Kirjahaku

In this book, Morris A. Inch probes the relevance of chaos theory for theological studies. The author first studies chaos in the context of Biblical theology, providing a survey of the Biblical narrative that touches on both the Old and the New Testaments. He proceeds with a more systematic approach, offering two representative studies concerning mankind and the Holy Spirit. In the third and final section, Inch delves into subsequent historical developments by means of a study of Augustine's 'The City of God.'

In Christ & On Track is a definitive study of the signature Pauline expression "in Christ" within its historical and literary contexts. The expression itself or its equivalence appears about 165 times in the pertinent correspondence, and provides the focus for the apostle's life and teaching. As such, the significance of this phrase for Pauline studies is of great importance. Since the Pauline correspondence provides the major component in the New Testament corpus, this study has invaluable implications for New Testament theology and New Testament studies as a whole. The study is a representative of the apostolic tradition, and serves as a corrective against deviant theological posturing—as illustrated by the Gnostic movement. With a wide range of topics addressed such as: Paul As Paradigm; Christ of Faith; and Jesus of History, Professor Inch's in-depth analysis makes a significant contribution to the innumerable Pauline studies.

The Wonder of It All: Mystery and Meaning of Scripture explores the idea that error often appears as pairs of opposites. In this regard, we either minimize the persisting mystery or apparent meaning of Scripture. With this in mind, the present text is an attempt to cultivate a needed balance. Mystery first invites our attention. Paul observes, "We speak of God's secret wisdom, a wisdom that has been hidden and that God destined for our glory before time began" (1 Cor. 2:7). In the singular, "the term 'mystery' ordinarily refers to something formerly hidden in God and from all human eyes but now revealed in history through Christ and made understandable to his people through the Spirit." As such, mystery is primarily associated with God and his initiatives. We next turn our attention from mystery to meaning, taking a common sense approach to biblical interpretation. This is by way of exploring the implications of inspiration, the significance of salvation history, literary genre, context, general hermeneutics, and ethical implications. We conclude with two case studies concerning Genesis and Luke/Acts.

This volume contains two closely related studies: Echoes of the Shema and Our Father’s Footprints. The term Shema is derived from the initial word to hear in the Old Testament: “Hear O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one” (Deut. 6:4). Hence, God is deserving of ardent adoration and unqualified commitment. Morris A. Inch discusses God as Spirit, Light, and Love and also touches on divine holiness, grace, and compassion. The second study picks up with Jesus’ allusion to God as our Father (Matt. 6:9). While this reference is primarily related to his authority, Jesus pointedly ties in his benevolent character. In this regard, he exclaims: “If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father give good gifts to those who ask him!” (Matt. 7:11). This quotation invites us to reflect on such associated themes as God’s faithfulness, generosity, resolve, forgiveness, and creativity. Echoes of the Shema and Our Father’s Footprints will be a useful text for those interested in exploring the inviting realm of biblical theology.