The Gospel According to Matthew - by Matthias Konradt (Hardcover)

About the Book

Taking into account a broad sweep of scholarly approaches to this text, Konradt provides a clear outline of the Gospel by tracing the shape of Matthew's masterful narrative dynamics and the evangelist's careful unfolding of theological doctrine.

Book Synopsis

Perhaps the most important discovery in the long history of research on the Gospel of Matthew is that the book represents a self-contained literary whole as it participates in a vibrant intertextual network. Scripture illuminates the gospel story at every step, from the appearance of Jesus to the resistance of the authorities who oppose him. The famed intertextuality of Matthew, when considered alongside the social contexts in which the Matthean community lived, helps us recognize the strategy of this Gospel: the constant references to the scriptural text should assure those addressed that Christ-faithful communities are the true guardians of the theological traditions of Israel.

The Gospel according to Matthew provides a comprehensive interpretation of the Gospel of Matthew that draws on the best of modern research. Along with an analysis of the narrative structure, Matthias Konradt discusses the dense network of references to the Scriptures of Israel as well as the historical situation in which the Gospel was composed, namely the conflict between believers in Christ and the predominantly Pharisaic synagogue. Konradt focuses on theological topics such as the narrative unfolding of Jesus' messianic identity as Immanuel, Son of God, and Son of David; Matthew's understanding of discipleship and the church; the role of Israel and the Gentiles; and ethical orientation with its relationship to the Torah.

From the richness of Matthew's theological reflection emerges the challenging question of the Gospel's meaning and relevance for today. Modern scholarship has correctly emphasized that Matthew is an inclusive history--it tells the story of the past in a way that reflects and speaks to the experiences of the community. Taking into account a broad sweep of scholarly approaches to this text, Konradt provides a clear outline of the Gospel by tracing the shape of Matthew's masterful narrative dynamics and the evangelist's careful unfolding of theological doctrine.

Review Quotes

In all, Konradt's work is characteristically insightful, and the translation is clear and accessible. This is a valuable resource that will be widely used thanks to Baylor's efforts to bring it to an English-reading audience.

--Daniel M. Gurtner "Religious Studies Review"

On the whole, the commentary is erudite, astute, and sensible. To have Professor Konradt's thinking on the Gospel of Matthew condensed in commentary form--and in addition to that, in accessible English-- is highly welcome and makes the commentary useful not only to academics but also for a broader audience, including clergy. This is a commentary that deserves its place on the shelf next to the works of Davies and Allison and Luz.

--Tobias Ålöw "Review of Biblical Literature"

I would recommend this commentary for a postgraduate seminar on Matthew's Gospel or for a pastor who needs to see how the 'trees fit into the forest.' Scholar and student alike will benefit from K.'s close reading of the text.Charles Nathan Ridlehoover

--Charles Nathan Ridlehoover "Catholic Biblical Quarterly"

Due to its excellent expertise, The Gospel according to Matthew by Matthias Konradt presents a work based on the highest level that classifies, comments, and exegetes the texts so that readers get a coherent overall picture of this fascinating typeface of the fist century AD. Konradt's commentary is an excellent instrument for understanding of Matthew. It's is easy to read and has brilliant knowledge--not only impressions within the text, but also within early Jewish literature. The commentary in NTD format is also particularly suitable for use in teaching and adult education, as it is an easy to read and structured.

--Prof. Dr. Uta Poplutz Bergische, Faculty of Humanities and Cultural Studies, University of Wuppertal "Biblische Zeitschrift"

About the Author

Matthias Konradt is Professor of New Testament at the Ruprecht-Karls University of Heidelberg.

M. Eugene Boring is I. Wylie and Elizabeth M. Briscoe Professor of New Testament at Brite Divinity School at Texas Christian University.