By Joshua Horst, 1st year M. Div. Student
Dr. David Maxwell introduces Cyril of Alexandria’s Commentary on John, by pointing out that Cyril, who is most known for his work with Christology, was deeply rooted and grounded in the Scriptures. While Cyril is most known for his Christology, especially against the Nestorian heresy, this work comes before this controversy broke out. So before delving into the content that Cyril brings to the table about the Gospel of John, Dr. Maxwell makes some interesting notes. This work, along with many other patristic works, shines a spotlight on how the early church interpreted and read the Bible, opening a space for questions about the church’s interpretive history. Ancient study and interpretation of the books of the Bible is different than modern study and interpretation. After all, they are several hundreds of years removed from each other.
For us, the modern readers of the Scriptures, delving into the ancient mindset and scouring through their thoughts and conclusions can serve to humble us. Realizing that we are not the first people to delve into the Bible opens up our view to a bigger playing field than we previously imagined. We can still access the works of some of the Scripture’s most serious students, the Church Fathers. Their works have been preserved and passed on through the generations intentionally. If nothing else, they are what Christians at the time considered to be the most worthy and valuable works and writings. Their perspectives can tell us a lot, especially as we in the modern age grapple with the forces, ideas, and weak spots that are particular to our own age. Taking in what our Fathers in the faith put forth, we can build on the foundation they helped set, with the Holy Spirit’s guidance and support.
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