Genesis

by James McKeown

Overview

In this commentary James McKeown treats Genesis as a book of beginnings and a foundational sourcebook for biblical theology. He begins with exegesis of the Hebrew text, highlighting the recurrence of key words, phrases, and themes throughout the book. He also draws attention to passages particularly pertinent to earlier readers either facing or returning from exile, offering a historical context outside a solely Christian perspective.

The second half of the book unpacks the numerous theological horizons of Genesis -- main unifying themes (descendants, blessing, land); key theological teachings of Genesis (creation, fall, character and image of God, life of faith); and the contribution of Genesis to theology today, including its impact on science, ecology, and feminist theology.

McKeown's Genesis provides a solid examination of a scriptural book that reflects the struggles and hopes of its readers -- ancient and modern -- and offers encouragement for their walk with God.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780802827050
Publisher:	Eerdmans, William B. Publishing Company
Publication date:	03/03/2008
Series:	Two Horizons Old Testament Commentary
Edition description:	New Edition
Pages:	408
Product dimensions:	6.20(w) x 9.10(h) x 1.10(d)

About the Author

James McKeown teaches Old Testament and Hebrew atUnion Theological College, Belfast, Northern Ireland.

Table of Contents

Acknowledgements     vii
Abbreviations     viii
Introduction to Genesis     1
Commentary on Genesis     19
Theological Horizons of Genesis     195
Theological Message of the Book     195
Main Unifying Themes     195
Descendants     197
Blessing     219
Land     241
Key Theological Teaching of Genesis     259
The Theology of Land     259
The Doctrine of Creation     263
Creatio ex Nihilo     265
The Fall     270
The Character of God     272
The Image of God     277
The Life of Faith     283
Genesis and Theology Today     294
Genesis and Science     294
Mission     317
Ecology     325
Feminist Approaches     334
Genesis and Biblical Theology     349
Genesis in Canonical Context     349
Genesis in the Historical Books     360
Wisdom Literature     366
Thematic Continuity in the Prophets     368
New Testament     371
Conclusion     375
Bibliography     376
Index of Names     385
Index of Scripture and Other Ancient Writings     387

Editorial Reviews

Antony F. Campbell
-- Jesuit Theological College
"The world of Genesis scholarship is currently embroiled in swirling change. This book offers a solidly evangelical rock in the midst of the turbulent flow."

Reviews in Religion & Theology
"McKeown's commentary is concise, but covers a significant number of theological and exegetical issues. His treatments of debates and controversial matters are always fair and adroit. . . . This book has so many excellent features."

Journal of Theological Studies
"McKeown has written a very good commentary on Genesis which shows a deep knowledge of the issues in the text. He has many helpful insights. Preachers, students, and scholars will find much of value here."

Interpretation
"Offers clear, informative, and well-balanced accounts of key themes and motifs that make for the unique texture of Genesis and also of recent interpretive approaches to the texts."

Society for Old Testament Study Booklist
"A good example of how critical methods can be used to chart ways through issues that have affected the Church in general, and especially Evangelicals. It is well written, and the publication style is easy on the eye."

From the Publisher