No abstract

The 2006 publication of Human and Divine Agency in Paul and His Cultural Environment, edited by John M. G. Barclay and Simon J. Gathercole, has renewed scholarly attention to questions about agency. In connection with these recent developments in Pauline studies, this article argues, first, that the concept of “agency” remains unperfected among biblical scholars. Second, we engage with the action theories of G. E. M. Anscombe and Donald Davidson. Here we propose that their focus on two concepts—intention and reasons for actions—will contribute to critical analyses of agency as expressed in biblical texts. Third, we bring analytic philosophy into conversation with Troels Engberg-Pedersen’s I-X-S model and J. Louis Martyn’s agent-centered perspective. Fourth, we apply our theoretical model of agency to biblical exegesis by interacting with a selected Pauline text, Rom 7:7–25.

In his 1998 Engaging Scripture: A Model for Theological Interpretation, Stephen Fowl conceives of biblical interpretation as a skill that is learned over time. Fowl’s perspective not only gives close attention to the habits that interpreters acquire in practice, but also clarifies the goals that readers recognize through their interaction with biblical texts. This paper builds upon Fowl’s approach by providing a critical analysis of practical reasoning in a twofold analysis. In the first part, we will interact with Aristotle’s Nicomachean Ethics and Elizabeth Anscombe’s Intention. Engaging with these philosophers shines light on what is meant by reasoning practically towards particular goals. In the second part, we will focus on how scripture portrays love and knowledge as habits of interpretation. In this part, it is proposed that love and knowledge will refine interpreters’ practical reasoning as they move towards particular ends. In conclusion, this article provides fresh angles for biblical interpretation by arguing that interpreters’ practical reasoning is sustained by the habits of love and knowledge.