What Parts of the Bible Are Binding? Some Principles from D. A. Carson

D. A. Carson, writing in Modern Reformation, offers some principles with illustrations:

Determine not only how symbols, customs, metaphors, and models function in Scripture, but also to what else they are tied.
Thoughtfully limit comparisons and analogies by observing near and far contexts.
Many mandates are pastorally limited by the occasion or people being addressed.
Always be careful how you apply narratives.
Remember that you, too, are culturally and theologically located.
Frankly admit that many interpretive decisions are nestled within a large theological system, which we must be willing to modify if the Bible is to have the final word.

You can read the whole thing here.

Update: If you’re not a subscriber to MR, you can access the article by going to this blog post and clicking on Carson’s article on the “Tabula Rasa Fallacy.”