Christianity Books

Book SynopsisReflects on the kinds of appeal to the Bible that have been made in environmental ethics and ecotheoloogy. This title engages with biblical texts with a view towards exploring their contribution to an ecological ethics, and explores the kind of hermeneutic necessary for such engagement to be fruitful for contemporary theology and ethics.Trade Review‘This wonderful volume demonstrates the rich exegesis of Scripture and the Christian theological tradition, drawing upon a wide range of texts from varied yet complementary angles. Further, it offers perhaps the best small collection of resources I know for reworking and developing a Christian theology of the created order for our own critical time. This book of intelligent and highly engaging essays should be widely known and used in multiple teaching settings within the academy and the church.' - Ellen F. Davis, A. R. Kearns Professor of Bible and Practical Theology, Duke Divinity School, Durham, NC, USA. -- Ellen F. Davis‘This is an excellent book and one that is much needed. There is no issue more urgent for contemporary theology, as it comes to terms with the demands of the ecological crisis, than carefully thinking through its approach to the interpretation of biblical texts. /Ecological Hermeneutics/ makes an indispensable contribution. The contributors bring a great deal of learning and some wonderful insights from their specialist disciplines, and communicate a strong sense of commitment to both the good of the Earth community and the integrity of biblical faith.' - Denis Edwards, Catholic Theological College, Australia -- Denis Edwards‘At present, issues in ecological ethics confront us urgently at both global and personal levels. Over recent decades they have raised myriads of questions for theology and more recently for biblical interpretation. Ecological Hermeneutics, a collection of essays emerging from an AHRC funded project at the University of Exeter, makes an important new contribution to the search for adequate ways to interpret biblical texts and theological traditions ecologically. The volume is framed by the essays of Horrell and Conradie each of whom engage very explicitly the search for a viable ecological hermeneutic and both indicating a preference for a doctrinally-based perspective. The essays within that frame demonstrate the rich variety of approaches and engagement with text and tradition that constitute emerging ecological hermeneutics. For those coming new to this area of scholarship, the collection of essays will provide a challenging introduction and for those who are more deeply engaged with the topic, it will broaden their participation in this important field of inquiry.' - Elaine Wainwright, The University of Auckland, New Zealand. -- Elaine Wainwright‘Ecological Hermeneutics is a well crafted set of essays that derive from a three year project at the University of Exeter... The editorial quality is high, and the four editors have clearly worked well as a team. The volume displays an evenness in style across the 20 contributions that clearly didn't happen by accident.' -- The Church TimesEcological Hermeneutics is an important book on an important subject... a unique and useful contribution to the growing literature on ecology and the Bible... By bringing together highly competent essays in the fields of biblical exegesis, the history of interpretation, and theology, the editors offer us an invaluable set of resources for the ongoing task of reshaping Christian thought in light of the environmental crisis. -- The Review of Biblical LiteratureThis multi-disciplinary collection is ambitious but successful, and will prove stimulating reading for readers with some experience in academic theology and exegesis, who are interested in bringing the bible to bear on ecological issues. -- Expository TimesEcological Hermeneutics is a well-crafted set of essays that derive from a three-year project at the University of Exeter... The editorial quality is high, and the four editors have clearly worked well as a team. The volume displays an evenness in style across the 20 contributions which clearly didn't happen by accident. -- Church TimesTwenty leading scholars reflect critically on the kinds of appeals to the Bible that have been made in environmental ethics and ecotheology; engage biblical texts with a view towards exploring their contribution to an ecological ethics; and explore the kind of hermeneutic necessary for such engagement to be fruitful for contemporary theology and ethics. -- InterpretationThis valuable collection of essays arose from seminars convened by Exeter’s project on Uses of the Bible in Environmental Ethics ... The book’s introduction by David Horrell sets out strategies for ecological hermeneutics that are ‘coherent (and in dialogue) with a scripturally shaped Christian orthodoxy’ through learning critically from the history of interpretation while acknowledging that ‘ethical appropriation is necessarily a constructive endeavour’ (pp. 8-9). This multidisciplinary collection of essays is a substantial contribution to that endeavour and will be helpful to those interested in theological approaches to environmental ethics. * Studies in Christian Ethics *Table of ContentsIntroduction (The Editors); Section 1: Biblical perspectives; Section 2: Insights from the history of interpretation; Section 3: Contemporary hermeneutical possibilities; Epilogue (The Editors); Indexes.

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Book SynopsisContains a comprehensive analysis of the doctrine of providence, from historical, philosophical-theological, systematic and practical perspectives. This book includes chapters that give an historical introduction to the modern interpretation of the notion of providence, examining how it was progressively naturalised and secularized.Trade ReviewThis volume gives a revealing look at the present status of a difficult but essential theological theme. Scholars of systematic and practical theology will be interested in this wide-ranging discussion in, which will also be useful for graduate courses in the topic. * Anglican Theological Review *Biblically and historically grounded, contemporary in its themes and interdisciplinary in scope, the articles comprising this volume provide a comprehensive sense of where constructive orthodox Christian thinking is at today. * Religious Studies *In this engaging and learned work, David Fergusson recognises that many of us need and operate according to some theology of providence. * The Expository Times *By and large, this collection critiques but generally endorses the classical doctrine of providence. * Church Times *‘This assembly of new work is a welcome contribution to reflection on one of the most difficult and most vital of theological themes. Exploring exegetical, historical, philosophical, natural-scientific, pastoral and political aspects of the doctrine of providence, the authors exhibit a variety of distinctive approaches, and their proposals are sure to spark responses. These essays make clear the risk and the promise latent in this all-pervasive doctrine, and exemplify the kind of scrutiny it requires.' - Charles M. Wood, Southern Methodist University, Dallas, TX, USA -- Charles M. Wood‘I believe the editors of this volume are correct in their belief that the agency of God is becoming one of the most pressing and interesting questions in contemporary debate. A merit of the essays in this collection is the way they reframe the subject and rescue it from its traditional handing and presentation. Of particular merit are the essays by Francesca Murphy on the First Book of Samuel and the essays by John Webster and David Fergusson.' - Iain R. Torrance, Princeton Theological Seminary, Princeton, NJ, USA -- Iain R. TorranceTable of ContentsINTRODUCTION; 1) HISTORY OF THE DOCTRINE OF PROVIDENCE; Matthew Levering, "Aquinas on the Book of Job: Providence and Presumption"; David Bentley Hart, "Providence and Causality: On Divine Innocence"; Francesca Aran Murphy, "Providence in I Samuel"; Cyril O'Regan, Hegel, "Theodicy, and the Invisibility of Waste"; Andrew McGowan, "Providence and Common Grace"; 2) DOCTRINES OF PROVIDENCE (SYSTEMATICS); Douglas Knight, "Time and Persons in the Economy of God"; Katherine Sonderegger, "The Doctrine of Providence"; John Webster, "On the Theology of Providence"; 3) SCIENCE AND PROVIDENCE; Sarah Coakley, "Providence and the Evolutionary Phenomenon of 'Cooperation': A Systematic Proposal"; Alister McGrath, "The Secularization of providence: Theological Reflections on the Appeal to Darwinism in Recent Atheist Apologetics"; Nicholas J. Healy, "Creation, Predestination and Divine Providence"; 4) PROVIDENCE, POLITICS, ETHICS; Stephen Webb, "From Prudentius to President Bush: Providence, Empire, and Paranoia"; Charles Mathewes, "Providence and Political Discernment"; John Swinton, "Patience and Lament: Living Faithfully in the Presence of Suffering"; Hans S. Reinders, "Why This? Why Me? A Theological Reflection on Ethics and Providence"; Philip Ziegler, "The Uses of Providence in Public Theology"; AFTERWARD; David Fergusson, Epilogue.

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Book SynopsisAnalyses texts on social justice in the Old Testament and argues that despite their ideological character they may still assist in shaping a Christian theological approach to social and global injustice. This book offers reflections on the value of the Old Testament as a resource in the struggle for justice.Trade Review"'A splendid contribution to a very major issue, a most interesting and thought-provoking study' Richard Coggins, formerly Senior Lecturer in Old Testament Studies, King's College London, UK '[A] marvellous combination of reading everything, being open to the most radical of ideas, but keeping a cool head, a critical spirit, and a desire to discover things in the OT of theological and ethical value.' John Goldingay, David Allan Hubbard Professor of Old Testament at Fuller Seminary, Pasadena, California, USA"Table of ContentsPreface; Preface to the First Edition; 1. Texts and Contexts; 2. The Ancient Social Context; 3. Oppression and the Prophets; 4. Justice and the Patron; 5. Justice and the King; 6. Justice and the People; 7. The God of Justice; 8. The Old Testament: A Resource in the Struggle for Justice.

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Book SynopsisTimothy G. Gombis is professor of New Testament at Grand Rapids Theological Seminary, Grand Rapids, USA.Trade ReviewTim Gombis has painted a picture of the apostle Paul by applying the fresh paint of recent scholarship to a traditional canvas of authorship and history. The results are a careful exposition of important issues that winsomely engages a variety of viewpoints and a book that will orient a new generation of students to the latest scholarly conversations about Paul. -- J.R. Daniel Kirk, Fuller Theological Seminary, USA.Just when scholarly discussion on the Apostle Paul has produced an intricate tangle of debate, Timothy Gombis rescues the non-specialist by providing a delightfully accessible book on Paul. Sifting carefully through the best scholarship, Gombis presents a clear, fresh, and compelling portrait of Paul's theological framework. For those needing a helpful roadmap for locating Paul's life and theology, this is the place to begin. And for those who assume the road is all too familiar, Gombis offers plenty of welcome surprises. -- Justin K. Hardin, Wycliffe Hall, Oxford University, UK.Seminal reading for teachers and students in post-sixteen education... I also commend the volume to Christian and inter-faith groups. * Theological Book Review *This short work succeeds in giving a succinct overview of aspects of Pauline thought, unencumbered by complex scholarly apparatus... * Journal for the Study of The New Testament, Volume 33 Number 5 *This is a solid and useful introduction. * The Bible Today *There is much that is helpful in Gombis's overview of the letters, and his insistence that they be taken in all their concreteness is appropriate... [Gombis's] highlighting of the role of the Sprit as the vehicle through which Paul's communities experience the reality of the New Age in the present is a helpful corrective to the neglect of this motif in much scholarship. * Review of Biblical Literature *Table of ContentsIntroduction; Paul: Theologian, Missionary, or Pastor?; The Structure of Paul's Thought; Paul and Judaism; Salvation: The Divine/Human Tension; Paul and Women; Politics and Religion; Conclusion.

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Book SynopsisLa nouvelle theologie - New Theology - was the name of one of the most dynamic and fascinating movements within Catholic theology in the 20th century. This title offers an introduction to one of the most influential movement in Catholic theology in the 20th century which prepared the ground for the Second Vatican Council.Trade Review'A highly informative survey of the historical development and catalytic texts of nouvelle théologie. By drawing on lesser-known figures and extensive research, Mettepenningen sheds new light on its inner dynamics and diversity. A significant and timely contribution to the understanding of a key movement in modern theology whose principles and contradictions continue to shape the church today.' - David Grumett, Department of Theology, University of Exeter, UK. -- David Grumett‘In a virtuoso performance of the historical theologian's art, Jurgen Mettepenningen brings into play both published and unpublished sources in at least five languages. He offers English-speaking readers as rich an acoount of nouvelle theologie as the present state of the archival sources allows. From its origins in France between 1935 and 1950, he brings the story of nouvelle theologie up to its subsequent internationalization and then assimilation at the Second Vatican Council. He joins an historian's eye for relevant detail with a theologian's religious sensibility. His often provocative judgments are always rooted in the sources. Nouvelle Theologie - New Theology is a timely and important contribution to the story of Catholic theology in the twentieth-century.' - William L. Portier, Mary Ann Spearin Chair of Catholic Theology, University of Dayton, OH, USA -- William L. Portier‘This work by Dr Jürgen Mettepenningen, a Louvain-trained theologian, represents a valuable contribution to the history of twentieth century Catholic theology.It carefully charts the development of nouvelle théologie from the crisis of Modernism to the Second Vatican Council. An important study, it should be of interest to theologians and historians of the period and will undoubtedly contribute to ongoing research on nouvelle théologie and the history of Vatican II.' - Gabriel Flynn, Dublin City University, Mater Dei Institute, Ireland -- Gabriel FlynnReviewed in The Tablet 2nd October 2010 (UK) ‘[The author's] exhaustively documented research recreates the issues at stake back then. As he obviously expects us to see, they remain on the agenda'This us a demanding and interesting book. Its author sets out to explore the phenomenon of the New Theology that developed in France in the years that followed the Modernist Crisis and preceded the Second Vatican Council. One merit of this work is its clarity of organisation. One of the outcomes of Mettepenningen's book is a sense of the strenuous labours they undertook. This book will be of most use to people who already have a grasp of theological questions and their history or who about to embark on postgraduate theological studies. - David Evans, Liverpool Hope University -- David Evans‘A demanding and interesting book.' -- Theological Book ReviewIn this comprehensive exposition of historical theology, Jurgen Mettepenningen has done all of us a great service... Crucially Mettepenningen shows how diverse the movement really was and how difficult it might be to collect all of its voices into a tidy package. -- Expository TimesThe book is useful and important as an historical account; it is also tantalizing as a morality tale illuminating the modus operandi of regressive forces that are far from dead in the Roman Curia. . . . Mettepenningen tells this story well, adding welcome detail to a period of theological development whose fruitfulness is still unfolding-and still contested. -- WorshipTable of ContentsIntroduction; Part 1: The Nouvelle Theologie: A New Kind of Catholic Theology?; Ch. 1: The Nouvelle Theologie: The Concept and its Contents; Ch. 2: Theological Background and Context; Ch. 3: The Four Stages of the Nouvelle Theologie; Part 2: Four Phases or Faces of the Nouvelle Theologie; Ch. 1: Stage 1: The Dominicans - Le Saulchoir, Louvain and Rome; Ch. 2: Stage The Jesuits - La Fourviere, Toulouse and Rome; Ch. 3: Stage 3: The Internatialization of the Nouvelle Theologie - The Low Countries; Ch. 4: Stage 4: Vatican II or the Acceptance of the Nouvelle Theologie - Rome; Part 3: Closing Considerations; Bibliography.

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Book SynopsisMost ideas of sacrifice, even specifically Christian ideas, as we saw in the Reformation controversies, have something to do with deprivation or destruction. But this is not authentic Christian sacrifice. This book offers an understanding of sacrifice as a response to love and an entering into the self-giving life of God.Trade ReviewA substantial critical study of the Christian concept of sacrifice has been sorely lacking for many years. Bob Daly has now more than adequately filled that gap and in a most readable volume successfully achieved his aim of exposing mistaken ideas on the subject by unveiling what that sacrifice it really is - nothing less than the divine love that lies at the heart of all truly human life. -- Paul F. Bradshaw‘Culling from his previously published books and numerous articles on sacrifice, Daly lays out once again the historical and scriptural groundwork for a comprehensive understanding of sacrifice. But this book is no mere updating of his earlier work. It demonstrates fresh insight and impeccable systematic scholarship as he reverses his starting point and interprets anew. Daly begins by disclosing clearly and succinctly in the opening pages of Sacrifice Unveiled what has now come to be his central point: Christian sacrifice is best understood as a Trinitarian, inter-personal gift-exchange. It is a mutually self-giving event taking place between persons. Christian sacrifice does not begin with us and what we do for God, but begins with God and unfolds in a trinity of "moments." Daly's methodology also marks a reversal, just as his central point turned upside down his approach to sacrifice. Rather than presenting an historical/theological argument from the beginning and concluding by fleshing out his new insight, he reinterprets the data from the purview of his new central point. This book is not just written for theologians; Daly intends it to be for a much wider audience. Composed in an accessible and engaging style, he weaves personal experiences, stories, homiletic challenge, and solid theology together in such a way to be appealing to a broad range of readers. While unabashedly Roman Catholic, this book is sensitive to ecumenical issues and could be an ecumenical dialogue partner in itself. What a gift Robert J. Daly has given to both the Church and the academic community in Sacrifice Unveiled: The True Meaning of Christian Sacrifice with his reinterpretation of Christian sacrifice as Trinitarian gift-exchange! Daly began sharing his new thinking with me several years ago. It is with delight that I read his finished magnum opus. It has already challenged my own teaching (especially for paschal mystery) and reshaped my thinking and way of living. I can only hope it does so for other readers. We owe Bob Daly a great debt of gratitude.' - Joyce Ann Zimmerman, Institute for Liturgical Ministry, Dayton, Ohio, USA -- Joyce Ann Zimmerman"...deserves careful attention, not only from scholars, but from students, and those concerned about how old ideas that have been part of the Christian vocabulary need to be looked at critically." Church Times, September 2009"A substantial and valuable study that puts the divine love right at the heart of what sacrifice means." Gerald O'Collins SJ, The Pastoral Review, January/February 2010 Reviewed in Franciscan, Vol. 22, No. 3, September 2010 (UK) ‘A gift to anyone with an appetite for reasonable study'‘For this reviewer the opening 25 pages offered a bracing and thought-provoking thesis...I find what he [Daly] affirms a very helpful contribution, and I have already discovered that it preaches well in the midst of congregations who do indeed think of sacrifice as fundamentally a ‘giving up'. -- Ecclesiology‘I consider this book to be one of the five most significant books dealing with liturgy in our baptismal life, mission and witness published in the last ten years. It is a magisterial treatment of a central insight in that, as Bob Daly never tires of saying, is essential to our everyday Christian living.' -- Liturgy NewsThis work is astounding in its breadth... remarkably accessible, and will serve specialists and non-specialists alike. I highly recommend this new work and imagine that it will be an important work for a long time to come. -- Theological Book Review Volume 23 No.1Table of ContentsFOREWORD: The Problem of Christian Sacrifice; PART ONE: Unveiling Sacrifice; BRIDGE 1.A: Sacrifice in the Ancient World and in the Hebrew Scriptures; BRIDGE 1.B: Sacrifice in the New Testament; BRIDGE 1.C: Sacrifice in the Fathers of the Church; PART TWO: Atonement and Sacrifice: The Distorting Veils; BRIDGE 2.A: Post-Reformation and Modernity: Two Contrasting Poles; BRIDGE 2.B: Liturgical Renewal and Ecumenism; BRIDGE 2.C: Sacrifice and Girardian Mimetic Theory: The End of Sacrifice?; PART THREE: Unveiling Sacrifice.

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Book SynopsisFrom the perspective of Paul's letter to the Galatians, this book offers an analysis of the cult of self-castration in its Anatolian cultic context. It argues that Paul attempts to dissuade his audience from being circumcised by identifying circumcision with the enslaving self-castration of the galli and by portraying the Law as a Mountain Mother.Trade Review"'In this fascinating and timely monograph Susan Elliott seeks to understand Paul's letter to the Galatians, and in particular certain problematic metaphors and issues in the local context of Galatia. The sad fact is that, despite the amount of recent work devoted to this letter of Paul, such considerations of its specifically Gentile context have been lacking. Elliott's monograph should be seen as, one hopes, the first of several works trying to redress this imbalance. Her work is thorough, displaying an in-depth knowledge and familiarity not only with recent Pauline scholarship but also with classical scholarship and solid biblical exegesis of previous generations, spanning back well into the first few centuries after the one in which Paul wrote.' Review of Biblical Literature"Table of ContentsIntroduction - Everyone But The Audience; Part 1: Galatian Problems; 1. The Law as a Slave-Concubine Mountain; 2. The Law as an Enslaving Figure: Galatians 3.19-4.11; Part 2: The Central Anatolian Religious Context; 3. A Divine Judicial System; 4. Our Mother, Our Place; 5. Attis and the Mother; 6. The Galli: The Mother's Slaves; Part 3: Paul Persuades His Anatolian Audience to Oppose Circumcision; 7. The Rhetorical Situation Revisited: Circumcision and Castration; 8. Hagar, The Meter Sinaiene: Galatians 4.21-5.1 as a Triple Analogy; 9. The Two Ways and the Unity of Galatians; 10. Flesh and Spirit in Galatians 3.1-5; Epilogue.

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Book SynopsisAngela Reed is Assistant Professor of Practical Theology and Director of Spiritual Formation at George W. Truett Theological Seminary, Baylor University. She holds a Ph.D. from Princeton Theological Seminary and has experience in spiritual direction and pastoral ministry.Trade ReviewAngela Reed has done churches a monumental favour by reminding us that the ancient practice of spiritual guidance is not just for mystics and monks. Reed places spiritual guidance in the middle of congregations, and moves the task of Christian discernment straight to the top of the list of tasks confronting postmodern congregations. Chock-full of practical strategies and concrete examples, Quest for Spiritual Community re-imagines Christian leadership - not as a source of therapeutic or moralistic advice - but as conduit for practical wisdom, wonder, and awe. All I can say is: it's about time. -- Kenda Creasy Dean, Author of Almost Christian: What the Faith of Our Teenagers Is Telling the American Church (Oxford), Professor of Youth, Church and Culture, Princeton Theological Seminary, USA.Angela Reed honors the contemporary phenomenon of spiritual seeking as a sign of genuine hunger for encounter with the Divine. She claims that historic Christian practices like spiritual guidance can help churches connect seekers to the unfolding mystery of God's presence and activity in the world. Drawing on Scripture, the history of Christian spirituality, and empirical research Reed develops a sound practical theology of spiritual guidance and offers concrete examples of how guidance is practiced in everyday congregational life. Most welcome is her emphasis on the integration of interior and exterior growth, as she demonstrates how spiritual guidance promotes the flourishing of the individual, the community, and the church's mission. This is a wonderfully helpful and insightful book. -- Timothy Hessel - Robinson, Brite Divinity School, USAProfessor Angela Reed offers a unique contribution to the field of spiritual formation studies by making a compelling case for locating spiritual guidance ministries squarely in the midst of congregational life. Though she values (and practices) one-with-one spiritual direction, her deepest passion is for communal formation. Given the stresses and fractures of contemporary life, nothing short of a vibrant community of spiritual practice will satisfy the longings of our hearts and shape the image of Christ in people of faith today. Though many studies in spiritual formation draw upon the rich tradition of Roman Catholic resources, Reed takes the less traveled route by focusing especially on Protestant history and perspectives - mainline, evangelical and Anabaptist-Mennonite streams. Extensive biblical reflections, in-depth exploration of Jurgen Moltmann's theology of formation, as well as on-the-ground research support her vision. Perhaps one of the most unusual features of the book is its exploration of a widely disparate group of spiritual guides - the Apostle Paul, Julian of Norwich, Susanna Wesley, Maria Frelinghuysen Cornell, and Dietriech Bonhoeffer - in search of a sturdy framework for communal formation. Reed demonstrates her own thesis that an improvisatory approach is needed for the future. Pastors and other spiritual leaders will need to be light on their feet - able to read their contexts, draw from deep wells of wisdom and practice, and be open to the Spirit's fresh guidance in order to shape Christians who will authentically be and do God's mission in the world. Practical theologians like Angela Reed give me great hope for the church. Her gentle wisdom, luminous clarity, and passion for the church will guide both congregations and academic institutions into a faith-filled future. -- Marlene Kropf, Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary, USA.Quest for Spiritual Community is no mere research report... Rather than laying out a rigid programmatic agenda, Reed offers a way to understand the congregation as God's primary locus for spiritual guidance... she is a trustworthy guide who helps us ponder how cultivating spiritual guidance in our congregations might cause spiritual maturity to flourish. -- Christian CenturyReed's continual integration of the real-life experiences of the participants in congregational spiritual guidance helped make the text more personal... -- Journal of Spiritual Formation & Soul CareBy tackling a myriad of complex and intriguing questions, Baylor University professor Angela Reed attempts to place the growing interest in spiritual direction firmly within the context of the local church while simultaneously curbing some of the individualistic strains within the movement as Protestants seek to rediscover the ancient art of spiritual direction/guidance…by seeking to bring the spiritual direction conversation home to its proper resting place in the church, Reed provides a welcome contribution and a much-need corrective to the on-going practices of spiritual direction. -- Jason A. Carter, University of Edinburgh * The Expository Times *Table of ContentsIntroduction:; Chapter 1: Understanding the Contemporary Spiritual Search: Spirituality for Communities in a Culture of Individuals.; Chapter 2: Hearing their Stories: Spiritual Guidance Practices in Congregations; Chapter 3: Historical Models of Spiritual Guidance: Uncovering Practices of Soul Care for Persons and Communities; Chapter 4: A Protestant Theology of Spiritual Guidance: Insights from Jurgen Moltmann and Miroslav Volf on the Trinity and Christian Community; Chapter 5: The Pastor as Spiritual Guide: Becoming a Spiritual Leader of a Congregation.; Chapter 6: Toward a Congregation-Based Model for Spiritual Guidance: Pragmatic Suggestions for Churches Seeking to Address the Contemporary Spiritual Quest; Conclusion:.

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Book SynopsisExamines the birth and development of early Christianity up to the end of the second century CE and places early Christianity in its social, cultural, political and economic context. This book provides an English translation of the Gospel of Thomas, which includes the original 'kernel' of the Gospel and the sayings.Trade Review"DeConick's groundbreaking work should now be the starting point for all future work on the Gospel of Thomas." Birger A. Pearson, University of California, Santa Barbara, Religious Studies Review"The commentary, the bulk of the book, is itself very good. Each section, whether a few lines or a few paragraphs, begins with the authors own translation of the Coptic text...The clearly organized and (graphically) well-laid-out sections help the reader move efficiently to points of interest...Opposing viewpoints are given fair space, responses are made, and conclusions are drawn. Fresh insights regarding translational, interpretive, or text-critical issues are not uncommon...when it comes to writing a critical commentary on Thomas, one cannot hope to master it all. Deconick's book is worth having on the shelf because she comes as close as does anybody." —Nicholas Perrin, Bulletin for Biblical Research, 18. -- Nicholas Perrin"There is a wealth of information in this volume and the standard formatting makes it readily accessible. This is a very helpful discussion which will undoubtedly generate much focused and fruitful investigation of this enigmatic text." -- Paul Foster, School of Divinity, University of Edinburgh * Expository Times *‘DeConick's approach is an instance of a relatively new paradigm for assessing intertextual relationships that might help scholars avoid some "dead ends" into which a purely literary paradigm sometimes leads... Her large-scale study of the Gospel of Thomas addresses some very important questions, and it is a particular pleasure to see her interpreting the Gospel of Thomas without the label "gnostic." This commentary on the Gospel of Thomas is a valuable tool with many important observations and easy access to related source material and scholarly discussion. Thus, apart from its standing as a scholarly study, it provides a most convenient starting point for further studies on the Gospel of Thomas. One need not agree with all of DeConick's conclusions, but even a more critical reader will be happy to consult this rich yet concise commentary' Stephan Witetschek, University of Cambridge, UK in RBL 05/2008 -- John Painter * Review of Biblical Literature *Table of ContentsPart 1: Translation of the Kernel Gospel of Thomas; Part 2: Translation of the Complete Gospel of Thomas; Part 3: Commentary on the Gospel of Thomas.

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Book SynopsisPostcolonial studies have made significant inroads into biblical studies, giving rise to numerous conference papers, articles, essays and books. This book offers an introduction to postcolonial biblical criticism and probes it from a number of different but interrelated angles to bring it into focus, so that its promise can be better appreciated.Trade Review"'The assemblage of biblical scholars who have contributed to this book is its major strength. These are all well published authors, most of whom have spent decades traversing the theoretical underpinnings of various critical approaches to the Bible - poststructuralism, postmodernism, Marxism, ideological criticism, feminism, and race/ethnicity, before turning to postcolonialism... for many biblical scholars, most of whom may be just beginning to reflect on concepts such as hybridity, mimicry, ambivalence, dislocation, diaspora, colonialism, and the like, this book should find a ready reading audience. The authors have a firm grasp of the issues at stake in interpreting the Bible along postcolonial lines. The book deserves to be read widely and would be especially useful in upper-division undergraduate classes in Bible and in seminary courses dealing with hermeneutical issues.' Jeffrey L Staley, Review of Biblical Literature"Table of Contents1. 'Postcolonial Biblical Criticism: Meanderings and Intersections'; 2. 'Mapping the Postcolonial Optic for Biblical Criticism: Meaning and Scope'. 3. 'Questions of Biblical Ambivalence and Authority under a Tree outside Delhi; or, the Postcolonial and the Postmodern'; 4. 'Gospel Hauntings: The Postcolonial Demons of New Testament Criticism'; 5. 'Margins and (Cutting-) Edges: On the (II) Legitimacy and Intersections of Race, Ethnicity, and (Post) Colonialism'; 6. 'Marx, Postcolonialism, and the Bible'; 7. 'Very Limited Ideological Options'.

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Book SynopsisReading First Peter with New Eyes is the second of four volumes that incorporate essays examining the impact of recent methodological advances in New Testament studies of theletters of James, 1 and 2 Peter and Jude.It includes rhetorical, social-scientific, socio-rhetorical, ideological and hermeneutical methods, as they contribute to understanding First Peter and its social context. Each essay has a similar three-fold structure, ideal for use by students: a description of the methodological approach; the application of the methodological approach to First Peter; and a conclusion identifying how the methodological approach contributes to a fresh understanding of the letter. Reading First Peter with New Eyes follows on from thefirst volume in the series,Reading James With New Eyes, edited by Robert, L. Webb and John S. Kloppenborg. <Trade ReviewReviewed in Expository Times."The value of this collection lies in the way each contributor clearly delineates a particular methodological approach and creatively demonstrates how it can be applied to 1 Peter. No contributor assumes a one-size-fits-all approach to his or her respective methodologies, but rather each acknowledges how models and theories need to be re-appropriated in light of the unique characteristics and context of 1 Peter. As a whole, this volume helps to bring 1 Peter further out of the shadow of Pauline scholarship, exemplifies new developments in Petrine scholarship, and casts light on some possibilities for further application of these methodologies." Biblical Interpretation 18, 2010Table of ContentsM. Eugene Boring "Narrative Dynamics in First Peter: The Function of Narrative World"; Troy W. Martin "The Rehabilitation of a Rhetorical Step-child: First Peter and Classical Rhetorical Criticism"; Robert L. Webb "Intertexture and Rhetorical Strategy in First Peter's Apocalyptic Discourse: A Study in Socio-Rhetorical Interpretation" David G. Horrell, Lecturer in New Testament, University of Exeter. "Between Conformity and Resistance: Beyond the Balch-Elliott Debate Towards a Post-Colonial Reading of 1 Peter"; Betsy Bauman-Martin "Speaking Jewish: Postcolonial Aliens and Strangers in 1 Peter"; Bibliography; Indexes.

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Book SynopsisExamines the subject of Temple and Worship in biblical Israel, ranging from their ancient Near Eastern and archaeological background, through the Old Testament and Late Second Temple Judaism, and up to the New Testament. This work investigates attitudes to the Temple in the Septuagint, Apocrypha and Pseudepigrapha, and the Dead Sea Scrolls.Trade Review"The essays, expanded versions of lectures delivered to the Oxford Old Testament Seminar between 2001 and 2003, are of exceptionally high quality. The collection is a must for theological libraries." - Richard J. Clifford, 68, 2006 Catholic Biblical Quarterly"Table of ContentsPart 1. Temples and High Places in Israel and the Canaanite World; 1. Like Deities, Like Temples (Like People), Mark S. Smith, Skirball Professor of Bible and Ancient Near Eastern Studies, New York University; 2. Massebot in the Israelite Cult: An Argument for making Implicit Cultic Criteria Explicit, Elizabeth Bloch-Smith, Senior staff member on the Tel Dor excavations (she has been adjunct professor at various American universities); 3. From Gibeon to Gibeah: High Place of the Kingdom, Simcha Shalom Brooks, Freelance scholar working in London (teaches part-time at Birkbeck College, London); Part 2. Temple and Worship in the Old Testament; 4. YHWH's Exalted House - Aspects of the Design and Symbolism of Solomon's Temple, Victor (Avigdor) Hurowitz, Professor of Bible and Ancient Near Eastern Studies, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, Israel; 5. The Prophets and the Cult, John Barton, Oriel and Laing Professor of the Interpretation of Holy Scripture, University of Oxford, and Fellow of Oriel College, Oxford. 6. Temple and Worship in Isaiah 6, H.G.M. Williamson, Regius Professor of Hebrew, University of Oxford, and Student of Christ Church, Oxford; 7. Temple and Worship in Ezekiel 40-48, Paul Joyce, Fellow and Tutor of St Peter's College, Oxford, and Lecturer in Theology (Old Testament) in the University of Oxford; 8. Divine Reversal and the Role of the Temple in Trito-Isaiah, Jill Middlemas, Liddon Research Fellow in Theology, Keble College, Oxford, and Hebrew Lector, The Oxford Centre for Hebrew and Jewish Studies; 9. Placing (a) God: Central Place Theory in Deuteronomy 12 and Delphi, Anselm Hagedorn, wissenschaftlicher Assistent in Old Testament/Hebrew Bible at the Humboldt-Universitat, Berlin; previously Kennicott Hebrew Fellow, Oxford University; 10. Merely a Container? The Ark in Deuteronomy, Ian Wilson, Freelance scholar working in Cambridge. Life member of Clare Hall, Cambridge; 11. Whatever happened to the Ark of the Covenant? John Day, Professor of Old Testament Studies, University of Oxford, and Fellow and Tutor of Lady Margaret Hall, Oxford; 12. Ordeals in the Psalms? Philip Johnston, Tutor in Old Testament and Hebrew, Wycliffe Hall, Oxford Wisdom Psalms, Stuart Weeks, Lecturer in Old Testament and Hebrew, University of Durham; 13. The Zion Tradition and the Editing of the Hebrew Psalter, Susan Gillingham, Fellow and Tutor of Worcester College, Oxford, and Lecturer in Theology (Old Testament) in the University of Oxford; 14. The Day of Atonement as a Ritual of Validation for the High Priest, Deborah Rooke, Lecturer in Old Testament Studies, King's College, University of London 15. The Temple of David in the Book of Chronicles, John Jarick, Tutor in Old Testament, St Stephen's House, Oxford; Part 3. The Temple in the Late Second Temple Period and the New Testament; 16. Understandings of the Temple Service in the Septuagint Pentateuch, C.T.R. Hayward, Professor of Hebrew, University of Durham; 17. The Temple in the Apocryphal and Pseudepigraphal Literature of the Second and First Centuries BCE, Michael Knibb, Samuel Davidson Professor Emeritus of Old Testament Studies, King's College, University of London; 18. The Ten Temples in the Dead Sea Scrolls, George Brooke, Rylands Professor of Biblical Criticism and Exegesis, University of Manchester. 19. New Voices, Ancient Words: The Temple Scroll's Reuse of the Bible, Molly Zahn, Doctoral student in the department of Theology, University of Notre Dame 20. The Temple in First Century CE Judaism, Martin Goodman, Professor of Jewish Studies, University of Oxford, and Fellow of Wolfson College, Oxford; 21. The Temple in the New Testament, Christopher Rowland, Dean Ireland's Professor of the Exegesis of Holy Scripture, University of Oxford, and Fellow of The Queen's College, Oxford; 22. The Messianic Man of Peace as Temple Builder: Solomonic Imagery in Ephesians 2.13-22, Larry Kreitzer, Fellow and Tutor in New Testament, Regent's Park College, Oxford, and Research Lecturer in Theology in the University of Oxford.

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Book SynopsisAn examination of all the relevant passages containing the term "Son of Man" in both Matthew and the Parables of Enoch.Trade ReviewNevertheless, I was impressed with the clarity of the exegetical section in handling commentary on the original languages. Walck's contributions lie in his discussion of the relation between the Son of Man material in the Parables and Matthew, which I find convincing, and in his application of narrative criticism and social stratification analysis to the Parables to expand the window of opportunity for its origin. -- David W. Suter, Saint Martin's University * The Catholic Biblical Quarterly *Table of ContentsIntroduction to the Issue Dating, Sources and Social Setting of the Parables of Enoch The Son of Man in the Parables of Enoch The Son of Man in Matthew The Son of Man in Mark, Luke and John Comparison of the Son of Man in Parables of Enoch and in the Christian Gospels Judgement Scenesin the Parables of Enoch, Matthew and other contemporary Literature Conclusions and Trajectory for further Study

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Book SynopsisOakes and Boakye rethink Galatians by examining the text as a vision for the lives of its hearers. They show how, in tackling the difficulties that he faces in Galatia, Paul offers a vision of what the Galatians are in their relationship with the living Christ. This offers a new understanding of the concept of unity in diversity expressed in Gal 3:28. The authors develop their views over six chapters. First, Oakes maps a route from the letter to a focus on its Galatian hearers and on Paul's vision for their identity and existence. In the next chapter, Oakes uses the Christology of Galatians as a way to support the idea of pistis as current relationship with the living Christ. Boakye then offers three chapters analysing the letter's scriptural quotations and ideas about salvation and law. Boakye sees a key dynamic at work in Galatians as being a movement from death to life, as prophesied metaphorically by Ezekiel and as made literal for Paul in his encounter with the resurrected ChrisTrade ReviewProvides meaningful contributions to significant debates on Galatians and advances these discussions. Any student of Galatians, as well as Paul’s larger theology, will be rewarded by engagement with these authors. * Biblische Notizen *Peter Oakes and Andrew K. Boakye shed new light on classic topics like Paul’s faith language and his use of Old Testament texts in Galatians, while also drawing attention to underappreciated themes such as unity and new life. This is a theological introduction, a brief summary of key scholarship, and a fresh take — all packed into one concise book. * Nijay K. Gupta, Northern Seminary, USA *What is Galatians all about? Peter Oakes and Andrew K. Boakye have each written separately on this letter, and have now teamed up to offer us a series of important perspectives. Their emphasis on the letter’s purpose — to offer a vision of a Spirit-enabled, reanimated communal life of unity in diversity, in relationship with the living Christ — rightly highlights what Paul himself highlights but interpreters sometimes miss. Their work should inform future conversation about this powerful Pauline letter and its significance both for Paul’s day and for ours. * Michael J. Gorman, St. Mary’s Seminary & University, USA *Table of ContentsPreface 1. Introduction: Rethinking Galatians in terms of the Vision Offered to the Hearers 2. The Pistis of the Relational Christ 3. Scripture and Promise 4. Death, Life and Righteousness 5. Law and Spirit 6. Unity in Diversity in Christ 7. Conclusion Bibliography Indexes

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Book SynopsisThe Christian doctrine of God has traditionally been presented in two parts: an account of the existence and attributes of God on the one hand, and an account of God's triunity on the other. This study offers an analysis of Karl Barth's doctrine of the divine attributes (or 'perfections'), as it appears in his "Church Dogmatics II/1".Trade ReviewLiterate, articulate, a model of expositional clarity and care, this fine essay sets before us Barth's doctrine of the divine perfections in all its complexity, resonance, and power. It is an important contribution to a growing literature on a central dogmatic theme-and a welcome reminder of the abiding importance of the practice of theological commentary on the formative texts of the tradition. In the contested world of contemporary Barth scholarship, we can never be recalled too often to close reading of the sources themselves; it is the great merit of this exemplary study of Church Dogmatics II/1 to do just that. -- Donald Wood, University of Aberdeen, UK.Price has given us a great gift: a careful and charitable guided tour through one of the most complex sections of Barth's Church Dogmatics. His close exposition of Barth's text unveils the inner logic of Barth's argument by highlighting important connections and insights that often go unnoticed. Chapter by chapter, he opens up new vistas from which we can view the contours of Barth's entire theology more clearly, and the result is a better grasp of Barth's ongoing relevance for contemporary thought. This book stands in the best tradition of theological commentary, and it will be valuable to any theologian engaged in a serious study of Barth's theology or the doctrine of God. -- Keith L. Johnson, Assistant Professor of Theology, Wheaton College, IL, USA..It is elegantly written, demonstrates broad knowledge and sharp analysis of the secondary literature, a keen eye for exegetical detail, and fidelity to ‘the pastoral warmth and kerygmatic urgency,’ which characterizes Barth’s own writing …it offers not only instruction in Barth’s thought, but also a compelling model for theological engagement…Letters of the Divine Word has caused this reader to want to pick-up Barth’s doctrine once again and, in light of new insights and vantage points, to read from the beginning, ‘to marvel with him at the beauty’ of God’s glory and live gratefully before the One who 'gives pleasure, creates desire, and rewards with enjoyment.' * The Center for Barth Studies *Table of ContentsChapter 1 locates Barth's doctrine of the divine perfections within the unfolding logic of the Church Dogmatics and then surveys the state of Barth scholarship on this doctrine.; Chapter 2 provides historical and systematic context for Barth's doctrine, tracing significant threads of development in this doctrine within the Christian theological tradition and describing the theological function of the doctrine of the divine perfections.; Chapter 3 through 6 provide focused analysis each of the four sections of Barth's doctrine of the perfections, pausing at various points to address relevant debates within broader Barth scholarship.; Chapter 7 identifies some of the key theological decisions which shape Barth's account of God's perfections.; Chapter 8 argues that Barth's doctrine of the divine perfections represents his mature thought on this aspect of the doctrine of God - an aspect that is refined, but not dispensed with, in Church Dogmatics IV.

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Trade ReviewReview ~International Review of Biblical Studies, vol 51, 2004/05"Overall, this collection represents a compelling example of cultural criticism and makes patent why approaches such as demonstrated here must begin to command a larger amount of our energy as biblical scholars. These essays do not need to argue for the Bible's relevance; they demonstrate it." - RBL, September 2005 * Review of Biblical Literature *

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Book SynopsisEchoes of a Prophet examines intertextual connections to Ezekiel found in John and in Second Temple literature. The Dead Sea Scrolls contain many allusions to a number of Ezekiel's oracles, while other Second Temple works refer to only a few of Ezekiel's oracles, and those only rarely. In each case, Manning examines the evidence for the presence of the allusions, studies the implied interpretational methods, and comments on the function of the allusion in advancing the author's ideas. He also analyzes John's allusions to Ezekiel: the good shepherd, the vine, the opened heavens, imagery from the dry bones vision, and water symbolism. He observes that John has a few unique tendencies: he alludes to all five of Ezekiel's oracles of hope and primarily uses that imagery to describe the giving of the Holy Spirit and new life through Jesus.Trade Review'This is a methodical and careful investigation of an elusive question' Paul B. Decock, Neotestamentica, vol 41 (12) 2007 -- Paul B Decock'[T]he book certainly demonstrates that Ezekiel was an important source for John and could open old debates about a possible relationship with the book of revelations.' ~ Steve Moyise, Vol 28.5, 2006 -- Steve Moyise * Journal for the Study of the New Testament *"...this is a helpful contribution to the burgeoning field of Johannine studies and to the exploration of the use of the OT in the NT...a helpful compendium of possible allusions to Ezekiel in John's Gospel and should be consulted by all serious students of the Fourth Gospel including scholars working on the subject." -- Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society, June 2005 * Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society *Table of ContentsChapter 1: Introduction and Method; An extensive discussion of the method of "comparative intertextuality," placing it within the scope of intertextual studies in the late twentieth century. Chapter 2: The Use of Ezekiel in the Dead Sea Scrolls; Shows the important role that quotations of and allusions to Ezekiel played in explaining the history, identity, and eschatology of the Community. Twenty-seven such references, to at least twenty chapters in Ezekiel, are examined in some detail. Chapter 3: The Use of Ezekiel in Other Second Temple Literature; Examines quotations of and allusions to Ezekiel in Sirach, Testament of Levi, 1 Enoch, Psalms of Solomon, 4 Maccabees, and Lives of the Prophets. These works only allude to three of Ezekiel's oracles. Chapter 4: Allusions to Ezekiel in John: Major Allusions; Examines the role of allusions to Ezekiel in John 10 (Shepherds and Sheep) and in John 15 (Vine and Branches). Chapter 5: Allusions to Ezekiel in John: Minor Allusions; Examines John's use of imagery from Ezekiel's "opened heavens," the "dry bones" oracle" and the adoption of some aspects of Ezekiel's water symbolism. Chapter 6: Summary and Conclusion

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Trade ReviewHow should this massive work of scholarship be assessed? The three volumes stand as one of the major commentaries on the Gospel of Matthew in which all future interpreters of the Gospel will find a source of fruitful dialogue and helpful ideas. It is a "must have", both in libraries and in footnotes. Davies and Allison are to be thoroughly commended on the fruits of their considerable toil.' —Robert K. McIver, Seminary Studies -- Robert K. McIver * Seminary Studies 37 *

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Trade ReviewHow should this massive work of scholarship be assessed? The three volumes stand as one of the major commentaries on the Gospel of Matthew in which all future interpreters of the Gospel will find a source of fruitful dialogue and helpful ideas. It is a "must have", both in libraries and in footnotes. Davies and Allison are to be thoroughly commended on the fruits of their considerable toil.' —Robert K. McIver, Seminary Studies -- Robert K. McIver * Seminary Studies 37 *

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Trade Review'For some years students have lacked a good textbook on the first decades of Christianity. Professor Wedderburn has now met that lack... He weighs the evidence and the debates with a judicious even-handedness. This is a book which is thoroughly accessible to those with little specialist knowledge, which will provide an authoritative guide to current debates on Christianity's beginnings and which, more important, will give a clearer grasp of the historical complexities of these beginnings.' James D. G. Dunn, Emeritus Lightfoot Professor of Divinity, University of DurhamReview ~ International Review of Biblical Studies, vol 51, 2004/05Review in German in Theologische Literaturzeitung 131 (2006) * Theologische Literaturzeitung *Table of ContentsForeword 1. Introduction When to Stop? A Fragmentary StorySources - The Pauline Letters - The Book of Acts 2. The First Beginnings Appearances of the Risen Jesus Regrouping in Jerusalem? Pentecost A Jewish Group? 3. Stephen and His Group 'Hebrews' and 'Hellenists' The Problem and It's Solution Stephen The Outbreak of Persecution 4. The Spread of Christianity Samaria Antioch Peter and Cornelius Peter 5. Paul-The Hidden Years The Pre-Christian Paul The Conversion of PaulreturnBefore the Conference in Jerusalem 6. Agreement and Strife Pauline Chronology - Acts and galatians - An Absoloute Chronology 7. Paul the Missionary The Course of Paul's Missionary work The Nature of the Pauline Communities The Problems of the Pauline Communities The Collection 8. Judaizing Christianity James Writings of a Judaizing Christianity The Jerusalem Church 9. Pauline Christianity afetr Paul A Pauline School or Pauline Schools? 'Early Catholicism'? 10 Johanine Christianity 11. The Church in the Roman Empire Postscript Abbreviations Select Bibliography 1Primary Sources 2 Reference Work 3 Geberal Works on the History of Earliest Chrstianity 4 Other secondary Literature Index of Primary Sources Old Testament Other Jewish Sources New Testament Other Early Christian Literature and Gnostic Sources Other Graeco-Roman Literature and Sources Index of Authors (Secondary Literature) Index of Subjects

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Trade Review"This commentary is the crown of a distinguished career. It will prove indispensable for the study of Ephesians for many years to come." —The Bible Translator * Blurb from reviewer *"No one working on any aspect of Ephesians will be able to ignore this magisterial commentary by Best. It is a worthy and welcome contribution to biblical scholarship and one that will easily pass the test of time." —Eugene Hensell, The Catholic Biblical Quarterly -- Eugene Hensell * Catholic Biblical Quarterly *"One of the values of the ICC volume is Best's subtle and wise handling of the evidence and his care to leave issues in the hands of the reader. One gains the impression of sitting in Professor Best's study with him as he ponders each side of an issue, along with the various interpretive options, before then leaving the decision between interpretations to his conversation partner. For scholarly readership, this is supremely helpful, and the more one uses the ICC volume the more one comes to appreciate its subtlety. Best's ICC volume is a model of historical-critical scholarship and a great contribution to that series." - Review of Biblical Literature, 8/04 -- Timothy Gombis * Review of Biblical Literature *

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Trade Review"This volume, in this series, by this author, needs no commendation: it is an essential component of every scholarly library." —Peter Doble, University of Leeds, Theological Book Review -- Peter Doble * Theological Book Review *

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Book SynopsisThis series is designed with the needs of introductory level students in mind. It should also appeal to general readers who want to be better informed about the latest advances in our understanding of the Bible and of the intellectual, political and religious world in which it was formed.Trade Review'An accessible but scholarly handbook on the Greek translation of the Bible, complete with a chapter on the use of the LXX in exegesis, bibliography and indexes. Bery informative and up to date.' ~ Taken from review in International Review of Biblical Studies, Vol. 51:2004/05'If you are looking for a comprehensive introduction to the Septuagint, this book is just that. It guides the reader around all of the basic issues of the formation and interpretation of that text...Dines guides the reader through the subjects with enormous clarity...layout also makes consultation the text on specific subjects a quick and painless exercise. Dines writing is very readable, making the process of understanding a fairly complicated subject relatively pleasureable...It is also concise, in that she explains a great deal quite clearly in little space...an excellent introduction to the Septuagint and guide to modern study of that text...For the serious student of biblical studies and for anyone involved in research on biblical texts at a postgraduate level, this book is a must-have. Reading it will give a good grounding in the area, and it is a great little volume to have on the shelves to consult.' -- Andy Angel, ANVIL, Volume 22, Number 4 * ANVIL *"The Septuagint or early Greek translation of the Old Testament has lacked a good, current introduction until recently. The strength of Dr. Dines's introduction is its thoroughness, compactness, and readability. The user-friendly layout, with sub-headings and sections clearly indicated, and the detailed table of contents and indexes all make this an easy volume to read and also to consult and refer to for the answer to specific questions. It has one of the most comprehensive discussions on Septuagint origins that I have seen. The treatment of topics, even the controversial ones, is balanced and judicious. I do not believe the student can do better for a guide to the Septuagint, and working biblical scholars and even Septuagint specialists will also want it on their bookshelf." —Lester L. Grabbe, Professor of Hebrew Bible and Early Judaism, University of Hull -- Lester L. Grabbe * Blurb from reviewer *'Dines is to be congratulated on producing a readable introduction to a complex field of study. Each chapter is followed by a page of further reading, which not only provides good advice on where to go next, it also acts as a guide to contemporary discussion. She is very even handed.' ~ Steve Moyise, Journal for the Study of the New Testament, 27.5 -- Steve Moyise * Journal for the Study of the New Testament *"Her summary of scholarly positions is good and her criticisms even better...this enjoyable introduction by a highly qualified and well-balanced LXX scholar will fill a need. The work contains three handy indices and a seventeen-page bibliography, and for use as a textbook it has the added attraction of the Hebrew and Greek always being transliterated...it will serve not only as an introductory guide for Septuagint courses proper, but due to its small size it can easily be used as a secondary text in courses on Hellenistic Judaism, New Testament/Christian origins." -Review of Biblical Literature, June 2005 * Review of Biblical Literature *'One of the primary benefits of Dine's book is that the arguments for each of the respective viewpoints are articulated fairly and objectively...Dine's book is especially useful in explaining difficulties arising in textual criticism of the LXX and understanding possible translation techniques...The Septuagint serves as a positive introduction to the issues of the LXX translation and origin, while being helpful in pointing towards area of further study.' Themelios, Vol 31, Issue 2, January 2006 -- Benjamin E. Reynolds * Themelios *'This is a sure-footed, readable, user-friendly introduction to its subject.' John Goldingay, Theology -- John Goldingay, Fuller Theological Seminary, Pasadena, California * Theology *Table of ContentsContents; Preface; Resources; Abbreviations; 1. What is 'the Septuagint'?; Terminology; Scope of the Term in Antiquity; Scope of the Term in Contemporary Usage; Primary Sources: Manuscripts and Editions; The Earlist Jewish Manuscripts; The Earliest Christian Manuscripts; Printed Editions; Secondary Sources the Christian Versions; The Old Latin; The Coptic; The Content of the Septuagint; Differences between Hebrew and Greek Order; The Individual Books of the Septuagint; The Pentateuch; The Histories; The Poetical Books; The Prophets; Summary; Further Reading; 2. Origins: Facts and Fictions; Introduction; The Letter of Aristeas; Outline of Content; Relevance to the Septuagint; Aristobulus; Sources; Aristobulus on the Septuagint; Earlier Versions of the Septuagint?; Relationship between Aristobulus and The Letter of Aristeas; Aristobulus in Context; Further Reading; 3. Origins: Questions and Issues; Dating, Location and Purpose: The Translation of the Pentateuch; The Translation of the Prophets and the Writings; The Septuagint as a Whole: Theories and Questions: The 'Texts for Worship' Hypothesis; The 'Texts for Study' Hypothesis; The Question of the Septuagint Further Reading; 4. The Status of the Septuagint: from Philo to Jerome; Introduction; Philo of Alexandria (c.20 BCE-c.50 CE); Philo on the Making of the Septuagint; Special Features in Philo's Account; Philo on the 'Inspiration' of the Septuagint; A Defence of the Septuagint?; Josephus (37-c.100 CE); Continuation of the Septuagint Legends in Judaism; Rabbinic Sources and the Septuagint; Continuation of the Septuagint Legends in Christianity; The Defence of the Septuagint; The Septuagint and Jewish Alternatives; Augustine and Jerome; Further Reading; 5. Textual Developments to the Fifth Century CE; The Jewish Versions; The kaige Revision; 'Theodotion'; Aquila; Symmachus; Other Jewish Versions; Christian Use of the Versions; The Christian Recensions; The 'Hesychian Recension'; The Hexaplaric Recension; The Lucianic (Antiochian) Recension; Further Reading; 6. Language and Style; Introduction; The Septuagint and Koine Greek; The Septuagint's First Readers; Summary; Translation Technique; 'Literal' and 'Free' Translations; Conclusion; Further Reading; 7. The Use of the Septuagint: from the Beginnings to the Present; Day; The LXX and the MT: Interpreting the Differences; Identifying Distinctive Theological Elements; Jewish and Christian Reception History: Early Jewish Interpretation; Hellenistic Jewish Authors; Apocrypha and Pseudepigrapha; Philo and Josephus; Early Christian Interpretation; Influence of the Septuagint on New Testament Interpretation; Patristic Use of the Septuagint; The Influence of the Septuagint on Biblical Interpretation; Issues in the Patristic Use of the Septuagint; Modern Interest in the Septuagint; The Septuagint and Textual Criticism; Modern Translations; The Septuagint as Christian Scripture; The Septuagint as Jewish Scripture; The Septuagint and Hellenistic Culture; Furt

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Trade Review"Wenham is to be applauded for widening the scope of Old Testament ethical study by considering two of the narratives." * Church Times *"Drawing on a wide range of methodologies now available in biblical studies, he gives us a tour through these narrative books, pausing to offer perceptive comments and insights on the ethical dimensions of these texts...Wenham is not only a thoughtful exegete but a well-versed reader of the literature of Christian ethics." * Interpretation *

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Trade Review'This is a fascinating and provocative book. When it was first published reviewer John Goldingay hailed it as "a bombshell in the playground of New Testament study." I.H Marshall claimed that it "could seriously alter the character of contemporary Gospel study for the better." These are far reaching claims that fill the reader with expectation. These expectations are further fuelled by the fact that with Richard Bauckham and the other contributors to this volume we have biblical scholarship at its British best.' ~ Vox Reformata, No. 71, 2006

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Trade Review'This book must rank among the very best contemporary writing in English on the Apocalypse.' Theology 'I strongly recommend Bauckham's masterful studies on Revelation in its historical context.' Thomas Renna, Utopian Studies

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Book SynopsisThis text is a response to Socrates' invitation to know thyself. The journey moves from immediate experience, to the discovery of first being with the human person as the central figure of enquiry, in order to discover the purpose of human life.Trade Review'Fr Philippe not only reveals the depth and persuasiveness of the Thomist "vision", but also extends the tradition of Thomist thought by creatively transforming it.' Aidan Nichols OP

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Book SynopsisAll 220 biblical scrolls are presented and translated into English. The work reveals important differences between the scrolls and the Old Testament, reveals previously unknown details about the lives of biblical figures and provides new information on how the Hebrew Bible was created.

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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 SynopsisWhereas most scholarship has concentrated upon the synagogue, Margaret Barker's work on the Jerusalem temple contributes to our understanding of the meaning and importance of many elements of Christian liturgy which have hitherto remained obscure. This book opens up a new field of research.Trade Review"Not only scholars but also students and clergy will benefit from reading Margaret Barker's fascinating book." --Bernhard Lang"This book will surely fascinate and convince many readers." --Robert Murray SJ‘This is a scholarly work written for those who have either a professional interest in the development of early Christian liturgy or are serious non-professionals. As far as the latter are concerned, they will need to apply themselves to the text with great diligence as a considerable amount of information is conveyed on every page and much of it will probably be new. But diligence will have its reward.' -- thegoodbookstall.org.uk'...fascinating to read some Bible study done by the Methodist scholar Margaret Barker, developed in The Great High Priest: The Temple Roots of the Christian Liturgy...Without accepting everything Dr Barker says (for she is celebrated as a maverick), it is enlightening to look at the Eucharist in relation to the Jewish Day of Atonement, rather than to the Passover as usual. -- Christopher Howse * Daily Telegraph, The *Table of ContentsPreface; 1 The Secret Tradition; 2 The Time is Fulfilled: Jesus and the Jubilee; 3 Atonement: The Rite of Healing; 4 Parousia and Liturgy; 5 The Temple Roots of Christian Liturgy; 6 The Angel Priesthood; 7 The Holy of Holies; 8 Beyond the Veil of the Temple: The High Priestly Origin of the Apocalypses; 9 The Veil as the Boundary; 10 Wisdom: The Queen of Heaven; 11 Temple and Timaeus; 12 Text and Context

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Book SynopsisThis introduction to Gnosis by Christoph Markschies combines great clarity with immense learning.In his Introduction Markschies defines the term Gnosis and its relationship to ''Gnosticism'', indicating why Gnosis is preferable and sketches out the main problems. He then treats the sources, both those in the church fathers and heresiologists, and the more recent Nag Hammadi finds. He goes on to discuss early forms of ''Gnosis'' in antiquity, Jewish and Christian (New Testament) and the early Gnostics; the main representatives of Gnosis, especially Valentinus and Marcion; Manichaeism as the culmination and end-point of Gnosis; ancient communities of ''Gnostics''; and finally ''Gnosis'' in antiquity and the present.There is a useful chronological table and an excellent select bibliography.Trade Review'Christoph Markschies, now professor at Heidelberg, is the scholar of the rising generation who looks most likely to become one of the internationally known figures in the scholarship of early Christianity. His Between Two Worlds, published by SCM Press, is a fascinating introduction to the social practices of early Christians. He combines great clarity of writing with immense learning. In 128 pages there is everything the reader needs to know, along with where to look for further information. If ever a book was worth translating this is: it would be ideal for schools, university and theological students and clergy in length, approach and everything else.' - John Bowden"I agree with the blurbs on the back of this book. Maurice Wiles finds that the Gnostics presented here are neither bizarre eccentrics nor evil enemies of the Christianity, but rather credible participants in ancient dialogue about meaningful Christiantiy. Gerd Theissen lauds the book as an introduction to an ancient movement and a balanced summary of recent scholarship on that movement. I too recomment this book to anyone interested in early Christian history and ancient intellectual history."-Catholic Book Reviews Online, January 2004 * Blurb from reviewer *Table of ContentsIntroduction: Definition of Gnosis, its relationship to 'Gnosticism'.; Chapter II: The sources, ancient authors (from irenaeus to Epiphanius), heresologists (Justin and Tertullian), Gnostic original text (the Nag Hammadi material) and non-'Gnostic' texts (the Hermetic Writings and the Hekhalot literature).; Chapter III: Early forms of 'Gnosis' in antiquity: Jewish, New Testament, and early representatives (Simon Magus and Basilides).; Chapter IV: Marcion and the Marcionites, Valentinus and Valentinians and the 'Barbelo Gnostics'.; Chapter V: Manichaeism as the culmination and end-point of Gnosis.; Chapter VI: Ancient communities of 'Gnostics'.; Chapter VII: 'Gnosis' in antiquity and the present.; Index

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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 SynopsisCharts the use and abuse of scripture throughout the ages. This title includes topics ranging from the evangelists' engagement with the Hebrew Scriptures to the use of the Bible in present day politics - perhaps most pertinently in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It takes as his starting point Frances Young's "The Art of Performance".Trade Review"'Henry Wansbrough is part of a generation of Catholic Bible scholars who have made it possible to say that the Catholic Church offers a valuable and distinctive contribution to the continuing work of scholarship and biblical formation. Fr Henry has been a magnificent maitre d'hotel introducing new generations to the great feast of Scripture. We are all deeply indebted to him' - H.E. Cormac Cardinal Murphy-O'Connor, Archbishop of Westminster * Wansbrough is a well-known Catholic commentator on the bible and is the translator and editor of one of the most popular modern English versions of the Bible - The New Jerusalem Bible."Table of ContentsGeneral Introduction: How the Bible Came to Us; 1. The First Century: The Interpretation of the Old Testament in the New; 2. The Second Century: Melito and Irenaeus; 3. The Third Century: Origen; 4. The Fourth Century: Jerome; 5. The Dark Ages: Bede and the Bible; 6. The Bible and the Crusades; 7. Bernard of Clairvaux and Thomas Aquinas; 8. Martin Luther; 9. The Bible in Early Seventeenth Century England; 10. Wesley; 11. The Political Use of the Bible: Israel and the Palestinian Conflict; 12. Lectio Divina; Glossary; Bibliography.

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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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Book SynopsisDavid P. Moessner is Professor of Biblical Theology at the University of Dubuque Theological Seminary, USA.Daniel Marguerat served as the President of a prestigious international society for New Testament Studies (SNTS) from 2007-2008, and is a leading scholar in Luke and Acts.Mikeal C. Parsons is Macon Chair and Professor of Religion at Baylor University, USA.Michael Wolter is Professor of New Testament at the University of Bonn, Germany.Trade ReviewSummarized. * New Testament Abstracts *Table of ContentsAcknowledgements Abbreviations Contributors Introduction: The Legacy of Paul in Acts - A 'More Complete and Inhabitable' New Testament? - The Editors Part I: Re-figuring Paul 1. On the ‘Paulinism' of Acts - Philipp Vielhauer 2. The Paul of Luke. A Survey of Research - Odile Flichy 3. The Paulinism of Acts, Intertextually Reconsidered - Richard B. Hays 4. The Development of Pauline Christianity from a 'Religion of Conversion' to a 'Religion of Tradition' - Michael Wolter 5. Paul after Paul: a (Hi)story of Reception - Daniel Marguerat 6. Paul's Place in Early Christianity - Christopher Mount Part II: The Figure and Legacy of Paul in the Book of Acts 7. Luke's 'Witness of Witnesses': Paul as Definer and Defender of the Tradition of the Apostles - 'from the beginning' - David P. Moessner 8. 'Has God Rejected His People?' (Romans 11.1). The Salvation of Israel in Acts: Narrative Claim of a Pauline Legacy - Simon Butticaz 9. (Not) 'Appealing to the Emperor': Acts (and the Acts of Paul) - Richard I. Pervo 10. 'In Paul's Defence': The Contribution of Cramer's Catena to the Early Reception of Paul in Acts - Timothy Brookins, Mikeal Parsons and Peter Reynolds Part III: The Pauline Figure of Acts within the Pauline Legacy 11. Paul the Founder of the Church: Reflections on the Reception of Paul in the Acts of the Apostles and the Pastoral Epistles - Jens Schroter 12. From the 'Least of All the Saints' to the 'Apostle of Jesus Christ': The Transformation of Paul in the First Century - Gregory E. Sterling 13. Auctoritas Pauli according to the Deutero-Pauline Literature and the Acts of the Apostles - Andreas Dettwiler 14. Rumour: A Category for Articulating the Self-Portraits and Reception of Paul. 'For they say, "His letters are weighty...but his speech is contemptible"' (2 Corinthians 10.10) - Claire Clivaz 15. 'Working with one's hands': One Model, Many Applications (Acts 20.33; 1 Timothy 5.17; 2 Thessalonians 3.7-10_ - Yann Redalie 16. 'Be Imitators of me, brothers and sisters' (Philippians 3.17): Paul as an Exemplary Figure in the Pauline Corpus and the Acts of the Apostles - Jean-Francois Landolt Conclusion: 'Mediator, Miracle-Worker, Doctor of the Church? The Continuing Mystery of Paul in the New Testament and in Early Christianity' - The Editors Bibliography Index of Ancient Authors Index of Modern Authors

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Book SynopsisDr. Paul L. Allen is an Associate Professor in the Department of Theological Studies at Concordia University, Montreal, Canada.Trade ReviewA stimulating and thought-provoking addition to the Guides for the Perplexed series. It will be particularly useful for those who have already completed some theological study and wish to go deeper into questions of method. -- Frances Clemson, University of Cambridge, UK * Theology *Allen deserves much credit for this achievement . . . I'll likely find a way to incorporate this helpful methodological and theological book into my classes -- Eric E. Hall * Theologische Literaturzeitung, vol 139 *Notably detailed for a short introduction ... This is the most successful feature of the book: rather than making one reliant on the text, it acts as a catalyst to read the works of the theologians themselves with the themes brought up in mind ... For those beginning explicit study in theological method, this is a book well worth reading. -- Alex Garton, Heidelberg University * Modern Believing *Paul Allen offers an illuminating set of example to display—rather than try to explain—how theologians proceed to negotiate the set of questions with which revelation inevitably leaves us. This approach should entice readers to explore one of the exemplars he offers, and so taste themselves how theologians actually operate. The best way to introduce a discipline. -- David Burrell, C.S.C., McCauley Formation House, Nairobi KenyaTable of ContentsIntroduction; 1. Paul: Kerygma and Ecclesia; 2. The Patristic Era: Understanding the Word of God; 3. Augustine: Reading for Conversion; 4. The Medieval Period: The Bible and Natural Theology; 5. Sola Scriptura or Scripture and Tradition; 6. Early Modern Theology: History and the Rise of Explicit Methodology; 7. Modern Theological Methods as Diffuse Hermeneutics; 8. Modern Theological Methods as Wisdom; Appendix, Excerpts from one or two classical texts; Bibliography.

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