Hermeneutics: Principles and Processes of Biblical Interpretation

Virkler does an excellent job of presenting facts and theories, yet at the same time presents varying historical views of each sujbect. Some may object to the inclusion of alternative viewpoints on some subjects but I found this helpful in understanding how different people came up with their particular opinions. I found the research to be sound and extensive.

I took this course via correspondence with Dr. Virkler as the instructor. This is a superb book with very sound Bible study techniques. It teaches the importance of literal translation- meaning: finding the author's intended meaning. The process he teaches is flexible and applies to all types of reading, although it is tailored to the study of God's Word. The book teaches us to let go of our predisposed ideas if they conflict with what is found in Scripture. He teaches all the tools to finding the information needed to get to the true meaning of Scripture. If we all followed these principles, the divisions between Christians would be all-but-nonexistent.

Verkler's goal in this work was essential to provide christian laety with a volume on Biblical interpretation that was useful for not only understanding but implemeting the text of scripture. I feel that he has met his goal. Verkler addresses the issues that are typically involved in hermeneutics; history of Biblical interpretation, lexical/syntactical elements, theological models, etc. But he makes it clear that application of scripture is ultimately the purpose of hermeneutics and ultimately his goal in this work. This is a very easy to understand, basic treatment of hermeneutics that will aid in further study. I would recommend this work to anyone who does not wish to, in the words of Matt Damon in 'Good Will Hunting', "...drop a hundred fifty grand on an education you could've gotten in buck fifty in late fees at the local library".

Interestingly, this introduction to hermeneutics was written by someone who does not consider himself a theologian nor an exegete. Dr. Virkler is a professor of psychology who sensed the need for an introductory text on hermeneutics that translated theory into practical exegesis. His goal in this work was to not only provide a reader with the principles of interpretation needed to exegete Scripture, but to also be able to apply them in sermon preparation or personal Bible study. With this goal in mind, Dr. Virkler included exegetical exercises at the end of almost every chapter dealing with specific passages and involving real life situations. His presupposition throughout this work is that the meaning of a text is the author's intended meaning. This is a great all-around hermeneutics text since it follows a logical structure, is fairly comprehensive and allows the reader to practice what he has learned with the "brain teasers" included. All in all, this is a great text.

Virkler does a wonderful job of laying out hermeneutical principles in an orderly and logical way. He gives an overview in the beginning of each chapter and then he gives a summary at the end. This feature helps to summarize the material into understandable groupings. There are exercises at the end of most of the chapters allowing you to use the skills you attained by reading the previous chapter. Virkler gives an objective overview of this topic by presenting various views and then referring you to books from both sides that will further your study of the more specific topics. (i.e. dispensational & covenential theories.) If you are looking for a balanced and objective introduction to hermeneutics, this IS the book for you!