NOT a Theology of the New Testament

For the past two centuries, scholars have attempted to derive orthodox Christian theology by reading the New Testament. They have, however, insisted that any contemporary theology be based on historical-critical exegesis of the ancient text, taking the meaning relevant for today from what scholars decide was the meaning intended by the original author or understood by the original audience. Martin argues that founding modern readings on constructions of ancient intentions has, of necessity, led to bad history, bad theology, or both. Only by moving to a postmodern approach to the Bible can one arrive at robust, orthodox Christian theology.

Dale B. Martin is a scholar of the New Testament and ancient Christianity. He has published on a wide variety of subjects: ancient slavery, class, family and household, gender and sexuality, along with extensive exegesis on the New Testament. His most recent work, however, moves beyond historiography to address issues of Christian theological interpretation of the Bible in a postmodern church.