What if it were True? Why Study the New Testament

This article argues for a renewal of the discipline of New Testament studies through a focus on the question of truth. To make the argument, the article first engages a recent essay that is highly critical of mainstream NT scholarship and subsequently works with the thought of Soren Kierkegaard, Stanley Cavell, Cora Diamond and Hans-Georg Gadamer to pursue the interpreter's implications in the NT's assertions of truth. The article also briefly exegetes five passages from the NT to illustrate the way the NT makes claims that require judgements about truth. Along the way, the article also engages contemporary NT scholars who argue vociferously against 'theological' readings of the NT and others who argue for their inherent necessity.

Automated summary

This article argues for the renewal of New Testament studies by focusing on the question of truth. Utilizing the philosophical thoughts of Kierkegaard, Cavell, Diamond, and Gadamer, the article explores the implications of truth in the interpretations of the New Testament. Additionally, the article exegetes five passages to illustrate the need for judgment on truth claims in the New Testament. The article also engages with contemporary scholars who debate the necessity and validity of theological readings of the New Testament.