Theology in Language, Rhetoric, and Beyond

This book seeks to place before a broad audience of students and general readers theological essays on both the Old and New Testaments. Theology is seen to derive from a number of sources: the biblical language, biblical rhetoric and composition, academic disciplines other than philosophy, and above all a careful exegesis of the biblical text. The essay on Psalm 23 makes use of anthropology and human-development theory; the essay on Deuteronomy incorporates Wisdom themes; the essay called ""Jeremiah and the Created Order"" looks at ideas not only about God and creation but also about the seldom-considered idea of God and a return to chaos; the essay on the ""Confessions of Jeremiah"" examines, not words this extraordinary prophet was given by God to preach, but what he himself felt and experienced in the office to which he was called. Other essays argue that theology is rooted in biblical words--in and of themselves, and in context--and in rhetoric, where the latter must also include composition. One essay on ""Biblical and Theological Themes"" includes a translation into the African language of Lingala. ""Those who know Jack Lundbom as a first-rank commentator and exegete will be delighted with this selection of his essays, which range from technical studies of key Old Testament terms of theological importance to reflections on themes across the two Testaments to imaginative readings of familiar texts, such as Psalm 23 and John 20 (against the background of Song of Songs), to personal and pastoral perspectives that are rich and heart-warming and eminently readable. Theology in Language, Rhetoric, and Beyond . . . would be a not inappropriate title for these splendid essays on biblical theology living and applied."" --Robert P. Gordon, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK ""Professor Lundbom provides a rich resource for scholars, pastors, and others who seek first-rate scholarship on several critical concepts and themes of Scripture. The essays are brief and clear, reflecting the best of contemporary studies in Hebrew Scripture. Whether exploring the meaning of grace, forgiveness, or God's wrath, these essays are a must for the serious student of the Bible. Of particular note is the way in which Lundbom weaves together the story of early Christianity with the more recent founding of churches in Africa and Asia. A working teacher or preacher should have this resource at hand."" --Philip A. Amerson, Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary, Evanston, IL Jack R. Lundbom has most recently been Distinguished Visiting Scholar at Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary in Evanston, Illinois. He has written a number of books, including the three-volume Jeremiah in the Anchor Bible commentary series (1999, 2004). He has also authored a commentary on Deuteronomy (2013) and Writing Up Jeremiah: The Prophet and the Book (Cascade, 2013).