Tavis Bohlinger
A good biblical scholar or theologian knows well the primary literature and the original languages.
~Craig A. Evans, John Bisagno Distinguished Professor of Christian Origins, Houston Baptist University
Craig Evans on “What makes a good Biblical Scholar or Theologian?”
Guest Author
Didaktikos
As a former student, in my opinion, Dr Evans has the exceptional blend of scholar and theologian. Thank you Dr Evans.
God Bless you, your family and ministry.
Hi Craig,
In the Dutch Reformed Church that is considered a requirement to be ordained as a minister. It is my experience that it being educated in these does not always result in good scholars and theologians. I believe it is a strong base to launch a passionate lifelong student that will become a scholar/theologian. This means sweat and tears to read and re-read these primary literature responsibly, within context and in a way that honours these primary literature for what they really are…poetry, ancient “history”, gospels, letters, etc. I presume that is what you mean by “knows well”. To know well requires a continuous interaction with these texts. the rest lies in the interpretation and attempt to make sense off all for yourself .i.e. owning it in such a way that it influences you.
Your comment brief but revealing. I am still awaiting in bated breath the release of the findings from the manuscripts that was uncovered from the mummy masks!
Andre,
Thanks for you delightful comment. I agree with you wholeheartedly. A “passionate lifelong student” of Scripture produces scholars and theologians. I consider myself an aspiring theologian because I have not mastered the original languages (e.g. Greek), but I will forever be a “passionate lifelong student” of Scripture.
Blessings,
It’s lovely to hear from the key people that you’ve gotten comments from. I have hoped for at least a few paragraphs, however. A single sentence or two is a little disappointing. Clickbait, almost.
Best advice I have read so far! Not easy to get there especially as much of education diverts attention to an ever growing body of (often less relevant) secondary literature. Thank you.
for some reason I never got that free book you offered during email setup
Hi Rob, I’ve sent you an email with instructions how to download.