Reading the New Testament in the Church

“Reading the New Testament in the Church succinctly describes the first-century context, insightfully probes what we know about the ‘historical Jesus,’ deftly explains the literary strategies of the Gospels, explores the passionate commitments and engaged rhetoric of the apostle Paul, and assists those wrestling with the complexities of somewhat strange texts such as Hebrews and Revelation. Readers seeking an introduction that combines scholarly integrity and theological responsibility will find Fr. Moloney’s book a welcome aid to understanding the foundational documents of the church.”—Harold Attridge, Sterling Professor of Divinity, Yale Divinity School

“Reading the New Testament for its original meaning allows it to challenge and enrich our faith in ways we can barely imagine. In this book Frank Moloney, after decades devoted to rigorous yet creative historical analysis of biblical texts and from a lifetime of service to the church, equips religious teachers and the faithful with the essential knowledge they need to bring the New Testament into provocative conjunction with their own lives and their own experience.”—Philip F. Esler, Portland Chair in New Testament Studies, director of the International Centre for Biblical Interpretation, University of Gloucestershire

“Frank Moloney’s very readable guide to the New Testament attempts to bridge the gap that all too often exists between the scholarly interpretation of Scripture and the faith of the church. By reminding us that the Scriptures were written by believers for believers, he encourages his readers to face up to the challenges they contain. Although the book is addressed primarily to Catholics, Christians of all denominations will discover here how sacred Scripture can still speak to and challenge believers today.”—Morna D. Hooker, Lady Margaret’s Professor Emerita, University of Cambridge Life Fellow, Robinson College

“Reading the New Testament in the Church is a very fine and comprehensive introduction to the New Testament. The emphasis throughout is on the wealth of Scripture and the need to encourage believers to develop a deeper knowledge of, and encounter with, the sacred text. Such knowledge, the book argues, is integral to the church’s life and mission. Though aimed primarily at a Catholic audience, this is an immensely valuable resource for all Christians, whatever their denomination. It should be on every pastor’s shelf and on every seminary’s New Testament reading list.”—Dorothy Lee, dean of Trinity College Theological School, Frank WoodsProfessor of New Testament Studies, Trinity College, Melbourne

“Every now and then a scholarly work so aptly meets a glaring need that one is tempted to cry out, ‘Why wasn’t this done before?’ Once again, Francis Moloney has drawn upon his internationally renowned biblical expertise, vast knowledge of scholarly literature, and theological sensitivity to produce this timely resource for pastors and educators in the Christian tradition. It admirably achieves its aim of bridging the gap between technical biblical scholarship and scriptural literacy in the church.”—Brendan Byrne, SJ, professor of New Testament, University of Divinity (Melbourne)

“In this learned but pastoral guidebook, Moloney helps Catholics (and ecumenical readers) read Scripture both critically and with faith in Jesus, and in and for the church. Moloney immerses readers in early Christian beliefs in Jesus’ death, resurrection, and living presence, vigorously rejecting the common academic distinction between the Jesus of history and the Christ of faith. I heartily recommend this introduction to reading the New Testament as an excellent textbook for seminaries and training programs for deacons and lay Catholic ministers.”—William S. Kurz, SJ, professor New Testament, Marquette University

“Moloney’s latest book is a gift for Catholics who want to read the New Testament as both serious Christians and intelligently critical citizens of the modern world. It will also serve as a comprehensive textbook for students who may read only one book on the subject. As always, Moloney’s talent as a teacher is bolstered by his scholarship rather than encumbered by it.”—Sandra M. Schneiders, IHM, professor (emerita) of New Testament and spirituality, Jesuit School of Theology of Santa Clara University and Graduate Theological Union, Berkeley, California

“After many decades as a Catholic priest and a distinguished biblical scholar, Frank Moloney has written this important and reflective book to remind the modern church of the importance of its Scriptures. It guides readers through the New Testament documents with clarity and with the sure hands of an experienced exegete, pastor, and teacher. Reading the New Testament in the Church provides a timely reminder that the modern community of faith, both Catholic and non-Catholic, must read, appreciate, understand, and be informed by its ancient Scriptures.”—David Sim, Australian Catholic University