Colossians

by Markus Barth, Helmut Blanke, Astrid B. Beck (Translator)

Overview

The Apostle Paul's epistle to the Colossians provides an intimate glimpse into the life of a first century Christian community as it struggled to define Christian theology and practice. Paul was prompted to address this fledgling Christian assembly when he heard that "false teachers" had joined its midst and were promulgating heretical and threateningtheories. His impassioned letter to the Colossians urges them to embrace a life in Christ and proclaims Christ as master of all of creation. In their astute commentary, New Testament sch Markus Barth and Helmut Blanke recreate the of first century Christians, and examine the multitude of outside influences--from cold, rational Hellenistic philosophy to exclusive, ethereal Gnostic thought--that often threatened Christian theology. "Colossians" not only provides a new and carefully balanced analysis of this pivotal New Testament text, but also traces the development of early Christian thought as it gradually spread throughout the Roman Empire. Detailed enough for any scholar, "Colossians" is designed for general readers. Anyone who wants to enter the dynamic world of early Christianity and witness the shaping of the faith from its very roots will benefit from this remarkable work.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780300139877
Publisher:	Yale University Press
Publication date:	03/07/2005
Series:	Anchor Yale Bible Commentary Series
Pages:	580
Product dimensions:	6.00(w) x 9.00(h) x 1.60(d)

About the Author

The late Markus Barth held a chair in New Testament studies at the University of Basel in Switzerland. He was the son of the great theologian Karl Barth.

Helmut Blanke was a student of Markus Barth’s and earned his Th.D. at the University of Basel.

Editorial Reviews

New Testament scholars Barth and Blanke examine the influences from Pagan and Mystery cults, Hellenistic philosophy, and Gnostic thought, that often threatened Christianity in its infancy. They analyze the Apostle Paul's letter to the Colossians, and chronicle the development of Christian thought as it infiltrated the Roman Empire. Includes bibliographies of resources on biblical texts, commentaries, and literature, and numerous indices of scriptural references, premodern sources, modern authors, and foreign words. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Booknews