A Survey of the New Testament, Fifth Edition

Though Gundry has been the subject of some controversy within the Evangelical church, I have appreciated his contributions to the reference literature. This fifth edition of his widely used A Survey of the New Testament is no exception.

I first used Gundry's Survey while in seminary over 30 years ago. The book has only improved with age. The addition of color images, insets explaining and illustrating technical terms, and the availability of audio-visual aids to support the text make the new addition a valuable addition to the Bible student's, lay or professional, library.

The new edition will include both a traditional book, e-book, and enhanced e-book versions. The enhanced e-book version will include video introductions, animated maps and illustrations. Faculty and students will also have available supplemental study material to help with classroom presentations and study.

The writing style is inviting, the text address the major questions surrounding the authorship of each book. For example, in discussing the authorship of the Gospel of Matthew, Gundry writes:

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The skillful organization of this Gospel agrees with the probable interests and abilities of a tax collector such as the Apostle Matthew had been. So also does the fact that this is the only gospel to contain the story of Jesus' paying the temple tax (17:24-27). The account of Matthew's call to discipleship uses the apostolic name Matthew rather than the name Levi, used by Mark and Luke (see the lists of apostles in 10:2-4; Mark 3:16-19; Luke 6:13-16; Acts 1:13), and omits "his," used by Mark and Luke, in describing the house where Matthew entertained Jesus at dinner (9:9 —13; compare Mark 2:13-17; Luke 5:27-32). These incidental details may well give telltale indications of Matthean authorship and thus support the early church tradition.

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The book is written for use in a New Testament Survey college course or as a supplement in a seminary course on New Testament Introduction. It would also fit well into the local public or church library. Though the size of the book might suggest otherwise, the use of color images throughout would also allow this book to fit well on a coffee table as a conversation starter.

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This review is based on a free electronic copy provided by the publisher for the purpose of creating this review. The opinions expressed are mine alone.