In this episode I talk with Dr. Drew Holland about his new book The Place of the Past: Historical Criticism’s Role in Biblical Studies. We explore the role of history in Biblical interpretation. He defines both historical criticism and the goals of history as a discipline. We then examine how the Bible has been interpreted throughout the ages, starting with the ancient conception of history and going through Patristic, medieval, and modern methods of interpretation. He explains how historical criticism became more prominent through the Renaissance, Reformation, and Enlightenment and why it became the dominant paradigm of interpretation in the 20th century. He then explains the pushback against historical criticism of the Bible both within and outside of the church, particularly by postmodernism, and how historical readings have endured critique. We then discuss the relationship between history and theology, the proper role of history in Biblical interpretation, and how historical criticism benefits the church.

Media Referenced:

The Place of the Past: https://a.co/d/daEDeFS

Drew on X: @RevDrewHolland

Contact Drew: [email protected]

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