Encounters with the Bible: Use and Authority in the Churches

David M. Kelly is a teaching assistant at Brock University in St.
Catharines.

Among the more positive elements in twentieth-century Christian thought
is the widespread movement toward ecumenism. The churches have finally
realized that they have more grounds of agreement than disagreement.
Doubtless, Gleason’s effort will make an excellent contribution to
this most worthwhile process.

Gleason, a former professor at the University of Toronto and former
pastor in Appalachia, offers a solid introduction to the two primary
approaches to the Bible. These are the fundamentalist/evangelical
approach (characterized by the “Bible” churches) and the more modern
“main-line” position (represented by the United Church of Canada).
Set in the fictional town of Springfield, this volume employs two
congregations and their pastors to demonstrate Gleason’s observations
based on his sizable experience with both approaches.

His observations, presented in a direct, easily readable text, are most
enlightening and for the most part, unbiased (he occasionally favors the
UCC). In truth, he has been fair to both parties, and his gentle
prodding toward ecumenism through shared Scriptural education is highly
commendable.

Encounters with the Bible will prove to be a valuable aid to both
pastors and concerned lay persons whose ecclesiastic views are broad
enough to transcend denominational boundaries.