My Amazon review of "The Structure of Matthew's Gospel: A Study in Literary Design"

 amazing resource, October 29, 2010

By	Dave Wainscott (CALIF, USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Structure of Matthew's Gospel: A Study in Literary Design (Journal for the Study of the New Testament Supplement) (Paperback)

I had the privilege of being a student of Dr. Bauer for a seminary class on Matthew about the time this book was released. The course was life-changing: not only is Bauer one of the world's leading specialists in Matthew, but his communication, teaching and writing skills are so personal and passionate that even technical material is understandable. His heart for God, Scripture and practical application are all commendable. 

I owe my passion for Matthew's gospel all these decades later to Dr. Bauer. I now teach Matthew on the college level, and I draw from his well in probably every class session. No one has brought to life the beautiful and intentional literary design, and its resultant theological/practical implications to life like Dr. Bauer. 

As it is academic, the book would probably be s stretch for college students, but a worthy one to stretch towards. 
Anyone seeking to capture the flow, narrative and message of Matthew will find a wealth of resources. 
Whether structural analysis of biblical text is new or not to you, as it is wrestled with, you will be amazed at the life lessons that will result. If you have never considered the crucial place of chiasm, inclusio, and other literary devices/forms in Scripture (or other ancient texts), buy this book yesterday. Bible teachers and preachers should buy it even sooner than that. 

Even better, sit in on one of his classes with this book in hand as soon as possible. 

Tell him I sent you. 

God bless, and thank you, David Bauer.


----Below: a review from JSTOR: