A Body You Have Prepared For Me: The Spirituality of the Letter to the Hebrews
Prof. McCruden's careful reading of Hebrews yields a persuasive religious interpretation of the letter that is both constrained and richly informed by historical criticism. 'Spirituality,' defined as the intersection of the transcendent with the concrete circumstances of the letter's readers, finds its focus in Christ not merely because he is 'God with us' but primarily because Jesus' path to perfection includes his earthly life of obedience, suffering, and death, as well as his exaltation to the transcendent heavenly sanctuary. Thus, the spirituality of Hebrews, understood in corporate terms, depends on the paradigmatic and exemplary role of Jesus and is meant to guide his followers in their present journey along the path to the transcendent goal Jesus has already attained.--Rowan A. Greer, Professor Emeritus, Yale Divinity SchoolKevin B. McCruden brings a scholarly mind and a pastoral heart to this volume. The result is an accessible, engaging exposition of the theological message of the Epistle to the Hebrews that is grounded in an expert's understanding of the text and its ancient setting. McCruden especially shines when addressing the epistle's discussion of suffering.--Eric F. Mason, Professor of Biblical Studies, Judson UniversityMany scholars have examined the theology of Hebrews, but Kevin McCruden has done what few have attempted. He has teased out the spirituality of one of the most engaging books of the New Testament. Clearly written and always in conversation with the best of contemporary scholarship, McCruden's study challenges scholars to view Hebrews from a new vantage point. Most important, by bridging the gap between theology and spirituality, this work provides all of us with an engaging way to understand our lives as Christians today.--Frank J. Matera, Pastor, St. Mary's Church, Simsbury, Connecticut, Author,The Sermon on the Mount