Continuing on my comments in the last issue of this article concerning the methodology used to attempt to determine the meaning of a biblical texts, it must be reported that biblical scholars do not agree on the value and use of the methodology that I described for determining the meaning of a given passage. The problem involved is two-fold: to determine the meaning of the apostolic writing in its original historical context, and to discern its significance for today in the internal life of the Church and for the Christian mission to the world. Strictly speaking, the first aspect concerning the original message that is communicated by a biblical author is, in a way, a scientific problem. In seeking its solution, exegetes are divided only by their selection of different critical methods used to study the text: for example, literary and form criticism, redaction criticism or structuralism. Most exegetes today employ a combination of these tools and their differences concern the particular accent they place upon one or another of these diverse methods.

So, as you might guess, it is truly very difficult to determine the exact meaning of the biblical texts since their authors were influenced by many different things. We do not believe that God’s inspiration is seen as “dictation”. Most serious disagreement occurs when the exegete attempts to interpret the doctrinal content of a biblical passage and to elaborate its significance for Christian life and faith. And yet, the Fathers of the Church all used various biblical texts to focus their teachings and used those texts in the formulation of dogma and doctrine. This is one reason why dogma always has been the product of consensus of bishops in Council. The Church believes that when the leadership of the Church is joined in debate about religious dogma and doctrine, the resultant meaning is guided by the Holy Spirit. Dogma cannot be generated by just one bishop.

The Eastern Church has always maintained that truth comes from a synodal approach. That is why the first seven Councils are consider to be the foundation of our Christian faith. Why? Because the leadership of the whole Church participated in those Councils.

It is because of the problems involved in interpreting biblical passages that Protestantism emerged with its approach to the Bible. All biblical literature was produced in a historical-social context which helped form the literature.