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"The Word is Near You" Quiz
"The Word is Near You" by Per Jarle Bekken explores Paul's use of Deuteronomy in Romans 10, examining how scripture shapes early Christian identity and rhetoric.
religion | Published in 2012
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Test your knowledge about the book "The Word is Near You". We have come up with 15 quiz questions for the book. Hit play and start testing your knowledge. Each correctly answered question gives one point.
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Essay questions
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- Discuss the central thesis of 'The Word is Near You.' How does Per Jarle Bekken interpret the concept of 'the word' in the context of Second Temple Judaism?
- Analyze Bekken's use of intertextuality between Deuteronomy and Paul’s epistle to the Romans. How does this intertextual reading contribute to his overall argument?
- How does Bekken address the relationship between law and faith in 'The Word is Near You'? Provide examples from both the Hebrew Bible and New Testament texts.
- Examine the methodological approaches Bekken employs in his exegesis. How do these methods affect his interpretation of scriptural texts?
- Evaluate Bekken’s analysis of the rhetorical strategies in Romans 10. How does he argue that Paul re-appropriates Deuteronomic language for his own theological purposes?
- Discuss the significance of 'proximity' in the book’s title and argument. In what ways does the theme of nearness shape Bekken’s understanding of scriptural authority and accessibility?
- How does Bekken engage with previous scholarship on Deuteronomy 30:11-14? In what ways does he affirm or challenge traditional readings?
- Consider Bekken’s treatment of the audience(s) of both Deuteronomy and Romans. How does he argue the concept of 'the word' is made relevant to these communities?
- What role does the motif of the heart play in Bekken’s reading of Deuteronomy and Romans? How does this motif intersect with issues of obedience and faith?
- Analyze Bekken’s discussion of the oral and written dimensions of ‘the word’. How does he interpret their significance for understanding Jewish and early Christian scriptural culture?
- Explore how Bekken situates his study within the broader field of Second Temple Jewish and Pauline studies. What are the strengths and potential weaknesses of his approach?
- Bekken draws connections between Deuteronomy’s covenantal language and Paul’s soteriology. How convincing do you find his argument? Why or why not?
- Discuss Bekken’s contribution to the understanding of scriptural hermeneutics in early Judaism and Christianity. What new insights does his work offer?
- How does 'The Word is Near You' address the tension between divine initiative and human response in scripture? Use examples from the book to support your analysis.
- Reflect on the implications of Bekken’s study for contemporary theological or interfaith dialogue. How might his insights inform current discussions about scripture and tradition?