The Drama of Ephesians: Participating in the Triumph of God
"The canon of Scripture is not merely a collection of ancient texts that provide an authoritative account of the past actions of God in the world. It is also the instrument through which the Spirit speaks to the church in the present and shapes its witness in the midst of the contemporary setting. In this marvelous theological and cultural encounter with Ephesians, Tim Gombis provides a powerful reading of the epistle that helps us to discern the voice of the Spirit and participate more faithfully in the mission of God. Read, listen and be transformed by the living and active Word of God." (John R. Franke, Clemens Professor of Missional Theology, Biblical Seminary)"Timothy Gombis has written an eloquent and compelling engagement with Ephesians as an invitation to participate in God's subversive, dramatic rescue mission: to redeem a broken world through Christ and his cross-shaped church. It is a model of theological and missional interpretation of Scripture, and those who read it will see Ephesians--and themselves--in a whole new light." (Michael J. Gorman, St. Mary's Seminary and University, author of Cruciformity: Paul's Narrative Spirituality of the Cross)"Tim Gombis knows Ephesians from the inside out, from what Paul meant in his world to what Paul means now--in our world, at the most mundane of levels. Gombis writes both as professor and pastor, as one who thinks clearly and one who applies thoroughly.The Drama of Ephesiansblew strong winds on flickering flames in my own thought, and I hope it does the same for you. Pay attention to Tim Gombis, because he's a professor who knows the church is his community's center." (Scot McKnight, Karl A. Olsson Professor in Religious Studies, North Park University)"Exposing the undergirding narrative of Ephesians, Tim Gombis'sThe Drama of Ephesiansbrings the text alive in fresh and stimulating ways. Combining interpretive sagacity and theological acumen, Gombis demonstrates how Ephesians challenges Jesus followers to adopt a new understanding of their place within the drama of God's triumph and of their responsibilities within the world." (Bruce W. Longenecker, W. W. Melton Chair of Religion, Baylor University)