The Trial of the Gospel: An Apologetic Reading of Luke's Trial Narratives

Description

For many years Luke-Acts has been studied as a work of history and theology. The Trial of the Gospel sets out to examine Luke's writings as an apologetic work, by focusing on those parts of Luke's story where the apologetic overtones seem most prominent - the trial narratives. By analysing the trials of all major Lukan characters - Jesus, Peter, Stephen, and Paul - Alexandru Neagoe argues that the narratives are best understood when viewed as part of Luke's apologia pro evangelio, a purpose which is in keeping with the author's declared aim to give his readers 'assurance' about the 'matters' in which they had been instructed (Luke 1:4). Neagoe concludes that the specific role of the trial narratives is to provide the framework within which important tenets of the Christian faith are themselves put 'on trial' before the reader, with the intended result of the gospel's confirmation.

Alexandru Neagoe is Lecturer at the Areopagus Centre for Christian Education and Contemporary Culture and Pastor of the First Baptist Church, Timisoara, Romania.

'The great merit of this study is that it seeks to do justice to the range of Luke's project, providing a context in which many separate facets of recent Lucan research find a satisfactory, integrated role ... a most valuable addition to the study of Luke.' Epworth Review 'For those interested in Lukan scholarship, Neagoe's contribution clearly highlights the importance of the apologetic nature of Luke's work. the centrality of the resurrection emerging as a key factor in Lukan apology is a valuable insight.' Neotestamentica 'Neagoe's study offers a reading of Luke-Acts which incorporates much of the text into one consistent understanding of Luke's purpose in writing. It also offers numerous helpful exegetical insights along the way.' European Journal of Theology ' ... well-argued and convincing ...' Perspectives in Religious Studies