Theodicy And Hope In The Book Of The Twelve

This volume explores the themes of theodicy and hope in both individual portions of the Twelve (books and sub-sections) and in the Book of the Twelve as a whole, as the contributors use a diversity of approaches to the text(s) with a particular interest in synchronic perspectives. While these essays regularly engage the mostly redactional scholarship surrounding the Book of Twelve, there is also an examination of various forms of literary analysis of final text forms, and engagement in descriptions of the thematic and theological perspectives of the individual books and of the collection as a whole. The synchronic work in these essays is thus in regular conversation with diachronic research, and as a general rule they take various conclusions of redactional research as a point of departure. The specific themes, theodicy and hope, are key ideas that have provided the opportunity for contributors to explore individual books or sub-sections within the Twelve, and the overarching development (in both historical and literary terms) and deployment of these themes in the collection.

This book provides a concise guide to the group of biblical books commonly called "The Book of the Twelve Prophets" or simply "The Twelve" (also know as "the Minor Prophets"). In the past twenty years, scholars have explored how reading this set of books as a unified "Book of the Twelve" creates new avenues for understanding and depth. This Cascade Companion introduces the key questions, themes, and topics related to the Twelve in an accessible way. Starting with a discussion of why scholars call these books "The Twelve," the book explores the major themes that orient the Twelve. The book addresses recent topics impacting the Twelve, including the relationship between wisdom literature and the Twelve, the rise of linguistic and literary approaches, and the impact of editorial theories in the study of the Twelve. As such, this book allows readers to learn what gives the Twelve its unique shape and flavor.

The good news from the Minor Prophets is that, even in dire times, God speaks. While the Minor Prophets are among the most succinct books of the Old Testament, their theological richness has much to offer us today. And not only did they have something to say to their original audience, but God continues to speak through their words in ways that are of utmost importance for the continued flourishing of God's people. In this unique introduction to the Minor Prophets, biblical scholars Craig Bartholomew and Heath Thomas survey the twelve books and explore the theological themes of each. Filled with helpful exegetical insights, this book is an invaluable guide for students, pastors, and scholars looking for a cohesive exploration of these often-overlooked books of the Hebrew Bible. More than a survey of the text, each chapter offers theological insights that help frame the message of the Minor Prophets for preaching and living in our world today. This introduction contextualizes the Minor Prophets within a larger biblical-theological framework, illuminating these twelve books as masterful works of literature that address the realities of human life with unblinking honesty and uncompromising hope.

The books of Nahum, Habakkuk, and Zephaniah address problems in and around ancient Judah in ways that are as incisive and critical as they are optimistic and constructive. Daniel C. Timmer's The Theology of the Books of Nahum, Habakkuk, and Zephaniah situates these books in their social and political contexts, examining the unique theology of each as it engages thorny problems in Judah and beyond. In dialogue with recent scholarship, this study focuses on these books' analysis and evaluation of the world as it is, focusing on both human beings and their actions, and God's commitment to purify, restore, and perfect the world. Timmer also surveys these books' later theological use and cultural reception. His study brings their theology into dialogue with concerns as varied as ecology, nationalism, and widespread injustice. It highlights the enduring significance of divine justice and grace for solid hope and effective service in our world.

This much-needed volume provides a comprehensive study of wisdom in the Hebrew Bible, in selected intertestamental and Rabbinic texts, and in the New Testament. Seventeen essays by leading scholars--including Joseph Blenkinsopp, Carole R. Fontaine. Michael V. Fox, Richard Horsley, David Winston, and Tina Pippin--help students identify and understand the presence of wisdom in the Bible and related literature.

In this 1710 treatise, Gottfried Liebniz's only book-length work, he applies the idea of philosophical "optimism"-that we live in the best of all possible worlds-to the "problem of evil"-If a benevolent God exists, why do terrible things happen? He explores the possibility that humanity's happiness is not necessarily part of God's plan. Much of Leibniz's thinking in the realm of the sciences flowed from his philosophy-he believed the universe to operate under simple, intelligible, interconnected rules. Understanding how he approached the metaphysical world and humanity's place in it is vital to understanding his contributions to modern science. The impact of the work of German mathematician GOTTFRIED WILHELM LEIBNIZ (1646-1716) on modern science and technology is all but incalculable. His notation for infinitesimal calculus-which he developed independently of Newton-remains in use today, and his invention of binary counting is the basis for modern computing. He was a powerfully influential philosopher as well, and is still considered, alongside Descartes and Spinoza, one of the great 17th-century rationalists.

In this Spectrum Multiview volume five experts in biblical hermeneutics gather to state and defend their approach to the discipline. Contributors include: Craig Blomberg with the historical-critical/grammatical approach Richard Gaffin with the redemptive-historical approach Scott Spencer with the literary/postmodern approach Robert Wall with the canonical approach Merold Westphal with the philosophical/theological approach Spectrum Multiview Books offer a range of viewpoints on contested topics within Christianity, giving contributors the opportunity to present their position and also respond to others in this dynamic publishing format.

This extraordinary work explains how the writer of the book of Habakkuk resolves the issue of theodicy. Reading the book as a literary whole, Grace Ko uses a holistic, synchronic approach to investigate how its writer presents his case, and how he reaches the final resolution of his problem. Since theodicy is a common human issue raised during atrocity, Habakkuk's experience becomes a source of hope and resolute faith for the believing community in the midst of severe adversity. COMMENDATION "Theodicy in Habakkuk is a welcome addition to the interpretation of the prophetic message of Habakkuk. This sensible, clearly written book deserves the attention of all serious Old Testament scholars and students." - J. Glen Taylor, Wycliffe College, University of Toronto, Canada