Cosmology and Eschatology in Hebrews: The Settings of the Sacrifice (Society for New Testament Studies Monograph Series, Series Number 143)

Scholars argue over where Hebrews fit in the first century world. Kenneth L. Schenck works towards resolving this question by approaching Hebrews' cosmology and eschatology from a text-orientated perspective. After observing that the key passages in the background debate mostly relate to the 'settings' of the story of salvation history evoked by Hebrews, Schenck attempts to delineate those settings by asking how the 'rhetorical world' of Hebrews engages that underlying narrative. Hebrews largely argue from an eschatology of two ages, which correspond to two covenants. The fresh age has come despite the continuance of some old age elements. The most characteristic elements of Hebrews' settings, however, are its spatial settings, where we find an underlying metaphysical dualism between the highest heaven, which is the domain of spirit, and the created realm, including the created heavens. This creation will be removed at the eschaton, leaving only the unshakeable heaven. Read more Continue reading Read less REVIEW
Review of the hardback: 'Schenck's study takes seriously the complex thought world of Hebrews and offers readers the possibility of understanding this epistle from a fresh perspective.' The Expository Times

Review of the hardback: 'Kenneth L. Schenck offers a fresh and innovative investigation into the cosmology and eschatology in Hebrews by focusing on temporal and spatial sequences and by pointing out their relevance for the whole underlying conception.' Thomas J. Kraus, Review of Biblical Literature

Review of the hardback: 'Schenck does for Hebrews what Richard Hays did for Galatians in his Faith of Jesus Christ, namely, construct the symbolic story that informs the discourse and framed its central issues. ... Schenck's treatment of Hebrews is lucid and well worth reading and should be an enduring contribution to studies on Hebrews.' Jason A. Whitlark, Review of Biblical Literature BOOK DESCRIPTION
The underlying rhetorical dualism of Hebrews can help identify its philosophical and literary origins. Read more Continue reading Read less