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Mike,
Comparing Jurgen's to other volumes of the Church fathers is not really
possible. Jurgen's is 3 volumes containing a handful of quotes designed
to provide proof texts.
Hendrickson published the COMPLETE works of the Father in 36 volumes.
These volumes include all the major works of the pre-Nicene, Nicene, and
post-Nicene Fathers.
They are two different tools --- used for different tasks. If one wants
to read the Fathers to understand their approach and their insight, one
needs to read their works -- and not just a book of quotes. If one wants
a quick reference tool than Jurgen's is a fine little tool.
Hendrickson’s and Eerdman’s translations, like every translation
of ancient texts, are not perfect. Then again, look at some Catholic translations
of Scripture.
Yes, I’ve heard a handful of complaints (and I have not specific
texts) about translation bias in a very few instances. But I’d like
to see two Catholic translators agree on every verse in a 36-volume set!
My personal suggestion to Anonymous, is to take it slow with the Church
Fathers. I’d start with the Apostolic Fathers, the earliest writings.
I’d also recommend the Greek Orthodox Study Bible. It is a New Testament
with Patristic study notes. It will obviously have an Orthodox bias, but
the Eastern Christian thinking in the notes will help Anonymous shift paradigms
from the Juridical to Mystical.
John
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