2.9 - Historical Standpoint
January 10, 2005 | Comments: 2Biblical Hermeneutics Part Second Chapter 9
The historical component of the grammatico-historical method of interpretation is an essential element of biblical hermeneutics. Discerning the historical standpoint consists of studying to determine who the author was, along with the time, place and circumstances of his writing. In many cases the author’s design and purpose are intimately connected with his immediate situation and the particular events which prompted his composition. Notable examples of this are many of David’s psalms, and Paul’s letters.
A broad knowledge of geography, history and antiquities is widely applicable in ascertaining the historical standpoint of writer. This is coupled with whatever internal evidence can be gained from the text in hand. With this information the interpreter undertakes the difficult task of disengaging in thought from his own time and place in order to imaginatively adopt the time and place of the writer.
Terry demonstrates the meticulous application of these principles in several cases, notably in discussing the date of the Apocalypse of John. Though he doesn’t make an absolutely conclusive case, the preponderance of his evidence and analysis suggests a date prior to the fall of Jerusalem in A.D. 70.
Comments
As your mentor I have very little to give you when it comes to determining the dates of authorship. What would be important about the precises dating of John’s Apocalypse in relation to the fall of Jerusalem in A.D. 70? Would a certain eschatalogical view blur or system crash if the date was set prior to or following? Nathan.
nathan on January 28, 2005 at 07:52 AM
If the Apocalypse was written prior to A.D. 70, that would seem to me to significantly strengthen the preterist position. Conversely, a date after the fall of Jerusalem greatly weakens that view. If the judgment described as ‘soon to take take place’ is indeed the fall of Jerusalem, then a date of authorship after those events have occurred is problematic.
andrew on February 04, 2005 at 11:42 PM
