'This book is not just a very good introduction to Luke-Acts, it is the best kind of introduction to the study of the New Testament. Shillington has an engaging style and is an excellent pedagogue, showing the student how the different methodologies employed today operate in practice. There is no better site for such a demonstration than the Lukan writings, read in both their ancient historical and literary settings and contemporary contexts of post-colonial and feminist hermeneutics. In eight highly illuminating chapters the author covers the whole range of disciplines required for the critical study of the New Testament, and has put many students and teachers in his debt with his lucid presentation of the issues involved.' Sean Freyne--Sanford Lakoff
The aim of this study is to introduce readers to the text, texture and context of Luke-Acts by using various approaches currently practiced by biblical scholars. Shillington outlines the methods of biblical interpretation and then shows how they might be applied to the texts in question.
Through historical criticism Shillington looks at and explains questions of authorship, the time and setting of the composition, sources and historical background. Taking a social-science approach he examines the society and culture of the time. Literary readings include narrative, socio-rhetorical, and audience-response approaches, while theological reading asks how the literary texture and themes of Luke-Acts shape the convictions of Christian communities, past and present. Lastly, Shillington looks at postcolonial and feminist criticism and how they have changed our understanding of these books.
In each case, analysis of key texts in Luke-Acts comes to the forefront. Each chapter concludes with a list of further relevant resources, and pertinent review questions. The text is accompanied by charts and diagrams to illustrate key points of language and structure.