Includes bibliographical references (pages 155-158) and indexes.
Contents:
A thought experiment -- Apocalyptic literature in context -- The Pauline epistles -- The Synoptic take(s) on Jesus -- Beyond the Synoptic gospels: Q, Thomas, John-and Jesus -- The big show: Revelation -- Epilogue.
Summary:
Every significant layer of the New Testament features the distinctive concerns of apocalyptic literature, including the expectation of a messiah, hope for a resurrection, expectation of a final judgment, and a spiritual world that includes angels and demons. Yet many contemporary readers shy away from things apocalyptic, especially the book of Revelation. This introduction considers the influence of apocalyptic literature throughout the Gospels and Acts, Paul's letters, and Revelation. It argues that early Christian authors drew upon apocalyptic topics to address an impressive array of situations and concerns, and it demonstrates--example after example--how apocalyptic discourse contributed to their ongoing work of contextual theology.
This resource is supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by State Library of Iowa.