The Progressive Publication of Matthew

The research underpinning this volume was submitted by Dr Ward Powers (who is currently the Director Emeritus of Tyndale College, Sydney) to the South African Theological Seminary for the degree of ThD (his second doctoral degree, his earlier PhD being awarded by the University of London). An acknowledged expert in NT Greek grammar (his 'Learn to Read the Greek New Testament' is also available through Koorong), Dr Powers turned his attention to reconsidering one of the 'assured results' of contemporary NT text critical studies: that the Gospel According to Mark was the first NT bios produced, and that it provided the material basis for the other two Synoptic Gospels, those According to Matthew and Luke respectively. Treading a more ancient path, Dr Powers contends that the early Church was correct in believing that Matthew wrote first, publishing the Gospel that bears his name progressively. Whilst it may prove that many will not be convinced by his thesis, they will have to adequately grapple with Dr Powers' marshalling of the evidence (both textual and historical), and his logical and tightly-argued reasoning before dismissing his conclusions. Recommended.