The Book of Acts as Story – A Narrative–Critical Study

"An indispensable literary-theological reading of the book of Acts". This volume helps students understand the historical, literary, and theological issues of the book of Acts and introduces key concepts in the field of narrative criticism. "Do we have a more accomplished reader of biblical stories than David Bauer. Here he provides an engaging (and manageable) commentary on the Acts of the Apostles-complete with a sensible orientation to narrative criticism and its significance for reading Luke's second volume. Both students and pastors will benefit from this literary-theological exploration of Luke's story of the still-active, exalted Lord Jesus. "-Joel B. Green. , Fuller Theological Seminary"Noted narrative critic Bauer brings to bear his sophisticated skills to provide an indispensable literary-theological reading of the book of Acts. In addition to an essential foundation for further narrative scholarship on Acts, the book provides a helpful primer for anyone seeking to learn the nomenclature and methods of narrative criticism and provides a model for how to apply them in an ancient narrative work. "-Craig S. Keener. , Asbury Theological Seminary"Here is a volume packed with riches. Bauer's study showcases brilliantly the wide-ranging gifts of narrative criticism for interpreting the book of Acts. His narrative commentary throughout the volume is rich in substance, solidly grounded on exegesis, and deeply insightful in its depiction of Luke's overarching story. An outstanding tool for students and scholars alike as they seek to mine the narrative-and accompanying theological-riches of the book of Acts. "-Dorothy Jean Weaver. , Eastern Mennonite Seminary (emerita)"Bauer uses the tools of narrative criticism to lead readers on a guided tour of the world of Acts with competence and grace. The result is a fine reading of an indispensable story that will benefit both the teacher's classroom and the pastor's congregation for years to come. "-Robert W. Wall. , Seattle Pacific University and Seminary"Bauer is one of the pioneers of narrative criticism. He has been doing narrative criticism for more than thirty years, and there may be no one who does it better. Anyone who loves the Bible (or the exalted Christ) will benefit from this wonderful analysis of the longest and most exciting story found in the New Testament. "-Mark Allan Powell. , Trinity Lutheran Seminary (retired)