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Croy is of the Wesleyan tradition and ultimately reveals this in the latter part of the book as to show that tradition, reason, and (lesser so) experience all play a part in ones hermeneutic. “Prima Scriptura” agrees with “sola scriptura” in every way, yet recognizes these other three ancillary tools of interpretation.
I have read Virkler and Ayayo, Hayes and Holiday, McKenzie and Hayes, and Osborne’s books on hermeneutics - and Croy is my favorite. While not nearly as thorough as Osborne, Croy is readable and relatable. Maybe it’s just after reading Osborne who is exhaustive to a fault, Croy was much lighter and I felt more to the point.
The one downside maybe that Osborne has a really detailed section on sentence diagramming that is indispensable while Croy lacks any visuals on the matter.

Overall, as you see, Croy gets five stars.

[Clint Boyd · Rating 4 out of 5]

One of two required readings (of this type) for Advanced New Testament Exegesis. The other was Blomberg's handbook. Both are great. Croy takes on a more casual, engaging tone, and is very helpful. I recommend reading both. Prima Scriptura is obviously titled to take a jab at Sola Scriptura, the notion the Reformers named such to show their allegiance to scripture over tradition. Well, says Croy, that's great, but tradition too plays an important role in obtaining and understanding the canon, so its better to speak of the primacy of scripture, working as a foundation below tradition, reason, and experience. Good book.

[Daniel Crouch · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an excellent introduction to hermeneutics that contains interesting discussions often neglected in interpretive primers.