1. Theological Category and Placement
Category: Biblical Theology
Narrative Theology is placed within Biblical Theology because it approaches Scripture primarily as a unified, unfolding story centred on the person and work of Jesus Christ. Rather than focusing on isolated doctrines or propositional statements, Narrative Theology emphasises the biblical narrative as the foundational framework through which God’s redemptive purposes and theological truths are revealed progressively. This approach aligns closely with Biblical Theology’s aim of tracing God’s revelation in its historical and literary context (Goldsworthy, 2000).
2. Introduction
Narrative Theology emerged in the late 20th century as a theological and hermeneutical movement that highlights the power of biblical storytelling. It understands the Bible not merely as a source of doctrinal propositions but as a coherent narrative that shapes Christian identity, ethics, and faith. The narrative is centred on the life, death, resurrection, and lordship of Christ, through which God’s kingdom is disclosed (Goldsworthy, 2000).
3. Historical Development
The development of Narrative Theology is closely associated with scholars such as Graeme Goldsworthy and Hans Frei. Goldsworthy’s seminal work, According to Plan (1991/2000), presents Scripture as an unfolding redemptive story marked by creation, fall, redemption, and consummation. Frei critiqued modern theology’s fragmentation of Scripture and advocated for attention to the biblical text’s narrative shape (Frei, 1981).
Narrative Theology gained traction in academic and ecclesial circles for offering a holistic way of reading Scripture that resists reductionism and promotes theological coherence (Goldsworthy, 2000).
4. Core Doctrines and Theological Emphases
- Biblical Story as Theological Framework: Scripture is read as a unified narrative revealing God’s redemptive plan.
- Christ-Centredness: Jesus Christ is the climax and interpretive key of the biblical story.
- Kingdom of God: The narrative discloses the in-breaking reign of God.
- Ethical Formation: Christian ethics arise from participation in the biblical story.
- Narrative Hermeneutics: Emphasis on the story’s plot, characters, and literary dynamics in theological interpretation.
5. Scriptural and Theological Foundations
Narrative Theology draws from the Bible’s literary structure and theological content, viewing passages such as Genesis 1–3 (creation and fall), the Exodus narrative (redemption), the Gospels (incarnation and kingdom), and Revelation (consummation) as interconnected parts of one grand story. It respects the canonical shape of Scripture and emphasises the narrative’s role in forming Christian faith and practice (Goldsworthy, 2000).
6. Influence and Impact
Narrative Theology has influenced preaching, biblical interpretation, and Christian education by encouraging a story-centred approach to Scripture. It has contributed to a recovery of biblical theology’s narrative dimension and provided a counterbalance to abstract systematic theology. Critics argue it may underemphasise doctrinal precision, but proponents highlight its power to integrate doctrine, worship, and ethics holistically (Goldsworthy, 2000).
7. Representative Theologians and Key Works
- Graeme Goldsworthy – Key proponent; According to Plan: The Unfolding Revelation of God in the Bible (2000).
- Hans Frei – Influential in narrative hermeneutics; The Eclipse of Biblical Narrative (1981).
- N. T. Wright – Utilises narrative frameworks in New Testament theology.
- John H. Sailhamer – Emphasised narrative coherence in Old Testament theology.
8. Conclusion
Narrative Theology enriches Biblical Theology by framing Scripture as a compelling story centred on Christ and God’s kingdom. Its emphasis on narrative coherence, ethical formation, and Christological focus offers a holistic and vibrant approach to understanding and living out the Christian faith.
9. References
- Frei, H. W. (1981). The Eclipse of Biblical Narrative: A Study in Eighteenth and Nineteenth Century Hermeneutics. Yale University Press.
- Goldsworthy, G. (2000). According to Plan: The Unfolding Revelation of God in the Bible. IVP Academic.
- Wright, N. T. (2012). How God Became King: The Forgotten Story of the Gospels. HarperOne.
- Sailhamer, J. H. (1992). The Pentateuch as Narrative: A Biblical-Theological Commentary. Zondervan.