Contents
Introduction………………………………………………………………………………………1
Review…………………………………………………………………………………………….1
Thesis Review……………………………………………………………………………..1
Critical Review……………………………………………………………………………1
Specific Content References…………………………………………………………………….2
Learning to Read Scripture……………………………………………………………….2
The Interface……………………………………………………………………………...4
Faithful Interpretation…………………………………………………………………….5
Conclusion……………………………………………………………………………………….6
Bibliography…………………………………………………………………………………….7
Introduction
The article "Reading Scripture in Multicultural Settings: Pitfalls and Strategies"
highlights the importance of being aware of cultural and theological assumptions when studying
the Bible in diverse communities.1 The author emphasizes the need for effective pedagogies and
communication strategies to facilitate transformational encounters with God in these settings.
This article review will explore the author's key points and practical suggestions and examine a
specific example of a multicultural Bible study.
Review
Thesis Review
The thesis of this article is that reading and interpreting the Bible in multicultural settings
requires an understanding of racial/ethnic, cultural, social class, and theological assumptions to
effectively communicate the Good News of God's love and transformational power.2 It presents a
thorough and practical approach to reading Scripture in multicultural settings, addressing
potential pitfalls, and offering effective pedagogies and communication strategies. A dramatic
reenactment of John 8:1-11 adds a unique and engaging element to the essay.
Critical Review
The article focuses on the importance of reading and interpreting Scripture in
multicultural settings and the need for awareness of racial/ethnic, cultural, social class, and
________________________
1 Bob Ekblad, "Reading Scripture for Good News that Crosses Barriers of Race/Ethnicity,
Class, and Culture: A Journal of Bible and Theology.">Interpretation>65, no. 3 (07, 2011): 229
https://go.openathens.net/redirector/liberty.edu?url=https://www.proquest.com/scholarly-
journals/reading-scripture-good-news-that-crosses-barriers/docview/879074305/se-2.
2 Ibid., 233.
1
theological assumptions. The author suggests a workable methodology, starting with a chosen
Scripture, a particular question or people's current struggles, or an impression from God
regarding people's needs.3 The essay also emphasizes the importance of creating a safe space for
open discussion and listening to people's interpretations.
Of note is the author’s emphasis on considering different perspectives and contexts when
reading Scripture. It highlights the need for sensitivity and humility in leading discussions and
creating a safe space for people to share their thoughts and struggles.4 The suggested
methodology is also practical and adaptable to different situations.
The article could have provided more concrete examples and strategies for addressing the
challenges of reading Scripture in diverse settings. Having more specific suggestions for conflict
management during discussions would have been helpful. Additionally, while the article
mentions the importance of discernment and prayer in the interpretation process, it could have
delved deeper into the role of the Holy Spirit in guiding our understanding of Scripture.
Specific Content References
Learning to Read Scripture
"Learning to read Scripture multiculturally requires a growing awareness on several fronts."
This statement highlights the importance of being aware of various factors such as cultural and
theological assumptions when reading Scripture in a multicultural setting.” 5
This statement emphasizes the importance of awareness of various factors when reading
________________________
3 Ibid., 241.
4 Ibid., 230.
5 Ibid., 230.
2
Scripture in a multicultural setting. The author mentions several specific areas where individuals
must be conscious and intentional to effectively engage in this type of reading.6 These areas
include personal cultural and theological assumptions, identifying assumptions and images
presented by others, being aware of pitfalls and challenges, expecting to hear the Good News
freshly, being led by the Holy Spirit, and implementing effective pedagogies and communication
strategies.
Individuals must recognize their cultural and theological biases and how they may impact
their interpretation of Scripture. This is crucial to avoid imposing one's beliefs onto others and be
open to different perspectives. Another point emphasizes the importance of being aware of
assumptions and images presented by others, as these may also influence one's understanding of
Scripture.7 There may be challenges and pitfalls when reading Scripture in a multicultural
setting.8 This could include language barriers, cultural differences, and differing theological
beliefs. Being aware of these potential challenges can help individuals navigate them and find
ways to effectively communicate the Good News. Expecting to hear the Good News freshly
means approaching Scripture with an open mind and heart, anticipating that God will reveal
something new and transformative.9 This requires a willingness to let go of our preconceived
notions and assumptions and to be open to the possibility that God may speak to us
________________________
6 Ibid., 231.
7 Ibid., 229.
8 Ibid., 231.
9 Ibid., 239.
3
unexpectedly. This expectation also involves actively seeking diverse perspectives and
interpretations rather than relying solely on our understanding.
Being led by the Holy Spirit is essential in reading Scripture multiculturally. It requires a
deep sense of discernment and humility as we allow the Spirit to guide us in interpreting and
understanding the text.10 This involves being open to the perspectives and insights of others and
willing to let go of our biases and prejudices. It also requires boldness as we step out in faith and
trust that the Spirit will lead us toward reconciliation, unity, and transformation. Finally,
facilitating multicultural Bible study involves using methods and techniques that are inclusive,
engaging, and respectful of diverse perspectives and backgrounds. It also requires creating a safe
and welcoming space for open dialogue and discussion, where all voices are heard and valued.11
The Interface
"The interface between the reading and study of Scripture and contemporary reading of our
contexts requires deliberate work and creativity." This quote emphasizes the need for intentional
effort and creativity when connecting the message of Scripture to the current context and
struggles of the community.” 12
The context discussed discusses the importance of reading and interpreting the Bible
regarding our current contexts and struggles.13 The passage also emphasizes the need to create
________________________
10 Ibid., 237.
11 Ibid., 242.
12 Ibid., 240.
13 Ibid., 241.
4
a safe space for people to share openly and for leaders to be nonjudgmental. It also mentions the
importance of using a dialogical and accessible approach in Bible study.
The suggested activity is to conduct a Bible study session. The facilitator is encouraged to
use a biblio-drama approach, where the story is acted out, for example, to bring out the
opposition between Jesus and his opponents.14 This approach is practical in various multicultural
settings, allowing people to engage with the text more interactively and visually. It also
encourages people to reflect on the different images of God portrayed in the story and compare
them to the traditional interpretations of the scribes and Pharisees.
Faithful Interpretation
"Faithful interpretation of Scripture begins with discernment of the needs God wants to
address."15
The quote discusses the importance of discerning the community's needs when interpreting
Scripture. It suggests beginning with a question that evokes the contemporary context and
burning issues of the people you are reading with. This question should focus on struggles, trials,
temptations, challenges, and external forces affecting the community.16 The quote also
emphasizes the importance of continually rediscovering the Good News of God's love in
different biblical texts and how this can increase confidence in God's Word's authority and
transformational power. It acknowledges that many biblical texts can be confusing and
________________________
14 Ibid., 242.
15 Ibid., 242.
16 Ibid., 241.
5
frustrating for untrained readers, as they may appear to support negative images of God. The
article also discusses the importance of reading with Jesus as our Rabbi and how conversion
begins when we encounter a God who knows and respects us as we are. Earlier in the article, the
author also mentions the pitfalls that can hinder the interpretation of Scripture, such as heroism
and exemplarism, and how they can blind us to the unheroic nature of many biblical characters.17
Overall, the quote emphasizes the expectation to hear the Good News of God's embodied and
transforming love in Scripture and the importance of being aware of potential pitfalls and using
effective pedagogies and communication strategies in Bible study.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is essential for those reading and studying Scripture in multicultural
settings to be aware of their own biases and assumptions and to approach the text with a
sensitivity to the diverse backgrounds and experiences of those they serve. By using effective
pedagogies and communication strategies and incorporating personal and communal reflection,
individuals and communities can have transformational encounters with God by reading
Scripture. This step-by-step dramatic reenactment of John 8:1-11 is a powerful example of how
Scripture can be brought to life and applied to the struggles and needs of a specific group.
________________________
17 Ibid., 242.
6
Bibliography
Ekblad, Bob. "Reading Scripture for Good News that Crosses Barriers of Race/Ethnicity, Class,
and Culture: A Journal of Bible and Theology.">Interpretation>65, no. 3 (07, 2011):
228-229.
https://go.openathens.net/redirector/liberty.edu?url=https://www.proquest.com/scholarly-
journals/reading-scripture-good-news-that-crosses-barriers/docview/879074305/se-2.
7
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