A Good Offence is a Good Defence: The Rhetoric of Characterization in the Gospel of Luke in Reference to the Law of Moses
Lecture by Jason Wendel, University of Cambridge
A Good Offence is a Good Defence: The Rhetoric of Characterization in the Gospel of Luke in Reference to the Law of Moses
听
Abstract:
In this presentation, I will examine the dynamics of characterization in the Gospel of Luke. In particular, I analyze how Luke presents various characters with respect to the Law of Moses. On the one hand, Luke presents Jesus as an authoritative, exemplarily law-observant Teacher. On the other hand, Jesus鈥檚 opponents 鈥� those who challenge his legal teaching or practices 鈥� are portrayed as ignorant, hypocritical, and lawless themselves. Through the rhetorical employment of characterization, Luke asserts and defends Jesus鈥檚 affiliation with the Law and refutes any counter claims. Missing this important dynamic in the Third Gospel has led interpreters to erroneously suggest that Luke is 鈥榠nconsistent鈥� in his approach to the Law.