Hebrew Scripture Theology

My own sense is that it worked a bit better, but that there is still a tendency for sweeping claims to be made without the careful textual work to support them, or move the discussion forward in a truly satisfactory way. Of course, with themes as grand as those we deal with week-by-week, the inclination to such a pattern is readily explained. Still, more attention to the text (be that of theologians, like Augustine, or biblical texts, like Genesis 1-3, etc.) would help!

Speaking of Genesis, there is a huge literature relating to Genesis 1-11 in general, and Genesis 3 in particular. One small but significant contribution that you may wish to consult is P.D. Miller, Genesis 1-11: Studies in Structure and Theme (Sheffield: JSOT Press, 1978). [I just checked the online catalogue, and I don't see it listed. It might be in the paper catalogue, however.]

Looking forward to next week, we go on to the “counterpart” to sin-guilt-punishment: we address the question “What does it mean to be saved?” Unlike the case of “sin” where there are some obvious and central passages, the themes of salvation and redemption are much more diffuse throughout the HB/OT. Do read the article by Terence Fretheim, for which there is a PDF linked on the “Topic” page.

Some fairly obvious questions provide a natural way of organizing texts and reflections: from what is saving needed? who needs saving? who is able to save? By extension, there is also the matter of how answers to these questions bear on the idea of atonement and priestly means of “dealing with” sin.

Lots to think about! Do keep an eye on the website as the week progresses. If I come across other helpful resources, updates will be posted on the “Topics” page.

DjR