Hebrews: A Social Identity Commentary - (T&t Clark Social Identity Commentaries on the New Testament) by Matthew J Marohl (Hardcover)

About the Book

Matthew J. Marohl introduces a social identity reading of Hebrews focused on faithfulness to Christ in a situation of crisis

Book Synopsis

In this volume, Matthew J. Marohl introduces a culturally sensitive reading of Hebrews employing a social identity approach. This allows readers to encounter a unique and powerful depiction of the faithful Jesus and a dynamic group of Christ-followers called upon to maintain their faithfulness. In the end, this social identity approach reveals a work with two strands thoroughly intertwined.

Through the lens of conceptual blending theory, Marohl examines the way in which the author combines the multiple identities of the addressees, shedding light on the community dynamics of early Christ followers. Marohl explores how the author describes ingroup boundaries, how faithfulness is held up as the ultimate ingroup norm, and how the promised rest is grounded in the language of the anticipated future. Ultimately, Marohl argues that Hebrews is a prime example of literature created out of crisis.

Review Quotes

"It is a perpetual temptation of our modern culture to read biblical texts as if they only relates to the individual person. Matthew Marohl's masterful social identity commentary on Hebrews shows how this cannot, and must not, be our sole reading. Expertly leveraging Social Identity Theory, and through insightful perspectives on community, otherness, and intragroup comparison, this commentary deepens an understanding of the social dimensions of the Epistle to the Hebrews. Richly engaged in broader scholarship it is a vital resource for thoughtful interpretation and teaching." --Rev Dr Christopher Porter, Trinity College Theological School, University of Divinity, Australia

About the Author

Matthew J. Marohl is pastor at St. Olaf College, USA.