Overview
This commentary on Matthew offers a unique interpretive approach that focuses on the socio-historical context of the gospel and the nature of Matthew’s exhortation to his first-century Christian audience. By merging a careful study of Matthew’s gospel in relation to the social context of the ancient Mediterranean world with a detailed look at what we know of first-century Jewish-Christian relations, Craig Keener uncovers significant insights into the gospel not found in any other Matthew commentary. In addition, Keener’s commentary is a useful discipleship manual for the church. His approach recaptures the full “shock effect” of Jesus’ teachings in their original context and allows Matthew to make his point with greater narrative artistry. Keener also brings home the total impact of Matthew’s message, including its clear portrait of Jesus and its call for discipleship, both to the gospel’s ancient readers and to believers today. Thoroughly researched, the book includes a 150-page bibliography of secondary sources, and more than 150 pages of indexes.
Offering verse-by-verse commentary, this 1,090 page commentary is fantastic addition to the Socio-Rhetorical Commentary Series (8 Vols.) already available in Logos, perfect for scholars, students, and laity. With our digital format, you can link your favorite Bible to The Gospel of Matthew for ease of scrolling, and running a Passage Guide search will provide results from Keener's work.
Key Features
- Over 1,000 pages of verse-by-verse commentary on the gospel of Matthew
- Highly accessible yet academic writing style, perfect for pastors, students, professors, and laity
- Over 300 pages of indexes and bibliographies
Praise for the Print Edition
As a lay person studying my way through the New Testament, I have tried to seek out scholars who combine reverence and appreciation for the text with new insights and applications. Professor Craig Keener of Eastern Seminary is one of those gifted writers. This is a unique commentary; the stated purpose is to combine a social-historical study of Matthew with evaluations of the nature of Matthew's teaching to his intended audience. The end result is a rich tapestry that thoroughly grounds Matthew's gospel in the Old Testament yet shows how uniquely Jesus reinterpreted the scriptures to present Himself as the revelation of God.
—Online Reviewer
Keener's is one of the very few commentaries written in the past half century that makes enjoyable reading both for students and pastors and for at least some interested lay readers. Though his stance is in some sense evangelical, his enlightening engagement with Jewish sources and thinking is more compelling and convincing than any other current commentary. Rarely has such erudition been worn so comfortably and unobtrusively. Very highly recommended!
—Online Reviewer
Product Details
- Title: The Gospel of Matthew: A Socio-Rhetorical Commentary
- Author: Craig S. Keener
- Publisher: William B. Eerdmans Publishing Co.
- Publication Date: 2009
- Pages: 1,090
About Craig S. Keener
Widely known for his studies in the New Testament, Craig S. Keener, Ph.D., is a theologian, biblical scholar, and prolific author. Some of his other works include A Commentary on the Gospel of Matthew, The Gospel of John: A Commentary (2 Vols.), The Historical Jesus of the Gospels, and Gift & Giver: The Holy Spirit for Today. Keener is Professor of New Testament at Palmer Theological Seminary and an associate minister at Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church.