When Is Theology "Biblical"?—Some Reflections

Abstract

In contrast to the ongoing hermeneutical discussions of "biblical theology," this article looks at some theological studies in order to find out how "biblical" theology can be. They are not representative, but merely chosen to gauge the flow. Obviously the role of Scripture as norma normans, or as the "soul of theology," is expressed in quite different ways. The perspectives of exegetes and of dogmatic theologians produce a wide variety in theological writings. The examples also challenge readers to examine their own use of Scripture, whatever be the level of discourse, academic or pastoral.