Synopses & Reviews
The thesis of this book is that every New Testament writing stands within a story, even if it does not tell stories. The approach allows readers to view the documents as vital elements in the lives of real persons. The book maintains its focus on bringing the writings alive and shows how critical study enhances understanding of their meanings. Its prime goal is teaching students to read these writings for themselves, bridging the chasms of language, history, and culture that separate them from us. The latest methods of research are utilized in this quest, but the focus always remains on the New Testament documents.
Description
Includes bibliographical references (p. 485-561) and index.
About the Author
As a well-respected author, scholar, and teacher, Dr. David L. Barr now serves as Professor of Religion and chair of the departments of religion, philosophy and classics at Wright State University. Dr. Barr earned his B.A. from Fort Wayne Bible College and his M.A. and Ph.D. from Florida State University. His areas of interest include Christian origins, New Testament, apocalyptism, and the Apocalypse of John.
Table of Contents
Introduction: The Three Worlds of the Text: Reading the New Testament Story. 1. Preparing to Hear the Stories: The Cultural Context of the First Audience. 2. The Story before the Writings: Storytelling in Earliest Christianity. PART I: THE STORY IN LETTERS. 3. The Earliest Christian Literature: The Thessalonian Correspondence. 4. Paul's Letters to His Followers: Philemon, Philippians, Galatians, Corinthians. 5. Paul's Address to Those outside His Circle: Romans. 6. Paul for a New Day: Colossians, Ephesians, Timothy, Titus. 7. Echoes of Other Stories: James, Jude, Hebrews, Peter. PART II: THE STORY IN NARRATIVES. 8. Stories Told: Approaches to Understanding the Gospels. 9. God's Kingdom in a Tragic World: The Gospel According to Mark. 10. The Book of the New Community: The Gospel According to Matthew. 11. The Gospel as Heroic Narrative: The Story of Luke-Acts. 12. Irony and the Spirit: The Gospel According to John. 13. The Dawn of a New Day: The Apocalypse of John. 14. The Story after the Writings: One Story in Many. Appendix: Doing Your Own Research: Hints for Writing Research Papers on the New Testament. Glossary. Bibliography. Index.