New Testaments Books

Book SynopsisA guide for reading and understanding difficult New Testament verses. While the core message of the New Testament is clear, there are often puzzling, alarming, or confusing things we encounter when we get into the details of the text. Murray J. Harris, veteran scholar and translator, is an ideal guide through these complicated passages. In Navigating Tough Texts, he clearly and concisely provides exegetical insights to over one hundred tricky New Testament verses that have implications for theology, apologetics, mission, and the Christian life. Navigating Tough Texts is an indispensable resource for pastors, students, and curious Christians who want to be better readers of the many important--and often confusing--New Testament passages.

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Book SynopsisA classic study now available in EnglishFirst appearing in 1885, Schlatter's Der Glaube im Neuen Testament (Faith in the New Testament) is a thorough analysis of the concept of faith. Taking into account Old Testament, rabbinic, and key first-century writings, Schlatter provides an exhaustive study on the meaning and implications of faith in the New Testament. It is a philological masterpiece, making its translation into English a great contribution to New Testament theological studies. This fresh translation retains the substance and style of his original work, giving a new audience direct access to Schlatter's work. Schlatter's rigorous thought remains invaluable today.

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Book SynopsisRead / Mark / Learn is a small group Bible study series that is designed to equip people to study God’s Word for themselves.In an era that claims that the Bible can say what you want it to say, it is important to re–establish the truth that you just can’t – if you explain the Scripture with honesty, fairness and in context. Each study establishes the context, aim, structure and lessons of the passage. It also shows links with the Old Testament and practical applications and suggestions. There are also conversational discussion starters and suggested questions for leading a Bible study.Trade ReviewRead Mark Learn has taught hundreds of us over the years to know our Bibles and our God better. -- Hugh Palmer (Rector, All Souls Langham Place, London)This series on Luke's Gospel will assist individuals and groups to understand what this part of the Bible is saying and the difference it makes to the lives of God's people. Behind these brief notes lies a patient, serious wrestling with the text by one who knows that God's word is good. -- Mark D. Thompson (Principal, Moore Theological College, New South Wales, Australia)Many colorful words describe this book. To name just ten: practical, scholarly, whimsical, logical, shrewd, humorous, insightful, creative, thoughtful, gripping. But best of all it is true to the text and intent of Luke’s Gospel and its focal point, Jesus Christ. Davis wonderfully combines a scholar’s skills and wisdom with a storyteller’s knack and a pastoral heart. The reader will learn Luke’s Gospel afresh, see details from fresh angles, and be better equipped to grasp its message, grow in faith, and share this good news with others. -- Robert W. Yarbrough (Professor of New Testament, Covenant Theological Seminary, St. Louis, Missouri)Brimming with insightful exegesis, theological depth, vivid illustration and pastoral application, these two volumes are vintage Dale Ralph Davis. Whether you use them in personal devotion, or a small group, or as a preacher seeking to teach your congregation, this engaging journey through Luke’s gospel will be a very useful and edifying guide. -- Reuben Hunter (Pastor, Trinity West Church, London)This volume arose out of the regular preaching ministry at St Helen's Bishopsgate, London, and its homiletical genesis is often apparent. The rising tendency to leverage sermons into material for small group study is wholly salutary, and this is a wonderful and helpful example of its kind. I hope it circulates widely. -- D. A. Carson (Emeritus Professor of New Testament, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, Deerfield, Illinois)This volume feeds the most knowledgeable Bible student, splendidly prepares the group leader, and challenges and edifies group members in the great truths revealed in Luke's gospel. I will be recommending it to our Theological College students! -- Archie Poulos (Head of Ministry Department, Moore College, Sydney)Dive in, devour and delight in the wisdom offered in this essential resource for developing a thoughtful and biblical Christianity. In particular, this Luke edition balances sharp theological insight with precise invitations for discipleship and growth. -- Daniel Montgomery (Founder and CEO of Leadership Reality and author of ‘Leadership Mosaic’ and ‘How to be Present in an Absent World’)These notes help us understand each passage clearly in light of the whole revelation of God in Scripture. While aimed primarily at Bible Study leaders, there is much to be learned here by preachers as well as those engaging in a personal study of Luke's Gospel. -- Andrew Cheah (Dean of St Mary's Anglican Cathedral Contemporary, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia)These studies are clear and concise - thoughtful and thorough. They pulsate with Luke's original purpose so evidently that each study is faithful to God's word and strongly application driven. I have no doubt that God will use them widely around the world to build up His church. -- Denesh Divyanathan (Founding Pastor of The Crossing Church in Singapore and President of Project Timothy, Singapore)These books are thorough, sound and Christ-centred. Though focused on a particular section of Scripture, they also present an overall view of the Bible. Old Testament connections to what is happening in Jesus' ministry are brought out as you go through Luke's Gospel. The book is intended for small group leaders or anyone ready for a fairly serious study. Readers will come out with a sound basic understanding of Luke and its place in God's redemptive programme. Taylor avoids any secondary issues and sticks to the main thrusts of each passage. On the whole, this is a good book and comes warmly recommended. -- Dennis Hill, Evangelical TimesThis series of books is superb for personal study, and for helping those who teach the Bible to others. I've been getting a lot to give away to others now. The level is accessible, the reasoning clear, the application careful. Faithful and concise, never missing the big picture. Excellent. -- Mark Dever (Senior Pastor, Capitol Hill Baptist Church and President, 9Marks.org, Washington, DC)

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Book SynopsisThe three apostles Peter, Paul and John are the most important starting point for understanding the beginnings of Christianity. Each brings a different background and language: Peter's Old Testament imagery, Paul's connection with Greek culture, and John's independent lyricism.This fascinating book paints a vivid picture of the three, exploring what they had in common as well as their significant differences, and demonstrating their continuing relevance today. The authors start by discussing the pre-Christian context, and finish by tracing the esoteric streams of Petrine, Pauline and Johannine Christianity in the first few centuries after Christ. They show above all that all three are needed to truly approach the reality of Jesus Christ.Trade Review'The three authors combine academic thoroughness with a lively capacity to enter imaginatively into their theme, be it the personality of leading figures in the early Christian milieu, or the socio-religious circumstances of those times. The text is accessible and at times has the power to evoke clearly that period of our collective past, which has fashioned us so particularly to be the types of human beings we are today.'-- Camphill Correspondence'A very convenient summary of much of the early development of Christianity... The collaboration of the 'three authors' works well, for each has his or her own voice, and they admit to not necessarily agreeing with everything each has written, whilst respecting the different approaches. One can only marvel that so much history still has relevance today, as the authors make clear.'-- THE ANTHROPOSOPHICAL SOCIETY IN GREAT BRITAIN

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Book SynopsisThe Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John have been translated many times into many languages. Kalmia Bittleston, an ordained priest of the Christian Community, spent the last ten years of her life translating the classic texts from the original Greek. But hers is a different kind of translation: at once lyrical and down-to-earth, she adopted a unique verse style which she felt would best convey the meaning and structure of the Gospels.The familiar words are brought afresh to the reader in this clear and direct rendering. Previously published as separate books, her translations are here brought together in one comprehensive volume.Trade Review'The translation is both lyrical and precise. The simple verse format creates a certain rhythm, all the more so if read aloud. The translator aims to bring the words to life in the heart, rather than an absorption through the head. In this way a deeper understanding can be achieved and the words can reverberate into the life of the reader.'-- Scientific and Medical Network Review

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Book SynopsisThe cosmopolitan city of Corinth was the site of one of the apostle Paul’s greatest evangelistic successes. However, the church he founded was full of contention, ranging from questions about leadership to incest. Some Christians were taking fellow believers to court. There were issues concerning marriage, celibacy, food offered to idols, public worship and spiritual gifts. In response, Paul offered some of his most profound thinking on the body of Christ, love, and Jesus' cross and resurrection. Thomas Schreiner explains the text of the letter, highlights its major theological themes and offers perspectives on its relevance for today.

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Book SynopsisIn gospel proclamation today, the critical New Testament element of repentance can be far too often ignored, minimalised or dismissed. Yet John the Baptist, Jesus himself, and those he commissioned to spread his gospel all spoke of the urgent need to repent. Michael Ovey was convinced that a gospel without repentance quickly distorts our view of God, ourselves and one another by undermining grace and ultimately leading to idolatry. Only when we grasp the need for true repentance as consisting of a real change -- a transforming work of the Spirit of God -- can we fully understand the gospel Jesus preached. With care and clarity, Ovey focuses first on the relevant biblical material in Luke-Acts, examining who repents and who does not, and the characteristics of both groups. He surveys the ‘feasts of repentance’ of Jesus with Levi, the Pharisees, and Zaccheus, and in the parable of the Lost Son. He then moves to more systematic-theological aspects of repentance, in relation to idolatry and to salvation; and finally to pastoral theology in the corporate life of the people of God today, with regard to self-righteousness, hypocrisy, humility, forgiveness and justice.Trade ReviewAlthough in some sense this work is a focused biblical-theological study of the theme of repentance in Luke-Acts, grounded in word studies, thoughtful exegesis, and sensitivity to the narrative of this pair of biblical books, it is more than that. Dr Ovey moves beyond biblical theology to think through the meaning of repentance in both systematic categories and in pastoral theological reflection -- and we are all the better for it. * D. A. Carson *

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Book Synopsis'An entertaining and insightful human story of obsession about books.' Daily Telegraph'A lively tale of historical innovation, the thrill of the bibliophile's hunt, greed and betrayal.' New York TimesThe never-before-told story of one extremely rare copy of the Gutenberg Bible, and its impact on the lives of the fanatical few who were lucky enough to own it.For rare book collectors, an original copy of the Gutenberg Bible - there are only forty-six in existence - is the undisputed gem of any collection. The Lost Gutenberg recounts five centuries in the life of one particular copy of the Bible from its very creation by Johannes Gutenberg in Mainz, Germany, to its ultimate resting place, in a steel vault under the protection of the Japanese government. Margaret Leslie Davis draws readers into this incredible saga, inviting them into the colourful lives of each of its fanatic collectors along the way. Exploring books as objects of desire across centuries, Davis will leave readers not only with a broader understanding of the culture of rare book collectors, but with a deeper awareness of the importance of books in our world.Trade ReviewA thrilling page turner * Daily Mail *An entertaining and insightful human story of obsession about books, and a telling examination of what inspires those who catch the collecting bug. -- Peter Stanford * Daily Telegraph *A lively tale of historical innovation, the thrill of the bibliophile's hunt, greed and betrayal. * New York Times *Davis makes bibliographic history utterly page-turning and absorbing... Brilliantly told * Booklist (starred review) *The remarkable tale of "Number 45", one of the finest copies of the Gutenberg Bible in existence... Davis does a fine job telling a fascinating story that touches on the origin of books, the passion of collectors, the unseen world of rare-book dealers, and the lives of the super-rich, past and present. * Kirkus Reviews (starred review) *A gripping, well-researched account of the importance of books as cultural artifacts and of one particular work that transformed the world, as well as the lives of those who owned a copy. * Library Journal *A fascinating exploration of the shifting value we place on rare books, and the shifting wealth and power of those who hunt them. -- Michael Blanding, bestselling author of The Map ThiefBibliophiles love books, and none more than the book collector's dream of dreams, a Gutenberg Bible. Davis writes not just with skill but also with sympathy and even love. A richly informative and deeply moving story. -- Jack Miles, Pulitzer Prize-winning author of God: A BiographyA spellbinding read, and Margaret Leslie Davis is a damn good storyteller. -- Noël Riley Fitch, author of Sylvia BeachDavis records the history of this book with enthusiasm and attention to detail. * History Today *Fascinating... An engaging analysis of bibliomania which also throws light on commercial and investment history in Britain and America. * Church Times *What's truly surprising about The Lost Gutenberg is that Davis makes the 500-year journey of this one book more exciting than any spy novel. For the imaginative Hollywood producer, this book's life story could provide the basis for a richly enjoyable big-budget blockbuster. The action travels across centuries and moves from England to Los Angeles to Tokyo, bringing together the avaricious, duplicitous and deeply religious, all driven by the same desire: to own a copy of one of the most famous books in the world. * Catholic Herald *Table of Contents1: The Imperial Century 1: Million-Dollar Bookshelf 2: Treasure Neglected 3: The Bibliophile 4: The Patriot 2: The American Century 5: The Mighty Woman Book Hunter 6: The Lost Gutenberg 7: The Countess and Her Gutenberg 8: The Nuclear Bibliophiles 3: The Asian Century 9: The Unexpected Betrayal 10: The Virtual Gutenberg 11: Final Bows

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Book SynopsisThese helpful guides in the Cover to Cover series are ideal for group and individual study. Experience the reality of Bible events like never before and live through the inspiring lives of key characters in Scripture. Learn how to apply God's Word to your life as you explore seven compelling sessions and gain a new depth in your Bible knowledge.An exploration of what it means to live in the light of our salvationJohn was the disciple that 'Jesus loved', and as such, we wan privileged to have walked and talked with Him. In these three letters, John encourages his readers with the invitation to a similar dynamic relationship with Jesus. This guide explores John's illuminating use of contrasts - such as light and darkness, God and Satan, love and hate - as well as his warning about false teaching. His words are just as important for us today.These seven insightful sessions help us to consider: How our identity as children of God can anchor us in times of troubleThat Jesus is our hope and we can see things through God's eternal perspectiveHow we can be alert to false teaching and know biblical truth.Icebreakers, Bible readings, eye openers, discussion starters, personal application make this a rich resource for group or individual study.

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Book Synopsis Discover what The Lord's Prayer really means, reinterpreted for a modern audienceIn this new work by the much loved Pope Francis, he offers remarkable insights into what the most popular prayer in Christianity can tell us about living a life of meaning, purpose and strength.Going through the prayer verse by verse he reminds us of its timeless words, and addresses the concerns of us all, whether Christian or not, seeking to guide us while exploring the importance of social justice, helping others and forgiveness - all key elements of Pope Francis' papacy.Through his eyes, we realise the sentiments in Our Father are very much of today's world, challenging our doubts and bringing us courage.

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Book SynopsisThis Pretty Pink deluxe edition of My First Hands-On Bible is the preschooler version of the popular Hands-On Bible, which has sold nearly one million copies. Jesus taught with hands-on lessons and illustrations; My First Hands-On Bible uses the same experience-based learning to communicate God's Word in an active, understandable way.My First Hands-On Bible is a fun and simple, yet meaningful way to engage preschool, prekindergarten, and kindergarten children (ages 36) with the Bible while helping them build a solid faith foundation. Each lesson focuses on a specific Bible point through a variety of activities in order to reinforce and help young children remember the stories and lessons. Using common household items, you can help your children have a hands-on learning experience while engaging them in 85 key stories from the Bible.My First Hands-On Bible doesn't just retell the Bible stories; it also includes actual Scripture from

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Book SynopsisShort, question-based study guides based on the New Testament For Everyone series. Intended to encourage church (and other) groups to study the Bible using the For Everyone model. Experienced Bible study writers select excerpts and write questions that guide users through Tom Wright's thought on each passage. Reviewed and approved by Tom Wright.

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Book SynopsisRowan Williams explores the essential meaning and purpose of St Mark's Gospel for complete beginners - as well as for those who've read the Gospel many times before and want to see it in a fresh light.Trade ReviewI thought I knew Mark’s Gospel but Rowan Williams has opened my eyes to see what I had not seen, and to no longer see what I believed I had seen. The Gospel of Mark is a fascinating text, inviting readers to understand Jesus in relation to themselves and themselves in relation to God. This book is a convincing interpretation and a deep meditation. * Jürgen Moltmann, Professor Emeritus of Systematic Theology University of Tübingen *In this short and very readable book, Rowan Williams has succeeded in conveying the essence of Mark’s Gospel. While he deals with the technical questions of origin and authorship, his main concern is with the way in which the Evangelist invites his readers into a relationship of trust with one who brings us into the transfiguring presence of God. There could be no better introduction to this enigmatic but profound Gospel. * Morna D. Hooker, Lady Margaret’s Professor of Divinity Emerita University of Cambridge *This wonderful book shows how Mark’s beautiful and subtle gospel still challenges our understanding of God, and of how God works in our lives. It is an original work and so will be of interest to scholars, but it is written in a clear and vivid style that makes it accessible to everyone. I could not put it down. * Timothy Radcliffe, OP, Director of the Las Casas Institute Blackfriars, Oxford *

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Book SynopsisThe second edition of David Bentley Hart’s critically acclaimed New Testament translationTrade ReviewPraise for the First Edition: “In [David Bentley Hart’s] hands, the words of Jesus and his followers produce not shivers of mere approximation, but rather shivers of awe at the clarity, poignancy, and simplicity of this complex treatise. . . . We are delivered a text pulsing with contemporary urgency.”—Jennifer Kurdyla, America

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Book Synopsis''A spiritual masterpiece' Richard Rohr, OFMA magnificent, moving spiritual journey' Amy-Jill Levine''Genius'' Mary KarrThe bestselling author of The Jesuit Guide to (Almost) Everything and Learning to Pray on one of the most intriguing events in the New Testament.''This remarkable testimony demonstrates the power of a single Gospel story. This is soul-nourishing and highly recommended'' Ben Witherington III, author of A Week in the Life of CorinthIn this wise and thoughtful book, Father James Martin, SJ, analyses the miracle of Lazarus's resurrection and asks us to consider what Jesus means when he calls Lazarus and each of us to ''come forth''. Taking us through the Gospel story verse by verse, he offers deep reflection on the lessons it holds about love, family, sadness, frustration, fear, anger, freedom and joy.Come Forth combines compelling analysis of the biblical text, insights about the historical setting of the story, meditations on Lazarus in art and the larger culture, as well as stories of Martin's personal experiences. As he explores these strands in-depth, Martin offers us a deeper understanding of this miracle and its essential message letting go of the limiting beliefs that prevent us from experiencing God in all His glory.''All of us have things that we need to let die in order to follow God more freely, to love more deeply, and to become the people whom God desires us to be,'' Martin writes. As this wise and profound book reveals, we need only to open ourselves to the transformative story of Lazarus and trust that God can use it to free us to experience new life and come closer to Him.

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Book SynopsisAn enduring exposition of the classic 'traditio-historical' approach to New Testament criticism.Trade ReviewThe problems of understanding the categories used by the first Christians, and of unravelling the development of the various ways in which they came to speak of Christ, are under constant review. At the heart of the debate is the vital question of method: by what process does one separate Jesus' own understanding of his person from the beliefs of his followers, and how can one trace the various stages in the growth of their interpretation? Professor Fuller's. . . is an important book, for it sets out clearly the principles by which many New Testament scholars today believe they must proceed in this vital task of evaluating the Christological material. Morna D. Hooker, Religious Studies, 1971Table of ContentsPreface Preface to the 2002 Reprint Abbreviations I. The Approach to New Testament Christology II. The Tools: (1) Palestinian Judaism III. The Tools: (2) Hellenistic Judaism IV. The Tools: (3) Hellenistic Gentile V. The Historical Jesus: His Self-understanding VI. The Kerygma of the Earliest Church: the Two Foci Christology VII. The Hellenistic Jewish Mission: the Two Stage Christology VIII. The Hellenistic Gentile Mission: the Three Stage Christology IX. Building on the Foundations Index of Scripture References Index of Ancient Authors Index of Modern Authors

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Book SynopsisFor the New Testament writers, the Old Testament scriptures and the teachings of Jesus were key sources of authority and influence. When these influences are considered alongside each other, each can illuminate the other, deepening the New Testament writers'' presentation of Jesus and our understanding of their interpretations. In Jesus and Scripture, Tom Parker examines the way in which Hebrews, James, and 1 and 2 Peter deal with these two different sources of authority, how they relate to each other, and what shifts have occurred historically and theologically within the writing of these texts. Treating the four epistles methodologically, Parker examines the particular ways in which each writer draws on the Hebrew scriptures. Ultimately, he argues convincingly that the nascent Jesus tradition, particularly via oral routes, influenced the way the Old Testament was processed by these various New Testament writers.

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Book SynopsisThe first comprehensive scholarly survey of all the Gospel miracles for nearly fifty years.Trade ReviewWarrington has provided a well rounded, and on many levels, practical work. It will benefit church leaders, students and believers. * Themelios *Keith Warrington, author of The Miracles in the Gospels. What do they Teach us About Jesus? (SPCK, £19.99) is a Pentecostalist scholar. He dedicates his book to "readers who believe that the Gospels are accurate records and that the miracles therein are historical acts that were achieved by Jesus and who are interested in identifying the reasons why the authors chose to record them" After a brief discussion of the historical context, he explores, first, the purpose of Jesus in performing miracles, before discussing, in turn, the healings and "resurrections" of the Synoptic Gospels, their stories of exorcisms and of "nature miracles", before a final, short section on the miracles in John’s Gospel. The author pays careful attention to the text, exploring the aims of Matthew, Mark and Luke, drawing on the insights of redaction and narrative criticism. Some of the discussions of miracle stories in all three Gospels are sometimes hard to follow, beginning as they do with a section mixing them together ("Main messages from each of the narratives"). But there are good, thoughtful observations throughout. I was left with some questions about the author’s unquestioning historical approach. I do not doubt that Jesus performed "miracles", "a supernatural action that transforms a previously dire and humanly insoluble situation…" (p 8). But did everything happen almost exactly as the Gospels say? Even the coin in the mouth of the fish (Matthew 17. 24-27, (pp 216-8)? The miracles in John are surely less straightforward, historically, than those in the first three Gospels. Warrington recognises the symbolic content of the story of the Wedding at Cana (John 2.1- 11), but struggles to understand the words of Jesus to his mother: "My hour has not yet come". The author has surely attributed these words to Jesus, thus linking this story with "the hour" of Jesus’ "glory" (ie his crucifixion (John 12. 23 onwards). However, the author’s main interest, rightly, lies in the way in which the miracle stories are meant to lead us to faith in Jesus. And for that reason some will find this book helpful. -- The Rev Dr Neil Richardson * Methodist Recorder *

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Book SynopsisTom Wright helps us to approach the story of the book of Acts. Wright shows how the book builds on Luke's gospel, laying out the continuing work and teaching of the now risen and ascended Jesus in the power of the Spirit.Trade Review'This enterprise is probably the most exciting thing to have happened in Christian education in Britain for many years.' Expository Times 'Wright writes wonderfully, accessibly and as smooth as fine chocolate.' Ship of Fools website

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Book SynopsisA bold examination of the links between the Johannine eschatological hour and the eschatological hour in the book of Daniel.Trade ReviewThis book is an important contribution to the study of the Hebrew Bible background to the Gospel of John...Overall, the book is well organized and well written, fluid and lucid in style, and persuasive in argument. It is a helpful and illuminating study that contributes well to our understanding of the Hebrew Bible background of the Fourth Gospel, elucidating the particular emphases of Johannine eschatology. -- Dorothy A. Lee * Religious Studies Review *Table of ContentsIntroduction/The Use of Eschatological Hour in the OT/The Use of Eschatological Hour in the Jewish Literature/The OT Background of the Eschatological Hour in John 4:21, 23/The OT Background of the Eschatological Hour in John 5:25, 28/The OT Background of the Eschatological Hour in John 12:23, 27/The OT Background of the Eschatological Hour in John 16:16-33/The OT Background of the Eschatological Hour in 1 John 2:18/The OT Background of the Eschatological Hour in Revelation/Hermeneutical, Theological, and Biblical-Theological Conclusions

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Book SynopsisMark Yarbrough assesses the question of whether traditional preformed'' material contributes to the message and understanding of Paul''s first letter to Timothy. The issue is addressed in three sections. Part one evaluates previous works interacting with traditional'' material in the New Testament. Through a critique of historically proposed criteria, Yarbrough identifies eight criteria as the primary tools by which to discern units of preformed material. In the second part of the book Yarbrough evaluates nineteen passages in 1 Timothy according to the criteria previously determined. From this base he embraces twelve of the nineteen passages as preformed material. These passages are subsequently examined in depth according to the author''s distinct methodology. Part three demonstrates four functions of the preformed traditions in 1 Timothy. Firstly, that they may be seen as strengthening the literary cohesion of the letter. Secondly, that the traditional units afforTrade ReviewReviewed in the Religious Studies Review.Reviewed in Recensions Et Comptes Rendus-Vol. 63/3."Does traditional material contribute to the message and understanding of 1 Timothy, asks Yarbrough, and seeks an answer within the assumption that such material was formulated before an epistle was written, and expressed the Christian community's conviction, or tradition. He surveys criteria used to evaluate traditional material and identifies eight of them as primary. Then he applies them to 19 passages that potentially preceded Paul's use of them, and demonstrates four functions of identified preformed traditions in the epistle." -Eithne O'Leyne, BOOK NEWS, Inc."Based on a doctoral dissertation presented to Dallas Theological Seminary in 2008, this volume contends that performed traditions (that is, material that was formulated prior to an epistle's writing and was expressive of the Christian community's conviction) strengthen 1 Timothy's literary cohesion and provide rhetorical leverage in stating theological directives that combat counter-mission doctrine. After a sixteen-page introduction, it considers taxonomy and identification criteria for performed traditions. Next it identifies performed traditions in 1 Tim 1:8-10; 1-15a-b; 1:17; 2:5-6a; 3:1; 3:16; 4:8; 4:9, 10b; 5:24-25; 6:7, 6:10a; and 6:11-16. Then it demonstrates four functions of identified preformed traditions in 1 Timothy: strengthening literary cohesion, providing rhetorical leverage, presenting theological directives against opponents, and combating counter-mission doctrine. Four appendixes are included." -New Testament Abstracts, Vol. 54Yarbrough's work enhances the impression that the author of 1 Timothy is a writer of some skill: he has judiciously combined material from early Christian worship, creeds, and stories along with a wide array of (Pauline) sayings, letters, and biographical accounts in order to increase the authoritative force of the letter. -- Journal of Religion'The earlier part of the work examines the significance of preformed material and offers critieria by which it can be assessed. The major study takes short passages that have been considered to contain such material.' - Donald A Bullen, Liverpool Hope University -- Donald A Bullen * Theological Book Review *Table of Contents1. Introduction (Scope, Focus, Need, Organization, Limitations) 2. Taxonomy and Identification Criteria for Preformed Traditions Taxonomy Pauline Taxonomical Examples Identification Criteria Synthesis and Preferential Criteria Methodology of Criteria Identification and Evaluation Method of Evaluation 3. Identification of Preformed Traditions in 1 Timothy 1 Timothy Chapter 11 Timothy Chapter 2 1 Timothy Chapter 3 1 Timothy Chapter 4 1 Timothy Chapter 5 1 Timothy Chapter 6 4. Paul's Utilization of Preformed Traditions in 1 Timothy Preformed Traditions and the Strengthening of Literary Cohesion Preformed Traditions and the Provision of Rhetorical Leverage Preformed Traditions and the Presentation of Theological Directives against the Opponents Preformed Traditions and the Argument of 1 Timothy: Combat Counter-Mission Doctrine 5. Conclusion

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Book SynopsisTrade ReviewThis is a nicely put together, well-argued book... a valuable contribution to discussion of each of these three letters and of the structure of [Pau's] theology overall. -- Journal for the Study of The New Testament, Volume 33 Number 5... this is an indispensable beginning point for all future studies of eschatology in 1 Thessalonians and in Paul's theology more generally. -- Religious Studies Review"Perhaps the most prominent refrain the Pauline corpus, says Hansen is the affirmation that unity in Christ overcomes the social division of Jew versus Greek, slave versus free, and other dichotomies. An ordained minister in San Francisco, he explores the background of the idea, its intended purpose for original readers, and its significance to believers today. Among his topics are reading Paul ethnically, the household of faith, the body of Christ, the new humanity, and unity as ethnic solidarity." -Eithne O'Leyne, BOOK NEWS, Inc."Based on a doctoral dissertation presented to the University of St. Andrews in Scotland, this investigation of the Pauline formulaic affirmations that unity in Christ overcomes social divisions (Gal 3:28; 1 Cor 12:13; Col 3:11) argues that these texts support Paul's construal of the believers as a new ethnic group patterned on the identity of Israel as reenvisioned through Christ. After a 31-page introduction, it clarifies ethnic theory and rhetoric as a means of enabling readers to recognize better Paul's discursive strategy. Then it examines the three key texts: Gal 3:28 and the household of faith, 1 Cor 12:13 and the body of Christ, and Col 3:11 and the new humanity. Hansen concludes that for Paul the unity formula finds its bearings in reference to the story of God fashioning a new people on the basis of the stories of Israel and of Christ." -New Testament Abstracts, Vol. 54'By applying the conceptual apparatus of 'ethnic theory' to the Pauline letters, he suggests that Paul attempts to supply his churches with a fictive kinship myth that renders them a new ethnos, drawn from Jews as well as Gentiles, rather than either group being subsumed to the other. In this way, Paul fashions for his churches a 'diaspora identity' (for which Hansen follows D Boyrain), but one that, rather than obliterating social differences between individuals, seeks to create a space that prevents any one pre-existing identity marker (such as circumcision) serving as a normative for all (pace Boyarin). This identity functions within a broadly bounded set of boundary-marking 'indices' that concern avoidance of idoltary and sexual immorality, and adherence to communal solidarity and Christ-like sacrificial love. There is much of value in this careful investigation.' David Lincicum, Mansfield College, Oxford -- David Lincicum * Theological Book Review *Table of ContentsCONTENTS Acknowledgements Abbreviations CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION I. The Formula a. Formal Observations II. Previous Interpretive Approaches a. Hellenistic Philosophy b. Gnosticism c. Paul's Response to Judaism III. Ethnic Unity and Paul a. Social Unity in Paul's Churches IV. Summary CHAPTER TWO: READING PAUL ETHNICALLY I. Defining Ethnicity a. The Need for Clarity II. Genealogy and Autochthony a. Genealogy and Autochthony in Paul III. Indices of the Genealogical Criteria a. Consubstantiality: Commensality, Connubiality and Common Cult IV. Ethnic Discourse a. An Example from Hellenistic Judaism V. Acculturation, Assimilation and Ethnogenesis VI. Summary CHAPTER THREE: GALATIANS 3.28 AND THE HOUSEHOLD OF FAITH I. Introduction: Galatians 3.28 in Epistolary Context II. Disunity in Jerusalem and Antioch: Galatians 2.1-14 III. Paul's Speech: Galatians 2.14c-21 IV. Urging Unity: Galatians 5-6 V. Social Identity in Apocalyptic Perspective VI. Galatians 3-4: Identity and Unity in Christ a. Centrality of 3.28 to Galatians 3-4 b. The Singular Identity of All in Christ 1. Heirs of Faithful Abraham 2. The Cross versus the Law VII. Ethnic Identity VIII. Summary CHAPTER FOUR: 1 CORINTHIANS 12.13 AND THE BODY OF CHRIST I. Introduction a. 1 Corinthians in Socio-Historical Context b. Unity as Ethnic Identity in the Letter Opening II. Ethnicity among Images for Unity a. h9 e0kklhsi/a b. Israel c. Building d. The Body of Christ 1. The Body and Sexual Union 2. The Body and Common Cult 3. ‘Body' in 1 Corinthians 12 and 15 e. Family and Household f. Summary: Ethnicity and Paul's Images for Unity III. Ethnic Identity and the Unity Formula in Paul's Parenesis: 1 Corinthians 5-14 a. 1 Corinthians 5-7 1. 1 Corinthians 5.1-13 2. 1 Corinthians 6.1-11 3. 1 Corinthians 6.12-20 4. 1 Corinthians 7 b. 1 Corinthians 8.1-11.1: Divisions over Idol Meat c. 1 Corinthians 11.2-14.40: Divisions in Worship 1. Divisions Arising from Social Status Conflicts 2. Ethnic Concord and the Body of Christ IV. Summary CHAPTER FIVE: COLOSSIANS 3.11 AND THE NEW HUMANITY I. Introduction II. Social Identity and Solidarity in Colossians 1.1-2.23 a. Colossians 1.1-23: Prayer and Thanksgiving 1. Traditional Material in 1.13-20 b. Paul's Exemplum: 1.24-2.7 c. The Polemical Core: 2.8-23 1. Apocalyptic Disruption 2. The Body of Christ III. Seeking Unity in Christ: 3.1-4.6 IV. Unity as Ethnic Solidarity a. Ethnic Criterion of Genealogy b. Confirming Indices of Ethnicity 1. Boundaries 2. Kinship Norms 3. Household V. Summary CHAPTER SIX: CONCLUSIONS I. The Aims and Methodology of this Study II. Conclusions of this Study a. Galatians 3.28 in Epistolary Context b. 1 Corinthians 12.13 in Epistolary Context c. Colossians 3.11 in Epistolary Context d. Synthesis WORKS CITED Ancient Texts Secondary Sources

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Book SynopsisIn this brilliant commentary, Beverly Roberts Gaventa discusses the issues central to the books of Thessalonians, identifying what makes each book important for the life of the church today, as well as for preachers and...

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Book SynopsisThe final book of the Bible is at both fascinating and controversial. It leaves some awed and others uncomfortable. You Can Understand the Book of Revelation is your guide to examining God’s prophecies and learning all you need to know to prepare for the end times.

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Book SynopsisA practical commentary on Galatians that is conversant with contemporary scholarship, draws on ancient backgrounds, and attends to the theological nature of the texts.

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Book SynopsisThis volume inaugurates a series of accessibly written yet substantive commentaries for use in Catholic universities, seminaries, and parishes.Trade Review"This new commentary series should meet a need that has long been pointed out: a guide to Scripture that will be both historically responsible and shaped by the mind of the Church's tradition. It promises to be a milestone in the recovery of a distinctively Catholic approach to exegesis."Aidan Nichols, OP, John Paul II Memorial Visiting Lecturer, University of Oxford; Fellow of Greyfriars, Oxford

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Book SynopsisThis Catholic commentary on Romans interprets Scripture from within the living tradition of the Church for pastoral ministers, lay readers, and students.

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Book SynopsisThis updated edition by a leading evangelical scholar offers a guide to John's Gospel that is informed by current scholarship but written at an accessible level.Table of ContentsContentsTo the StudentBefore You Begin . . .Part 1: Encountering the Gospel of John: Come On In!1. History: How John's Gospel Came to Be2. Literature: Mapping John's Story3. Theology: John's Major Themes Part 2: Encountering the Word (John 1:1-18)4. The Incarnation of the Word (1:1-18)Part 3: Encountering the Earthly Jesus: The Mission to the Jews (Including Seven Signs) (John 1:19-12:50)5. Jesus's Early Ministry (Part 1): Signs 1-2 (1:19-2:25)6. Jesus's Early Ministry (Part 2): Sign 3 (3:1-4:54)7. Escalating Conflict (Part 1): Signs 4-5 (5:1-6:71)8. Escalating Conflict (Part 2) (7:1-8:59)9. Escalating Conflict (Part 3): Sign 6 (9:1-10:42)10. Escalating Conflict (Part 4): Sign 7 (11:1-12:50)Part 4: Encountering the Exalted Jesus: The Mission to the World (John 13-20)11. Jesus's Farewell (Part 1) (Chap. 13)12. Jesus's Farewell (Part 2) (Chaps. 14-16)13. Jesus's Farewell (Part 3): Jesus's Parting Prayer (Chap. 17)14. Jesus's Passion, Resurrection, and Commissioning of His Followers (Chaps. 18-20)Part 5: Encountering the One Who Calls Us to Follow (John 21)15. What It Means to Follow Jesus (Chap. 21)16. Epilogue: John in the Context of ScriptureAppendix 1: The History of the Interpretation of John's GospelAppendix 2: John's Gospel and the Study of the Historical JesusTools for StudyExcursusesGlossaryIndexes

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Book SynopsisA popular writer and teacher shows how a narrative approach illuminates each of the Gospels, helping readers see the overarching stories.Table of ContentsContents Part 1: Introduction 1. The Turn to Gospels as Stories: Narrative Criticism in Gospel Studies Part 2: Plot and Plotting 2. The Selection, Sequence, and Shape of the Story 3. Narrative Plotting in the Gospel of Luke Part 3: Character and Characterization 4. The People in the Story 5. Matthew's Characterization of the Disciples Part 4: Intertextuality 6. The Stories behind the Story 7. Intertextuality in John: Passover Lamb and Creation's Renewal Part 5: Narrative Theology 8. How a Story Theologizes 9. The God of Mark's Gospel Part 6: Conclusion 10. The Ongoing Power of the Gospels as Stories Recommended Resources Glossary Indexes

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Book SynopsisA senior New Testament scholar and teacher helps students understand the historical, literary, and theological issues of the book of Acts and introduces key concepts in the field of narrative criticism. This volume captures the message of the book of Acts by taking seriously the book''s essential character as a powerful story through which Luke communicates profound theological truth. While giving attention to historical background, its purpose is to lead readers through a close reading that yields fresh insights into passages throughout Acts.Table of ContentsContentsIntroduction1. Approaching Acts2. Narrative Criticism and Acts3. Literary Structure of Acts4. The Promise and the Preparation: Acts 1:1-265. The Witness to Jerusalem: Acts 2:1-8:1a6. The Witness to All Judea and Samaria as Far as Antioch: Acts 8:1b-12:257. The Witness to the End of the Earth: Acts 13:1-28:31Indexes

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Book SynopsisSt Paul was a pivotal and controversial figure in the fledgling Jesus movement of the first century. The New Cambridge Companion to St Paul provides an invaluable entryway into the study of Paul and his letters. Composed of sixteen essays by an international team of scholars, it explores some of the key issues in the current study of his dynamic and demanding theological discourse. The volume first examines Paul''s life and the first-century context in which he and his communities lived. Contributors then analyze particular writings by comparing and contrasting at least two selected letters, while thematic essays examine topics of particular importance, including how Paul read scripture, his relation to Judaism and monotheism, why his message may have been attractive to first-century audiences, how his message was elaborated in various ways in the first four centuries, and how his theological discourse might relate to contemporary theological discourse and ideological analysis today.Trade Review'There are riches on every page … All readers will value this new Companion.' Robin Griffith-Jones, Church Times'Content-wise, the contributions are all fine pieces of scholarship, accessible, yet well-resourced, and above all interesting, which is essential for a work styled as a Companion. Perhaps the key question for students or educators who already have the Dunn volume will be whether it is worth also having this, to which the answer is 'yes'!' Michael J. Lakey, Journal of the Study of the New Testament'This New Cambridge Companion is a fine handbook for courses on Paul for students, and holds a good number of fresh insights and surprises for scholars alike.' C. Stenschke, Ephemerides Theologicae LovaniensesTable of ContentsPart I. Paul, Letters and Communities: 1. What do we find in Paul's letters? Bruce W. Longenecker; 2. Who was Paul? Paula Fredriksen; 3. What kind of world did Paul's communities live in? Richard Ascough; Part II. The Pauline Letter Collection: 4. The Thessalonian and Corinthian letters Margaret Y. MacDonald; 5. Galatians and Romans Peter Oakesz; 6. Philippians and Philemon Douglas A. Campbell; 7. Colossians and Ephesians Sylvia C. Keesmaat; 8. The pastoral epistles James W. Aageson; Part III. Paul's Theological Discourse: 9. What did Paul think is wrong in God's world? Bruce W. Longenecker; 10. What did Paul think God is doing about what's wrong? Michael J. Gorman; 11. What did Paul think God is doing in Christian communities? Susan Grove Eastman; 12. How did Paul read scripture? David Lincicum; 13. Did Paul abandon either Judaism or monotheism? Matthew V. Novenson; 14. Why were people attracted to Paul's good news? David G. Horrell; 15. How was the reception of Paul shaped in the early church? Margaret M. Mitchell; 16. What makes Paul challenging today? John M. G. Barclay.

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Book SynopsisThe Upside Down Kingdom examines how living according to Jesus's Beatitudes can cultivate God's kingdom on earth as it is in heaven, bringing peace and blessing to our broken world.

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Book SynopsisProvides an overview of Luke and Acts, reading them in the context of ancient rhetorical criticism as practiced in the Hellenistic world. The depth and breadth of Mikeal Parson's study root Luke's narrative strategy, interpretive moves, and theological imagination in the pagan, Jewish, and Christian contexts of the period.Table of Contents Preface Foreword 1. The Life of a Legend : The Making of "Luke" Part One: Luke the Storyteller 2. Luke and the Progymnasmata: A Preliminary Investigation into the Preliminary Exercises 3. Luke 1:1-4 and Ancient Rhetoric Part Two: Luke the Interpreter 4. Interpreting Pagan Traditions: Friendship and Physiognomy 5. Interpreting Jewish Traditions: Jerusalem and the Suffering Servant 6. Interpreting Christian Traditions: Parables and Paul Part Three: Luke the Evangelist 7. Reconstituting the People of God: The Examples of Peter, Cornelius, and Others Epilogue

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Book SynopsisNew Testament professor Robert J. Cara's addition to the Mentor Commentary series highlights the timely message of Hebrews to persevere in Christ. Bringing a particularly Reformed viewpoint, Robert J. Cara underscores the presentation of Jesus as the Son and high priest. In a letter written to encourage and exhort the believers, Cara uncovers how the superior person and superior work of Jesus is broadcast loud and clear to draw back hearts tempted to drift from this glorious reality. Cara's love for studying God's word shines through this comprehensive and clarifying commentary. He connects God's word to God's world and brings each section to a close by culminating with a personal reflection that encourages us to delight in and absorb the glorious truth on display. An essential guide to understanding, enjoying and applying Hebrews; rediscover the supremacy of Christ and respond with rekindled affection.

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