- The Genre of Gospel and the Use of Parables in the Gospels
- The Genre of Gospel and the Use of Parables in the Gospels:
a. According to IBI (chapter 10), “the concepts of thinking horizontally and
vertically … summarize the task of interpreting the Gospels’ unique blend of
history and theology” (514). In terms of the interpretation of the Gospels,
contrast below horizontal and vertical thinking, according to IBI (see 514-18).
Which approach takes priority over the other, and why? How do the authors of
IBI evaluate the use of redaction criticism in the interpretation of the Gospels? Compose 250-300 words
What is the significance of the concept of the kingdom of God for the
Gospels, according to the authors of IBI. Compose one paragraph (250-300
words):
c. According to the authors of IBI, “an appreciation of the parables as narrative
fiction. … [Parables] encourage readers to identify with one or more of [the]
characters and experience the plot of the story from their various points of
view” (525); “readers should consider each parable from the perspective of
each of the main characters” (526). State below two of the problems identified
by the authors of IBI in the history of the interpretation of the parables (524-
25) that preceded their recommendation of the interpretative guidelines above. Compose 250-300 word
Full Answer Section
BI argues that both approaches are crucial for a comprehensive understanding of the Gospels. Horizontal thinking provides the necessary historical grounding, while vertical thinking unlocks the timeless theological truths. However, the authors suggest that vertical thinking ultimately takes priority. The Gospels are not simply historical accounts; they are theological interpretations of Jesus' life and teachings, written to proclaim the good news of salvation. Therefore, the primary aim of interpretation should be to understand the theological message, even as it is rooted in history.
IBI evaluates redaction criticism, which analyzes how the Gospel writers shaped and edited their sources to convey their theological perspectives, cautiously. While acknowledging its potential value in understanding the unique contributions of each Gospel writer, they warn against its tendency to overemphasize the subjective intentions of the authors at the expense of the historical reliability of the Gospels. IBI emphasizes the importance of grounding interpretation in the historical context and the overall message of the Gospels, rather than solely focusing on the supposed biases of the redactors.
1b. The Kingdom of God in the Gospels:
The concept of the kingdom of God is central to the Gospels, serving as the overarching theme that shapes Jesus' ministry and teachings. According to IBI, the kingdom of God represents God's reign and rule, not simply as a future reality but also as a present and active force in the world through Jesus. It is not a geographical territory but a transformative power that challenges existing social structures, overturns conventional wisdom, and calls individuals to repentance and faith. Jesus' proclamation of the kingdom is not merely a verbal announcement but a demonstration through his miracles, healings, and teachings. He embodies the kingdom, revealing its nature and inviting people to participate in it. The kingdom is both "already" and "not yet," present in Jesus' ministry but also anticipated in its fullness in the future. This tension between the present reality and the future hope of God's reign is a key dynamic in the Gospels. Understanding the kingdom of God is essential for interpreting Jesus' parables, his ethical teachings, and his understanding of his own identity and mission. It is the lens through which the Gospel writers present Jesus and the good news he proclaimed.
1c. Problems in Parable Interpretation:
IBI identifies several problems in the historical interpretation of parables. Two prominent issues are:
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Allegorization: This approach treats the elements of a parable as symbols representing abstract concepts or figures. For example, the sower in the Parable of the Sower might be interpreted as representing God, the seeds as representing different types of people, and the soil as representing different responses to the gospel. IBI criticizes this method for often imposing meanings on the parables that are not supported by the text itself and for neglecting the narrative context of the stories. Allegorization often loses sight of the central point the parable is making, becoming a search for hidden meanings not intended by Jesus.
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Moralization: This approach focuses on extracting moral lessons from the parables, often reducing them to simple rules for ethical behavior. For example, the Parable of the Good Samaritan might be interpreted as simply teaching us to be kind to our neighbors. IBI argues that while parables certainly have ethical implications, their primary purpose is not to teach moral lessons but to reveal something about the nature of God, the kingdom, and the human response to God. Moralization tends to flatten the richness and complexity of the parables, ignoring their theological depth and their challenge to conventional ways of thinking.
Sample Answer
1a. Horizontal and Vertical Thinking in Gospel Interpretation:
IBI describes "horizontal thinking" in Gospel interpretation as focusing on the historical context of the text – the events, people, and culture of first-century Palestine. It seeks to understand what the Gospel writers intended to communicate to their original audience. "Vertical thinking," on the other hand, emphasizes the theological dimension, exploring the deeper meaning and significance of the text for all times and places. It looks at the text's message about God, salvation, and the Christian life.