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Question 5

Bercot says that if the apostolic writings were contracts or deeds, he would examine the “course of performance” shown in second-century Christian writings; how persuasive is this legal analogy for understanding Scripture, and where might modern Christians be reluctant to apply it?

Another way to ask: Bercot says that if the New Testament were a legal document, he would look at how second-century Christians understood and practiced it. How helpful is this comparison for understanding Scripture, and where might Christians be afraid to use it?

Direct Answer

Bercot presents the legal analogy as highly persuasive because, if one would examine “course of performance” for human legal documents, one should be at least as careful with Scripture and eternal life. Modern Christians may resist applying it where second-century Christian practice challenges their denominational interpretations.

Support from Transcript

- As a lawyer, he says that if the apostles’ writings were “contracts or deeds,” he would examine “the course of performance.” - He identifies that course of performance as “evidenced by the 2nd-century writings.” - He calls this “the common-sense thing to do.” - He asks, “When my eternal life and my relationship with God were at stake, could I be any less exacting?” - He says the best option would be to ask the Bible writers, but “that option is closed.” - The “third-best system” is to ask “the next generation of Christians,” and “that option is available.”

Discussion Follow-ups

The transcript admits this is “not a perfect system,” but Bercot argues it is the best available alternative after direct access to the apostles and their congregations is closed.

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