Interpretation: A Bible Commentary for Teaching and Preaching Luke

by Fred B. Craddock

Publisher:

John Knox

, 1990

Overview

Using Luke's own prologue as the guideline for this commentary, Fred B. Craddock calls attention to the continuities between Jesus and his heritage in Judaism and the church after him. Evidence is provided by the frequency of echoes from the Old Testament and by Luke's clear assumption that the reader is familiar with the book of Acts.

While attending to the text of Luke, Craddock provides an awareness of other sources about Jesus. He includes thoughts from other researchers into this Gospel and, since Luke is an "orderly account," gives special attention to the sequence of the narrative. Like Luke, Craddock assumes the reader is not only a believer but also a leader in the community of faith.

Key Features

• Detailed introduction
• Bibliography

Contents

Top Highlights

“There is a condition worse than death, to be lost; there is a condition better than life, to be found.” (Page 187)

“What God has done for Mary anticipates and models what God will do for the poor, the powerless, and the oppressed of the world, the central theme of the second movement of the song, the triumph of God’s purposes for all people everywhere (vv. 50–55).” (Page 29)

“Faith does not usually move from promise to fulfillment but from fulfillment to promise. Remembering is often the activating of the power of recognition.” (Page 283)

“If we censure Martha too harshly, she may abandon serving altogether, and if we commend Mary too profusely, she may sit there forever. There is a time to go and do; there is a time to listen and reflect. Knowing which and when is a matter of spiritual discernment. If we were to ask Jesus which example applies to us, the Samaritan or Mary, his answer would probably be Yes.” (Page 152)

“However, we must be careful to notice that none of her qualities is offered as the reason God chose her; that reason lies tucked away in the purposes of God.” (Page 28)

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 Luke
• Author: Fred B. Craddock
• Publisher: John Knox Press
• Publication Date: 1990
• Pages: 298

About Fred B. Craddock

Fred B. Craddock is Emeritus Bandy Distinguished Professor of Preaching and New Testament at Candler School of Theology. He is the author of numerous books, including two volumes in the Interpretation series: Luke and Philippians.