Reading the Gospels Wisely

Dr Jonathan T. Pennington has a new book coming out soon called, Reading the Gospels Wisely: A Narrative and Theological Introduction, which looks to be a great resource.

Here is what the Baker website says about the book: “In this work, Jonathan Pennington examines the theological and ethical aims of the Gospel narratives, helping students see the fruit of historical and literary study. . . .  Pennington neither dismisses nor duplicates the results of current historical-critical work on the Gospels as historical sources. Rather, he offers critically aware and hermeneutically intelligent instruction in reading the Gospels in order to hear their witness to Christ in a way that supports Christian application and proclamation.”

If that doesn’t sound all that appealing, try this video trailer for the book:

Here are some endorsements:

“Many books on the Gospels slog through source criticism, form criticism, and redaction criticism–important topics to be sure. How refreshing it is, however, to find a book with a new approach, one that reads the Gospels as literature and sees their importance theologically. This book is like a cool drink of water in what is too often the desert of Gospel studies. While I don’t agree with everything Pennington says, his arguments must be reckoned with, and they further the conversation in productive and stimulating ways. I believe this is the best introductory book on the Gospels. Both students and professors will find it to be invaluable.” –Thomas R. Schreiner, James Buchanan Professor of New Testament Interpretation, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary

“Reading the Gospels can be tricky, but it is important to read them with a full appreciation of their theology. Jonathan Pennington’s study helps you get there–and get there well, as well as wisely.”  –Darrell Bock, research professor of New Testament studies, Dallas Theological Seminary

Pennington’s website has some related audio resources as well:

Northwestern Baptist Association Theology Conference, Jan 13-14, 2008
“What are the Gospels and Why Do We Need Them?” — (Handout-PDF)
“How to Read the Gospels” — mp3 message
“Introduction to the Gospel of John” — mp3 message
“The Gospels as Story” — mp3 message
“Overview of the Gospel of John (Part 1)” — mp3 message
“Overview of the Gospel of John (Part 2)” — mp3 message

Northwestern Baptist Association (Woodward, OK) Theology Conference, Jan 22-23, 2007
“The Kingdom of God in the Old Testament” — mp3 message
“The Kingdom of God in the New Testament” — mp3 message
“The Ethics of the Kingdom of God” — mp3 message
“Preaching the Kingdom of God” — mp3 message

HT: JT

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