The volumes in Belief: A Theological Commentary on the Bible from Westminster John Knox Press offer a fresh and invigorating approach to all the books of the Bible. Building on a wide range of sources from biblical studies and the Christian tradition, noted scholars focus less on traditional historical and literary angles in favor of a theologically focused commentary that considers the contemporary relevance of the texts. This series is an invaluable resource for those who want to probe beyond the backgrounds and words of biblical texts to their deep theological meanings for the church today.
Theologian and church historian Catherine Gunsalus González studies three often overlooked books in the New Testament, 1 and 2 Peter and the Letter of Jude. These writings from the late first century or early second century helped guide the young church as it faced a variety of issues, both internal to the church’s life and external in the social and political culture in which it was growing. The letters help us focus on the character of the church and the importance of congregations in the church’s ongoing life. They raise basic issues of authority for how the church knows the directions to follow, how Christians should live, and how diverse views should be considered. González uses a variety of resources to illuminate these letters. She very helpfully centers on their theological importance for contemporary churches and for Christian living.
Catherine Gunsalus Gonz�lez is Professor Emerita of Church History at Columbia Theological Seminary. She is an ordained minister of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) and is the author of books on the history of preaching and worship.