1 & 2 Peter and Jude: A Theological Commentary on the Bible (Belief: A Theological Commentary on the Bible) - Hardcover

"Belief is extraordinary, inspiring, innovative, and passionate in its vision. An excellent resource for preaching the love of God." Andrew Sung Park, United Theological Seminary, Dayton, Ohio "Church leaders will delight in a ready supply of biblical resources that engage seriously with the history of interpretation and contemporary theological reflection." Philip W. Butin, copastor, First United Presbyterian Church, Fayetteville, Arkansas "A new engagement between biblical texts and constructive theology. Expect fresh textual reading from an informed theological perspective." Walter Brueggemann, Professor Emeritus, Columbia Theological Seminary "An impressive variety of theological voices all asking what the upshot of the biblical texts is for pressing theological issues in our day." David Kelsey, Professor Emeritus, Yale Divinity School

Theologian and church historian Catherine Gunsalus Gonzalez studies three often overlooked books in the New Testament, 1 and 2 Peter and the Letter of Jude. These writings from the late first century or early second century helped guide the young church as it faced a variety of issues, both internal to the church's life, and external in the social and political culture in which it was growing. The letters help us focus on the character of the church and the importance of congregations in the church's ongoing life. They raise basic issues of authority, on how the church knows the directions to follow, how Christians should live, and how diverse views should be considered. Gonzalez uses a variety of resources to illuminate these letters. She very helpfully centers on their theological importance for contemporary churches and for Christian living.