Isaiah's Christ in Matthew's Gospel

Richard Beaton analyses Isaiah 42.1–4, unveiling a refreshing exploration of Matthew's high, ethical Christology.

Richard Beaton (Author)

9780521818889, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 14 November 2002

260 pages
21.6 x 14 x 1.9 cm, 0.48 kg

'Beaton demonstrates that Matthew's use of this (and other) Isaiah text(s) is more complex than previously believed, exhibiting a bi-referential function in the final form of Matthew … Beaton has certainly mad a fine contribution to the field of Judeo-Christian exegetical practices and toward a better understanding of Matthean Christiology.' European Journal of Theology

Matthew's Jesus is typically described as the humble, compassionate messiah. This 2002 book argues that this is, however, only half the story. Matthew's theologically rich quotation of Isaiah 42.1–4, traditionally considered one of the four servant songs, underscores that manifest in Jesus' powerful message and deeds, particularly his healings and inclusion of the marginalized, is the justice that was thought to accompany the arrival of the kingdom of God. The study explores modifications to the text-form of the Isaianic citations, their relationship to the surrounding context, and the rhetorical force of the final form. It argues that the quotations are bi-referential, functioning on both a narrative and theological level, and also explores the issues surrounding the troublesome 'extraneous' content. It arrives at the conclusion that this citation was central to Matthew's understanding of Jesus' life and mission. All totalled, this study offers a refreshing exploration of Matthew's high, ethical Christology.

Preface
List of abbreviations
1. Introduction
2. History of research
3. Texts and early Jewish exegesis
4. Isaianic formula quotations in Matthew
5. Isaiah 42.1–4 within the context of Matthew 11–13
6. The christological contribution of Isaiah 42.1–4
7. Conclusion
Bibliography
Index of passages
Index of modern authors
Index of subjects.

Subject Areas: Biblical studies & exegesis [HRCG], Literary theory [DSA]