Customer Reviews

Introduction to the New Testament

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This book is unmatched for its wealth of information in a concise format. It is not a "popular" narrative, but a reference work that provides an excellent summary of the best research on the New Testament. It examines each book from the perspectives of content, literary character, theology, date written, and author. Kuemmel (following his predecessors, Feine and Behm) briefly notes the significant conclusions drawn by previous scholars, drawing together a synthesis of their thought (or indicating who has had the better argument when they cannot be reconciled). The briefly stated conclusions are generally clear, and the citations allow the reader to pursue any further research.

Kummel's work is vast in scope, deep in research and precise in detail. While this book is not as readable as other NT intros, its intent is more to be used as a reference than a cover-to-cover read. Kummel's method is thorough--he presents the major schools of thought among scholars on a given topic, then offers his own view. It is notable that Kummel holds several opinions that go against the majority view on several issues (e.g., that Acts wasn't written by a companion of Paul and thus not by Luke the physician). Whether he agrees with the leading opinions or not, he formulates his arguments meticulously. This is a great resource for the serious NT student. Highly recommended.

Often cited, liberal, comprehensive, no-nonsense New Testament Introduction. It's a must have, and if they don't reprint it, get it while supplies last! It's hard to follow the argument at times and you will need either a decent NT Greek reading ability or an interlinear. If you are sick of apologetics when you turn to books in your library and want to read something honest crack this one open.