New Testament Rhetoric

"Ben Witherington has used classical rhetorical criticism as a foundational method--writing commentaries on the entire New Testament canon. In this volume, he brings that extensive experience to the task of writing an introduction to this exegetical method. . . . This will surely become the choice resource-the "new Kennedy"-for a main text in courses in rhetorical criticism or a supplementary text in courses on exegetical method, as well as a valuable and persuasive introduction to the method for ministry professionals interested in connecting the ongoing task of proclamation with the persuasive techniques of the New Testament."

--David A. deSilva, Trustees' Distinguished Professor of New Testament and Greek, Ashland Theological Seminary



"Whether one is drawn to the promise of rhetorical study of the New Testament writings or is not yet persuaded by its utility, Witherington has provided a helpful--and persuasive!--primer. His easy familiarity with the ancient sources makes this an especially user-friendly introduction to the importance of ancient rhetoric for historical study of the New Testament."

--Joel B. Green, Professor of New Testament Interpretation, Fuller Theological Seminary



"For those who want to add rhetorical analysis to their interpretation of the New Testament, Ben Witherington provides easy access to a not easily accessible subject. . . . Not stopping with mere description, Witherington always draws out the implications of the rhetorical nature of the biblical texts for interpretation and application."

--Duane Watson, Professor of New Testament Studies, School of Theology, Malone College



"Ben Witherington has produced a sterling volume on ancient rhetoric and its applicability to New Testament studies. . . . Importantly, Witherington carefully describes how an understanding of rhetoric affects biblical interpretation and Christian preaching. Anyone who is interested in the contours of early Christian discourse or would like to be able to preach and teach as persuasively as the biblical authors will find this volume highly informative and immensely helpful. Another gem from the pen of Ben!"

--Michael Bird, Tutor in New Testament at the Highland Theological College, Dingwall, Scotland



". . . Witherington's work will function well as an introduction to this important aspect of New Testament interpretation for preachers and students alike."

-- Richard L. Rohrbaugh, Lewis & Clark College

from Biblical Theology Bulletin, Volume 40, 2010



"There is too much to be learned from its pages, and it is hard to overstate its importance for New Testament Studies. . . Witherington has done a fantastic job introducing rhetorical criticism and its function within the New Testament, and all serious students of the New Testament would do well to understand its subject matter."

-- Brice Jones, Yale University

from the Anglican Theological Review, Vol. 92:3, 2010