226 - Biblical Preaching on the Death of Jesus

Biblical Preaching on the Death of Jesus
By William A. Beardslee, et al.
Abingdon Press, 1989. 240 pp. $15.95.

This is a well-conceived volume that presents a challenging vision of biblical preaching. In Part One, the authors discuss the aims and ends of preaching, which they conceive of as service to the Spirit. In Part Two, they focus upon the theme of Jesus' death as it is presented in the Gospel of Mark and the letters of Paul. This section contains (1) descriptions of Jesus' death as narrated by Mark and as interpreted by Paul, (2) theological reflections of Mark's story and Paul's interpretation of Jesus' death, and (3) two sermons, based on Mark 8:34 and Galatians 1:1-5 intended to illustrate the methodology proposed in this volume. The book is a joint effort of William Beardslee, John Cobb, David Lull, Russell Pregeant, Theodore Weeden, and Barry Woodbridge. A theological work rooted in the biblical text, it will be useful for those who seek a deeper understanding of their preaching ministry.

Frank J. Matera
Catholic University
Washington, D.C.