The place of women and the perils of biblical interpretation

Abstract

With regard to exegesis of the Bible, Niall Martin argues persuasively that we pause to think objectively about whether or not the Bible contains only explicit teaching and instruction with regard to life. Accepting that there are, of course, explicit teachings in the New Testament, he argues that the Scriptures can also be used to illuminate our thinking rather than to provide for regulated conduct. For example, with regard to the Law, Martin juxtaposes the fascinating story of Ruth with the approach of the Book of Ezra. What emerges is a much greater emphasis on contrast or dialectic in our Scriptural exegesis.