Hahn presents a careful, historical case for understanding the "New Testament" not simply as a book we can read, but as a very concrete sort of reality we live in and renew, every day (or at least on Sunday) at Mass. In other words, the "New Testament" is the covenant into which we are baptized, in which we stand, and which is renewed when we participate fully in the Mass. Covenants are made for the sake of communion. This is why Jesus told us to "take and eat," not "take and read." And when we do read, it is in the light of the communion-making Covenant that we interpret not just the text of the New Testament, but the whole Bible. Which makes sense, when you realize that the books of the New Testament were written, so to speak, in a Eucharistic setting (and in many cases, for the liturgy).
With a tip of the hat to Stuart, for highlighting this on his book review blog, here's Dr. Hahn to explain it more properly:
1 comment:
My husband and I had a collection (now donated to our church library) of Scott Hahn books. They are all very informative, enjoyable reading, well worth the time and price invested, a great way to grow in our faith. - Jean
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