| Synopsis: |
The Minor Prophets are those dozen Old Testament books that, in the time of Jesus, were usually written on one scroll since they were all fairly brief. The late Elizabeth Achtemeier prepared the New International Biblical Commentary on the first six: Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah, and Micah. This second volume deals with the final six books. John Goldingay writes on Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, and Haggai; Pamela Scalise takes on the longest, Zechariah, and the last, Malachi. Like the authors of other volumes in the NIBC, Goldingay and Scalise utilize what is referred to as "believing criticism" when examining the biblical texts. Based on fidelity to critical analysis and sensitivity to the faith of both ancient and contemporary readers, this balanced approach enriches both the academy and the church. Following the series guidelines, the authors clearly explain the texts with additional notes regarding interpretation and "practical" reflection. For example, Goldingay issues a reminder that when the prophets spoke against the arrogance and sins of Assyria and Babylon, the Israelites needed to hear the word of God as a caution against their own pride and wickedness. He goes on to suggest that modern readers must remember, as well, that the same attitudes and actions that led to the downfall of these ancient Middle East empires can fall upon any and all who follow their example. "John Goldingay and Pamela Scalise have produced a commentary informed by sound scholarship that ably serves both the biblical text and its variety of readers. The prophets under consideration in this volume, Nahum through Malachi, present a host of interpretive difficulties. Goldingay and Scalise navigate those difficult passages with wisdom and interpretive modesty. They write lucidly, with contemporary readers of the Bible in mind, while consistently, expertly, guiding us through the complex world of the text and its details.," Ben C. Ollenburger, Professor of Biblical Theology, Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary "Goldingay and Scalise are seasoned, world-class scholars writing from a conservative-moderate viewpoint in a winsome, non-technical style, arguing cogently for their conclusions and covering a wide range of material succinctly. Any student, pastor, or scholar would enjoy owning this volume and would find much to interact with in every part." Douglas Stuart, Professor of Old Testament, Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary |