Criticism and exegesis of sacred texts Books

Book SynopsisRecognising veiled allusions to the Old Testament in the four Gospels has long contributed to our understanding of the Gospels message. Nicholas Lunn takes the investigation of allusion a significant step further in The Gospels Through Old Testament Eyes. He explores allusions not just in isolated verses, but rather occurring throughout whole passages, demonstrating that many Gospel episodes interact with specific Old Testament accounts through an extended sequence of allusions. Furthermore, his examination is not restricted to episodes presented by a single Gospel, but includes allusions distributed across two or more Gospel treatments of the same event. In The Gospels Through Old Testament Eyes, Lunn offers a series of self-contained studies that bring to light allusions, many of them previously unnoted, that affirm the intricate interweaving of New Testament texts with those of the Old. This volume will greatly enhance your appreciation of the Gospels' presentation of Jesus's life and ministry. It will inform and equip scholars, pastors, preachers, Bible teachers and readers to appreciate new depths in the Gospels.Trade Review"Nicholas Lunn is a careful reader, and he helps us to dig behind familiar passages from the Gospels and discover a wealth of allusion to earlier texts. A sense of the wonder and mystery of Jesus' nature as the human embodiment of the God of Israel is enhanced, as we see how these allusions illumine the events of his life with fresh theological meaning. Drawing on a wealth of scholarship from a wide range of Christian as well as Jewish sources, this fascinating study will also help us to appreciate the unity of Scripture as the gift of a single divine Author. Divided into concise, clearly-written chapters focusing on Gospel episodes, it offers plentiful new insights for preachers and will enrich the devotion of Christian believers to their Lord." -- Stephen I. Wright, Vice Principal and Academic Director, Spurgeon's College, London"This book alerts us to new possibilities when it comes to understanding the meaning, significance and artistry of New Testament texts. Lunn writes with clarity and conviction. He confidently appraises the NT text, drawing on scholarly insight, showing respect for details like literary design and linguistic choices. He hopes that his writing will be faith-building – and indeed this aim is reflected in the tone and emphases throughout. I was not convinced by every premise or conclusion, but I was stimulated by the journey. It is not always my experience that new publications intrigue me and capture my imagination, but this book did and I am very glad I pushed beyond my own approach to the biblical text to listen to the voice of a different approach that opens up a new world of interpretive possibilities." -- Debra Reid, Director of Undergraduate Studies; Tutor in Old Testament, Spurgeon’s College, London"The Gospels and the rest of the New Testament weren’t supposed to be read in a vacuum, but as part of the continuing story of God’s redemptive work as it had been expounded in the Old Testament. Readers of the Gospels who pay close attention to how their allusions to the Old Testament are expected to inform our understanding are reading as the authors intended and find rich rewards in a fuller understanding of each text. Nick Lunn has spent years doing that kind of careful reading and now shares his insightful observations with all who want to learn to do the same. Be prepared to have your understanding enriched and your own reading transformed!" -- Roy E. Ciampa, Ph.D. S. Louis and Ann W. Armstrong Chair of Religion Chair, Department of Biblical and Religious Studies"Another brilliant work by a lucid and clear teacher of scripture. Using his vast knowledge and skills in Hebrew and Greek and his many years of experience in meticulous reading and exegeting of both the Old and New Testaments in their original languages as a translation consultant, Nick Lunn opens before our eyes a completely new dimension of the meaning of the Gospels. Case after case and passage after passage, we see Christ shining from behind the same familiar passages in new and amazing ways. At a time when the discipline of biblical exegesis is freeing itself more and more from the limitations imposed on it by the old naturalist and historicist presuppositions often lurking beneath and behind the old grammatical-historical method, reading Lunn's book, The Gospels through Old Testament Eyes, is like enjoying a cool breeze of fresh air in a very hot summer." -- Rev. Dr. Mehrdad Fatehi, Executive Director of Pars Theological Centre, UK

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Book SynopsisExplore Answers to Life's Most Important Theological Questions. Over 175,000 Copies Sold! How do we know the Bible is God's Word? What is sin and where did it come from? How is Jesus fully God and fully man? What are spiritual gifts? When and how will Christ return? If you've asked questions like these, then systematic theology is no abstract term. It's an approach to finding answers every Christian needs to know. The second edition of Bible Doctrine by respected theologian Wayne Grudem takes a widely used upper-level textbook on systematic theology and makes it accessible. Abridged from the second edition of Wayne Grudem's award-winning Systematic Theology, Bible Doctrine covers the same essentials of the faith, giving you a firm grasp on seven key topics: The Doctrine of the Word of God The Doctrine of God The Doctrine of Man The Doctrine of Christ The Doctrine of the Application of Redemption The Doctrine of the Church The Doctrine of the Future. You don't need to have had several years of Bible college or seminary training to reap the benefits of Bible Doctrine. It's easy to understand and packed with biblical answers to your most pressing theological questions. This new edition now includes: New, thoughtful critiques of open theism, the new perspective on Paul, Molinism (or "middle knowledge"), "Free Grace" theology, and the preterist view of Christ's second coming Completely revised, stronger chapter on the clarity of Scripture Completely revised, stronger chapter on creation and evolution. New discussion of how biblical inerrancy applies to some specific "problem verses" in the Gospels Additional material respectfully explaining evangelical Protestant differences with Roman Catholicism (with extensive interaction with the Catechism of the Roman Catholic Church), Protestant liberalism, and Mormonism Completely updated bibliographies All Scripture quotations updated from RSV to ESV An explanation of why monogenes in John 3:16 and elsewhere should be translated as "only begotten" rather than merely "only" An extensive discussion on the eternal submission of the Son to the Father A discussion of recent criticisms of the penal substitutionary view of the atonement Numerous other updates and corrections that have be prompted by letters and emails from people around the world and by interaction with the students Wayne has taught over the last 26 years both at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School and at Phoenix Seminary

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Book SynopsisThe book of Joshua memorializes a transitional episode in Israel's national history. The heroic figure Joshua leads the new generation of Israel across the Jordan and into the land of promise, conquering Canaanites and overseeing the allotment of the inheritance among the tribes.

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Book SynopsisThe Qur''an and the Prophet in the Writings of Shaykh Ahmad al-''Alawi presents for the first time in English all the collected works of the Shaykh on the two guiding principles of Islam. The Shaykh al-Alawi had embarked on a full commentary on the Qur''an, but only completed an introduction explaining his approach to Qur''anic exegesis and commentaries on three chapters. All these pieces are included here with an additional appendix of answers to questions that the Shaykh''s disciples had put to him on the Qur''an.The Qur''anic commentaries are followed by a treatise on the meaning of the invocation of blessings on the Prophet. This extremely profound treatise delves into the spiritual nature of the Prophet explaining how he represents both the summit of spiritual attainment and the example for all those seeking enlightenment. Also included in the appendix are answers that the Shaykh gave his disciples on sayings of the Prophet.

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Book SynopsisThe Qur''an and the Prophet in the Writings of Shaykh Ahmad al-''Alawi presents for the first time in English all the collected works of the Shaykh on the two guiding principles of Islam. The Shaykh al-Alawi had embarked on a full commentary on the Qur''an, but only completed an introduction explaining his approach to Qur''anic exegesis and commentaries on three chapters. All these pieces are included here with an additional appendix of answers to questions that the Shaykh''s disciples had put to him on the Qur''an.The Qur''anic commentaries are followed by a treatise on the meaning of the invocation of blessings on the Prophet. This extremely profound treatise delves into the spiritual nature of the Prophet explaining how he represents both the summit of spiritual attainment and the example for all those seeking enlightenment. Also included in the appendix are answers that the Shaykh gave his disciples on sayings of the Prophet.

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Book SynopsisChrist and the Chocolaterie is an original, innovative Lent course written by Hilary Brand for small groups or individuals, inspired by the film Chocolat starring Juliette Binoche. It suggests clips from the film, group discussion questions, exercises and meditations, and relevant Bible passages for a powerful aid to Lenten reflection. It also includes appendices on the curious history of chocolate, the unfair economics of chocolate and ideas for a chocolate feast. Twenty-one years since it was first published, Hilary has updated the course for this new edition, which still has so much to inspire those who read and discuss it, on what it means to be human and the power of change.

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Book SynopsisBitter the Chastening Rod follows in the footsteps of the first collection of African American biblical interpretation, Stony the Road We Trod (1991). Nineteen Africana biblical scholars contribute cutting-edge essays reading Jesus, criminalization, the enslaved, and whitened interpretations of the enslaved. They present pedagogical strategies for teaching, hermeneutics, and bible translation that center Black Lives Matter and black culture. Biblical narratives, news media, and personal stories intertwine in critical discussions of black rage, protest, anti-blackness, and mothering in the context of black precarity.Trade ReviewSince African American biblical interpretation is unapologetically contextual, the contributors of Bitter the Chastening Rod engage the cultural history of Black peoples in the U.S. and diaspora, raising new questions about humanity, discipline, and culture amidst social movements such as #BLM, #SayHerName, and #MeToo. Consequently, this collective work of Africana biblical critics emerges as an assemblage of culturally informed knowledge of the text and history, innovative deployments of theories and hermeneutics, and emancipatory pedagogy grounded in praxis. It demonstrates the perseverance, resilience, and brilliance of generations of Black biblical scholarship. As Stony the Road We Trod opened the path not only for Black scholarship but also for other minoritized scholars, this volume is a must-read for all biblical scholars and an invaluable source for faith communities to join the struggle for justice in our time. -- Jin Young Choi, Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity SchoolBitter the Chastening Rod provides creative paths to the hackneyed roads that whitestream scholarship has built for Biblical Studies. We are in dire need of imaginative interpretive exercises that challenge how whiteness has pervaded historiography, linguistics, and literary analysis. We also need visionary models to build graduate programs, curriculums, and educational practices attentive to a world facing unprecedented global crises. Bitter the Chastening Rod suggests new paths for such enterprise. -- Luis Menéndez-Antuña, Boston University School of TheologyThis compelling sequel of the seminal Stony the Road we Trod proves the pressing relevance of Africana hermeneutics at this historical moment. These diverse readings offer a review of the work of pioneers; bold, historically grounded, and tragically relevant interpretations of individual texts about incarceration and violence; and important challenges to comfortable readers. No New Testament scholar, seminarian, or Christian should look away from the opportunities to enact justice that this volume presents. -- Candida Moss, University of BirminghamBitter the Chastening Rod: Africana Interpretation After Stony the Road we Trod in the Age of #BLM, #SayHerName, and #MeToo is a greatly anticipated volume that, in the spirit of Sankofa, builds upon, expands, and futures Black post-colonial biblical studies. The aggregation of renown scholars that pen this work offers brilliant insights on the biblical text and prophetic movements against subjugation. This important text engages the longstanding and ongoing work of confronting interlocking forms of oppression in the US and globally, centering the continuing need to illuminate connections between Africana biblical studies and the hermeneutical lenses of current revolutionary struggles. It is a must-read that informs any serious engagement of the theological disciplines and meaningful social action. -- Maisha I. K. Handy, executive director of the Jacquelyn Grant Center for Black Women’s Justice and associate professor of Religion and Education, Interdenominational Theological CenterThe pioneers of Black biblical scholarship have proudly passed the torch to an equally agile cohort of “troublers” who ably take up the call to challenge the still prevailing hermeneutic of whiteness. For me, a white scholar, BCR is the companion piece I’ve been waiting for. I owe these contributors not only a great debt of gratitude for such an essential resource but also my undivided attention and resolve as I trod my own hermeneutical trek. -- William P. Brown, Columbia Theological SeminaryTable of ContentsPart I. Remembering the Past, Laboring in the Present, and Shaping a Hopeful Future1.“The Hill We Climb”: Introduction ‒‒ Mitzi J. Smith, Angela N. Parker and Ericka Dunbar Hill2.A Eulogy for Cain Hope Felder ‒‒ Brian K. Blount3.Zoom-ing in on a Watershed Moment in Biblical Interpretation ‒‒ William H. MyersPart II. God’s Black(ened) People in the World—Thugs, Slaves and Criminals4.God’s Only Begotten Thug ‒‒ Allen Dwight Callahan5.Abolitionist Messiah: A Man Named Jesus Born of a Doulē ‒‒ Mitzi J. Smith6.Reading with the Enslaved: Placing Human Bondage at the Center of the Early Christian Story ‒‒ Emerson B. Powery7.“I am a Human”: Racializing Assemblages and Criminalized Egyptianness in Acts 21:31–39 ‒‒ Jeremy L. Williams8.The Terror of White Hermeneutics: Black and Enslaved Bodies Interpreted in the Context of Whiteness ‒‒ Marcus W. ShieldsPart III. Africana Hermeneutical Strategies, Pedagogy, Translation, and #BLM9.Hoodoo Blues and the Formulation of Hermeneutical Strategies for Contemporary Africana Biblical Engagement ‒‒ Hugh R. Page, Jr.10.Reflections on Teaching Biblical Interpretation through a Black Lives Matter Hermeneutic ‒‒ Wil Gafney11.Revisiting the Caananites and Contemporary Ites: Pedagogical Insights into Cheering for the Wrong Team ‒‒ Theodore W. Burgh12.Reading Romans in Greek: Translating and Commenting on it in Haitian Creole ‒‒ Ronald CharlesPart IV. Black Rage and Protest in Times of #Black Lives Matter and #MeToo13.Rage, Riots, and Rhetoric: Psalm 137 and African American Responses to Violence ‒‒ Stacy Davis14.Rethinking “God-breathed” in the Age of #Black Lives Matter: A Womanist Reading of 2 Tim 3:10–17 ‒‒ Angela N. Parker15.Leah and Dinah in the Face of Abuse: What Do I Tell My Daughter? ‒‒ Kamilah Hall Sharp16.Antichrist and Anti-Black: 1 John and “Black Lives Matter” ‒‒ Dennis R. EdwardsPart V. Responses17.John’s Apocalypse and African American Interpretation ‒‒ Thomas B. Slater18.Race Still Matters: Mapping the Afterlives of Stony the Road We Trod ‒‒ Clarice J. Martin19.“To Think Better Than We Have Been Trained”: Thirty Years Later ‒‒ Renita J. Weems

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Book SynopsisAn analysis of metaphor in the legal texts of the Old Testament using the tools of cognitive and cultural linguistics. The Old Testament is rich in metaphor. Metaphorical expressions appear not only in places where you might expect them, like the poetic verses, but also in the legal texts. They appear in the preambles to collections of laws, in their final summaries, in general considerations on compliance with and violation of the law, in texts concerning the meaning of the law, and those dealing with topics now reserved for legal theory and legal philosophy. These metaphorical expressions reveal how the authors of the relevant Torah/Law texts understood their function in society and what the society of the time preferred in the law. ​ Anchored in cognitive and cultural linguistics, The Torah/Law Is a Journey investigates Hebrew metaphorical expressions concerning the key Old Testament concept of Torah/Law. Ivana Procházková identifies Hebrew conceptual metaphors and explicates the metaphorical expressions. She also uses cognitive linguistic analysis to look at modern translations of selected metaphorical expressions into Czech and English. Procházková closes with an analysis of the metaphors used in the Council of Europe publication Compass: Manual for Human Rights Education with Young People to conceptualize human rights.Trade Review"It is a benefit to those interested in the intersection between cognitive linguistics and biblical studies, and especially to those who are intrigued by 'the Torah/Law is a journey' metaphor." * The Catholic Biblical Quarterly *Table of ContentsIntroductionChapter 1. The identification, analysis and interpretation of metaphorical expressions in the Hebrew text of the Old Testament: Starting points and methods.1.1 Methods used in the analysis and interpretation of Hebrew metaphorical expressions relating to the term ???? the Torah/Law, and in the explanation of meaning.Embodiment theoryThe mental spaces theoryThe conceptual blending theoryA holistic understanding of meaning: Understanding connotations1.2 The metaphorical conceptualisation of ???? the Torah/Law and related Hebrew terms: Basic characteristics of the semantic area and the terminology and etymology of the central Hebrew expression.Chapter 2. Metaphorical conceptualisation of ???? the Torah/Law and related terms2.1 The central conceptual metaphor: THE TORAH / LAW IS A JOURNEY2.1.1 The generic narrative structure TO WALK ALONG THE PATH 2.1.2 The generic narrative structure TO RUN ALONG THE PATH 2.1.3 The generic narrative structure TO LEAVE THE PATH / TO TURN FROM THE PATH 2.1.4 The generic narrative structure TO GO ASTRAY 2.1.5 The generic narrative structure TO RETURN2.1.6 The generic narrative structure TO SEARCH FOR THE PATH / TO SEARCH ON THE PATH2.1.7 The generic narrative structure TO TAKE ON / SHOW THE PATH2.1.8 The generic narrative structure TO FALL DOWN ON THE PATH2.2 Summary of the metaphorical conceptualisation of ???? the Torah/Law and related terms through the journey metaphor 2.3 Other conceptual metaphors2.3.1 Other metaphors involved in the conceptualisation of ???? the Torah/Law in the Old Testament2.3.2 Summary of other metaphors involved in the conceptualisation of ???? the Torah/Law in the Old TestamentChapter 3. Using cognitive and cultural-linguistic analysis to interpret and translate metaphorical expressions in the Old Testament3.1 Using cognitive-linguistic approaches in interpretation: The journey metaphor and spatial image schemas in the book of Jeremiah3.2 Using cognitive and culturally oriented linguistic analysis and interpretation in translation studies3.2.1 Modern translations of the Bible into English and Czech3.2.2 Analysis, interpretation and translation of the metaphorical expression in Deuteronomy 8:63.2.3 Analysis, interpretation and translation of the metaphorical expression in Proverbs 29:183.2.4 Analysis, interpretation and translation of the metaphorical expression in Zephaniah 3:43.3 SummaryChapter 4. Case Study. What metaphors say about human rights. A cognitive-semantic analysis and interpretation of biblical metaphors in the teaching material Compass: Manual for Human Rights Education with Young People4.1 Conceptual metaphors and their roots in biblical language4.2 The quasi-religion of human rightsConclusionSourcesBibliography

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Book SynopsisA paradigm-shifting book, arguing that, far from supporting male privilege, the Qur'an actually encourages the full equality of women and men.Trade Review`This is an original and, at times, ground-breaking piece of scholarship.' John L. Esposito, University Professor and Founding Director of the Alwaleed Center for Muslim-Christian Understanding, Georgetown University; `[A] brilliantly executed work . . . A new generation of scholar-activists . . . will take cues from such a study to open up interpretations and modes of Islamic praxis that will resonate with the avowedly non-repressive divine intentions for Muslim and other faith communities worldwide.' Arab Studies Journal; `Barlas's thesis is irresistible: the Qur'an itself has a very positive view of women whereas patriarchal culture caused the various interpreters of the Qur'an to read their own biases into the text to justify the oppression of women. Barlas quotes from a smorgasbord of Islamic scholars, resulting at times in a choppy read that drowns out her own more appealing voice. The opening chapter is bogged down in such quoting, and also in excessive worrying over her critics on either side of the debate. Despite these flaws, this book is loaded with interesting facts about Islam that may even surprise Muslims' Publishers Weekly; `A refreshing read ... a unique analysis that underscores the exclusively the role of women in Islam' New Arab

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Book SynopsisDo you ever feel like Jesus couldn’t possibly know what you are going through? He’s the God of the universe after all! Does he really know your daily struggles? The good news is: he does.For thirty-three years Jesus felt everything you have ever felt: weakness, weariness, sadness, rejection. His feet got tired and his head ached. He was tempted and his strength was tested. And you know why? Because in becoming human, Jesus made it possible for us to see God. His tears, God’s tears. His voice, God’s voice. Want to know what matters to God? Find out what matters to Jesus. Want to know what in the world God is doing? Ponder the words and life of Jesus. For more than three decades, pastor and bestselling author Max Lucado has shown us Jesus. In this capstone book, he takes us further on the journey to know the life and character of the Savior.This book describes both the person Jesus was on earth and how to live in a per

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Book SynopsisThe ESV Study Bible, Personal Size compresses the features of the award-winning ESV Study Bible into a smaller size for easier carrying.

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Book SynopsisThe ESV Study Bible, Personal Size compresses nearly all the features of the award-winning ESV Study Bible into a smaller size for easier carrying.

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Book SynopsisLeading evangelical scholar John Walton surveys the cultural context of the ancient Near East, bringing insight to the interpretation of specific Old Testament passages. This new edition of a top-selling textbook has been thoroughly updated and revised throughout to reflect the refined thinking of a mature scholar. It includes over 30 illustrations. Students and pastors who want to deepen their understanding of the Old Testament will find this a helpful and instructive study.Table of ContentsContentsPart 1: Comparative Studies1. History and Methods2. Comparative Studies, Scholarship, and TheologyPart 2: Literature of the Ancient Near East3. Summary of the Literature of the Ancient Near EastPart 3: Religion4. The Gods5. Temples and Rituals6. State and Family ReligionPart 4: Cosmos7. Cosmic Geography8. Cosmology and CosmogonyPart 5: People9. Understanding the Past: Human Origins and Role10. Understanding the Past: Historiography11. Encountering the Present: Guidance for Life--Divination and Omens12. Encountering the Present: Context of Life--Cities and Kingship13. Encountering the Present: Guidelines for Life--Law and Wisdom14. Pondering the Future on Earth and after DeathConcluding RemarksAppendix: Individual GodsIndexes

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Book SynopsisIn this 10-week Bible study for women, Lydia Brownback explores the themes of Colossians, exalting Christ as the ruler of everything and helping readers put him at the center of their own lives.

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Book SynopsisIn this wide-ranging book, Rowan Williams argues that what we say about Jesus Christ is key to understanding what Christian belief says about creator and creation overall. Through detailed discussion of texts from the earliest centuries to the present day, we are shown some of the various and subtle ways in which Christians have discovered in their reflections on Christ the possibility of a deeply affirmative approach to creation, and a set of radical insights in ethics and politics as well. Throughout his life, Rowan Williams has been deeply influenced by thinkers of the Eastern Christian tradition as well as Catholic and Anglican writers. This book draws on insights from Eastern Christianity, from the Western Middle Ages and from Reformed thinkers, from Calvin to Bonhoeffer as well as considering theological insights sparked by philosophers like Kierkegaard and Wittgenstein. Christ the Heart of Creation concerns fundamental issues for Christian belief and Williams Trade ReviewI have not caught anything like the full complexity or density of William's book ... [It is] a display of daunting wide erudition, of a powerful and well-stocked mind at work making connections and offering insights, judgements and suggestions in many directions across a whole range of scholarly debates ... Readers who tackle it will find much that is rich and illuminating. * Times Literary Supplement *[A] magisterial new survey of Christology. * Church Times *Rewarding ... An intellectually challenging book ... I can think of no more stimulating companion to have in trying to negotiate the thickets of christology. * Augustinianum *A major work of modern theology ... with impressive scholarship. * Theology Journal *Christ the Heart of Creation is an insightful, masterful and thoroughly impressive work. * International Journal of Systematic Theology *Table of ContentsAcknowledgements Preface Introduction: Beginning the Middle (Ages): Aquinas's Christological Vision 1 Jesus Christ: Infinite Act and Finite Embodiment 2 Summarizing a Tradition: The Christology of Thomas Aquinas 3 The Unity of Christ 4 Transforming Humanity: Christ as the Ground of Communion PART ONE 1.1 Formulating the Question: From Paul to Augustine 1 New Testament Origins: History, Faith and Narrative 2 From Paul to Nicaea: The Logos and the Flesh 3 Towards Chalcedon 4 A Latin Voice: Augustine on the Unity of Christ 1.2 Refining the Vocabulary: The Contribution of Early Byzantine Theology 1 Chalcedon and its Aftermath 2 Terminological Developments: Leontius of Byzantium and Leontius of Jerusalem 3 Maximus the Confessor: Christology and the Reconciled Cosmos 4 A Byzantine Synthesis: John of Damascus 5 The Story So Far PART TWO 2.2 Loss and Recovery: Calvin and the Re-formation of Christology 1 Dismantling Aquinas: The Later Medieval Discussion 2 The Catholic Calvin: A Theological Tradition Renewed 3 A New Diversity: The Varieties of Protestant Christology 2.2 Christ, Creation and Community: Christology in the Shadow of Antichrist 1 Barth, Bonhoeffer and the Legacy of Protestant Orthodoxy 2 Bonhoeffer's Christology Lectures 3 Christology, Ethics and Politics: Discourses of Transformation Conclusion: Christ, the Heart of Creation; The Tension in Metaphysics and Theology Appendix: Concluding (Unethological?) Postscript: Wittgenstein, Kierkegaard and Chalcedon Index

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Book SynopsisAn Old Testament theology by a leading Old Testament scholar who combines a technical with a spiritual understanding of the Old Testament.

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Book SynopsisGrasp the message of the New Testament by focusing on the essentials.An Introduction to the New Testament focuses on historical questions dealing with authorship, date, sources, purpose, destination, and so forth, ensuring that the New Testament books will be accurately understood within historical settings. For each New Testament document, the authors also provide a substantial summary of the book''s content, discuss the book''s theological contribution to the overall canon, and give an account of current studies on the book, including recent literary and social-science approaches to interpretation. This second edition reflects significant revision and expansion from the original, making this highly acclaimed text even more valuable. A new chapter provides a historical survey examining Bible study method through the ages. The chapter on Paul has been expanded to include an analysis of debates on the “new perspectiveTrade Review'...highly recommended. With its very careful, keenly nuanced, and extensively researched discussions, it may well be considered special in a way not originally intended by its authors. It deserves to be read not just by students but by all scholars of the New Testament.' * Review of Biblical Literature *Table of ContentsContents Preface...9 Abbreviations...13 1. Thinking about the Study of the New Testament...23 2. The Synoptic Gospels....77 3. Matthew....134 4. Mark....169 5. Luke...198 6. John...225 7. Acts...285 8. New Testament Letters...331 9. Paul: Apostle and Theologian...354 10. Romans...391 11. 1 and 2 Corinthians....415 12. Galatians...456 13. Ephesians....479 14. Philippians....498 15. Colossians...516 16. 1 and 2Thessalonians...532 17. The Pastoral Epistles...554 18. Philemon...588 19. Hebrews....596 20. James...619 21. 1 Peter...636 22. 2 Peter...654 23. 1, 2, 3 John...669 24. Jude....688 25. Revelation...697 26. The New Testament Canon...726 Scripture Index...744 Name Index...758 Subject Index...765

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Book SynopsisThe KJV Word Study Reference Bible balances deep study of the biblical languages with clear application to help transform the way you live. Uncover a wealth of meaning in Scripture with more than 2000 Greek and Hebrew word studies.Bring the words of Scripture to life and discover the richness and significance of the original languages of the Word of God. The KJV Word Study Reference Bible includes in-text subheadings and 2,000 easy-to-use word studies with select Hebrew, Aramaic and Greek words explained in every chapter from Genesis to Revelation. By looking into these ancient texts, we are able to read scripture as it was originally written and passed on from generation to generation. In addition, this Bible’s Topic-by-Topic studies give a practical framework for understanding scripture, along with more hel

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Book SynopsisGod''s Dream for Your Life Awaits You.A great dream is a statement of faith. Whether you dream of creating something beautiful or accomplishing something incredible, your dream is the first step God uses to develop your spiritual maturity and change your life. The Bible is full of stories of people whose God-given dreams became reality—but to get there, they had to take a journey of faith.In this 6-session video Bible Study (streaming code included), Rick Warren reveals how God uses six phases to develop your spiritual maturity while fulfilling the dreams God gives you.Sessions and video run times: How Faith and Dreaming Are Connected (25:30) Discovering God’s Dream for You (25:30) Making Wise Decisions (22:00) Persisting Through Delays (24:00) Dealing with Difficulties (28:00) From Dead Ends to Deliverance (25:30)  This study guide ha

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Book SynopsisThe Word Biblical Commentary delivers the best in biblical scholarship, from the leading scholars of our day who share a commitment to Scripture as divine revelation. This series emphasizes a thorough analysis of textual, linguistic, structural, and theological evidence. The result is judicious and balanced insight into the meanings of the text in the framework of biblical theology. These widely acclaimed commentaries serve as exceptional resources for the professional theologian and instructor, the seminary or university student, the working minister, and everyone concerned with building theological understanding from a solid base of biblical scholarship.Overview of Commentary Organization Introduction—covers issues pertaining to the whole book, including context, date, authorship, composition, interpretive issues, purpose, and theology. Each section of the commentary includes: Pericope Bibliography—a helpful resource containing the mos

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Book SynopsisThis English-language edition of Walter Bauer's "Worterbuch zu den Schriften des Neuen Testaments" includes entries for many more words and over 25,000 additional references to classical, intertestamental, early Christian and modern literature.

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Book SynopsisLuke is the fifth release in the Zondervan Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament series, the only commentary series with a graphical display, theology in application section and identification of the main idea for each section.

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Book SynopsisThis classic interpretation of one of the most complex books of the Bible combines scholarship with simplicity and warmth, serving as an accessible and solid resource.

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Book SynopsisA respected New Testament scholar presents the most thorough current defense of the credibility of biblical miracles.Table of ContentsIntroductionPart 1: The Ancient Evidence1. Opening Questions about Early Christian Miracle Claims2. Ancient Miracle Claims outside Christianity3. Comparison of Early Christian and Other Ancient Miracle AccountsPart 2: Are Miracles Possible?4. Antisupernaturalism as an Authenticity Criterion?5. Hume and the Philosophic Questions6. Developing Hume's Skepticism toward MiraclesPart 3: Miracle Accounts beyond Antiquity7. Majority World Perspectives8. Examples from Asia9. Examples from Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean10. Supernaturalism in Earlier Christian History11. Supernatural Claims in the Recent West12. Blindness, Inability to Walk, Death, and Nature: Some Dramatic ReportsPart 4: Proposed Explanations13. Nonsupernatural Causes14. Biased Standards?15. More Extranormal CasesConclusionConcluding Unscientific PostscriptAppendixesIndexes

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Book SynopsisThe Psalms can be very helpful, but they can also be hard. Following on from The Way of the Righteous in the Muck of Life and Slogging Along the Paths of Righteousness, Dale Ralph Davis delves into Psalms 25 to 37. Using his own recognisable humour and razor–sharp observations these expositions help us to engage with the conflict in these twelve psalms.Trade ReviewIn this work of exposition, Davis again shows how unchanging God’s Word is, and how sufficient He is to meet us in whatever trial we face. Davis has a gift for bringing the word to bear in clear and crisp ways. This book does just that—and it’s another gift to God’s people from Dr. Davis. -- Courtney Reissig (Author of ‘Teach Me to Feel: Worshipping Through the Psalms in Every Season of Life’)The treasure of this book is the way Dr. Davis skillfully walks his readers through the ancient words and literary styles of these Psalms into a grander view of the covenant–keeping God and a fuller understanding of his care for His people. -- Emily Woodard (Director of Women’s Ministry, First Presbyterian Church, Columbia, South Carolina)This accessible but profound study of the Psalms has warmed my heart and made me thankful again for the greater gift of Christ our King. There is gold on every page and comfort in each chapter. Once again we are all in Dale Ralph Davis’ debt for his scholarship presented with humility and his ministry fulfilled so faithfully. -- David Gibson (Minister, Trinity Church, Aberdeen)Davis joins hands with the sacred songwriter in beckoning us to employ our grittiest grief, formidable fears, principle praises and staunchest certainties as we pour out our hearts into the bosom of God. … if you are trudging arduously before the oppressive presence of evil and darkness, you will find this book a true friend! -- Michael W. Philliber (Senior Pastor, Heritage Presbyterian Church (PCA), Oklahoma City, Oklahoma)It is Ralph Davis at his best. Brilliant exposition punctuated by apt historical illustrations, pertinent quotations, home spun stories, personal honesty and delicious use of language. -- David Carmichael (Minister, Abbeygreen Church, Lesmahagow, Scotland)Ralph Davis loves baseball. Well, this exposition of Psalms 25–37 is not only a home run, but a grand slam home run. Christians love to read the Old Testament Psalms, but we often struggle to grasp the flow and meaning of the text. Ralph pulls back the veil and helps us to see the height, depth, length and breadth of the love of Yahweh for His people in all ages of the church. This exposition will provide fuel for the souls of those who read it. -- David Jussely (Adjunct Professor, Reformed Theological Seminary, Jackson, Mississippi and Associate Pastor, First Presbyterian Church, Hattiesburg, Mississippi)

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Book SynopsisA Dictionary of the Bible is the most acclaimed, accessible, and up-to-date dictionary of its kind. Containing over 2,000 authoritative entries it provides clear and concise information about all of the important places, people, themes, and doctrines of the Bible. Terms range from earthquakes and mice to martyrs and art, and new to this edition are entries on Act of God, Old Testament and New Testament theology, Hanukkah, the Koran, mysticism, and many more. This dictionary features a detailed bibliography, biographies of Bible scholars, a conversion table of measures, weights, and values, a chronology of important dates in Biblical history, and historical maps (showing Israel in Canaan; the near east in the time of the Assyrian Empire; Palestine under the Herods; the background of the New Testament; Rome and the East). In addition, entries on the books of the Bible have been grouped in alphabetical order and conveniently located in a tinted centre section for quick reference. Recommended web links in the appendix provide valuable extra information, these links are accessed and kept up to date via the Dictionary of the Bible companion website.With lively and informative A-Z entries and an array of useful supplementary material, this dictionary is essential for students and teachers of theology and religious education, and it is an absorbing reference work for all readers of the Bible.Trade ReviewSnappy entries elucidate hazy Biblical events. * Christopher Hirst, The Independent *Table of ContentsINTRODUCTION; ABBREVIATIONS; DICTIONARY; THE BOOKS OF THE BIBLE; APPENDICES

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Book SynopsisAll of Life is an inspiring Christian course based on the much-loved BBC television drama Call the Midwife. Over the course of five weekly sessions, it offers church study groups and individuals a new way of engaging with God and profound questions around who we are and why we're here.

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Book SynopsisAncient prophecy that speaks powerfully today.

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Book SynopsisThe extraordinary story of the Bible in England from approximately the fourth century, and its later translation into English in Britain and America up to the 21st century. It charts the profound impact successive versions of the Bible have had on the people and communities that read them.

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"This book is the fruit of an immense amount of research in the contemporary study of the Biblical covenant. No one who takes up the challenge to study it, whether scholar or not, will come away from reading it without being more astute in matters human and divine. The thesis of the book is masterly in its basic insight: life lived under Biblical covenant cannot be separated from life lived in relationships dictated by familial terms and ties. It is the family which is central to the Bible’s view of life for the simple reason that the family is central to life itself."—James Swetnam, S. J., Pontifical Biblical Institute"Scott Hahn opens new vistas, chases down old haunts, and leads us to a fuller, deeper, and more penetrating understanding of covenant. Until we get 'covenant' right, we simply don't understand the Bible. When I think of the word 'covenant,' I think of Kinship by Covenant. When I have any questions about 'covenant,' this is the first book I will turn to for ever and a day."—Scot McKnight, North Park University"At last Scott Hahn’s Kinship by Covenant is published! Maintaining a masterful command of the data on biblical and ancient near eastern covenants, the work exposes how, for over a century, biblical scholarship lost sight of the covenant as a kinship-forging ritual. Richly documented, theologically profound, the book will prove an invaluable resource in Old and New Testament study."—Gregory Yuri Glazov, Seton Hall University, Immaculate Conception Seminary"Both well-written and exhaustive, this impressive work will fascinate readers with New Testament truths about God's unyielding covenant with his chosen, fallible people."—David Noel Freedman

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Book SynopsisWith deadpan humor and refreshing honesty, Brant Hansen will empower you to experience the joy and freedom of becoming unoffendable. Whether you''re scrolling through social media, sitting around the dinner table, or watching the news, it''s wrong not to be offended at the way things are in the world right now—right?!Bestselling author Brant Hansen has a different idea. What if righteous anger isn''t actually biblical? What if anger isn''t an effective response to injustice anyway? God does not need you to be angry. Instead, Christ calls us to do something radical and countercultural: Let go of your anger and forgive.In this six-session video Bible study (video access included), Hansen shares practical ways and biblical reasons to let go of anger and your right to be offended. Being unoffendable is a choice, and one that will help you flourish in the way God intended.Sessions and video run times:

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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 SynopsisConcentrate on the biblical author''s message as it unfolds.Designed to assist the pastor and Bible teacher in conveying the significance of God''s Word, the Zondervan Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament series treats the literary context and structure of every passage of the New Testament book in the original Greek.With a unique layout designed to help you comprehend the form and flow of each passage, the ZECNT unpacks: The key message. The author''s original translation. An exegetical outline. Verse-by-verse commentary. Theology in application. While primarily designed for those with a basic knowledge of biblical Greek, all who strive to understand and teach the New Testament will benefit from the depth, format, and scholarship of these volumes.

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Book SynopsisExplore the lands of the Bible and the history of scripture with unprecedented clarity.This major revision of the Gold Medallion Award-winning Zondervan NIV Atlas of the Bible is a visual feast that will help you experience the geography and history of Scripture with unprecedented clarity. The first section of the Atlas introduces the playing board of biblical history. The next section, arranged historically, begins with Eden and traces the historical progression of the Old and New Testaments. It concludes with chapters on the history of Jerusalem, the disciplines of historical geography, and the most complete and accurate listing and discussion of place-names found in any atlas.Unique features include: Stunning multidimensional and three-dimensional maps Over 100 new relevant-to-topic images Revised engaging text Innovative chronological charts and graphics A complete geographical dictionary and index available for in-depth studies The Zondervan Atlas of the Bible is destined to become a favorite guide to biblical geography for students of the Bible. This accessible and complete resource will assist you as you enter into the world of the Bible as never before.

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Book SynopsisAn easy-to-learn, easy-to-use tool for in-depth Bible studyBeloved and acclaimed for more than five generations, the Thompson® Chain-Reference® Bible is unparalleled in its ability to enrich personal devotions, topical study, and sermon preparation. This unique reference Bible enables you to search the breadth of Scripture’s teachings on thousands of topics and allows you to follow those topics throughout the entire Bible. With over 100,000 references, covering over 8,000 topics, the chain-reference system is an ideal tool for comprehensive topical study. The Thompson Chain-Reference Bible also offers a library of additional study resources that allows readers to interpret the Bible using related scripture passages rather than consulting a commentary.The KJV Thompson Chain-Reference Bible, Handy Size is printed in the KJV Comfort Print® typeface for easy reading. Expertly designed specifically to be used for

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Book SynopsisFeaturing an easy-to-learn and easy-to-use reference system acclaimed for more than five generations, the Thompson Chain-Reference Bible enables you to search the breadth of Scripture’s teachings on thousands of topics. Ideal for personal study and sermon preparation, it’s now easier to read with the KJV Comfort Print typeface.

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Book SynopsisAn easy-to-learn, easy-to-use tool for in-depth Bible studyBeloved and acclaimed for more than five generations, the Thompson® Chain-Reference® Bible is unparalleled in its ability to enrich personal devotions, topical study, and sermon preparation. This unique reference Bible enables you to search the breadth of Scripture''s teachings on thousands of topics and allows you to follow those topics throughout the entire Bible. With over 100,000 references, covering over 8,000 topics, the chain-reference system is an ideal tool for comprehensive topical study. The Thompson Chain-Reference Bible also offers a library of additional study resources that allows readers to interpret the Bible using related scripture passages rather than consulting a commentary.The NKJV Thompson Chain-Reference Bible, Handy Size is printed in the NKJV Comfort Print® typeface for easy reading. Expertly designed specifically to be used for th

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