Biblical Critical Theory
One book I’m looking forward to reading is Chris Watkin’s on Biblical Critical Theory: How the Bible’s Unfolding Story Makes Sense of Culture and Modern Life (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2022), coming out on Nov 16.
I know America is awash about debates of critical race theory, or critical theory in general, but Watkin shows that there is in fact a wholesome type of “critical theory” that goes back to St. Augustine, even to the Bible.
Watkins explains how the signature patterns of the Bible's storyline can provide incisive, fresh, and nuanced ways of intervening into today's debates on everything from science, the arts and politics to dignity, multiculturalism and equality, showing Christians the moves to make and the tools to use in analyzing and engaging with all sorts of cultural artifacts and events, including discussions about race and oppression.
Let me say that you MUST LISTEN to John Dickson’s interview with Chris Watkin about critical theory and Christianity. It is easily the best podcast episode I’ve listened to in weeks! While you’re at it, subscribe to Undeceptions!!!
Thanks, Mike, for recommending John Dickson’s interview with Chris Watkin. It is indeed an outstanding podcast (and I'm only halfway through it!). --Malcolm
My son, a PCA pastor first introduced me to Chris Watkin, and I found his approach to a volatile subject most interesting. I was surprised to learn that there are a number of types of critical race theory. I too am "studying" the video and thank you for it. He is not the run of the mill PCA pastor but holds to more liberal views in cultural areas which I find refreshing. He also endures the usual name-calling for doing so.