This work presents an engaging interdisciplinary study of the nature and scope of interpretation, one of the most important areas of inquiry in today's postmodern world. The three authors, all acknowledged experts in the field, bring the resources of the Bible, Christian tradition, and intellectual history to bear upon contemporary hermeneutical disputes. Representing a complete revision of The Responsibility of Hermeneutics (1985), this substantially expanded volume has been brought up to date with recent work in hermeneutics and sets forth an important new perspective that shifts the interpretive focus from the past to the promise of the future. Making use of the best insights from current theories about language, interpretation, and the nature of the self, The Promise of Hermeneutics demonstrates how an encounter with contemporary interpretive theory can deepen the church's own hermeneutical practices. The authors also show how the Christian faith can help move us beyond the many impasses created by postmodern thought.

Numerous books are available on the meaning and methods of preaching, but nothing has been written that specifically addresses the character of those who would preach. Preacher and Cross helps fill this gap in homiletic studies by examining the relationship between the message of Christian proclamation and the preacher, with specific attention to ministerial character and the preacher's use of self in sermons. Andr? Resner discusses the two dominant approaches to homiletics-the rhetorical approach typified by Augustine and the theological approach typified by Barth-and then compares and contrasts these approaches to what the apostle Paul says on the issue. Essential reading for those involved in ministry, this work offers invaluable insights into the relationship between preachers and the message they proclaim.