New Studies in Biblical Theology
2 total works
Salvation to the Ends of the Earth
by Andreas J. Kostenberger and Peter T. O'Brien
Published 18 January 2001
New Studies in Biblical Theology Few biblical topics are as important as mission. Mission is inextricably linked to humanity's sinfulness and need for redemption, and to God's provision of salvation in the person and work of Jesus Christ. This 'good news' of salvation must, however, be made known. Thus, the saving mission of Jesus constitutes the foundation for Christian mission, and the Christian gospel is its message. For Andreas Kostenberger and Peter O'Brien this significant theme has rarely been given its due attention in biblical theology. Hence, they offer a comprehensive exploration of the theme through the entire sweep of biblical history, including the Old Testament, the Second Temple Period and the New Testament. Their motivation springs from a passion to see God's mission carried out in today's world.
Hebrews is one of the most attractive and powerful yet challenging books of the New Testament. It begins with a magnificent presentation of Jesus as the divine Son through whom God has spoken his final word (Heb. 1:1-4). These opening lines set the trajectory for the whole discourse.The polished literary character of Hebrews and its careful exposition of the superiority of Christ, the Son of God and great high priest, led earlier generations to conclude that it was mainly or simply a theological treatise. However, particularly in the last three decades, its purpose has been understood as hortatory; this is made clear by the exhortatory passages that flow from, and are grounded in, the expositions that appear throughout the discourse.Peter O'Brien's excellent, cohesive exposition of Hebrews examines the major interlocking themes highlighted by the author as he addresses his 'word of exhortation' (13:22) to the congregation. These themes include God speaking, Christology, salvation, the people of God, and warnings and encouragements.O
'Brien shows how Hebrews employs profoundly rich theology to serve the didactic, hortatory and pastoral goals of urging the hearers to endure in their pursuit of the promised reward, in obedience to the word of God, and especially on the basis of their new covenant relationship with the Son.
'Brien shows how Hebrews employs profoundly rich theology to serve the didactic, hortatory and pastoral goals of urging the hearers to endure in their pursuit of the promised reward, in obedience to the word of God, and especially on the basis of their new covenant relationship with the Son.