The writer of the Gospel of Luke is a Hellenistic writer who uses conventional modes of narration, characterisation and argumentation to present Jesus in the manner of the familiar figure of the dinner sage. In this original and thought-provoking 1995 study, Willi Braun draws both on social and literary evidence regarding the Greco-Roman elite banquet scene and on ancient prescribed methods of rhetorical composition. He argues that the Pharisaic dinner episode in Luke 14 is a skilfully crafted rhetorical unit in which Jesus presents an argument for Luke's vision of a Christian society. His contention that the point of the episode is directed primarily at the wealthy urban elite, who stand in most need of a transformation of character and values to fit them for membership of this society, points up the way in which gospel writers manipulated the inherited Jesus traditions for the purposes of ideological and social formation of Christian communities.

Luke's christology is carefully designed. Luke portrays the exalted Jesus as God's co-equal by the kinds of things he does and says from heaven. Through the Holy Spirit, the divine name and personal manifestations, Jesus behaves toward people in Luke-Acts as does Yahweh in the Old Testament. His power and knowledge are supreme. Jesus sovereignly reigns over Israel, the church, the powers of darkness and the world. Luke deepens this portrait by depicting Jesus as deity who by nature behaves as servant: the earthly Jesus acted among his people as one who serves; the exalted Jesus continues serving his people by strengthening and encouraging them in their witness of him to the world. That the believers in Acts resemble the way Jesus behaved in the Gospel means that they too are now imaging some of his servant-like character in their witness of him.

This book makes a major contribution to the ongoing debate about the synoptic problem, especially concerning the question of which gospel was written first. The scholarly consensus, developed over two hundred years of discussion, has favoured Markan priority and the dependence of both Matthew and Luke upon Mark. In an ongoing contemporary revival of the Griesbach hypothesis, some scholars have advocated the view that Mark used, conflated and abbreviated Matthew and Luke. The author explores the role played by arguments connected with christological development in support of both these views. Deploying a comparative redaction-critical approach to the problem, Dr Head argues that the critical basis of the standard christological argument for Markan priority is insecure and based on anachronistic scholarly concerns. Nevertheless, in a through-going comparative reappraisal of the christological outlooks of Matthew and Mark the author finds decisive support for the hypothesis of Markan priority, arguing that Matthew was a developer rather than a corrector of Mark.

Hebrews 12: 1-13 portrays the suffering of the community to which it is addressed by means of two images: an athletic contest, and God's fatherly discipline. In this 1998 book, N. Clayton Croy provides a thorough exploration of the theme of suffering in the Jewish and Graeco-Roman traditions, and surveys the different interpretations of this passage which have been offered by Christian writers over the centuries. He argues that the concept of 'training' unites the passage, which presents Jesus as the supreme athlete, an agonistic exemplar for those running the race. These verses also support a non-punitive understanding of discipline, in which God's children undergo a positive process of education. The educative notion of paideia combines with images of athletic training to establish a call to faithful endurance rather than repentance.

Three factors prompt this re-examination of the underlying questions that shape mainstream exegesis of Paul's letters. Hermeneutical studies have destabilized assumptions about the nature of meaning in texts; the letters are usually characterized as pastoral but explicated as expressions of Paul's thought; and the impact of E. P. Sanders' work on Paul has sharpened exegetical problems in Romans 1.16 4.25. The outcome is a two-step method of exegesis that considers a letter first in the light of the author's purpose in creating it and second as evidence for the patterns of thought from which it sprang. The passage appears as pastoral preaching, helping the Romans to deal with the implications of the fact that the God of Israel is now accepting believing Gentiles on the same basis as believing Jews. Justification by grace through faith emerges as the theological understanding of God's action in Christ that grounds pastoral speech.

As a biblical motif, 'new creation' resonates throughout the pages of the Jewish and Christian scriptures, and occupies a central place in the apostle Paul's vision of the Christian life. Yet the biblical and extra-biblical occurrences of this theme vary widely in meaning, referring to either a new cosmos, a new community, or a new individual. Beginning with the Old Testament and working through the important texts of Second Temple Judaism, Moyer V. Hubbard focuses on how the motif functions in the argument, strategy, and literary structure of these documents, highlighting its role as the solution to the perceived plight. He then explores in detail which senses of the term Paul intends in Galatians 6.15 and 2 Corinthians 5.17, concluding that 'new creation' in Paul's letters describes the Spirit-wrought newness of the person in Christ, and is fundamentally anthropological in orientation.

The belly is today a matter of much concern. Modern cultures, particularly in the West, have developed means to cultivate this part of the body: corsets, exercises, revealing fashions. In this compelling exploration of the 'belly' motif, Karl Olav Sandnes asks whether St Paul might be addressing a culture in which the stomach is similarly high on the agenda. The result is a surprising new insight into his writings. Paul twice mentions the enigmatic phrase 'belly-worship' (Phil 3; Rom 16). The proper context for these texts is the moral philosophy debate about mastering the desires, and the reputation of Epicurus' philosophy as promoting indulgence. The belly became a catchword for a life controlled by pleasures. Belly-worship was not only pejorative rhetoric, but developed from Paul's conviction that the body was destined to a future with Christ.

This is the first book to examine the Aramaic dimension of Q since the Aramaic Dead Sea scrolls made such work more feasible. Maurice Casey gives a detailed examination of Matt. 23.23-36 and Luke 11.39-51, demonstrating that they used two different Greek translations of an Aramaic source, which can be reconstructed. He overturns the conventional model of Q as a single Greek document, and shows that Jesus said everything in the original Aramaic source. Further analysis of Matt. 11.2-19 and Luke 7.18-35 shows the evangelists editing one Greek translation of an Aramaic source. The same is true of Matt.12.22-32//Luke11.14-23, for which Mark (3.20-31) utilised a different Aramaic source. A complex model of Q is thus proposed. Casey argues that Aramaic sources behind part of Q are of extremely early date, and should contribute significantly to the quest of the historical Jesus.

This book is one of three volumes that bring together Jane Williams's widely read and much enjoyed Church Times columns. Here, she offers reflections on the Sunday readings in the Revised Common Lectionary for Year A. Each section gives the lectionary references and provides a thought-provoking starting point for exploring the readings, drawing out points of connection between them. Intelligently written in an engaging and inspiring style, Lectionary Reflections will prove invaluable in preparation for Sunday worship or for regular Bible study throughout the year.

The Revelation Of St John The Divine. the terminal document of the Holy Bible, subject of countless studies and interpretations.

Is Revelation in fact the ultimate Satanic text, an invocation to the Anti-Christ, the Great Beast 666 who is poised to take control of our decaying planet?

Is it a prophecy of nuclear war and entropy, the utter destruction of the universe which comes with the breaking of the Seventh Seal?

Or is it an eye-witness account of the first wave of alien invasions of Earth, a primitive response to deep-space technology we can only now begin to comprehend?

Revelation is presented here as a work in its own right, as its millennial significance reaches critical mass, to be re-evaluated by theologians, scientist and the common man alike. In his revolutionary introduction, apocalypse watchman Kenneth Rayner Johnson (author of Armageddon 2000) ponders each and every possibility of the text's origins and meaning -- and emerges with a staggering conclusion.

The Talmud Teachings of Jmmanuel (Christ) may be the true testament of Jesus. This ancient document was discovered in 1963 after being encased in resin and buried for 19 centuries. This translation from Aramaic what was written by the scribe to Jmmanuel (Mathew 1 vs 23). Read what astonishing truths have been withheld and why the church does not want this information out.

In Through the Year with Jimmy Carter, the thirty-ninth President of the United States takes you on a unique journey into the heart of the Christian faith. Based on more than three decades of practical Bible teaching, these readings draw from the riches of God's Word and the compelling experiences of Mr. Carter's own life. Whether through fascinating glimpses into behind-the-scenes activity at the White House, or insightful remembrances of his career in the U.S. Navy, Mr. Carter never ceases to connect the wisdom of Scripture with your own crucial place on the stage of life. Frank, honest, sometimes funny, sometimes heartbreaking, and always relevant, Through the Year with Jimmy Carter challenges readers to be more Christ-like every day of their lives.

This resource provides young adults with a chance to become a part of an exciting new contemporary Bible study series for adult learners in their 20 s and 30 s. Each volume in the series challenges young adults to examine a powerful biblical image that defines and shapes their lives. Each volume includes these helpful features: Bible background on a respective image: covenant, exodus, community, and faith Articles on group leadership, organizing a study group, using small break-out groups, and choosing teaching options Case studies throughout the text and in the appendix to use as discussion starters Seven easy-to-use sessions with clear teaching helps on every page Opportunities to examine biblical and personal ideas more deeply Options for service projects Exodus: Leaving Behind, Moving On helps readers appreciate learning how God is in the midst of the movements and changes of life, no matter how minor or how transformational. "

A respected expert on Paul's writings, Klaus Haacker presents this introduction to the theology of the Letter to the Romans to complete Cambridge's New Testament Theology series. Haacker focuses on themes such as righteousness, mission, the "mystery of Israel", suffering and hope, and preaching. Engaging with Paul's rhetoric, he reveals how ancient Rome and the Christian reinterpretation of the legal heritage of Israel provide contexts for the Letter. The book will be of interest to teachers, pastors, and students of theology and the New Testament.

The NIV Application Commentary helps you communicate and apply biblical text effectively in today's context. In Galatians, Paul reminds us of the total sufficiency of Jesus in securing our salvation, and of the leadership of the Holy Spirit for living it out. Calling us back to the simplicity of Christ, Galatians is as critically important for us today as it was when Paul first penned it. Exploring the links between the Bible and our own times, Scot McKnight shares perspectives on the letter to the Galatians that reveal its enduring relevance for our twenty-first-century lives. To bring the ancient messages of the Bible into today's context, each passage is treated in three sections: Original Meaning. Concise exegesis to help readers understand the original meaning of the biblical text in its historical, literary, and cultural context. Bridging Contexts. A bridge between the world of the Bible and the world of today, built by discerning what is timeless in the timely pages of the Bible. Contemporary Significance. This section identifies comparable situations to those faced in the Bible and explores relevant application of the biblical messages. The author alerts the readers of problems they may encounter when seeking to apply the passage and helps them think through the issues involved. This unique, award-winning commentary is the ideal resource for today's preachers, teachers, and serious students of the Bible, giving them the tools, ideas, and insights they need to communicate God's Word with the same powerful impact it had when it was first written.

What is it like to be an Enneagram Five? Instagram poet and artist Morgan Harper Nichols reflects on this question in a spirit of honest self-assessment and with a desire for personal and spiritual growth. She draws wisdom from the deep wells of counseling and spirituality using illustrations from both Scripture and life. Each of these forty readings concludes with an opportunity for further engagement such as a prayer, a spiritual practice, or a reflection question. Morgan's art enhances the readings as well. Any of us can find aspects of ourselves in any of the numbers. The Enneagram is a profound tool for empathy, so whether or not you are a Five, you will grow from your reading about Fives and enhance your relationships across the Enneagram spectrum.

Jack Countryman's trademarked God's Wisdom® series and God's Promises® series have sold millions of books over the years. Now he brings his two most popular series together in the ultimate gift book, God's Wisdom and Promises.

This incredibly useful gift book from bestselling author Jack Countryman is composed of topically divided Scriptures that reveal what the Bible says about key experiences and needs in life. Scripture is in the trusted New King James Version of the Bible.

More than 90 important topics include God's guidance on relationships, finances, difficult situations, frightening scenarios, ethical issues, and when a friend needs encouragement, as well as what the Bible says about mercy, loyalty, caring for others, disagreements, faithfulness, and obedience, among many others.

The focus of God's Wisdom and Promises is the grace, love, hope, blessings, and knowledge that God offers His people. While much of the success of the God's Promises series comes from people looking for guidance in times of crisis, God's Wisdom and Promises alsoprovides readers with positive promises to rely on. God's Wisdom and Promises is an easy impulse purchase for anyone needing encouragement or an ideal gift for any occasion.

My Daily Catholic Bible, NAB Version offers a reading plan that (1) divides all of Sacred Scripture into 365 segments, one for each day of the year; (2) features two small, manageable readings for each day, one from the Old Testament and one from the New Testament; and (3) offers an insightful quote from a saint for every day.

There's never been an easier way to read the Bible. You don't even have to start on January 1. Just begin reading on any calendar date, and twelve months later you'll have made your way through all seventy-three books of the biblical canon. And a place for a check mark next to each entry makes it simple to keep track of your progress you'll know exactly where to start in again if you miss a day or two

Teaching is a work of heart that takes energy and inspiration. The young people you are equipping are blessed to have you pouring wisdom into their lives. Rest assured that your hard work does not go unnoticed; the effort you put in now will reap a harvest in years to come. Spend a little time with God as you dive into these devotions, and find the strength and encouragement you need to face each teaching challenge that comes your way. With God's help, you can make a positive impact on those in your care.

The NIV Application Commentary helps you communicate and apply biblical text effectively in today's context. To bring the ancient messages of the Bible into today's world, each passage is treated in three sections: Original Meaning. Concise exegesis to help readers understand the original meaning of the biblical text in its historical, literary, and cultural context. Bridging Contexts. A bridge between the world of the Bible and the world of today, built by discerning what is timeless in the timely pages of the Bible. Contemporary Significance. This section identifies comparable situations to those faced in the Bible and explores relevant application of the biblical messages. The author alerts the readers of problems they may encounter when seeking to apply the passage and helps them think through the issues involved. This unique, award-winning commentary is the ideal resource for today's preachers, teachers, and serious students of the Bible, giving them the tools, ideas, and insights they need to communicate God's Word with the same powerful impact it had when it was first written.

This study shows that the common view of 1 Corinthians as mainly about "ethics" and therefore of little importance for "theology" needs correcting. Many other studies of the letter focus mainly on the details of the Corinthian situation and the moral teachings Paul conveyed to his congregation. While not ignoring these, Furnish's primary aim is to explore and clarify the theological orientation of 1 Corinthians, and what it can contribute to an understanding of Paul as a theologian. Furnish concludes that 1 Corinthians is important for both ethics and theology.

The product of a number of years of reflection on the Gospel of Mark, this book explains in a clear and understandable way the contribution that the evangelist has made to the theology of the developing Jesus tradition. Joining forces with those who see Mark as a theologian of some considerable creativity, Dr. Telford emphasizes the importance of context (the historical and the contemporary) and method (the historical-critical approach with insights drawn from the newer literary approaches) for the proper understanding of Mark.

Springs in the Valley has been refreshing to the souls of believers for the past 60 years, and this updated price-conscious edition brings timeless messages of hope to existing fans and new readers alike. In this beautiful updated package, Springs in the Valley will continue to offer refreshment and joy to the thirsty traveler through God's Word and L. B. Cowman's lilting prose and poetry. Cowman shares cool draughts of wisdom and insight into God's character, drawn from the Scriptures and purified through a lifetime of experience. In print for more than 60 years, this beloved daily devotional challenges readers on the themes of hope and renewal. Men and women alike will be drawn to this follow-up to Streams in the Desert.