Includes bibliographical references (p. 337-338) and indexes.

The search for meaning : initial directions -- Understanding the text : meaning in literary genres -- Responding to the text : meaning and application -- The search for meaning : further challenges.

This standard hermeneutics text has been updated and expanded, allowing the authors to fine-tune their discussions on fundamental interpretive topics. Four new chapters have been added that address more recent controversial issues. The coauthors hold different viewpoints on many topics addressed, making for vibrant, thought-provoking dialogue on this crucial discipline. Since its publication in 1994, An Introduction to Biblical Hermeneutics has become a standard text for a generation of students, pastors, and serious lay readers. This second edition has been substantially updated and expanded, allowing the authors to fine-tune and enrich their discussions on fundamental interpretive topics. In addition, four new chapters have been included that address more recent controversial issues: The role of biblical theology in interpretation; How to deal with contemporary questions not directly addressed in the Bible; The New Testament's use of the Old Testament; The role of history in interpretation. The book retains the unique aspect of being written by two scholars who hold differing viewpoints on many issues, making for vibrant, thought-provoking dialogue. What they do agree on, however, is the authority of Scripture, the relevance of personal Bible study to life, and why these things matter. - Publisher.