Reading Scripture Like the Early Church: Seven Insights from the Church Fathers to Help You Understand the Bible

In this brief yet penetrating book, Dr. James Papandrea reveals what the early Church Fathers actually taught and believed about the Holy Scriptures as well as how they read, understood, and interpreted the Word of God. He explains the process by which the books of the Bible were selected and demonstrates the harmoniousness and complementarity of the Gospels.

With Dr. Papandrea's guidance, you will see how Scripture attests to the truth of the sacraments, Catholic doctrines, and the hierarchy of the Church founded by Christ. You will come to understand how the Church Fathers differentiated the "literal" and "figurative" interpretations of Scripture (it will likely surprise you!) . You'll come to appreciate as never before the multiple layers of biblical meaning, from the historical and prophetic to the allegorical, apocalyptic, eschatological, and typological.

Dr. Papandrea further explains:


* How Scripture was written and why the Bible is infallible and reliable
* What is meant by "divine inspiration"
* Why revelation is dynamic and why authentic scriptural interpretation cannot contradict doctrine
* How our approach to reading the Old Testament differs from that of reading the New
* The spiritual senses of Scripture and how the Old Testament is fulfilled in Christ
* The importance of understanding the fullness of Scripture and the dangers in taking passages out of context



In addition, Dr. Papandrea provides tips for biblical interpretation and advice on how to choose the most accurate Bible translation. Most significantly, you will recognize how reading Scripture is a relational exercise that helps you encounter our Lord in His divinity and His humanity and enter into the mystery of salvation.

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James L. Papandrea is Professor of Church History and Historical Theology at Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary. He is a former Protestant minister and revert to the Catholic Faith, with a Ph.D. in the History and Theology of the Early Christian Church. He is a speaker, a musician, and the author of several books, including Reading the Church Fathers, What Really Happens After We Die, From Star Wars to Superman, and How Christianity Saved Civilization, all available from Sophia Institute Press.

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