The 10 Commantments of Interpretation

April DeConick offers up the 10 Commandments for historical-critical interpretation of ancient texts. She warns against allowing a confessional stance to influence an understanding of history. This seems an appropriate challenge for both the academic and church community.

This raises a number of question for religious studies within a faith community. Here are three:

1. Can adult education in a church embrace historical-critical methodology?
2. What impact does historical-critical studies have on faith and practice within the church?
3. Can serious academic study within the church do so without a confessional stance?

Let me know what you think on any or all of these questions.