Hermeneutics Of Doctrine In A Learning Church

Hermeneutics of Doctrine in a Learning Church

In Hermeneutics of Doctrine in a Learning Church, Gregory A. Ryan offers an account of the dynamic, multi-dimensional task of interpreting Christian tradition. He integrates doctrinal hermeneutics, the ‘pastorality of doctrine’ exemplified by Pope Francis, and a systematic appraisal of Receptive Ecumenism to provide an original perspective on this task. The book focuses on three contemporary Catholic theologians (Francis Schüssler Fiorenza, Ormond Rush, and Paul D. Murray), highlighting how each recognises the dynamic interaction of multiple perspectives involved in authentic ecclesial interpretation. Christian tradition, whether passed on in teaching, scripture, practices, or structures, needs to be continually received and interpreted. This book offers theologians, ecumenists, and church workers a fresh model for receptive ecclesial learning in which doctrinal hermeneutics and pastoral realities are dynamically integrated.

Biblical Hermeneutics

The Study of Theology

The Study of Theology address two major concerns -- the place of biblical hermeneutics and practical theology. The author discusses the hermeneutical implications of biblical, historical, systematic, and practical theology and presents a case for the relationship between exegesis and the other theological disciplines. However, the relationship between hermeneutics and practical theology is also essential. According to the author, "the traditional forms of theology and preaching frequently fail the tests of exegesis and contemporary theologizing while, at the same time, most contemporary theology and exegesis fails to address directly the needs of the church." Muller presents a case for the structure of hermeneutics and argues that it is essential to the church because "theological training as a whole . . . ought to reflect the life of the church and be of value to the life of the church."