Literary Encounters with the Reign of God

Robert Tannehill is one of the most recognized scholars of the Gospels in the American academy. His book on Luke-Acts remains the single most important book on that unit of biblical writing, and it produced an entire generation of New Testament scholars who have now become well-known for their work in literary studies in the Gospels. Tannehill's work on narrative criticism of the Gospels remains unsurpassed in the academy.

'...A pioneer in demonstrating the effectiveness of literary criticism in shedding new light on well worn paths in New Testament Studies, this festschrift is packed with examples of how his scholarship is still inspiring innovative studies in fresh directions...this thoughtful monument to Tannehill's career not only crystallizes the work of a generation of literary critics his work inspired, but also demonstrates the need for continued work in this direction.' Volume 116, Number 3--Sanford Lakoff "Expository Times ", "This delightful collection of articles honoring Robert Tannehill reflects his interests in Jesus, literary approaches to Matthew, Mark, and Luke, and his love of the natural world. Such diverse topics as eco-justice in the New Testament, how Matthew is treated in introductory textbooks, the significance of the famine in the story of the prodigal son, and Luke's mimicry of and resistance to the imperial ethos are only a sample of the volume's richness. The essays will be of academic interest to scholars, and several will be useful in introductory biblical courses. Joanna Dewey, Academic Dean and Harvey H. Guthrie Jr. Professor of Biblical Studies, Episcopal Divinity School--Sanford Lakoff, "This Festschrift honors Robert Tannehill by following many of the paths opened up by his groundbreaking work in New Testament studies. Both individually and collectively, these essays illustrate how the richness and the cutting edge - the sword of biblical texts are again and again unveiled when these texts are read with the literary sensibility and rigor that Robert Tannehill's works exemplifies." Daniel Patte, Professor of New Testament and Early Christianity, Vanderbilt University., As is always the case with Continuum publications, this volume is a handsome production, designed for durability in library use and gives an impression of quality to the new purchaser and reader. Individually and collectively, these essays illustrate how the richness of his [Tannehill s] cutting-edge research over the years reveals the literary style and the message of those ancient sacred documents. For novices such as students in Church adult education classes and undergraduate students heading for seminary or a religious studies minor, this is a very instructive beginning volume. Dr. J. Harold Ellons, Review in International Review of Biblical Studies, Vol 51: 2004/05

Sharon Ringe is Professor New Testament at Wesley Theological Seminary. H.C.P Kim is Assistant Professor of Hebrew Bible at Methodist Theological School in Ohio.