Catherine M. Murphy

Telling Tales about Jesus

Biblical Studies & Commentaries

“There is something so fresh in this clear introduction to the Gospels. It is more than the concise account of each of the four tales themselves, which are summarized with sensitivity to each evangelist’s literary artistry and theological interests. Carter explores the human context of these tales, from the living conditions in first-century Rome to the complex negotiations of faith, politics, and community in the wake of the catastrophic loss of Jerusalem in 70 CE. With ample illustrations from texts and archaeology, he surfaces the political concerns and existential questions that Jesus was perceived to answer, prompting contemporary readers to consider the relevance of these ancient tales to our own pressing issues, from social inequality to interreligious tension and ecological threat. Judiciously chosen topics frame the separate Gospel treatments, and user-friendly features like sidebars, images, reflection questions, and a glossary make this an excellent and reliable resource for beginning Gospel courses.”