Back to Results
Cover image of Sanctified Vision
Cover image of Sanctified Vision
Share this Title:

Sanctified Vision

An Introduction to Early Christian Interpretation of the Bible

John J. O’Keefe and R. R. Reno

Publication Date
Binding Type

In Sanctified Vision John J. O'Keefe and R. R. Reno explain the structure and logic of the early Church fathers' interpretations of the Bible. These interpretations are considered foundational to the development of Christianity as a religion and offer insight into how the early church fathers thought about Christian doctrine and practice. By analyzing selected portions of patristic exegesis, the authors illustrate specific reading techniques employed by the church fathers to expound the meaning they believed intrinsic to biblical texts.

This approach is organized around three basic analytic...

In Sanctified Vision John J. O'Keefe and R. R. Reno explain the structure and logic of the early Church fathers' interpretations of the Bible. These interpretations are considered foundational to the development of Christianity as a religion and offer insight into how the early church fathers thought about Christian doctrine and practice. By analyzing selected portions of patristic exegesis, the authors illustrate specific reading techniques employed by the church fathers to expound the meaning they believed intrinsic to biblical texts.

This approach is organized around three basic analytic strategies: literal, typological, and allegorical. The literal strategy is an intensive and broad analysis that identifies particular word associations that intensify scriptural meaning. The typological strategy interprets distinct patterns of events within scripture and applies those patterns to other events in scripture and the history of the church. The allegorical approach to biblical reading, like the topological strategy, seeks patterns in the text, but these patterns are more diverse and represent larger themes or beliefs of the early church.

Within this analytic framework, the authors explain the larger structure of patristic exegesis and argue for the importance of this structure in the emergence of Christian orthodoxy.

Reviews

Reviews

Though they cover a scholarly terrain that is already well trod, O'Keefe and Reno consistently offer fresh insights and new perspectives.

Will explain to a wide readership the principles of patristic exegesis. It will also waken admiration for the Fathers' unflagging fascination.

A well-written and easily accessible introduction to aspects of patristic exegesis.

An excellent starting point for engaging this rich body of early Christian literature.

About

Book Details

Publication Date
Status
Available
Trim Size
6
x
9
Pages
176
ISBN
9780801880889
Table of Contents

Preface
1. Scriptural Meaning Modern to Ancient
2. Christ Is the End of the Law and the Prophets
3. Intensive Reading
4. Typological Interpretation
5. Allegorical Interpretation
6. The Rule of Faith and the

Preface
1. Scriptural Meaning Modern to Ancient
2. Christ Is the End of the Law and the Prophets
3. Intensive Reading
4. Typological Interpretation
5. Allegorical Interpretation
6. The Rule of Faith and the Holy Life
Notes
Bibliography
Index

Author Bios