The Apocrypha: The Lutheran Edition with Notes

by Edward A. Engelbrecht

Publisher:

Concordia Publishing House

, 2012

Overview

For more than one hundred years, the Apocrypha has been left out of English versions of the Bible. Described by Martin Luther as useful texts to read, but not divinely inspired, the Apocrypha allows Lutherans to look back at their heritage and see the Bible as our forefathers would have. Furthermore, the texts of the Apocrypha are essential reading for filling in the 400-year gap between the Old and New Testaments. A key resource for understanding the New Testament’s background, this edition of the Apocrypha includes notes, maps, charts, illustrations, introductions to the books, and an extensive set of articles that provide guidance to those who are studying ancient literature such as the Dead Sea Scrolls. This study-Bible-style treatment of the Apocrypha is certain to be the most extensive, popular edition available; especially to those eager to study the unique Lutheran perspective on these books and the time between the testaments.

In the Logos edition, The Apocrypha: The Lutheran Edition with Notes is fully integrated with your digital library resources. Verses link to your original language texts, preferred translations, and commentaries, enabling you to perform comprehensive word studies and enhancing your research.

Key Features

• Lutheran notes
• Numerous maps, charts, illustrations, book introductions, and articles

Praise for the Print Edition

The introductions are superbly well written and engaging. One can see how the Apocrypha . . . bridges the ‘Old’ Testament with the ‘New’ Testament. Highly recommended, as Athanasius said in 367 ‘for instruction in the word of godliness.’

—James H. Charlesworth, George L. Collord Professor of New Testament Language and Literature, Princeton University

One of the most ambitious projects dealing with the Apocrypha ever undertaken. . . . it is also replete with scholarly notes and commentary to assist the reader—lay or professional—in every way possible.

—From the foreword by Rev. Paul L. Maier, The Russell H. Seibert Professor of Ancient History, Western Michigan University

This book provides a well-balanced blend of sound scholarship and religious beliefs on the Apocrypha, especially those of Luther and the Lutherans. The reader will find all the necessary background information on the Apocrypha in an attractive presentation, as well as religious guidance for instruction and preaching. A wealth of introductory essays and appendixes make this a very useful compendium.

—Emanuel Tov, J. L. Magnes Professor of Bible, Hebrew University

The introduction includes explanation of what the books of the Apocrypha are, what their value is, and a concise overview of history from Persian rule to Roman rule. Next come judicious commentaries on the several books of the Apocrypha, followed by 10 appendices that provide readers with additional related information concerning such things as the Dead Sea Scrolls, the writings of Josephus, rabbinic literature, and New Testament Apocrypha and Pseudepigrapha. What a treasure trove! This marvelous commentary belongs in the study of every student and scholar of the Bible.

—Craig A. Evans, Payzant Distinguished Professor of New Testament, Acadia Divinity College

An outstanding work of scholarship that provides a welcome service to Lutherans and, indeed, to Christians of other traditions interested in reading and studying these fascinating and often entertaining writings, which the great Luther himself deemed ‘useful and good to read.’ A thoughtfully edited and attractively produced volume, it includes many unique features and has the fullest annotations of any comparable study edition. In all, this is a monumental achievement and valuable resource for scholars, students, and lay people alike.

—Daniel C. Harlow, Professor of Religion, Calvin College

Product Details

• Title: The Apocrypha: The Lutheran Edition with Notes
• Editor: Edward A. Engelbrecht
• Publisher: Concordia Publishing House
• Publication Date: 2012
• Pages: 520

About Edward A. Engelbrecht

Edward A. Engelbrecht is a senior editor of Bible resources at Concordia Publishing House.