Overview

This volume offers a compact introduction to one of the most daunting texts in the New Testament. The Letter to the Hebrews has inspired many readers with its encomium to faith, troubled others with its hard sayings on the impossibility of a second repentance, and perplexed still others with its exegetical assumptions and operations drawn from a cultural matrix that is largely alien to modern sensibilities. Long thought to be Paul, the anonymous author of Hebrews exhibits points of continuity with the apostle and other New Testament writers in the letter’s (or sermon’s) vision of life in the light of the crucified Messiah, but one also finds distinctive perspectives in such areas as Christology, eschatology, and atonement. Gray and Peeler survey the salient historical, social, and rhetorical factors to be considered in the interpretation of this document, as well as its theological, liturgical, and cultural legacy. They invite readers to enter the world of one of the boldest Christian thinkers of the first century.

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9780567694812

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Reviews

Whether we are small group leaders or budding scholars, beyond the values, virtues, and interpretive understanding that we already possess, there is need of input from the specialists who have devoted far more time than the rest of us to particular texts. From standard background questions to deeper textual understanding and reception history, Gray and Peeler are just the reliable and qualified guides that are needed for Hebrews, a vital and challenging biblical book. A chapter devoted to the Holy Spirit is a bonus! * Jon C. Laansma, Wheaton College, USA * Clearly written and informed by the best in current scholarship, this volume is a welcome introduction to the study of Hebrews. Readers will gain the perspectives needed to appreciate Hebrews' remarkable literary quality and theological depth. Gray and Peeler show us the remarkable impact Hebrews has had on people throughout the centuries and invite us to continue exploring the riches of the book for ourselves. * Craig R. Koester, Luther Seminary, USA * Peeler and Gray are well-informed and affable tour guides. They take the reader on a hike through the historical context and the text of Hebrews; they then pause to offer a closer look at one area of growing interest, the Holy Spirit in Hebrews; and finally they point out sites for further exploration in the effective history of Hebrews and suggested critical questions. This is a lucid, accessible, and reliable primer on Hebrews in itself, in its reception, and in contemporary scholarship. * Nicholas Moore, Durham University, UK *

Author Information

Amy Peeler is Associate Professor of New Testament at Wheaton College, USA. Patrick Gray is Professor of Religious Studies at Rhodes College, USA.

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