Reading Hebrews and James: A Literary and Theological Commentary (Reading the New Testament)
Overview
Marie Isaacs’ commentary offers a clear path through the unique and often divisive content. She expertly considers questions of authorship and historical context while also making both Hebrews and James undeniably relevant for today's faith.
Top Highlights
“The link in the chain is interrupted by an imperative, ‘Let steadfastness (hypomonē) have its full effect (teleion).’ This suggests that suffering does not automatically have beneficial side-effects. Of itself it need have no positive outcome; what matters is how it is used, and that is all dependent upon the response of the sufferer.” (Pages 181–182)
“In Palestine and Syria, seventy-five per cent of the rainfall occurs between December and February. Yet it is the early rains of October/November and the late rains of April/May which are the most crucial; the former, since they coincide with the sowing period, and the latter, since they come at a vital stage in the crop’s development.” (Page 239)
“Once again we have a pattern of an admonition (v. 13a), a basis/reason (vv. 13b–15), and an assurance (vv. 16–19a).” (Page 187)
“Rather, this deals with the problem of the source of temptation in general.” (Page 187)
“For James, the educative outcome of life’s trials is that they should produce a person who is whole, mature (see 3:2; cf. 1 Cor 14:20; Eph 4:13; Heb 5:14), and complete (cf. 1 Cor 13:10), as God intended.” (Page 182)
Marie E. Isaacs provides valuable and original readings of Hebrews and James that reveal the historical, literary, and religious contexts and messages of the books. Especially productive is her suggestion that Hebrews is written to Jewish Christians who had continued to worship in the Temple in Jerusalem and who were devastated by the destruction of the Temple in 70 C.E.
—Edgar V. McKnight, Research Professor, William R. Kenan, Jr., Professor Emeritus of Religion, Furman University
Brief yet insightful, cautious yet judicious in weighing alternative interpretations, Marie Isaacs leads Christian interpreters to a fresh appreciation for two of the most enigmatic books of the New Testament. Hebrews and James are as vital for Christian instruction today as ever before. Students, pastors, and Bible study groups will find here an engaging guide for further, focused study of these letters.
—Alan Culpepper, Dean, McAfee School of Theology
- Title: Reading Hebrews and James
- Author: Marie E. Isaacs
- Series: Reading the New Testament Commentary Series
- Publisher: Smyth & Helwys
- Publication Date: 2002
- Pages: 259
