These two immensely distinguished writers show how the writings of the early church emerged from communities which defined themselves in Judaic terms even as they followed Jesus; how the early movement is best seen as `Christian Judaism'.
Judaism in the New Testament explains how the writings of the early church emerged from communities which defined themselves in Judaic terms even as they professed faith in Christ. These two extremely distinguished scholars introduce readers to the plurality of Judaisms of the period. They show, by examining a variety of texts, how the major figures of the New Testament reflect distinctly Judaic practices and beliefs.
This important study shows how the early movement centred on Jesus is best seen as `Christian Judaism'. Only with the Epistle to the Hebrews did the profile of a new and distinct Christian religion emerge.
'Such emphasis on community rather than individual religion, and on the pervasiveness of Jewish attitudes, is of great value.' - Church Times'An excellent volume by two very well respected scholars.' - Deborah Sawyer, Lancaster University, UK'Well written and compellingly argued, this book deserves a hearing within the Jewish-Christian dialogue.' - International Review of Biblical Studies'This is an important, well-conceived book ... the work lends itself to study and stimulating discussion by senior undergraduates as much as by senior academics.' - Markus Bockmuehl, Theological Book Review'This work is to be commended for providing important insights into the dynamics of early Christianity in relation to the Judaisms of the first century ... It has provided a fresh look at how we can read the New Testament in relation to the diverse Judaisms of the first century.' - Helen Fry, Reviews in Religion & Theology