Further on Biblical Studies and the Bible: Brian Brock

I mentioned my surprise at the chasm between Biblical Studies and Doctrine/Ethics in terms of use of the Bible. Brian Brock in his fascinating new book writes:

No academic discpline can be posited as privileged or primary in its relationship to Scripture, including biblical studies. The only solidity to which the Christian faith can cling in its exploration of the Bible is Christ as body, head, and Word. Any concept or academic discipline that makes itself the arbiter between rival interpretations would have to be established as another axiomatic truth. p. 266

Brock opposes the development of some academic superstructure that operates like a bureaucracy through which the Bible must pass if it is to be made available for theological/ethical reflection. Actually, sometimes I feel like this: a theologian wants to use a passage of the Bible in his work. Has he filled out the right forms, and applied to the New Testament department for permission to use the passage? If so, he must wait, and only then use the passage within carefully defined parameters, subject to and with reference to the most important commentaries on the subject... Then, he must develop a sophisticated hermeneutic which meets with all our criteria.

Sigh!