The mind behind the Gospels

"Basser, using a hitherto unpublished translation by P. Zaas, gives us a verse-by-verse commentary to the first half of the Gospel in his study of Matthew through the lens of Jewish texts. These texts, skillfully interpreted by the author, illuminate the powerful poetry and mystery behind much of the Gospel's genius. Basser shows how Jewish idioms and artistry move the speeches, story, and figure of Jesus from a Jewish preacher to a Gentile savior. Each chapter of commentary contains a preliminary discussion and the book is introduced by a scholarly yet accessible preface and introduction."--Jacket.