Matthew and the Margins

Overview

"Superb . . . . belongs among a small but growing circle of mature American commentaries that combine social scientific approaches [and] profound hermeneutical reflection. ..."--Walter Wink

This verse-by-verse commentary presents the Gospel of Matthew as a counter-narrative that shapes the group of Jesus's followers as an alternative community able to resist the dominant authorities both in Rome and in the synagogue. The Gospel anticipates the time when Jesus will return and establish God’s reign over all, including the powers in Rome.

Breaking Matthew into five narrative blocks, Carter carefully considers historical, literary, cultural, and ecclesial factors as he explores the themes of marginality and power. A masterful introduction outlines these approaches and surveys other studies on Matthew.

Warren Carter is professor of New Testament at Brite Divinity School, Fort Worth, TX. He previously held the Pherigo Chair in New Testament at the Saint Paul School of Theology, Kansas City, MO. His other books include Seven Events that Shaped the New Testament World and The New Testament: Method and Meaning.