For a number of years it was the difficult yet delightful task of the author to interpret the Prophetical Books of the Old Testament to successive classes of theological students. This made it necessary for him to make a decision of the utmost importance. Should he, in accordance with the time-tested belief of the Church, instruct his students that the kingdom prophecies of the Old Testament Church have their fulfillment in large measure in the New Testament Church? Or, should he follow the relatively new and decidedly revolutionary teaching commonly called Dispensationalism and declare that these prophecies Òskip overÓ the Church age and will be literally fulfilled in a Jewish kingdom age which will follow it? These were the alternatives between which he found himself obliged to choose. His decision and the reason for it are set forth in this volume.

Aune's comprehensive study of early Christian prophecy includes a review of its antecedents (Greco-Roman oracles, ancient Israelite prophecy, prophecy in early Judaism), a discussion of Jesus as prophet, and analyses of Christian prophetic speeches from Paul to the middle of the second century A.D. The most detailed study of early Christian prophecy written, Aune's book places the phenomenon of early Christian prophecy within the larger Greco-Roman world.

In this fresh and expansive work, Ellen Davis offers a comprehensive interpretation of the prophetic role and word in the Christian scriptures. Davis carefully outlines five essential features of the prophetic role and then systematically examines seven representations of prophets and prophecies. Thoroughly theological, Davis's volume provides both instruction and insight for understanding prophecy in Christian tradition and discipleship. This volume concludes with a rich discussion of practical matters, including the relationship between Christian discipleship and prophetic interpretation and the role of biblical prophecy in interfaith contexts.

This survey textbook is grounded in the view that the prophetic books of the Old Testament should be read as Christian Scripture. Although it covers critical issues such as authorship, background, and history, its primary focus is on the message and theology of the prophetic books and the contribution they make to the Christian canon. Particular attention is given to literary issues, such as the structure of each prophetic book. Full-color illustrations, diagrams, and artwork bring the text to life. Additional resources for instructors and students are available through Textbook eSources.