Book Review: "The Hermeneutics of the Biblical Writers" by Abner Chou

As soon as Abner Chou’s book, The Hermeneutics of the Biblical Writers: Learning to Interpret Scripture from the Prophets and Apostles, came out, I wanted to read it, for two reasons primarily. First, our kids had him as a professor while they attended The Master’s University and were greatly impacted by all they learned from him. And second, as a Bible study teacher and writer I wanted to continue to hone my skills, so I will handle God’s text in a God-honoring, God-displaying way. Since the process of hermeneutics (using prescribed and objective Bible study tools) is both a science and an art, I want to make sure that I’m faithful to return to and review those time-tested hermeneutical tools as I study the Bible.

May I just say, that I wasn’t disappointed at all? I loved this book—from Abner Chou’s opening statements to his closing remarks! For anyone who faithfully and diligently studies God’s Word, and who desires above all else to put God on display by letting Him speak through the clear, literal, historical, grammatical, contextual message of the text, then this book is for you! If you love looking for authorial intent, then this book is for you! If you seek to dig out of the text what God has placed there and put it on display, rather than foisting your own interpretation upon the text, then this book is for you! In fact, you will find the book a huge, “Atta boy! Keep doing what you’re doing!”

As Abner Chou discussed the hermeneutical/theological continuity of the prophets to the apostles, I felt as though I was part of that continuity lineage. The author of Hebrews’ commendation and admonition to stay the doctrinal course in Chapter 13 verses 7-9 resounded in my heart each time I picked up The Hermeneutics of the Biblical Writers: Learning to Interpret Scripture from the Prophets and Apostles. “Remember those who led you, who spoke the word of God to you; and considering the result of their conduct, imitate their faith. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. Do not be carried away by varied and strange teachings; for it is good for the heart to be strengthened by grace, not by foods, through which those who were so occupied were not benefited.”

Buy this book for your pastor and anyone else who teaches you God’s Word. Their souls will be strengthened, their skills honed, and their commitment to discovering authorial intent bolstered.