Reading the Bible and the Confessions

Jack Rogers' little paperback book can be easily tucked into a briefcase or computer case for easy referral. While a seminary student, I found its contents to be historically succinct and extremely helpful. Lay persons will discover that it provides an overview of the critical factors needed for those wishing to consider preaching ministry. In Part One Rogers describes seven guidelines for interpreting Scriptures, which present the holistic view pastors need for development of sermons. Part Two, Interpreting the Reformed Confessions, outlines the overarching themes of Scripture, which point to Whose and Who We Are as Presbyterians. Although these themes are more specifically defined in the "Book of Order" of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), the author assists the reader by adding historical information to further understand of them. Rogers is a church historian and, as such, proceeds to masterfully provide seven guidelines for interpreting the "Book of Confessions", embellishing each guideline with rich, yet brief, historical detail to further inform. The book is well-researched and the contents are supported by Rogers' own theological knowledge and experience. It is a reliable reference book. I recommend it for beginning seminarians, lay leaders, and those new to the Presbyterian Way.

After being active in the Presbyterian church for over 25 years, I finally have some understanding of what the Confessions are all about. This book gives real insight into how Presbyterians interpret the Bible. It also explains the theological process whereby they changed their thinking over time on issues such as slavery, women in the church, and the distinction between essential and non-essential issues. To outside observers, these shifts may appear to be "political" more than theological, but Rogers shows that the changes are firmly grounded in core theology. Given that the Presbyterians-- torn in a dispute over the role of homosexuals in the church--recently wrote into their Book of Order (constitution) a provision elevating the Confessions to an exceptionally high level, this book becomes nearly invaluable if one is to see these developments in historical and theological context. I recommend this book very highly.