Crispin Fletcher-Louis

Christ the Center

Biblical Studies & Commentaries

“Tomas Bokedal is one of a growing number of scholars who are convinced that numerical patterns and structures were consciously embedded in biblical texts by ancient scribes, compilers, and editors in order to support the texts’ truth claims. Building on examples that others have noticed, in this book, Bokedal presents a remarkable body of data to support a new thesis. He thinks that numerical structures, both those based on the number of letters in Greek and Hebrew alphabets (22, 24, and 27) and those testifying to the value of the divine name YHWH (17 or 26), were incorporated by Christians (following an older Jewish practice) in order to direct readers to the central character of the Bible (Jesus Christ). This arithmetical structuring served a vision of Christ’s place in the triune identity and supported the emerging majority understanding of a Rule of Faith. There is compelling evidence here and Bokedal’s work deserves careful scrutiny by all who seek to understand early Christian theology and its scriptural practices.”

Food Justice and Hospitality in Luke-Acts

Biblical Studies & Commentaries

“Unexpectedly, some of us in the West are now faced with the reality or threat of food shortages. In this timely publication, Paulraj combines a careful analysis of the rich treatment of the themes of food poverty, justice, and hospitality in Luke-Acts with a thorough understanding of contemporary policy debates. It provides a vital resource for anyone engaged in those debates, whilst shedding fresh light on the meaning of several Lukan passages.”