A Concise Guide to Reading the New Testament: A Canonical Introduction

The New Testament came together, and comes to us, not as a randomly sorted set of individual books but as a definitely shaped and ordered whole. In this concise, theological introduction to the New Testament, David Nienhuis sheds light on the interpretive significance of the canon's structure and sequence. Nienhuis argues that the New Testament is deliberately formed in such a way that its presentation of God's work in Christ teaches what it means to be formed into God's people. Providing an essential overview often missing from New Testament books and courses, it will serve as an accessible supplement to any New Testament or Bible introduction textbook.
Contents
1. Introduction: The Form and Function of the New Testament Canon
Following the Way of the Word
2. The Gospel according to Matthew: The Call to Discipleship
"Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me."
3. The Gospel according to Mark: The Cost of Discipleship
"Take up your cross and follow me."
4. The Gospel according to Luke: The Scope of Discipleship
"The kingdom of God is among you."
5. The Gospel according to John: The Center of Discipleship
"I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself."
6. The Acts of the Apostles: The Community of Discipleship
"In the last days it will be... that I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh."
7. The Letters of Paul: The Pattern of Discipleship
"I have been crucified with Christ;and it is no longer I who live, but it is Christ who lives in me."
8. The Catholic Epistles: The Tradition of Discipleship
"Whoever says 'I abide in him' ought to walk just as he walked."
9. The Revelation to John: The Conquering Disciple
"These follow the Lamb wherever he goes."
Glossary
Suggestions for Further Reading
Indexes