"Nicholas Lunn is a careful reader, and he helps us to dig behind familiar passages from the Gospels and discover a wealth of allusion to earlier texts. A sense of the wonder and mystery of Jesus' nature as the human embodiment of the God of Israel is enhanced, as we see how these allusions illumine the events of his life with fresh theological meaning. Drawing on a wealth of scholarship from a wide range of Christian as well as Jewish sources, this fascinating study will also help us to appreciate the unity of Scripture as the gift of a single divine Author. Divided into concise, clearly-written chapters focusing on Gospel episodes, it offers plentiful new insights for preachers and will enrich the devotion of Christian believers to their Lord."
- Stephen I. Wright, Vice Principal and Academic Director, Spurgeon's College, London
This book alerts us to new possibilities when it comes to understanding the meaning, significance and artistry of New Testament texts. Lunn writes with clarity and conviction. He confidently appraises the NT text, drawing on scholarly insight, showing respect for details like literary design and linguistic choices. He hopes that his writing will be faith-building – and indeed this aim is reflected in the tone and emphases throughout. I was not convinced by every premise or conclusion, but I was stimulated by the journey. It is not always my experience that new publications intrigue me and capture my imagination, but this book did and I am very glad I pushed beyond my own approach to the biblical text to listen to the voice of a different approach that opens up a new world of interpretive possibilities.
- Debra Reid, Director of Undergraduate Studies; Tutor in Old Testament, Spurgeon’s College, London
The Gospels and the rest of the New Testament weren’t supposed to be read in a vacuum, but as part of the continuing story of God’s redemptive work as it had been expounded in the Old Testament. Readers of the Gospels who pay close attention to how their allusions to the Old Testament are expected to inform our understanding are reading as the authors intended and find rich rewards in a fuller understanding of each text. Nick Lunn has spent years doing that kind of careful reading and now shares his insightful observations with all who want to learn to do the same. Be prepared to have your understanding enriched and your own reading transformed!
- Roy E. Ciampa, Ph.D. S. Louis and Ann W. Armstrong Chair of Religion Chair, Department of Biblical and Religious Studies
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