doi: 10.5325/bullbiblrese.31.1.0016 Bulletin for Biblical Research, Vol. 31, No. 1, 2021 Copyright © 2021 The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA ABSTRACT : Three commentaries on Ecclesiastes represent renewed academic interest in theological interpretation of Scripture (TIS), as well as the evolving relationship between biblical and contemporary theologies. Despite the focus on Ecclesiastes, this article more broadly illustrates that TIS is not a narrow movement exclusively oriented toward evangelical aims despite its biblical focus. In reality, TIS is inclusive across denominations with varying degrees of comfort or discomfort with tradi- tional systematic theology and pluralistic worldviews. Not surprisingly, integrating the Bible and theology will difer for various Christian traditions depending on one’s view of systematic and biblical theology. This article examines how three commen- taries on Ecclesiastes, representing theological and biblical scholars, highlight diverse traditions, while ofering useful contemporary applications for Christians practicing across the spectrum who identify with common faith. KEYWORDS: theological interpretation of Scripture, Ecclesiastes Several decades ago, discussions concerning the theological interpretation of Scripture (TIS) were mostly theoretical and began with the academy broadly addressing “mainline” Protestant and Catholic concerns to redefne the role of hermeneutics in Scripture interpretation. Generally, TIS sought to recover classical approaches incorporating the rule of faith and exegesis of the early ELIZABETH MEHLMAN Atlanta, Georgia RUSSELL L. MEEK William Tennent School of Theology Sputtering at the Start Line? Examining Trends in Theological Interpretation of Scripture through Three Theological Commentaries on Ecclesiastes