Becoming Children of God - by Wes Howard-Brook (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

'Becoming Children of God' offers a fresh and original commentary on the Gospel of John as a narrative inviting readers -- both in the evangelist's time and our own -- to a radical commitment to follow Jesus from within a spirit-filled community. This reading is grounded in a poetics of biblical narrative"" that balances attention to historical, ideological, and aesthetic aspects of John's Gospel while highlighting its relevance for today. By committing himself to a close analysis of the text as symbolic action"" Howard-Brook makes it clear how John's Gospel fairly bristles with references to societal conditions that demand a direct response. Throughout the commentary, his close attention to literary structure as well as social background yields new insights into the often-obscure message of the Fourth Gospel.

Review Quotes

Clear and readable . . . This call to radical discipleship both challenges and supports activists and churches."

'The Christian Century'

Combines a passionate commitment to Christian witness with thoughtful reading of the biblical text."

'The Bible Today'

Howard-Brooks' commentary presents an engaged interpretation rooted in the political context of the United States. I highly recommend it."

Elisabeth Schussler Fiorenza, Harvard Divinity School

His brilliant journey through John will inspire activists and academics alike to a deeper understanding."

James Douglass, 'The Nonviolent Coming of God