YungSuk Kim's Blog

"'Holy City' in Matthew 4:5 and 27:53" will see the light as it will be published in the Journal of Biblical Studies of Interest. It was presented during my doctoral study at a regional SBL conference back in 2003. It was hidden in my folder for so long. It emerges from obscurity as the saints rise from their tombs in the story of resurrection in Matthew 27.
"Holy City" in Matthew 4:5 and 27:53

"This article examines the distinctive and often overlooked usage of the phrase "the holy city" in the Gospel of Matthew (4:5 and 27:53), challenging the prevailing scholarly view that treats the term merely as ironic. By contrasting Matthew’s depiction with the apocalyptic, otherworldly cities found in Revelation and Second Temple literature, this study argues that the First Gospel presents "the holy city" as a practical and political alternative to the corrupt, Roman-affiliated Jerusalem. The analysis demonstrates how Matthew strategically situates the phrase during the devil’s wilderness temptation and the resurrection of the saints to articulate a counter-narrative to the Temple-state and imperial power. Ultimately, the article contends that this twofold usage functions not only to critique existing authority but to affirm a realized vision of justice and hope for the Matthean community."

Explore my YouTube playlist featuring 27 Parables of Jesus—short, clear explanations with practical takeaways. Watch here.

As a seasoned senior scholar and teacher, known for linking the world of the Bible to contemporary struggles for justice and community, I am deeply committed to advancing human welfare.

Yoon’s declaration of martial law failed. This episode examines the history and work of protest movements in Korea as well as the mixed legacy of Christianity, shaped in part by its right‑wing ideology.
 

Yoon’s declaration of martial law failed. This episode examines the history and work of protest movements in Korea as well as the mixed legacy of Christianity, shaped in part by its right‑wing ideology. Transcripts

  

Rethinking Paul: Critical Conversations for Our World

Edited by Yung Suk Kim