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Two things known about
Jesus of Nazareth are beyond doubt: he was crucified in the first
century C.E. and he taught in parables. For Christian theology and
experience, these historical facts are central. Jesus as the Christ is
both Redeemer of humanity and Revealer of God, and the parables were his
primary medium of revelation. Through them Jesus frequently referred to
the kingdom of God, at times focusing on it explicitly. A proper
understanding of the parables, therefore, is paramount. Yet these seemingly simple stories are anything but clear, and a host of basic questions precedes their explication. What is a parable? How many are there? What are they like? How can they be interpreted? What did they say to Jesus' |
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of crucial importance -- what do Jesus' parables say to us today? This
superb commentary by Arland J. Hultgren is designed to provide a
comprehensive study of the parables that is at once exegetical and
theological. Drawing on the wealth of parable research, Hultgren first discusses the background necessary to an investigation of Jesus' parables, including the methods of identifying and classifying the parables, the distinctive elements in the parables, the universal and the particular features of the parables, and interpretive approaches. He then studies in depth each of the thirty-eight parables of Jesus found in the Synoptic Gospels, grouping them thematically under these headings: (1) Parables of the Revelation of God, (2) Parables of Exemplary Behavior, (3) Parables of Wisdom, (4) Parables of Life before God, (5) Parables of Final Judgment, (6) Allegorical Parables, and (7) Parables of the Kingdom. Each study features a fresh, accurate translation of the parable along with interpretive notes and commentary on the parable's theological meaning and significance for readers today. Hultgren also looks at the role of the Evangelists as interpreters of Jesus' parables and examines the parables of Jesus found in the Gospel of Thomas. The volume is made even more useful by the inclusion of three informative appendices, a comprehensive bibliography, and complete indexes listing references to Scripture, other ancient sources, and modern authors. Distinctive in the field for its scope of coverage and its goal of addressing the widest possible audience, this volume will become the standard resource on the parables of Jesus for scholars, students, ministers and general readers. |
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"The
parables of Jesus are surely among the most difficult, not to say
bewildering, material that readers of the Gospels encounter. Arland
Hultgren's wonderful treatment of the parables combines the highest
level of scholarship, in a nontechnical presentation, with a
down-to-earth usefulness and insightful application -- all of which
superbly clarifies their meaning. Here is a book I would immediately,
unhesitatingly, and enthusiastically put in the hands of anyone who
wants help in understanding Jesus' parables." |
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"This is
undoubtedly the best book available on the parables. In this veritable
encyclopedia Hultgren masterfully employs a wide range of the best
scholarship in the service of the church, and his 'Expositions' provide
helpful and insightful comments on how the parables can be taught and
preached. This book is a treasure for both scholars and preachers." |
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"Hultgren's
commentary moves with perfect clarity from the text to exegesis to
thoughtful exposition of these enigmatic sayings of Jesus. Any preacher
or teacher of the parables will return to this book as to a faithful and
reliable friend." |
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