A Beginner's Guide to New Testament Exegesis: Taking the Fear out of Critical Method
"Written in a conversational and witty style,A Beginner's Guide to New Testament Exegesisintroduces newcomers to the whole field of biblical interpretation, from the techniques of exegesis and the resources in support of it to broader issues of genre, style and analysis of New Testament texts, including a chapter on interpreting the book of Revelation. For me, Richard Erickson's greatest achievement is shifting the emphasis away from exegesis as a mechanical task to the formation of the mind and spirit of the person doing exegesis. He helps his readers become exegetes rather than simply do exegesis!" (Rev. James R. Edwards, Professor of Biblical Languages and Literature, and Chair, Department of Theology and Philosophy, Whitworth College)"Don't let the light-hearted humor and user-friendly approach of this book fool you! This is a superb introduction to the classic exegetical method that deserves to be ranked with the very best books on the subject. What separates this book from the others is its stunning clarity. Erickson, himself an experienced scholar-teacher-pastor-exegete, has the gift of making the intrinsically difficult readily accessible to the average person. Beneath the sugar-coating is an exceptional wisdom and maturity of judgment. In this book you will find all the requisite information, instructions, techniques, examples (and encouragement too!) that you need to put yourself on the road to becoming a responsible and reliable interpreter of Scripture." (Donald A. Hagner, George Eldon Ladd Professor of New Testament, Fuller Theological Seminary)"Richard Erickson entitles his bookA Beginner's Guide,but he's wrong on that: anyone who absorbs thisBeginner's Guidewill find that he or she will not begin with it but live with it, for it will shape the home that is built upon it. Here is a book to begin with and to live with--for your entire life." (Scot McKnight, Karl A. Olsson Professor in Religious Studies, North Park University)"Using a pastoral style, Erickson provides a thorough primer to New Testament exegesis that is seasoned with humor and anecdotes. Beginning students who are intimidated by the exegetical task will find this a welcome and engaging book." (Karen H. Jobes, Gerald F. Hawthorne Professor of New Testament Greek & Exegesis)"Having read Erickson'sBeginner's Guide,I am excited about this book. It is clear, concise, yet covers the bases. It is up to date with the most recent scholarship but retains its character as a guide for beginners. Its many examples increase both its clarity and student interest. This work makes Greek exegesis come alive, while guiding students away from its pitfalls. I predict that thisGuidewill not only be useful for students but also for teachers who wish to explain exegetical concepts more clearly. My one regret is that I have taught exegesis for thirty years without being able to put this tool into the hands of my students." (Peter Davids, Biblical Studies for the Good of the Church)"At last! A truly helpfulandrealistic book on how to do exegesis of the Greek New Testament! Richard Erickson is a skillful and sympathetic guide who has a knack for explaining the process and encouraging beginners to persevere through the necessary steps, methods and approaches required to do responsible exegesis. This is a first-rate book." (Dr. Larry R. Helyer, professor of biblical studies, Taylor University)