An Introduction to Classical Evangelical Hermeneutics : A Guide to the History and Practice of Biblical Interpretation

by Mal Couch (Editor)

Time-proven principles of biblical interpretation such as historical setting, grammatical setting, and contextual setting are discussed.

Genres: Christian, Theology

376 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 30, 2000

Reviews

[Jack Lamb · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a collection essays about interpreting the Bible. Many assume the Bible can say anything you want it to say. This is true, but only if you abandon the literal meaning of the Scripture. Each of the essays addresses taking a literal, historical, grammatical approach to the Bible. This is the natural understanding - it takes the text at face value. Normal rules of grammar allow the text to clearly communicate a message to a particular people in a particular time.

Couch discusses the origins of various other methods of interpretation (allegorical/spiritual) and points out their weaknesses. A strong case is made for rejecting the covenant theology system and embracing a dispensational approach.

[Eric · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fairly standard rules of interpretation. However, the author continued, at virtually every turn, to criticize Reformed interpretation principles and conclusions. This was very distracting and undercut the force of the positive arguments being made. The books would probably be most useful for a study of millenialism and the relationship between the kingdom of God and the church. I would not recommend this book as the first book read for hermeneutics. But, as one book among several on the issue of hermeneutics, the book would be somewhat useful.

[Colby Jackson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Next time I read it, I’ll probably give it 4 stars. I think right now, it’s not exactly why I’m looking for. I need more study on the presuppositions for hermeneutics rather than “here is the dispensational view and the covenentalist view clearly doesn’t hold to this.”

It was helpful to see the history of dispensational hermeneutics throughout history.

It had some not very convincing arguments, but overall did the job on demonstrating the beliefs of dispensationalism and had a few rock solid points. I’d recommend for a layman in dispy church for sure if he’s struggling with basic Bible reading practices and is unfamiliar with the different views.