The Kingdom according to Luke and Acts

“Building on recent conversations about early Christian resistance to the Roman Empire, Kuhn provides us with a well-written, thorough, and helpful introductory textbook for the study of Luke and Acts. While addressing historical, social, literary, rhetorical, and theological elements, Kuhn effectively highlights the Lukan call for readers to abandon allegiance to Rome and embrace God’s kingdom.”—Andrew Arterbury, associate professor of Christian Scriptures, George W. Truett Theological Seminary, Baylor University

“Karl Kuhn’s groundbreaking monograph on Luke-Acts will reset modern interpretation of these books and influence New Testament studies for years to come. By integrating insights of literary criticism and cultural anthropology, Kuhn demonstrates the potential for Luke’s opus to function as a narrative that shatters traditional (and oppressive) patterns for ordering society. By situating both the Lukan author and his likely intended readers among the well-educated, well-traveled, and well-financed Roman elite, Kuhn reveals the self-critical, deconstructive character of a religion that invites rich people to embrace ‘good news for the poor.’ And by elucidating Luke’s rhetorical reliance on pathos, Kuhn indicates that the effectiveness of Luke’s writings may lie in their ability to produce an emotional reaction in people who might be slow to accept doctrinal propositions or to be moved by conventional arguments. Pastors, teachers, or anyone who looks to Luke’s writings for guidance on how communities of faith might live responsibly in a secular world will want to read and treasure the insights of this book.”—Mark Allan Powell, Robert and Phyllis Leatherman Professor of New Testament, Trinity Lutheran Seminary

“Kuhn provides a rich introduction to Luke’s two-volume work, carefully unraveling its thick, interwoven tapestry of literary patterns, rhetorical strategies, social networks, political tensions, and theological themes. This book is beautifully written and structured (aptly for Luke’s ‘orderly’ narrative) and chock-full of carefully explained examples from Luke’s text. While helpfully assessing the current state of Lukan scholarship, Kuhn also offers many fresh insights; in particular, his attention to the poignant, passionate-emotional features of Luke’s project is a real bonus.”—F. Scott Spencer, professor of New Testament and biblical interpretation, Baptist Theological Seminary at Richmond