Israel and the Church in the Gospel of Matthew (American University Studies. Series VII. Theology and Religion)

This timely book contributes to the understanding of a central problem in the Gospel of Matthew, namely the relation between Israel and the Church. It breaks new ground by clearly demonstrating that the Church is the long-awaited remnant of God. This study analyzes Matthew's understanding of his Jewish heritage and answers why he believes the Church replaces Israel as the people of God. It utilizes the extensive amount of literature pertinent to the first Gospel, providing sharper focus to the issues that confronted the early church.