Interpretation: A Bible Commentary for Teaching and Preaching Isaiah: Chapters 1-39

by Christopher R. Seitz

Publisher:

John Knox

, 1993

Overview

This unique commentary allows the interpretation of Isaiah 1-39 to be guided by the final form of the whole book of Isaiah. It focuses on the theological aspects of Isaiah, giving special attention to the role of literary context. Christopher Seitz explores structural and organizational concerns as clues to the editorial intention of the final form of the material, which he argues is both intelligible and an intended result of the efforts of those who gave shape to the present form of the book. He speaks of the "presentation" of Isaiah (the way in which the prophet and his message have been shaped for posterity), and shows how many structural indications provide clues to interpretation. Seitz casts light upon the larger shape of the entire book of Isaiah.

Key Features

• Detailed introduction
• Bibliography

Contents

Top Highlights

“Chapter 6 establishes the prophet as cleansed and set apart from a nation of unclean lips. His guilt is taken away and his sin forgiven. As such he is free to step forward and respond when God calls—something the nation is forbidden. He can hear and see; they can do neither.” (Page 55)

“ Before we encounter a people who see a great light, we must first encounter a people thrust into thick darkness.” (Page 87)

“the New Testament, which cites Isaiah more than any other book in the Old Testament” (Page 1)

“Isaiah 6 is a prophetic commissioning within the framework of throne scene. The constituent elements of this type of call account include the description of the vision, cry of distress, cleansing ritual, divine consultation, free declaration of fitness for the task, and commissioning.” (Page 54)

“This is surely the other reason why the Book of Isaiah is so frequently cited in the New Testament: Isaiah is not just a prophet of salvation but a prophet who sees God’s salvation affecting all nations and peoples.” (Page 40)

Praise for the Print Edition

The Interpretation series from Westminster John Knox Press is clearly established as a rich source for teaching and preaching. They have tapped the talents of a varied and esteemed group of contributors, resulting in what is clearly the essential comprehensive commentary series on the Bible.

—W. Eugene March, A.B. Rhodes Professor of Old Testament Emeritus at Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary

The Interpretation series is an invaluable resource for any leader or scholar interested in interpreting the biblical text to the broader church. Its works are essential for pastors, educators, and church libraries.

—Brian K. Blount, President and Professor of New Testament at Union Theological Seminary

Product Details

• Title: Interpretation: A Bible Commentary for Teaching and Preaching Isaiah: Chapters 1-39
• Author: Christopher R. Seitz
• Publisher: John Knox Press
• Publication Date: 1993
• Pages: 271

About Christopher R. Seitz

Christopher R. Seitz is an ordained Episcopal Priest and has served parishes in Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Germany and Scotland. He is also the President of the Anglican Communion Institute and has been involved in recent work on behalf of Communion life. He is the editor of Studies in Theological Interpretation and is on the Advisory Board of the Scripture and Hermeneutics Consultation. He has supervised numerous PhD students and has published over a dozen books on the interpretation of Old and New Testaments, and in the area of theological hermeneutics. He will serve as Sunday evening preacher at St Matthew’s Anglican Church in the Riverdale area of Toronto.