Book Description

What did Jesus think of the kingdom of God? How did his concept differ from those of his contemporaries, and how does it still pose some stiff challenges for twenty-first-century Christians? Old and New contributes to the study of Jesus’ parables as the first comprehensive analysis of the seven kingdom parables assembled in Matthew 13 in a single volume. Martin Emmrich argues that the placement, content, and arrangement of the chapter are highly significant in terms of the overall shape of Matthew’s Gospel, as well as offering a timeless witness of Jesus’ notion of the coming of his reign. Old and New features some unique exegetical details along with sweeping theological vistas, all of it carefully balanced with edifying illustrations and examples. The work not only deepens the reader’s appreciation of the text, but also provides ample incentives for soul-searching reflection.