John the Baptist: Prophet of Purity for a New Age

by Catherine M. Murphy

How did Gospel authors Matthew and Luke shape the story of John the Baptist around the story of Jesus? Why was the historical Baptist so popular? In  John the Prophet of Purity for a New Age,  Catherine Murphy explores the character of John the Baptist and compares what the foundational Gospels not only the perspectives of the synoptic authors, but also a sketch of the historical figure of John the Baptist, which is then placed within the religious, political and economic context of first-century C.E. Judea. Special attention is given to the interface between John and the Qumran community, which scholars have proposed ever since the discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls.  Chapters are "Will the Real Baptist Please Stand Up?" "Redaction How and Why Authors Shape Their Stories," "Baptist Vignettes in the A Redaction-Critical Approach," "Another Angle on the Baptist Social-Scientific Criticism," "Purification Movements in the First-Century C.E. Judea," and "Conclusion." Receive  From Earth's Creation to John's Revelation   FREE  with the purchase of two or more  Interfaces  volumes. Mention this offer in the comment section of the order form when placing your order or call 1.800.858.5450. Catherine M. Murphy, PhD, is assistant professor in the department of religious studies at Santa Clara University. She has co-published three editions of Dead Sea Scrolls manuscripts, and has written journal articles on the Scrolls and the New Testament.

192 pages, Paperback

First published July 1, 2003

Reviews

[Terry Austrew]

During the current Bible study of Luke, I thought this book might help understand Luke's treatment of John. Having read a version of the Synoptics during college in 1962, it amazed me as to the wonderful understanding which Catherine Murphy engendered during the approach she recommended. Such a blessing to read modern perspectives on ancient problems. Refreshing and perceptive to say the least. Many opportunities to grow in faith through thoughtful questions and observations. A must read for Gospel study.

[Mark Lacy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I discovered quickly that this is a very theoretical analysis of what is known about John the Baptist, using the Gospel accounts of his life as well as the writings of Josephus. It is not for the lay person wanting to learn about John as much as it is for a divinity student. I skimmed the book to pick up some nuggets of information here and there, but I couldn't force myself to study it.

[Brian LePort · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book would function quite well in a class on John the Baptist helping students learn how to research the primary sources on their own.