Can We Read the Bible Impartially?
When looking to read the Bible impartially, theoretical possibilities and practical limitations come into play. Delving into the text with an unbiased mindset may seem achievable, yet the personal and intrusive demands made by the Bible itself make genuine impartiality challenging. This essay explores the concepts of impartial reading, the challenges involved, and personal experiences that illustrate these dynamics.
Theoretical Possibility vs. Practical Limitations
Theoretically, it is possible to read the Bible impartially, approaching it as a literary work without preconceived notions or biases. However, the intricate relationship between the reader and the text often complicates this ideal. Many people, especially those in theological studies, strive to read the Bible impartially but eventually lean towards accepting or rejecting the claims it presents. Their subsequent readings reflect this decided stance, either by ignoring or accepting various elements of the text.
The personal and intrusive nature of the demands made by the Bible—whether regarding beliefs, values, or actions—forces readers to make a choice: either embrace the author and his teachings or reject them. This inherent tension makes true impartiality difficult to achieve in practical terms.
A Personal Journey of Impartial Reading
My own experience with reading the Bible impartially offers a lens into the challenges and rewards of such an endeavor. In 1989, I decided to read the New Testament as part of a college literature course. My mother’s advice, rooted in the Catholic perspective, suggested that the Old Testament should only be read under priestly guidance, and I aimed to challenge this bias by starting with the New Testament.
What I found was both eye-opening and overwhelming.
Eye-Opening Discoveries
Upon reading the New Testament, the consistency and integrity of the text stood out. The narrative flowed seamlessly from one book to another, presenting a cohesive picture that resonated with my existentialist perspective. This unexpected clarity and consistency were striking, providing a stark contrast to the fragmented or contradictory views I had previously associated with religious texts.
Initial Challenges
Before accepting God and His righteousness, reading the Bible without bias was a daunting task. The perceived dishonesty, unfairness, and harsh treatment of people within the text triggered strong emotions and thoughts. These feelings were particularly difficult to navigate without a personal relationship with God or His Spirit within.
Transformation Through Faith
Accepting the Lord and developing a relationship with God transformed my ability to read the text impartially. Understanding that God's ways and thoughts differ profoundly from the human perspective helped in interpreting the biblical narrative more objectively. Overcoming the lures of worldly philosophies and traditions revealed the righteousness of God and the importance of obedience to Him.
Conclusion
The pursuit of impartiality in reading the Bible is a complex quest, blending theory with lived experience. The text's demands make true impartiality challenging, yet the rewards—such as clarity, consistency, and transformation—make the journey worthwhile. Understanding and appreciating the perspective of others, including those who read the Bible with different backgrounds and beliefs, enriches our own understanding and engagement with this profound text.