Bible readings, selections and meditations Books

Book SynopsisThe NIV Application Commentary helps readers with the vital task of bringing the ancient message of the Bible into a contemporary context. It gives preachers and teachers the tools, ideas, and insights they need to communicate God’s Word with the same powerful impact it had when it was first written.Trade Review“At a time when many pastors are deeply in need of inspiration and encouragement, these volumes… would be a good investment for congregations, even if it means adding a line to the annual budget.” * Christianity Today *“Here at last is a commentary which is not only academically well informed but which helps that commentary reader hear God’s Word and consider its implications; scholarship in service of the Church.” * Arthur Rowe, Spurgeon’s College *“If you want to avoid hanging applicational elephants from interpretational threads, then the NIV Application Commentary is for you! This series excels at both original meaning and contemporary significance. I support it one hundred percent.” * Howard G. Hendricks, Dallas Theological Seminary *“It is encouraging to find a commentary that is not only biblically trustworthy but also contemporary in its application. The NIV Application Commentary series will prove to be a helpful tool in the pastor’s sermon preparation. I use it and recommend it.” * Charles F. Stanley, Pastor, First Baptist Church of Atlanta *“It takes more than interpretation of God's Word to change lives, it takes application. Application is the bottom line in preaching and teaching. Without it, we’ve missed the point of the Bible. The NIV Application Commentary is an outstanding resource for pastors and anyone else who is serious about developing ‘doers of the Word.’” * Rick Warren, Pastor, Saddleback Valley Community Church *“The NIV Application Commentary builds bridges that make the Bible come alive with meaning for contemporary life--and the series do so concisely, clearly, and accurately. No wasted words or academic detours--just solid help and practical truth.” * Warren W. Weirsbe *“The NIV Application Commentary dares to go where few scholars have gone before---into the real world of biblical application faced by pastor and teachers every day. This is everything a good commentary series should be.” * Leith Anderson, Pastor, Wooddale Church *“The NIV Application Commentary is a magnificent gift to the church!” * Dr. R. Kent Hughes, Pastor, College Church, Wheaton, Illinois *“The NIV Application Commentary meets the urgent need for an exhaustive and authoritative commentary based on the New International Version. This series will soon be found in libraries and studies throughout the entire evangelical community.” * Dr. James Kennedy, PhD, Senior Minister, Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church *“The NIV Application Commentary series doesn’t fool around: It gets right down to business, bringing this ancient and powerful Word of God into the present so that it can be heard and delivered with all the freshness of a new day, with all the immediacy of a friend’s embrace.” * Eugene Peterson *“The NIV Application Commentary series helps pastors and other Bible teachers with one of the most neglected elements of good preaching---accurate, useful application. Most commentaries tell you a few things that are helpful and much that you do not need to know. By dealing with the original meaning and contemporary significance of each passage, the NIV Application Commentary series promises to be helpful all the way around.” * Dr. James Montgomery Boice, Tenth Presbyterian Church *“The NIV Application Commentary series promises to be of great service to all who preach and teach the Word of God.” * J. I. Packer, Regent College *“The NIV Application Commentary series will be a great help for readers who want to understand what the Bible means, how it applies, and what they should do in response.” * Stuart Briscoe, Pastor, Elmbrook Church *“This series promises to become an indispensable tool for every pastor and teacher who seeks to make the Bible’s timeless message speak to this generation.” * Billy Graham *“This is the pulpit commentary for the 21st Century” * George K. Brushaber, President, Bethel College & Seminary *

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Book SynopsisDevotions on the Greek New Testament by J. Scott Duvall and Verlyn D. Verbrugge contains 52 devotions, based on the Greek New Testament and written by some of the best Greek scholars of today, which will inspire students and pastors to glean new insights into the New Testament and encourage them to keep using their Greek.

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Book SynopsisThe NIV Application Commentary helps readers with the vital task of bringing the ancient message of the Bible into a contemporary context. It gives preachers and teachers the tools, ideas, and insights they need to communicate God’s Word with the same powerful impact it had when it was first written.Trade Review“At a time when many pastors are deeply in need of inspiration and encouragement, these volumes… would be a good investment for congregations, even if it means adding a line to the annual budget.” * Christianity Today *“Here at last is a commentary which is not only academically well informed but which helps that commentary reader hear God’s Word and consider its implications; scholarship in service of the Church.” * Arthur Rowe, Spurgeon’s College *“If you want to avoid hanging applicational elephants from interpretational threads, then the NIV Application Commentary is for you! This series excels at both original meaning and contemporary significance. I support it one hundred percent.” * Howard G. Hendricks, Dallas Theological Seminary *“It is encouraging to find a commentary that is not only biblically trustworthy but also contemporary in its application. The NIV Application Commentary series will prove to be a helpful tool in the pastor’s sermon preparation. I use it and recommend it.” * Charles F. Stanley, Pastor, First Baptist Church of Atlanta *“It takes more than interpretation of God's Word to change lives, it takes application. Application is the bottom line in preaching and teaching. Without it, we’ve missed the point of the Bible. The NIV Application Commentary is an outstanding resource for pastors and anyone else who is serious about developing ‘doers of the Word.’” * Rick Warren, Pastor, Saddleback Valley Community Church *“The NIV Application Commentary builds bridges that make the Bible come alive with meaning for contemporary life--and the series do so concisely, clearly, and accurately. No wasted words or academic detours--just solid help and practical truth.” * Warren W. Weirsbe *“The NIV Application Commentary dares to go where few scholars have gone before---into the real world of biblical application faced by pastor and teachers every day. This is everything a good commentary series should be.” * Leith Anderson, Pastor, Wooddale Church *“The NIV Application Commentary is a magnificent gift to the church!” * Dr. R. Kent Hughes, Pastor, College Church, Wheaton, Illinois *“The NIV Application Commentary meets the urgent need for an exhaustive and authoritative commentary based on the New International Version. This series will soon be found in libraries and studies throughout the entire evangelical community.” * Dr. James Kennedy, PhD, Senior Minister, Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church *“The NIV Application Commentary series doesn’t fool around: It gets right down to business, bringing this ancient and powerful Word of God into the present so that it can be heard and delivered with all the freshness of a new day, with all the immediacy of a friend’s embrace.” * Eugene Peterson *“The NIV Application Commentary series helps pastors and other Bible teachers with one of the most neglected elements of good preaching---accurate, useful application. Most commentaries tell you a few things that are helpful and much that you do not need to know. By dealing with the original meaning and contemporary significance of each passage, the NIV Application Commentary series promises to be helpful all the way around.” * Dr. James Montgomery Boice, Tenth Presbyterian Church *“The NIV Application Commentary series promises to be of great service to all who preach and teach the Word of God.” * J. I. Packer, Regent College *“The NIV Application Commentary series will be a great help for readers who want to understand what the Bible means, how it applies, and what they should do in response.” * Stuart Briscoe, Pastor, Elmbrook Church *“This series promises to become an indispensable tool for every pastor and teacher who seeks to make the Bible’s timeless message speak to this generation.” * Billy Graham *“This is the pulpit commentary for the 21st Century” * George K. Brushaber, President, Bethel College & Seminary *

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Book SynopsisThe NIV Application Commentary helps readers with the vital task of bringing the ancient message of the Bible into a contemporary context. It gives preachers and teachers the tools, ideas, and insights they need to communicate God’s Word with the same powerful impact it had when it was first written.Trade Review“At a time when many pastors are deeply in need of inspiration and encouragement, these volumes… would be a good investment for congregations, even if it means adding a line to the annual budget.” * Christianity Today *“Here at last is a commentary which is not only academically well informed but which helps that commentary reader hear God’s Word and consider its implications; scholarship in service of the Church.” * Arthur Rowe, Spurgeon’s College *“If you want to avoid hanging applicational elephants from interpretational threads, then the NIV Application Commentary is for you! This series excels at both original meaning and contemporary significance. I support it one hundred percent.” * Howard G. Hendricks, Dallas Theological Seminary *“It is encouraging to find a commentary that is not only biblically trustworthy but also contemporary in its application. The NIV Application Commentary series will prove to be a helpful tool in the pastor’s sermon preparation. I use it and recommend it.” * Charles F. Stanley, Pastor, First Baptist Church of Atlanta *“It takes more than interpretation of God's Word to change lives, it takes application. Application is the bottom line in preaching and teaching. Without it, we’ve missed the point of the Bible. The NIV Application Commentary is an outstanding resource for pastors and anyone else who is serious about developing ‘doers of the Word.’” * Rick Warren, Pastor, Saddleback Valley Community Church *“The NIV Application Commentary builds bridges that make the Bible come alive with meaning for contemporary life--and the series do so concisely, clearly, and accurately. No wasted words or academic detours--just solid help and practical truth.” * Warren W. Weirsbe *“The NIV Application Commentary dares to go where few scholars have gone before---into the real world of biblical application faced by pastor and teachers every day. This is everything a good commentary series should be.” * Leith Anderson, Pastor, Wooddale Church *“The NIV Application Commentary is a magnificent gift to the church!” * Dr. R. Kent Hughes, Pastor, College Church, Wheaton, Illinois *“The NIV Application Commentary meets the urgent need for an exhaustive and authoritative commentary based on the New International Version. This series will soon be found in libraries and studies throughout the entire evangelical community.” * Dr. James Kennedy, PhD, Senior Minister, Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church *“The NIV Application Commentary series doesn’t fool around: It gets right down to business, bringing this ancient and powerful Word of God into the present so that it can be heard and delivered with all the freshness of a new day, with all the immediacy of a friend’s embrace.” * Eugene Peterson *“The NIV Application Commentary series helps pastors and other Bible teachers with one of the most neglected elements of good preaching---accurate, useful application. Most commentaries tell you a few things that are helpful and much that you do not need to know. By dealing with the original meaning and contemporary significance of each passage, the NIV Application Commentary series promises to be helpful all the way around.” * Dr. James Montgomery Boice, Tenth Presbyterian Church *“The NIV Application Commentary series promises to be of great service to all who preach and teach the Word of God.” * J. I. Packer, Regent College *“The NIV Application Commentary series will be a great help for readers who want to understand what the Bible means, how it applies, and what they should do in response.” * Stuart Briscoe, Pastor, Elmbrook Church *“This series promises to become an indispensable tool for every pastor and teacher who seeks to make the Bible’s timeless message speak to this generation.” * Billy Graham *“This is the pulpit commentary for the 21st Century” * George K. Brushaber, President, Bethel College & Seminary *

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Book SynopsisThis workbook accompanies the third edition of Introduction to Biblical Interpretation by William W. Klein, Craig L. Blomberg, and Robert L. Hubbard Jr. Following the textbook’s structure, it offers readings, activities, and exercises designed to teach students how to understand and apply the Bible.This workbook gives students a chance to get hands-on experience in interpreting biblical texts as they are guided along by insightful questions and pointers from the authors. Ultimately the workbook is designed to get students interacting with the content of the textbook and with the biblical text in a way that helps reinforce classroom learning, while at the same time giving both student and instructor a way to gauge how well the student is learning the material from the textbook.The third edition of a classic hermeneutics textbook sets forth concise, logical, and practical guidelines for discovering the truth in God’s Word. A valuable tool for readers

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Book SynopsisMrs. Cowman's classic devotional will inspire fresh hope, confidence, and a deep awareness of God's presence in your life are presented in one volume for morning or evening devotional reading.

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Book SynopsisBest-selling promise book, with a new cover and a new paper stock that is similar to a Bible stock. The content includes relevant topics for multiple audiences all drawn from the best-selling New International Version.

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Book SynopsisThis set of key verse cards, created to correspond to both the Believe Children’s Curriculum is sure to become a favorite take-away for groups. Each card includes the key idea on one side and the key verse on the other side, making it a perfect companion to help children memorize key scripture verses. These cards are also meant as a piece to be shared at home with parents, to show them the progress and the scripture that is being learned in the church setting and to act as a reminder of the importance of committing key verses to memory.

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Book SynopsisThis is a guide for praying Scripture back to God, organized into three months of daily prayers; each day the reader is guided through eight different kinds of prayer, such as adoration, confession, renewal, petition, intercession, affirmation, thanksgiving, and a closing prayer, all translated and adopted for personal prayer by Dr. Kenneth Boa.Table of ContentsCONTENTS Introduction PART ONE: Morning Affirmations PART TWO: Daily Prayer Guide The First Month The Second Month The Third Month PART THREE: Personal Prayer Pages

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Book SynopsisCharacteristically scholarly examination of the origin and authorship of the Fourth Gospel, within the context of the community to which it relates. Skilful detective work traces the trail back to a figure who witnessed the death of Jesus in Jerusalem.

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Book SynopsisThe author offers five 'keys' for understanding the book of Revelation, derived from study of its background and content, and then applies them to interpretation of the most famous chapters of the Apocalypse. Having learned this approach, readers are then in a position to understand the material not covered in detail.

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Book SynopsisShows how important the beginnings of the four Gospels are. If rightly read they help the reader to make sense of what follows, but because they come from such a different culture it is easy to miss some of the indications they give.

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Book SynopsisAsks how the term 'gospel' came to be used both for proclamation and narrative, and why the church in forming the canon of scripture chose to include four different and sometimes contradictory accounts of the life of Jesus.Trade Review'This is a scholarly study of many areas of the historical origins and nature of the Gospels, taking up basic introductory questions for a historical critical approach to Gospel study. (...) Hengel shows his mastery of the areas of the history of the early Church and his great familiarity with the text of the Gospels themselves and early Christian writings. (...) A book for good libraries and for serious teachers and students of the Gospels.' -- P.M. Meagher * S. J. *

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Book SynopsisLooking at the "last words" of some of our New Testament books, this book considers their purpose and message. Focusing on the Gospels and Acts, the author finds that the ending of each narrative is carefully crafted, in order to pick up some of the themes spelt out earlier in the book.Trade Review"This little book is a gem (...). Here is New Testament scholarship truly serving the Church in its summons to its members to discipleship and witness and in its accompanying assurance of the ongoing presence of the risen Lord." Howard Marshall.

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Book SynopsisAfter teaching the Psalms for over twenty years, Magonet has found very little on rabbinical interpretation, ancient, mediaeval or modern. This is an introduction to the Hebrew text that gives access to the richness and complexity of the language of the Psalms to the non-Hebrew reader.Trade Review'A must-read for all persons who are seriously involved in advocacy for children in their own country or across country boundaries.' Professor Pam Couture, author and Professor of Practical Theology and Pastoral Care, Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School, NY

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Book Synopsis1 Peter is a significant letter, seen by many scholars to be an ecumenical bridge and anchor. It is first and foremost about the transformative joy of faith in Jesus Christ. This commentary offers a close reading of the text from beginning to end, drawing on a multiplicity of voices and engaging in a number of foundational themes for the Christian community according to the apostolic author: hope, holiness, suffering, joy, witness, hospitality, exile, resurrection, leadership. Tackling the themes raised by the epistle including slavery, exile and refugees, patriarchy, hierarchy, oppression, gender justice, and the risk of hospitality, the book engages with these topics not only through commentary, but also through short excursuses which draw the reader more deeply into some of the difficult questions. Designed as the official commentary resource for the Lambeth Conference in 2020, and structured around the themes of the conference, the book offers a unique range of perspectives on anTrade Review"As we focus on the theme ‘God’s Church for God’s World’ in Lambeth 2020 it is God’s Word that directs and informs the Church how to live in the World. The Global Commentary on 1 Peter is a tapestry of the foundational themes for the Christian Community of a living hope, holiness, witness, suffering, joy, hospitality, exile, leadership, resistance and resilience and the resurrection. The commentary reminds us that the vocation, the call, of all is to holiness and to God. I strongly commend it to God’s Church as we engage with God’s World." -- The Most Rev. P.K Samantaroy, Bishop of Amritsar and Former Moderator, Church of North India“The authors of this commentary have produced a volume that is a pleasure to commend. I invite you to join them on a journey that re-orientates us towards persevering hope, a loving holiness and Christ exalting joy.” -- The Rt Revd & Rt Hon Sarah Mullally DBE, Bishop of London“These commentaries, reflecting a rich diversity of voices in the Anglican Communion, give us eye-opening, hope-filled and transforming perspectives on Peter. A must-read for parish study groups and individuals for Lent.” -- The Most Revd Dr Thabo Makgoba, Archbishop of Cape Town

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Book Synopsis"[Here is] the Genesis for our generation and beyond."—Robert FaglesTrade Review"A masterly new translation." -- Time"Here is Genesis in all its power and presence.... Alter offers us an English prose as gravely cadenced as that of the King James Bible, and yet as fresh, precise, and strong as the best contemporary narrative can be." -- Robert Fagles, award-winning translator of The Iliad and The Odyssey"Robert Alter's new translation unquestionably should find a place on the bookshelf of every lover of Genesis and the Bible." -- Jonathan Groner - Washington Post"Alter's achievement is immensely impressive.... The illuminating notes alone make this volume indispensable for anyone wanting to do a close reading in English translation and understand all the possibilities of the original Hebrew." -- John A. Phillips - Boston Globe"Fluently readable.... As clear a window into primal darkness and the jeweled garden and the deeds of the patriarchs and matriarchs as we've likely to have in a long time." -- Chaim Potok - Philadelphia Inquirer Books"Genesis remains our best single collection of perennial stories. Alter translates them glowingly, without slickness or archness. His running commentary illuminates the true language of life in both Hebrew and English." -- Roger Shattuck

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Book Synopsis"An extraordinary and invaluable version of this great biblical treasure."—David R. Slavitt, Philadelphia Inquirer

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Book SynopsisTargeting mothers this year-long devotional is unique and simple. Features include:* A comprehensive overview and accompanying meditation for each passage;* Focus on the Bible passages that reveal the divine character of God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit; and* Bible passages referring specifically to mothers and their children;* Insightful comments and applications to daily life.

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Book SynopsisJewishness disrupts categories of identity because it is not genealogical, or even religious, but all of these, in dialectical tension with one another. An exploration of these tensions in the Pauline corpus, argues the author lead us to an appreciation of our own cultural quandaries as male and female, gay and straight, Jew and Palestinian.Table of ContentsAcknowledgments Introduction: Wrestling with Paul I. Circumcision, Allegory, and Universal "Man" 2. What Was Wrong with Judaism? The Cultural Politics of Pauline Scholarship 3· The Spirit and the Flesh: Paul's Political Anthropology 4· Moses' Veil; or, The Jewish Letter, the Christian Spirit 5· Circumcision and Revelation; or, The Politics of the Spirit 6. Was Paul an "Anti-Semite"? 7· Brides of Christ: Jewishness and the Pauline Origins of Christian Sexual Renunciation 8. "There Is No Male and Female": Galatians and Gender Trouble 9· Paul, the "jewish Problem," and the "Woman Question" 10. Answering the Mail: Toward a Radical Jewishness Notes Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisA study of the authenticity and interpretation of the last twelve verses of St Mark's Gospel. These verses are omitted from at least one important manuscript tradition and queried in most modern translations (though not from the NEB). Professor Farmer traces the history of the text tradition for omission back to Egypt, and argues that one important factor contributing to their omission was the dangerous teaching they seemed to contain: they appear to encourage Christians to handle deadly snakes and drink poisons to prove their faith, a practice which has been revived today by some Christian sects who accept the scriptural authority of these verses. The teaching of these verses has, however, never become established in orthodox Christianity and indeed most Christians are unaware of their doctrinal significance. Professor Farmer reviews all the textual and patristic evidence and examines the most plausible solutions that have been canvassed. This is another substantial contribution to a Table of ContentsPreface; Abbreviations; Part I. The External Evidence: 1. The witness of Eusebis; 2. The witness of Jerome; 3. A scholium to Victor of Antioch's commentary; 4. The witness of Origen; 5. Summary of witness for inclusion; 6. B, N, and the Armenian version: the chief witnesses for omission; 7. Alexandria and the chief witnesses for omission; 8. Remaining manuscript witnesses for omission; 9. Evaluation of the manuscript evidence; 10. A proposed conjectural solution; 11. A tentative conclusion; Part II. The Internal Evidence: 12. Introduction; 13. An examination of the fiction of Mk. 16: 9-20; Part III. Conclusions: 14. Summary statement; 15. Concluding statement; Bibliography; Indexes.

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Book SynopsisA study of the communal worship and private prayers of the early Christian Church, in particular the intercessory prayer passages in Paul's seven epistles. Professor Wiles is concerned to discover what these prayers reveal about Paul's ministry and his apostolic strategy. Were his assurances that he was praying continually for his readers merely polite expressions? Were his requests for their prayers sincere and serious? How did this affect his relations with the churches and his influence on them? To answer these questions the book makes a thorough analysis of the prayer passages in the light of ancient epistolary and liturgical style. It places the passages within the structure of each letter, and relates them to the dynamic situation for which each was written.Table of ContentsPreface; Texts and abbreviations; 1. Introductory; 2. Intercessory prayer material in Paul's letters; 3. Intercessory wish-prayers: their background and form; 4. Function of the wish-prayers in I Thessalonians; 5. Function of the wish-prayers in Romans, I Corinthians, and Philippians; 6. Blessings and curses; 7. Intercessory prayer-reports: their form and function; 8. Function of the prayer-reports in the thanksgiving periods; 9. Function of the prayer-reports in the body of the letters; 10. Requests and exhortations about intercessory prayer; 11. Concluding statement; Appendixes; Bibliography; Index of passages cited; Index of authors; Index of subjects.

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Book SynopsisThis 2004 book in English integrates detailed literary criticism of the exorcism stories in Luke-Acts with wide-ranging comparative study of ancient sources on demonology, spirit affliction and exorcistic healing. Methods from systemic functional linguistics and critical theory are explained and then applied to each story. Careful focus is placed on each narrative's linguistic functions and also on relevant aspects of its literary co-text and the wider context of culture. Implications of the analysis for the new perspective on Luke-Acts, especially the implied author's relationship with Judaism, are explored in relation to the Lukan stories' original context of reception. Largely neglected interfaces between Luke's narrative representation of exorcism and emerging academic discourse about religious experience, shamanism, health care in antiquity, ritual performance and ancient Jewish systems of impurity are probed in ways that shed fresh light on this supremely alien part of the Lukan Trade ReviewReview of the hardback: 'Klutz displays an extensive in contextual issues relating to exorcism, magic and shamanism … As well as becoming a standard scholarly text on the analysis of biblical exorcism narratives, this book should become an important input to debate about Luke-Acts in general.' Peter Oakes, JSNT BooklistReview of the hardback: 'Recently I heard a student describing a Scripture course as reversing the domestication of Scripture that has for so long been our practice. Reading Klutz is a welcome step in the same direction.' Sean Kealy, Review of Biblical LiteratureReview of the hardback: 'Many scholars have attempted to make linguistic theory the basis for fruitful exegesis of important biblical texts but, often, the results have been rather thin. Not so with Todd Klutz. In a very disciplined and contextually aware study, he puts sociostylistics effectively to work, with results that move the Lukan exorcism narratives to a vital position for understanding both Lukan Christology and the setting and purpose of Luke-Acts. … As well as becoming a standard scholarly text on the analysis of biblical exorcism narratives, this book should become an important input to debate about Luke-Acts in general.' Journal for the Study of the New TestamentReview of the hardback: 'This monograph is highly recommended to those who are interested in the field of Sociostylistics, exorcistic healing in the New Testament and the narrative of Luke-Acts.' NeotestamenticaTable of ContentsIntroduction; 1. Sociostylistics and the exorcism in Luke 4:33–37; 2. Purity and the exorcism in Luke 8:26–39; 3. Discipleship and the exorcism in Luke 9:37–43a; 4. Paul, Jewish identity, and the exorcism in Acts 16:16–18; Conclusion.

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Book SynopsisThis is a series of commentaries on the New English Bible designed for use in schools and training colleges, and for the layman. It replaces the old Cambridge Bible for Schools. Each volume will comment on one book, or two or three short books, of the Bible, beginning with the New Testament, already published. In each the text will be given in full. Sections of text and commentary alternate, so that the reader does not have to keep two books open, or turn from one part of the book to the other, or refer to a commentary in small type at the foot of the page. Great care has been taken to see that the commentary is suitable for the student and the layman: there is no Greek or Hebrew, and no strings of biblical references, but the commentary does convey the latest and best scholarship. The general editors all have experience of teaching or examining in schools and working with adults. It is hoped to have the series complete in a few years. There will also be a general introductory volume, Table of ContentsMap; Corinth and the founding of the Corinthian Church; Paul's correspondence with the Corinthians; The date and place of composition; The First Letter of Paul to the Corinthians; The Second Letter of Paul to the Corinthians; Events following the writing of I Corinthians; The Corinthian letters today; Index.

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Book SynopsisThis volume on Mark's Gospel is one of the series of commentaries on the New English Bible designed for use in schools and training colleges, and for the layman. Each volume will comment on one book, or two or three short books, of the Bible, beginning with the New Testament, already published. In each the text will be given in full. Sections of text and commentary alternate, so that the reader does not have to keep two books open, or turn from one part of the book to the other, or refer to a commentary in small type at the foot of the page. Great care is being taken to see that the commentary is suitable to the student and the layman: there is no Greek or Hebrew, and no strings of biblical references, but the commentary does convey the latest and best scholarship. The general editors all have experience of teaching or examining in school and working with adults. There will also be a general introductory volume, Understanding the New Testament, and a volume of maps and plates, The New Table of ContentsMap of Palestine; What sort of a book is it? Some of its characteristics; The author; Index of theological questions.

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Book SynopsisFurnish shows that the common view of 1 Corinthians as mainly about 'ethics' and of little importance for 'theology' needs correcting. He goes beyond the details of the Corinthian situation to explore and clarify the theological orientation of 1 Corinthians, and its contribution to an understanding of Paul's theology.Trade Review"This small volume is an excellent primer for the student who is beginning a study of Pauline theology and will benefit all students of the Pauline letters." Choice"...a careful exposition of 1 Corinthians with perhaps more attention to theological themes than one generally finds in commentaries of this length." Word & World"This is a thoughtful, carefully written book. I plan to have it on my reading list for next semester's course on Paul." Theology Today"...an elegant and very readable style...This book is truly multum in parvo." Southwestern Journal of Theology"...all students - teaching and preaching pastors especially - will benefit from reading attentively this well-wrought work of historically informed theological exegesis." Pro EcclesiaTable of ContentsEditor's preface; Preface; List of abbreviations; 1. Introduction; 2. Knowing God, belonging to Christ; 3. Belonging to Christ in an unbelieving society; 4. Belonging to Christ in a believing community; 5. Hoping in God, the 'all in all'; 6. The significance of 1 Corinthians for Christian thought; Select bibliography; Index of references; Index of names; Index of subjects.

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Book SynopsisThe present study focuses on the theology of the Book of Jeremiah. That theology revolves around themes familiar from Israel's covenantal faith, especially the sovereignty of YHWH expressed in judgment and promise. The outcome of this theological nexus of context, person, and tradition is a book that moves into the abyss and out of the abyss in unexpected ways. It does so, in part, by asserting that God continues to be generatively and disturbingly operative in the affairs of the world, up to and including our contemporary abysses (such as 9/11). The God attested in the Book of Jeremiah invites its readers into and through any and all such dislocations to new futures that combine divine agency and human inventiveness rooted in faithfulness.Trade Review'I know of no better introduction to the book of Jeremiah than this work of a master expositor. … Buy and read!' Theology Reviews'… a gem and a must for anyone interested in Jeremian studies.' Journal for the Study of the Old TestamentTable of Contents1. Critical access to the Book of Jeremiah; 2. The theology of the Book of Jeremiah; 3. The place and function of the Book of Jeremiah within the Old Testament; 4. The continuing influence of the Book of Jeremiah.

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Book SynopsisThis book is concerned with how interpretation re-shapes texts and will appeal to readers in Cultural Studies, Jewish Studies and Biblical Studies. It pursues the book of Jonah and looks at how popular understandings of the book are on a collision course with academic/Christian understanding of the text.Trade Review'Learned, clever and playful book from one of the most gifted of younger biblical scholars in Britain … a real feast.' Expository Times'… this publication is an important source of the history of biblical hermeneutics and the most comprehensive reception history of the text of Jonah at present. It gives me great pleasure to recommend this book to all students and scholars intrigued and puzzled by the varied and creative interpretations of biblical texts and the textual power to reinvent still unforeseen ones. It is an excellent book with horizon-broadening promises for the attentive reader.' Old Testament Essays'… one of the most stimulating works on any biblical text that I have read in years. it sets a new standard for the study of reception history … Sherwood writes so well. Every page provides entertainment as well as academically rigorous argument … A very exciting work from an outstanding specialist in Biblical Studies.' Journal of Jewish StudiesTable of ContentsIntroduction; 1. The Mainstream; (i) Jonah and the Fathers: Jonah and Jesus as typological twins; (ii) Jonah the Jew: the evolution of a biblical character; (iii) Divine Disciplinary Devices: or the book of Jonah and a tractate on producing docile disciple-bodies; (iv) Cataloguing the Monstrous: Jonah and the Cani Cacharis (or a concluding scientific postscript); (v) Taking Stock: survivals, hauntings, Jonah and (Stanley) fish, and the Christian colonisation of the book of Jonah; 2. Backwaters and Underbellies; (i) Jewish Interpretation; (ii) Popular Interpretation; (iii) On the Strained Relations Between the Backwaters and the Mainstream: or how Jewish and popular readings are prone to bring on a bout of scholarly dyspepsia; (iv) Of Survival, Memes and Life-After-Death: on Jonah's infinite regurgitation and endless survival; (v) Jonah on the Oncology Ward and the Beached-up Whale Carcass; or the strange secular afterlives of Biblical texts; 3. Regurgitating Jonah; (i) Of 'Hot Chestnuts', 'Fluid Puddings' and 'Plots That Do Not Shelter Us': some ruminations on the salvific properties of 'the Bible' and 'literature'; (ii) Regurgitating Jonah; (iii) In conclusion … Recuperating Jonah: the book of Jonah as the quintessential story and the most typical of Bible texts; Bibliography.

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Book SynopsisThis commentary focuses exclusively on the two letters written by the 'brothers of the Lord'. This commentary reads each letter on its own merits and interprets them holding that the letter of James may be one of the oldest Christian writings extant.Trade Review'This book is a stimulating commentary that forms a distinctive and valuable contribution both to scholarly debate and to the pulpit.' Journal for the Study of the New Testament'Brosend's commentary on James and Jude is sensitive not only to the structure of the ancient documents, but also to homiletical issues. the text is written in lively style yet the author engages helpfully with recent scholarship.' ThemeliosTable of ContentsPart I. Introduction: 1. Authors; 2. Dates; 3. Occasions; 4. Literary relationships; 5. Reception and interpretation; 6. The texture of texts; Part II. Selected Reading List: 7. Inner and inter-textures; 8. Socio-cultural texture; 9. Ideological texture; 10. Sacred and homiletical texture; 11. Commentaries on the Letter of James; 12. Studies on James; 13. Articles on the Letter of James; 14. Commentaries and books on Jude; 15. Studies and articles on Jude; 16. Special studies; Part III. Commentary: 17. James 1:1–27: that you may be mature and complete; 18. James 2:1–26: I by my works will show you my faith; 19. James 3:1–18: teachers, tongues and righteousness; 20. James 4:1–17: conflict, friendship, and what tomorrow may bring; 21. James 5:1–20: cries, patience, and prayer: the Lord is near; 22. The Letter of Jude: have mercy on some who are wavering.

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Book SynopsisProposes a different theory regarding the date and circumstances of the composition of the "Pentateuch". This book shows that the Hebrew "Pentateuch" was composed in its entirety about 273-272 BCE by Jewish scholars at Alexandria that later traditions credited with the Septuagint translation of the Pentateuch into Greek.Trade ReviewReviewed in International Review of Biblical Studies, 2007.Contributor Russell E. Gmirkin's essay "The Rivers of Eden" reviewed in International Review of Biblical Studies, 2007."[Berossus and Genesis, Manetho and Exodus] has a bold thesis and detailed argumentation...this volume is an intriguing read because it challenges us at every turn to think about source-critical questions and to ask about the direction of literary dependence." -Journal of Hebrew Scriptures -- Joyce Rilett Wood"this is a detailed study and a good example of thinking outside the box" Theological Book Review Vol. 19 No. 1 2007Table of ContentsChapter One. Methodology and History of Scholarship; Chapter Two. The Documentary Hypothesis; Chapter Three. Hecataeus of Abdera; Chapter Four. Aristobulus and the Septuagint; Chapter Five. Berossus and Genesis; Chapter Six. The Table of Nations; Chapter Seven. Manetho and the Hyksos. Chapter Eight. Manetho and the Polluted Egyptians; Chapter Nine. Nectanebos and Moses; Chapter Ten. The Route of the Exodus; Chapter Eleven. The Date and Authorship of the Pentateuch; Appendix A. Berossus and Megasthenes; Appendix B. Theophanes of Mytilene; Appendix C. The Samaritan Pentateuch; Appendix D. The Rivers of Eden; Appendix E. Tarsus and the Nora Inscription; Appendix F. Seth-Typhon and the Jews.

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Book SynopsisTraditional interpretations in both Judaism and Christianity argue that the "Akedah" presents not only an ethical question but also an ethical reply. This book shows how the narrative's version did not contain the angelic figure and also re-examines various religious interpretations of the text.Trade Review"...a rare delight. Boehm offers a fresh and sometimes disturbing reading... This is a rich and thought-provoking book that definitely deserves to be read. It can be argued that its message lies right in time: we are today more prone to accept a reading of disobedience than ever before, and it fits well into much contemporary research in the fields of the prophets (of resisting prophetic metaphors) and of Lamentations (of picking up the counter-voices of the lamenters)." Svensk Exegetisk Årsbok (Swedish Exegetical Yearbook), vol. 74 (2009)Table of ContentsForeword by Jack Miles; Chapter 1: Introduction; Chapter 2: Preliminary Methodological Considerations; Chapter 3: Abraham: A Model of Obedience?; Chapter 4: The Original Abraham Story: Abraham's Disobedience; Chapter 5: Abraham's Ethical Protest: The Trial of Sodom; Chapter 6: Abraham's Journey to the Land of Moriah; Chapter 7: The Religious Significance of the Akedah; Chapter 8: "The Prevention of Sacrifice": Ibn Caspi's Interpretation; Chapter 9: Maimonides on the True Nature of Prophecy; Chapter 10: Between Job and Abraham; Chapter 11: On Fearing God without Being Afraid of Him: From Kierkegaard to Kant; Chapter 12: A Religious Model of Disobedience.

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Trade Review"This unique study provides the first full-length study of the impact that Paul's quotations had upon his audience.... It is a fresh approach to the analysis of Paul's use of scripture.... This emphasis on authority and quotation then becomes a key ingredient in Stanley's examination of Paul's Scripture quotations.... His points provide a good critique of many studies on Paul's use of Scripture.... There are a number of strengths to Stanley's study. He has provided a much needed vantage point for looking at Paul's quotations of Scripture and emphasized the audience's reaction to Scripture quotations rather than the author's use. He has also focused attention on the diverse Scripture literacy of Paul's audience. These points deserve to be considered further in Paul's use of Scripture.... Arguing with Scripture does open up much room for understanding Paul's use of Scripture. His audience-centered approach will provide a fruitful starting point for many further investigations of Paul, his readers, and the role of Scripture." -RBL (Society of Biblical Literature), 1/05Review ~ International Review of Biblical Studies, vol 51,2004/05"In our opinion, Stanley's treatment of Paul's quotations is not penetrating either in content or rhetorical analysis. As a result he can present a view of Paul's quotation process that is at odds with the organic nature of revelation and the progressive movement of redemptive history. Perhaps others can find some usefulness in this work in spite of these flaws, but we have found little. Save your money and look up the quotations yourself. And if you want rhetorical insights, read Paul along with some classical rhetorical handbooks and Greco-Roman speeches. That would even help your preaching, but this book will not." - Scott F. Sanborn, Kerux: The Journal of Northwest Theological Seminary, September 2008 -- Scott F. Sanborn"Arguing with Scripture" is a theoretically sophisticated, methodologically innovative, exegetically sound, thorough and balanced study of how the Apostle Paul used scripture to argue with opponents and to persuade members of early Christian churches. By positing different hypothetical audiences for Paul's letters, at varying levels of familiarity with Jewish scripture, Stanley moves the debate about Paul's interpretive practices in new and more fruitful directions, away from concentrating exclusively on Paul's "intentions" and toward the variety of interpretations that are possible given a variety of possible kinds of audiences. Cognizant of the views of others and in dialogue with recent scholarship, Stanley judiciously demonstrates the remarkable freedom Paul used in quoting and interpreting scripture, but this study also shows just how persuasive--and sometimes unpersuasive--Paul's rhetoric may have been in the ancient church. Stanley's own arguments are persuasive indeed."--Dale B. Martin, Professor of Religious Studies, Yale University -- Dale B. Martin * Blurb from reviewer *"Christopher Stanley has provided an insightful analysis of Paul's enigmatic use of Scripture. Why did Paul seldom explicitly quote the Old Testament? Why did he use Scripture infrequently to support his deeper theological arguments? Stanley finds the answers to these and other questions in Paul's sensitivity to his rhetorical situations and the argumentation that he tailored for each. Stanley merges the study of Paul's use of Scripture and rhetorical analysis to create a helpful, custom-made tool for interpreting the Pauline Epistles."--Duane Watson, Professor of New Testament Studies, Malone College, Canton, Ohio -- Duane Watson * Blurb from reviewer *"While not everyone will agree with all of Chris Stanley's own arguments with Paul concerning his use and abuse of scriptural quotations, Arguing with Scripture represents a quantum leap forward in the study of this dimension of Paul's intertextuality. Stanley's highly productive combination of reader response and rhetorical criticism keeps the focus on a range of effects that Paul's strategic 'rhetoric of quotations' could have had on readers/auditors of varying competencies. While previous studies occasionally touch on these issues, Stanley foregrounds them and uses them to present many fresh insights. Indeed, he succeeds in problematizing no less than nine traditional scholarly assumptions about how Paul and his readers interacted with the biblical text! This is an important scholarly contribution that is clear, concise, and reader-friendly even to non-specialists. It deserves to be read by readers of all competencies.--Mark D. Given, Associate Professor of Religious Studies, Southwest Missouri State University, Springfield Missouri -- Mark D. Given * Blurb from reviewer *"...Stanley's book is engaging and provocative. The questions that he raises are both poignant and important."- David Lincicum, June 2006/ Vol. 49 no.2 * Journal of Evangelical Theological Society *'[A] new methodological approach which promises to offer new insights into Paul's use of Scripture...This accesible study offers the reader a tremendous amount of insight into first century Christianity, pexposing some of the fallacies that are often assumed about Paul's audiences...This book is a fresh approach to Paul's use of Scriptures that has much to offer...and will certainly be of benefit whatever side of the Maximalist/Minimalist divide one resides.' Bryan D. Lee, Themelios, Vol 32, Issue 2, January 2006 * Themelios *Stanley’s method is enlightening and can be built upon for further insight into the Pauline use of scripture… [his] study gives the NT, and specifically Pauline community, much to consider. -- Aaron White, Pastoral Intern * Mosissimus Mose, A Blog by PhD Students at Trinity College, Bristol *

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Book SynopsisThis text does not look backward to the earlier sources of the gospel nor to the historical Jesus, but seeks to locate Thomas on the map of early Christian literature and history by comparing the gospel to other related writings and traditions.Trade Review"Overall, the scholarship presented in this volume is of the highest quality and may serve as the watermark of the state of things at the conclusion of the work of the SBL Thomas Traditions Group. But if Urso shows anything definitive, it is that the work on this text is still only beginning." -- The Journal of Religion"very helpful and represents an advance over earlier attempts to interpret such material...Overall, the scholarship presented in this volume is of the highest quality and may serve as the watermark of the state of things at the conclusion of the work of the SBL Thomas Traditions Group." -- Stephen J. Patterson, Journal of Religion, (86.1) * Journal of Religion *Table of ContentsIntroduction 1. The Secret of Judas Thomas 2. Gnosticism Without Demiurge? 3. Body and Community 4. Authority and Autonomy 5. Orality and Textuality 6. Does Thomas Make a Difference? Epilogue Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisThis text is an approach to the Book of Revelation. It illuminates the formative years of Christianity, in the social, religious and political situation of mid-first-century Palestine.Trade Review'This is a very exciting and suggestive book. Margaret Barker strips off the varnish applied to the portrait of Jesus Christ by generations of desk bound scholars. She reveals a fresh and startling Christ, but one who is entirely believable in the diversity of first century Judaism which she has so dramatically illuminated.' The Rt Revd and Rt Hon. Richard Chartres, Bishop of London 'This is a serious book and one that will provoke much debate and reflection.' The Bible Today 'The case is argued by massive (but readable) scholarship. But does it hold together? If Margaret Barker is correct, how come this book got into the same New Testament as the letters of Paul whom it so vehemently opposed? Read her case; it will stimulate your own thinking. And then make your own mind up.' Canon Michael Perry, Church Times 'Margaret Barker makes the Book of Revelation make sense. It no longer stands apart at the edge of the Christian Bible, but appears as a key New Testament text, showing us the world of images in which the early Christians thought their religion. Margaret Barker has written a compelling book. It reshapes our understanding of early Christianity, its literature and its liturgy.' Professor David Melling, Manchester Metropolitan University"This commentary-like series of essays on the book of Revelation offers a fresh and complete interpretation of what Barker considers one of the earliest [...] NT writings...Barker's book demonstrates that there can be no convincing account of early Christian history without a proper understanding of the book of Revelation. Highly recommended!" - International Review of Biblical Studies, 1999/2000"Barker is one of a growing number who have seen the potential significance of the Temple and its mythology for the classic Christian creeds". --International Journal of Systematic Theology 3.2 (July 2001)This is a brave book and an intriguing one... it must be said that not the least intriguing aspect of the author's presentation is the wide cast of her net: she has read and mastered an astonishingly broad range of primary texts. The Heythrop Journal, July 2003.Table of ContentsJesus; the temple; the priests of Israel; the words of this book; the man among the lamps; the letters to the seven churches; the chariot throne of God; the sacrificd lamb; the book with seven seals; the redeemed; the seven trumpets; the angel in the cloud; the woman clothed with the sun; war in heaven and earth; the two beasts; the harvest of the earth; the bowls of wrath; Jerusalem; the warrior priest; the city of the saints; the millennium kingdom; all things new.

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Book SynopsisThis study of St Paul provides a detailed, yet readable work. Chapters include "humankind under indictment", "the gospel of Jesus Christ" and "the process of salvation".Trade Review'An exceptionally fine presentation of Pauline theology - detailed yet clear, lavishly documented yet readable; a major contribution to clarification and order in this confused and controversial field of study.' C. F. D. Moule; 'Dunn assembles his classic, distinctive handywork in a format that is seamless in its flow, up to date in its scholarship, and (as ever) easily accessible in its presentation.... As a resource book for the study of what Paul had to say on any particular topic, this book is unequalled, as one of the most important of modern Pauline scholars assesses the texts in his own distinguished way.' Bruce W. Longenecker, Tyndale House, Cambridge, Anvil; 'Surely this is James Dunn's best book so far. His magisterial, lucid exposition of Paul's thought will be welcomed warmly by scholars, teachers, and students alike. This is a work of outstanding scholarship: there is no comparable book in English.' Graham N. StantonTable of ContentsPreface; Bibliography; Abbreviations; 1. Prologue; 2. God and Humankind; 3. Humankind under Indictment; 4. The Gospel of Jesus Christ; 5. The Beginning of Salvation; 6. The Process of Salvation; 7. The Church; 8. How Should Believers Live?; 9. Epilouge; Index of Subjects; Index of Modern Authors; Index of Scripture and Other Ancient Writings

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Book SynopsisThe late Robert McL. Wilson was Emeritus Professor of Biblical Studies, University of St Andrews,UK.Trade Review"This volume takes its place as a worthy replacement in the venerable International Critical Commentary series. Here is critical but reverent scholarship at its best, distilling many years of research and reflection. In a day when the length of critical commentaries is expanding exponentially, Wilson serves up a concise, erudite treatment, a model of lucid scholarship.For pastors who can work with their Greek NT and for teachers in colleges, universities and seminaries, this commentary will prove to be a goldmine of information. The proofreading for this highly technical volume is first rate." -- Journal of the Evangelical Theololgical Society'A technical but readable analysis of Colossians and Philemon with due attention given to the text, background, and arguments of these letters. The author gives good overviews of scholarship and excavates the text with learned precision. Wilson is well-qualified to write a commentary on Colossians given his forty years of expertise... in sum a technical but eminently readable commentary' Michael F. Bird in European Journal of Theology -- Michael F. Bird"To his great credit, Wilson keeps this aim in sight throughout his careful and detailed study. As a result, the commentary proves a valuable source-book of data on a variety of topics: lexical, conceptual, social, theological, and occasionally pastoral...It is rich in word studies based on the text and other NT sources...In all, this is a valuable contribution to the library of scholarly works on the two letters. Building on the work of Lightfoot, Lohse, and Dunn, it takes its place as a welcome addition to the ICC revision." -Ralph P. Martin, Interpretation, January 2008 -- Ralph P. Martin'ICC has been the supreme English language Bible commentary series throughout the twentieth century, and the recent additions to it...maintain its reputation as the commentary of choice, the first volume to be pulled from the shelf when a really tricky issue of exegesis or exposition is involved or an authoritative survey of historical and recent scholarly interpretation is sought on any particular passage.' -- Professor James Dunn, University of Durham * Blurb from reviewer *'Breaks fresh ground...Wilson has written a commentary that provides a sober analysis of the text and the critical issues that surround it.' ~ Paul Foster, Expository Times -- Paul Foster * Expository Times *Table of ContentsForewordAbbreviationsBibliographyCOLOSSIANS IntroductionI ColossaeII The Church at Colossae III The Letter to the Colossians a) Authenticity b) Place of Writing c) Colossians and Ephesians d) Colossians and other Pauline Letters e) Conclusions IV The Colossian HeresyV Recapitulation CommentaryI Opening Salutation (1: 1-2) II Thanksgiving for the Faith of the Colossians (1: 3-8) III Intercession for the Colossians (1: 9-14)IV The Colossian "Hymn" (1:15-20) V Relevance for the Readers (1:21-23) VI Paul's Labours for the Church (1:24-2: 5) VII The Significance of Christ's Work (2: 6-15)VIII Further Admonitions (2:16-23) IX Seek Things Above (3: 1-4) X Guidelines for the new life (3: 5-17) XI The Haustafel (3:18-4: 1) XII Final Admonitions (4: 2-6) XIII The Close of the Letter (4: 7-18) XIV EpiloguePHILEMONIntroductionCommentaryIndex of Ancient Writings and SourcesIndex of AuthorsSubject Index

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Trade Review"Joyce, one of the major experts on this biblical prophet, offers here a thorough commentary on a notoriously difficult book ... a significant contribution to Ezekiel studies." International Review of Biblical Studies, vol. 54:2007/08"Joyce's commentary certainly succeeds...A fine commentary that will prove to be an important contribution to Ezekiel scholarship." -Jason Gile, Biblical Interpretation, Vol. 18, 2010‘Joyce's vast knowledge of Ezekiel studies, reflected throughout the commentary, in not to be taken for granted - this is the most useful traditional commentary currently available.' -- The Scottish Journal of TheologyJoyce's vast knowledge of Ezekiel studies, reflected throughout the commentary, is not to be taken for granted- this is the most useful traditional commentary currently available. -- Journal of SJT[Ezekiel: A Commentary] will be useful to students and scholars on various levels and constitutes a helpful resource for theological and research libraries. -- Religious Studies ReviewMentioned in the Church TimesDr Joyce has put all students of prophecy in his debt with a clear, concise and up-to-date commentary on the book of Ezekiel. This is a thoroughly commended survey of recent studies of the most complex and controversial of the prophetic books of the Old Testament. It explains the problems and recounts and evaluates the proposed solutions to them. From a world where temple-symbolism, ritual-enforced holiness and grotesque visions provided an unfamiliar religious setting, Ezekiel emerges as a figure who upheld human responsibility and awareness of the fundamentally spiritual nature of hope. The commentary should do much to set Ezekiel as a worthy companion alongside the congenial figures of Isaiah and Jeremiah. --Ronald E. Clements, Emeritus Professor of Old Testament Studies, King's College, University of London"the commentary contains an extensive introduction that deals with issues of date, place, authorial unity/disunity, theological themes, allusions to earlier traditions, text and versions, place inb canon, and Ezekiel in later traditions" "The introduction is followed by a concise commentary" "Offers fresh insight into the book of Ezekiel. Joyce never merely repeats another scholar's opinion but always offers his own well-informed perspective. This book is a valuable additin to the literature devoted to the book of Ezekiel and it can be highly recommended" Lena-Sofia Tiemeyer, Ex pository Times Vol.119 n.10 July 2008Paul Joyce's commentary on Ezekiel is warmly commended. It is unique in the way that it concentrates on Ezekiel's theology, thereby bringing his thought to life. -- Jacob Milgrom, Professor Emeritus of Biblical Studies University of California at BerkeleyIt is a rare commentator who combines judicious historical research with genuine literary sensitivity, and Paul Joyce has done just that in this fresh and deeply insightful theological interpretation of the book of Ezekiel. Rich in exegetical detail but never bogged down by it, Ezekiel: A Commentary gets to the heart of Ezekiel's message, never losing sight of the thorny and fundamental question for understanding the book, What is Ezekiel saying about God and God's relation to his people? How does this most difficult to understand prophet deal with the knotty questions of divine justice and power in the wake of the crisis of exile? Learned, informative and engagingly written, this commentary is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the prophet and his by turns perplexing, bizarre, unsettling and oddly comforting message for a time of national catastrophe. -- J. Cheryl Exum, Professor of Biblical Studies, University of Sheffield"In this relatively short commentary, Paul Joyce - noted Ezekiel scholar and chair of the Society of Biblical Literature's section on 'Theological Perspectives on the Book of Ezekiel" - has given readers an eminently readable, balanced, and useful study of what is arguably the Hebrew Bible's most disturbing and perplexing prophetic book... Joyce sets out to combine a number of techniques, such as close literary readings, sensitive theological analysis, and historical reconstruction, and he does so in a such a way as to provide both a solid base of information for the novice as well as some more rigorous commentary for advanced scholars; thus, the book will prove to be just as at home on the shelves of graduate students and clergy as it will be on the shelves of seminary professors and seasoned theologians." --Brian R. Doak, Harvard University, Hebrew Studies 50 (2009) -- Brian R. Doak, Harvard University'Joyce has produced a fine commentary that will prove to be an important contribution to Ezekiel scholarship.' Biblical Interpretation -- Jason Gile"This important commentary has been many years in the making...Joyce's command of Ezekiel scholarships is impressive and this commentary is fully to be recommended to anyone seeking an up-to-date and balanced commentary on this prophetic book." -Society for Old Testament Study Booklist -- John DayJoyce's welcome treatment of Ezekiel in tradition provides extensive discussion of the role of Ezekiel in Judaism, Christianity, and even contemporary culture. He emphasizes the foundational role of the book in the development of the Merkavah tradition and correctly opines that apocalyptic and Merkavah literature may be related. -- Marvin A. Sweeney * Journal of Hebrew Scriptures *Table of ContentsIntroduction: A Place in the Canon B Structure C Unity, Authorship and Redaction D Time and Place E Ezekiel Himself? F Israel's Traditions G Literary Relations H Theological Themes I Forms of Speech J Text and Versions K After Ezekiel: Ezekiel in Tradition L Analysis of Ezekiel 1-48 Chapter-by-chapter commentary on Ezekiel 1-48 Bibliography General Index Index of Authors Index of Biblical References

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Book SynopsisGregory K. Beale is J. Gresham Machen Chair of New Testament, Professor of New Testament and Biblical Theology, at Westminster Theological Seminary, PA, USA.

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Book SynopsisDavid G. Horrell is Professor of New Testament at the University of Exeter UK, and author of Becoming Christian (T&T Clark 2013).Trade ReviewOne of the most creative and innovative books about Paul I have ever read. * N. T. Wright, Paul and His Recent Interpreters, 2015 *In a global, pluralist, fractured world, may Christians hope to find a healing and hopeful word in - of all places - the letters of Paul, themselves centers of controversy and division from the beginning? Horrell answers with a resounding "Yes", After a penetrating analysis and critique of the polarized conversation among ethicists in recent decades, he proposes a new, "third way" to find a model in Paul for communities that embrace the other without losing their identity. * Wayne A. Meeks, Yale University, USA *This is a bold and highly stimulating intellectual experiment...Through close study of key texts and carefully reasoned debates across multiple disciplines, Horrell reconfigures the Pauline ethic and opens it up to dialogue with public morality as never before. Both New Testament scholars and ethicists will welcome this ground-breaking work. * John Barclay, Durham University, UK *There is much exegetical and moral wisdom in this lucidly written book, a wisdom which avoids simplifications and the peril of modernizing Paul. The Paul we encounter in this book is no eccentric, but a serious moral thinker of Early Christian wrestling with problems which are not out of date, but which recur again and again in this life. * Gerd Theissen, University of Heidelberg, Germany *David Horrell's nuanced study significantly advances the conversation about Pauline ethics...Horrell's reading of Paul offers a mediating voice that suggests a way beyond certain impasses in contemporary ethical debate...Anyone who reads Horrell's richly synthetic work, therefore, will be challenged to think more precisely about matters of central importance. * Richard B. Hays, Duke Divinity School, USA *Table of ContentsPreface Abbreviations Introduction 1.Approaches to Pauline Ethics: from Bultmann to Boyarin 2.Liberals and Communitarians: Contrasting Approaches in Contemporary Ethical Theory 3.Reading Paul: Myth, Ritual, Identity, and Ethics 4.The Construction of Community: Corporate Solidarity in Christ 5.Purity, Boundaries and Identity: the Rhetoric of Distinction 6.Solidarity, Difference, and Other-Regard: the Strong and the Weak (1 Cor 8-10, Rom 14-15) 7.Other-Regard and Christ as Moral Paradigm 8. Universal knowledge 9.Solidarity and Difference: Paul Among Liberals and Communitarians Bibliography Index of ancient references Index of modern authors

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Book SynopsisThis bible commentary traces the reception of Judges through the ages, not only by scholars and theologians, but also by preachers, teachers, politicians, poets, essayists and artists. A bible commentary focusing on The Book of Judges, best known for the tale of Samson and Delilah, but full of many other rich and colourful stories. Treats the text story by story, making it accessible to non-specialists, Considers the stories of women in Judges, including Deborah, Jael, who slew Sisera, and Jephthah's daughter, sacrificed by her father. Traces the reception of Judges through the ages, not only by scholars and theologians, but also by preachers, teachers, politicians, poets, essayists and artists. Illustrates how ideology and the social location of readers have shaped the way the book has been read. Discloses a long history of debate over the roles ofTrade Review“A sometimes sober, sometimes whimsical, sometimes disturbing, sometimes delightful, and always enlightening journey through the centuries alongside all manner of Bible readers... Gunn has attempted a large feat here – to provide readers with a meaningful survey of over 2,000 years' worth of reception of the book of Judges – and has succeeded admirably. Hopefully, other volumes in the Blackwell series will live up to Gunn's example. This is an engaging and enlightening commentary that deserves attention from anyone interested in the history of the interpretation, use, and influence of the book of Judges.” The Bible and Critical Theory "In this first volume of the new Blackwell Bible Commentaries series to treat a book from the Tanak, David M. Gunn has not only provided a useful tool for students of the book of Judges but also established a new standard for biblical commentaries in general." Review of Biblical Literature "If you want to know how learned rabbis and church fathers, Puritan divines and rationalist skeptics, musicians, painters and graphic artists, guardians of public morality and improvers of children’s souls all wrested religious and moral significance from an unruly Book of Judges, this is the book for you. David Gunn selectively assembles some twenty centuries of professional and popular interpreters of the Book of Judges and provides a running commentary on how, in various times and places, these readers found meaning and instruction from the Book of Judges, often treasuring the book and sometimes recoiling from what they found to be its alien ways. Writing with humor and verve, Gunn provides thematic continuity among interpreters separated by centuries and alludes to social and political issues that help explain shifting interpretations. Mostly, however, David Gunn allows his choir to sing and his artists to imagine. The voices and illustrations have sometimes been univocal—as in consistently holding up Delilah as femme fatale. Very often they have been troubled and dissonant, finding conflicting allegories and ambiguous moral instruction in hair, heroic militarism, rapacious slaughter, sex, foxes, and sacrifice. Gunn, or rather the readers he assembles, offer eye-opening testimony that the Bible-as-cultural-force has never been a single thing, but a malleable text which people have received quite variously, depending on the changing circumstances in which they lived and the social issues they sought to address." Burke O. Long, Bowdoin College "This is an exciting new commentary series, which presents a fresh and stimulating approach to understanding biblical interpretation. Leaving behind the verse by verse analysis typically found in commentaries, this series focuses instead on the broad spectrum of interpretations that have been applied to each story/textual unit by Jews and Christians throughout the ages. Gunn’s ground-breaking volume on Judges, the first in the series to treat an Old Testament book, is filled with many new insights and stimulating analyses. Gunn demonstrates very effectively that surveying the reception history of a particular passage focuses one’s attention on key issues in an intriguing and often provocative way. Numerous perspectives for understanding each narrative in Judges are compared in a lively manner that highlights the many subtle nuances implicit in the text. Gunn’s volume is thoroughly researched and exceptionally informative, and will provide a stellar model for subsequent volumes to emulate." Alan J. Hauser, Appalachian State University "Gunn has attempted a large feat here - to provide readers with a meaningful survey of over 2,000 years' worth of reception of the book of Judges - and has succeeded admirably...This is an engaging and enlightening commentary that deserves attention from anyone interested in the history of the interpretation, use, and influence of the book Judges." R.Christopher Heard, Pepperdine University California Table of ContentsSeries Editors’ Preface. Preface. Introduction. Judges 1–3: Beginnings. Ancient and Medieval. Early Modern and Modern. Judges 3: Ehud. Ancient and Medieval. Early Modern and Modern. Judges 4–5: Deborah. Ancient and Medieval. Early Modern and Modern. Deborah. Barak, Sisera, and Sisera’s Mother. Jael. Recent Reception. Judges 6–8: Gideon. Ancient and Medieval. Early Modern and Modern. Allegorical, Typological, Literal. Character. Gideon Illustrated. Recent Reception. Judges 9: Abimelech. Ancient and Medieval. Early Modern and Modern. Judges 10–12: Jephthah. Ancient and Medieval. Jewish. Christian. Death or Survival?. Early Modern and Modern. The Rash Vow. Death or Survival?. The story Illustrated. The Daughter. Recent Reception. Judges 13–16: Samson. Ancient and Medieval. Jewish. Christian. Early Modern and Modern. Typology. Edifying History. Manoah, his wife, and the angel. The woman of Timnah. The Lion. Foxes and Fire. Slaughter at Lehi. Gaza. Delilah. Captivity and Death. The Riddle of Samson. Judges 17–18: Micah and the Danites. Ancient and Medieval. Early Modern and Modern. Judges 19–21: The Levite and the Benjamites. Ancient and Medieval. The rape at Gibeah. The Benjamite War. The Aftermath. Early Modern and Modern. The rape at Gibeah. The Benjamite War. The Aftermath. Recent Reception. Postscript. Bibliography. Ancient and Medieval. Early Modern and Modern. Graphical. List of Illustrations. Glossary. Biographies. Name Index. Subject Index.

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