This book argues that the gospels are in an important sense "occasions for offense." The Jesus of the gospels is a scandal (skandalon, in the original Greek) and he is never more scandalous than when he is speaking in parables. Interpreters of the gospels over the centuries have consistently labored to domesticate the offense or to eliminate it entirely. David McCracken, focusing on parables, Matthew's narrative contexts, and the gospel of John, seeks to recover the gospels' sense of Jesus as skandalon. To this end, he enlists the help of Kierkegaard, the philosopher of offense, and to a lesser extent that of Bakhtin, both of whom prove to be surprisingly apt conversation partners for the evangelists.

The Cambridge Companion to Genesis explores the first book of the Bible, the book that serves as the foundation for the rest of the Hebrew Scriptures. Recognizing its unique position in world history, the history of religions, as well as biblical and theological studies, the volume summarizes key developments in Biblical scholarship since the Enlightenment, while offering an overview of the diverse methods and reading strategies that are currently applied to the reading of Genesis. It also explores questions that, in some cases, have been explored for centuries. Written by an international team of scholars whose essays were specially commissioned, the Companion provides a multi-disciplinary update of all relevant issues related to the interpretation of Genesis. Whether the reader is taking the first step on the path or continuing a research journey, this volume will illuminate the role of Genesis in world religions, theology, philosophy, and critical biblical scholarship.

This monograph interprets the parable of the Prodigal Son (Lk. 15.11-32) in the light of Graeco-Roman popular moral philosophy. Luke's special parables are rarely studied in this way, but the results of this study are very fruitful. The unity of the parable is supported, and it is shown to be deeply concerned with a major Lukan theme: the right use of possessions. The whole parable is read in terms of the moral topos 'on covetousness', and shown to be an endorsement of the Graeco-Roman virtue of liberality, modified by the Christian virtue of compassion.

Said to have lived from 640-609 BC, King Josiah of Judah is a figure of extraordinary importance for the history of Israel. Using synchronic and diachronic analyses of the Deuteronomistic History, Deuteronomy, and selected prophetic books, Marvin Sweeney reconstructs the ideological perspectives of King Josiah's program of religious and national restoration.

The central premise of this book is that biblical Hebrew narrative, in terms of its structure, tends to operate under similar mechanical constraints to those of a stage-play; wherein 'space' is central, characters are fluid, and 'objects' within the narrative tend to take on a deep internal significance. The smaller episodic narrative units within the Hebrew aesthetic tend to grant primacy to space, both ideologically and at the mechanical level of the text itself. However 'space', as a determinate structural category, has been all but overlooked in the field of biblical studies to date; reflecting perhaps our own inability, as modern readers, to see beyond the dominant 'cinematic' aesthetic of our times. The book is divided into two major sections, each beginning with a more theoretical approach to the function of narrative space, and ending with a practical application of the previous discussion; using Genesis 28.10-22 (the Bethel narrative) and the book of Ruth respectively, as test cases.

The central premise of this book is that biblical Hebrew narrative, in terms of its structure, tends to operate under similar mechanical constraints to those of a stage-play; wherein 'space' is central, characters are fluid, and 'objects' within the narrative tend to take on a deep internal significance. The smaller episodic narrative units within the Hebrew aesthetic tend to grant primacy to space, both ideologically and at the mechanical level of the text itself. However 'space', as a determinate structural category, has been all but overlooked in the field of biblical studies to date; reflecting perhaps our own inability, as modern readers, to see beyond the dominant 'cinematic' aesthetic of our times. The book is divided into two major sections, each beginning with a more theoretical approach to the function of narrative space, and ending with a practical application of the previous discussion; using "Genesis 28.10-22" (the Bethel narrative) and the book of "Ruth" respectively, as test cases.

This work sets out the background world for the story of Jonah. Accepting the biblical book as a fictitious short story based on "real world" locations, the volume uses social science approaches to describe the imaginative world in which the action takes place. Since the story uses real places and recognizable persons to weave the narrative, at least three levels of perception are considered: the "real" world behind the book's references; the social and ideological constructs of the world; the imaginative world of the story itself. All of these are connected by and through the scribal author of the story. Geography, theology, human characters and natural flora and fauna are investigated. The models creatively used by humans to order their vision of the world can be shown to have been used as literary devices in constructing a story with totally fictitious historical citations as well as fabulous creatures and events that nonetheless conveys a message considered an insight into reality by the author. The story of Jonah, often read as a simple children's story, comes across as a more complicated and adult oriented narrative with a serious intent.

This work sets out the background world for the story of Jonah. Accepting the biblical book as a fictitious short story based on "real world" locations, the volume uses social science approaches to describe the imaginative world in which the action takes place. Since the story uses real places and recognizable persons to weave the narrative, at least three levels of perception are considered: the "real" world behind the book's references; the social and ideological constructs of the world; the imaginative world of the story itself. All of these are connected by and through the scribal author of the story. Geography, theology, human characters and natural flora and fauna are investigated. The models creatively used by humans to order their vision of the world can be shown to have been used as literary devices in constructing a story with totally fictitious historical citations as well as fabulous creatures and events that nonetheless conveys a message considered an insight into reality by the author. The story of Jonah, often read as a simple children's story, comes across as a more complicated and adult oriented narrative with a serious intent.

Bryan approaches St. Paul's letter to the Romans with a number of aims in view. First, he wants to show which literary type or genre would have been seen by Paul's contemporaries as being exemplified in the letter. He also determines what we can surmise of Paul's attitude and approach to the Jewish bible. The study involves discussion of and comparison with other literature from Paul's time, place and milieu -- including other writings attributed to Paul.

History, Literature and Theology in the Book of Chronicles is a collection of studies published in the last fifteen years. The cumulative weight of these studies leads to a new understanding of the Book of Chronicles, its balanced and nuanced theology, historiographical approach and the way in which the book serves to reshape the social memory of its intended readership, in accordance with its own multiple viewpoints and the knowledge of the past held by its community. This volume shows that Chronicles communicates to its intended readership a theological worldview built around multiple, partial perspectives informing and balancing each other. Significantly, it is a worldview in which the limitations of even theologically proper knowledge are emphasized. For instance, in Chronicles' past similar deeds may and at times did lead to very different results. Thus, even if most of the past is presented to the readers as explainable, it also affirms that those who inhabited it could not predict the path of future events. Chronicles is therefore, a storiographical work that informs its readers that historical and theological knowledge does not enable prediction of future events. poignantly construes some of the most crucial events in Israel's social memory as unexplainable in human terms. Thus, Chronicles communicates to its readers that some of YHWH's most influential decisions concerning Israel cannot be predicted or explained. It is against this background of human limitation in understanding causes and effects in a past (present and future) governed by YHWH and the uncertainty that it brings, that the emphasis on divinely ordained, prescriptive behaviour should be seen. The intellectual horizon of Chronicles was perhaps not so far from that of the interpretative frame of Job or Qohelet, and of these books as a whole.

History, Literature and Theology in the Book of Chronicles is a collection of studies published in the last fifteen years. The cumulative weight of these studies leads to a new understanding of the Book of Chronicles, its balanced and nuanced theology, historiographical approach and the way in which the book serves to reshape the social memory of its intended readership, in accordance with its own multiple viewpoints and the knowledge of the past held by its community. This volume shows that Chronicles communicates to its intended readership a theological worldview built around multiple, partial perspectives informing and balancing each other. Significantly, it is a worldview in which the limitations of even theologically proper knowledge are emphasized. For instance, in Chronicles' past similar deeds may and at times did lead to very different results. Thus, even if most of the past is presented to the readers as explainable, it also affirms that those who inhabited it could not predict the path of future events. Chronicles is therefore, a storiographical work that informs its readers that historical and theological knowledge does not enable prediction of future events. poignantly construes some of the most crucial events in Israel's social memory as unexplainable in human terms. Thus, Chronicles communicates to its readers that some of YHWH's most influential decisions concerning Israel cannot be predicted or explained. It is against this background of human limitation in understanding causes and effects in a past (present and future) governed by YHWH and the uncertainty that it brings, that the emphasis on divinely ordained, prescriptive behaviour should be seen. The intellectual horizon of Chronicles was perhaps not so far from that of the interpretative frame of Job or Qohelet, and of these books as a whole.

Creative Bible Lessons in Genesis follows the work previously done with other studies in the series. What makes this volume different is that it is sensitive to the influence of postmodernism on today s culture and values, it complements the widespread use of multimedia, and is experiential in approach. With a desire to be relevant, it does not scan Scripture, but intends to be scripturally thorough and accurate, with an understanding that the power of the studies is ultimately found in the biblical text. Because much of what is understood to be 'truth' today is arrived to by subjective interpretation, there is a strong but subtle element in the studies that highlights the Imago Dei (image of God) in man. The blueprint of the Trinitarian God in man is, perhaps, the sturdiest bridge between postmodern 'experiencisms' and ultimate truth and reality. In order to emphasize these elements, Bible studies include projection games, helps, and visuals. Also, many of the studies are highlighted by a participation which attempts to be close to the text account. There are small group and large group elements that have been developed with the technologically savvy student in mind. Creative Bible Lessons in Genesis follows the lives of various individuals in Genesis. In a world where communication is less face-to-face and more screen to screen, family breakdowns are the norm rather than the exception, and role models often communicate debatable values, an anchor for life can only be found in the God, who does not change. Human nature can only be satisfactorily understood through the image of God in man, and that all behavior, desires, and actions people take are ultimate acts of worship, and desire for God. The return to the Imago Dei in man is the clearest way to present absolute truth to a relative society in that it is able to posit a valid argument for God and faith from an intellectual and logic platform, as well as from a subjective/emotional/experiential platform."

The psalms challenge and sustain us in a number of ways, and in times of new challenges to the very fabric of the church, to its faith, and its values, we need to re-examine these ancient prayers and songs. This book explores the place and function of the psalms in Christian prayer, preaching, and worship. Examining the dual nature of the psalms as both words to God and word from God, the author brings together the historical experience of the church, biblical studies and theological reflection to focus on the application of the psalms in contemporary Christian life. A number of individual psalms are explored in terms of what they have to say about prayer or what theological issues they raise for contemporary life. This book encourages a reclamation of the psalms in the private and public prayers of the church and in the preaching of the word.

Who is in control? The sustained threat from rogue states, international terrorism, religious extremists, and moral confusion arising from liberal views of all kinds begs the question: what is happening to our world? Is no-one in control? This is a deep vulnerability that many people express. And not simply in global events. Our own personal world often seems out of control as we reel from suffering, family tragedies and unanswered prayers. The prophet Habakkuk knew that God was in control but, like us, his personal experience seemed to contradict this and he wrestled with the tension. This book is a dialogue between the prophet and God. Habakkuk confronts God with his confusion and, in doing so, he expresses the voice of the godly in Judah and he speaks for us. We join in the journey from 'why?' to worship.

Holmes examines four exegetical devices employed by all sides in the debate on 1 Tim. 2.9-15, proposing that together they create a 'whirlwind' effect which obscures the text's meaning. She concludes that (1) the immediate context is general, not ecclesial; (2) background often reconstructed from passages elsewhere in the Pastorals is misleading; (3) comparison with 1 Cor. 14.34-35 can similarly mislead; and (4) the conjunction gar ('for') has been allowed unduly to dominate interpretation. The writer of the letter, it is argued, has been misunderstood since very early in the Christian era, his intention having been simply to moderate women's everyday behaviour in ways that parallel the behaviour he requires of men.

This book defends the claims of historical-critical research into the New Testament as necessary for theological interpretation. Presenting an interdisciplinary study about the nature of theological language, this book considers the modern debate in theological hermeneutics beginning with the Barth-Bultmann debate and moving towards a theory of language which brings together historical-critical and theological interpretation. These insights are then applied to the exegesis of theologically significant texts of the Gospel of John in the light of the hermeneutical discussion. Drawing together the German and Anglo-American hermeneutical traditions, and discussing issues related to postmodern hermeneutical theories, this book develops a view of the New Testament as the reflection of a struggle for language in which the early Church worked to bring about a language through which the new faith could be understood.

Designed to be read in 15-20 minutes a day, this liturgical devotional guide will give readers focus and purpose in their daily quiet time while pointing them to Christ. Gift edition features a timeless TruTone cover.

This New Testament edition of the Battlefield of the Mind Bible will offer peace through the power of Scripture, along with insights drawn from internationally renowned Bible teacher Joyce Meyer. Perfect as a gift for yourself or someone you love, the inspirations found within the New Testament will empower you to change your thoughts and life, and win the battle in your mind.

Emil Brunner sees St Paul's Epistle to the Romans as the chapter of destiny of the Christian Church. Here, in Luther's words, is the purest gospel upon which the very existence of the Christian faith depends and from which it draws its life. Concentrated, decisive and instructive, nothing within the New Testament is more closely argued both theologically and personally. Out of his years of scholarly wisdom Brunner meditates on the great Epistle, and in his commentary elucidates the massive Pauline arguments which are the bedrock of the Christian belief and the Christian proclamation.

Learning to Believe Again guides people back to healing, hope, and belief by tackling some of the harder topics in the Bible in relation to healing from trauma, including: forgiveness, how to deal with abusive people, God's unfailing love, and regaining self-worth, among other topics. At some point in their life, most people face a trauma or harrowing loss that leaves them questioning God's presence, love, and protection. In the US alone, 1 in 3 people have experienced some form of domestic abuse, and an estimated 8 percent of Americans suffer from PTSD. Brittany Bexton takes readers on a 30-day devotional journey through the healing process, beginning with devotionals that address brokenness and loss. She then moves into days that address the challenges of trauma and abuse, providing practical, Biblical tools for healing and changing mindsets, before focusing on breakthroughs experienced through life's journey. Each day includes a plethora of supporting scriptures, as well as space for readers to journal. Designed to either be an easy, bedside reader with digestible thoughts for the day or a tool for deeper Bible study, Learning to Believe Again offers hope for continued healing, restoration, and growth.

Greeted with controversy on its publication, Answer to Job has long been neglected by many serious commentators on Jung. This book offers an intellectual and cultural context for C.G.Jung's 1952 publication.
In Jung's Answer to Job: A Commentary, the author argues that such neglect is due to a failure to understand Jung's objectives in this text and offers a new way of reading the work. The book places Answer to Job in the context of biblical commentary, and then examines the circumstances surrounding its compositions and immediate reception. A detailed commentary on the work discusses the major methodological presuppositions informing it and explains how key Jungian concepts operate in the text. Jung's Answer to Job: A Commentary unravels Jung's narrative by reading it in the chronological order of the biblical events it analyses and the book to which it refers, offering a comprehensive re-reading of Jung's text. An original argument put across in a scholarly and accessible style provides an essential framework for understanding the work.
Whilst taking account of the tenets of analytical psychology, this commentary underlines Answer to Job's more general significance in terms of cultural history. It will be invaluable to students and scholars of analytical psychology, the history of ideas, intercultural studies, comparative literature, religion and religious studies.

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