LETTERS AND HOMILIES FOR HELLENIZED CHRISTIANS, Vol. II
A socio-rhetorical commentary on 1-2 Peter
By Ben Witherington III. Apollos. 432 pages. £17.99
ISBN 978-1-84474-215-8
Ben Witherington III’s trademark contribution to the world of NT studies is that of the Socio-Rhetorical commentary. That is, by focusing on the life-situation into which gospels or letters were written, along with their rhetorical style and structure, he provides his readers with helpful keys with which to unlock the biblical message. So, when it comes to this volume, he is looking in particular at the social and religious milieu of the congregations addressed by 1 & 2 Peter.
The commentary falls into two parts dealing with 1 and 2 Peter separately. Each part in turn falls into two further subsections: the first dealing with introduction (from the perspective already noted) and the second providing the commentary proper (again controlled by the stated perspective of the author). There are valuable ‘Closer Look’ sections expanding points of interest and select bibliographies provided for both letters which outline recommended reading for each.
