Episode Details

Genesis 18:16–33; Matthew 11:20–24

Interpretations of Scripture are not just right and wrong, although at times such categories are useful and necessary. But perhaps ultimately a more adequate way of judging our readings is the way we judge works of art - according to the standards of beauty. To what extent do our readings reveal the intricacy, the wondrous quality of what the biblical writers call ma'asei Adonai, "the works of the LORD"? To what extent do they draw us toward something, a way of being that is - to use Paul's language - more "lovely," more "gracious," more "excellent," "noble," "worthy of praise" (Phil 4:8)? - Ellen F. Davis and Richard B. Hays, The Art of Reading Scripture