Inspiration and Incarnation: Evangelicals and the Problem of the Old Testament

This study from Peter Enns is an important reconsideration of evangelical perspectives on scriptural authority, particularly in light of recent Old Testament scholarship. His concern is to help readers whose faith has been challenged by critical studies. He suggests that evangelicals need to move beyond a merely defensive doctrine of Scripture and develop a positive view that seriously engages contemporary critical scholarship. Enns looks at three broad issues raised by biblical scholars that seem to threaten traditional views of Scripture: Parallels with ancient Near Eastern literature that call into question Scripture's uniqueness; Theological diversity in the Old Testament that calls into question Scripture's trustworthiness; Unusual uses of the Old Testament by New Testament writers that call into question Scripture's authority. Enns concludes by offering an incarnational model of Scripture--one that recognizes and affirms both the divine and human aspects of the Bible. This work includes a glossary of technical terms and annotated bibliographies for further reading and will make an excellent starting point for those wishing to develop an informed doctrine of Scripture.