New Testament Theology and its Quest for Relevance: Ancient Texts and Modern Readers

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Description

New Testament theology raises many questions, not only within its own boundaries, but also in relation to other fields such as history, literary criticism, sociology, psychology, history, politics, philosophy, and religious studies. But, the overarching question concerns the relevance of two thousand year old writings in today's world. How does one establish what is and is not relevant in the New Testament How does one communicate the ancient ideas, presented in an alien language, alien time, and alien culture to a contemporary audience This book is intended to serve as a methodological introduction to the field of New Testament theology, aimed at a range of readers-undergraduate and Seminary students, clergy, and laypersons interested in the relevance of scripture. It is a guide which aims to help readers understand how practitioners of New Testament theology have wrestled with the relationship between historical reconstruction of the New Testament, and its interpretation in the modern world.

Reviews

Summarized. * New Testament Abstracts *
In what is perhaps the most exhaustive and painstaking review of the subdiscipline to date Hatina is concerned with relevance: Will the message of the New Testament have any value or relevance in the twenty-first century not only to people of faith but for society at large This massive survey should be essential reading for anyone working in New Testament theology. Even if one disagrees with Hatinas final resolution of the problem, the treatment of the primary issues is comprehensive, fair, and incisive. -- Gary M. Burge, Wheaton, Illinois * Review of Biblical Literature *
Hatina has provided a succinct survey and evaluation of the discipline. [This book] offers a way forward that draws on the best aspects of both past and current scholarship in many fields, seeks to engage contemporary culture and religious studies in a way that offers the NT theologian a voice in the public sphere, and finds its ultimate expression in the Church that is seeking justice in the world. -- Frank E. Dicken, Lincoln Christian University, USA * Stone-Campbell Journal *
Hatina is dealing thoughtfully and respectfully with a question of immense contemporary importance. * The Heythrop Journal *

Author Bio

Thomas Hatina is Associate Professor of Religious Studies, Trinity Western University, Langley, British Columbia, Canada.