The Bible is often viewed through a narrow lens, but theologian Peter Enns is here to shake things up. In his provocative new book, “The Bible Tells Me So: Why Defending Scripture Has Made Us Unable to Read It,” he invites readers to embark on a journey that transcends traditional interpretations and embraces the complexities of this ancient text.
Enns argues that the Bible should not be treated like a cookbook filled with rigid rules and formulas. Instead, he suggests that it serves as a window into an ancient spiritual odyssey, rich with puzzles and paradoxes. If you’re weary of the Bible being reduced to a mere set of instructions, this book might just resonate with you. However, if you feel like this perspective is old news, you might find yourself rolling your eyes at phrases like “ancient spiritual journey.”
As a fan of Enns’ writing, I appreciate his creativity and humor. He presents his ideas with clarity and wit, making even complex theological concepts accessible. Despite his past struggles with conservative evangelicalism, he critiques it without bitterness. While the overarching theme—that the Bible isn’t just a rulebook—might seem familiar, Enns’ seven chapters offer fresh insights that many evangelicals often overlook.
In the first chapter, he emphasizes that the Bible is an ancient text, shaped by the context of its time. He goes on to explain how the stories told within it can differ based on the authors’ perspectives and circumstances. Enns highlights that even Jesus approached Scripture differently than many do today, and he encourages readers to allow the Bible to be itself, rather than forcing it into preconceived molds.
The book shines brightest when Enns dives into specific narratives. He illustrates how the books of Kings and Chronicles are crafted uniquely to address different situations. He traces themes through Genesis and connects various texts in a way that reveals deeper meanings. While these ideas aren’t entirely new to scholars, Enns communicates them with such enthusiasm that they become a joy to explore.
However, the book does have its shortcomings. Enns tends to emphasize the Bible’s “messy” nature, sometimes overstating contradictions while overlooking simpler explanations. For instance, he points out differences in sacrificial laws without acknowledging their distinct contexts. His interpretations can occasionally feel skewed, leading to a one-dimensional view of complex issues.
Moreover, Enns presents Jesus as a figure who challenges conventional readings of Scripture, but he often neglects to mention the many instances where Jesus affirms the authority of the Bible. This creates an imbalance, especially since many evangelicals look to Jesus as a cornerstone of their beliefs about biblical truth.
Enns also grapples with the more troubling narratives within the Bible, such as divine violence, yet he fails to reconcile these with the way Jesus referenced them. His portrayal of God’s actions in the Old Testament raises questions that he doesn’t fully address, leaving readers to ponder the implications of these stories.
Ultimately, while Enns invites readers to embrace the mystery of the Bible, he stops short of providing a clear understanding of what it means for the Scriptures to be the Word of God. His exploration raises more questions than it answers, particularly about how these ancient texts call us to live today.
In a world where many seek clarity and direction, Enns’ work challenges us to reflect on the deeper meanings behind the words. Are we ready to engage with the Bible in a way that invites both inquiry and reverence?
