This collection by Scandinavian scholars offers new studies on classical and modern problems in relation to the Fourth Gospel. There are essays on John and the Synoptics, and on John and the Qumran Scrolls. Other essays present new literary approaches such as the question of the 'implied reader', biblical imagery, and irony and sectarianism. Central theological issues are discussed, including the problem of anti-Judaism, the interpretation of the death of Jesus, the concept of mission, the relation between community and ethics, and the understanding of God in the Johannine writings.

This book brings together insights from two fields of study: biblical scholarship and missiology. The Great Commission in Matthew s Gospel is often seen as the biblical foundation for mission. The New Testament, however, reflects a variety of models for mission. Each model is examined with regard to historical meaning as well as hermeneutical significance. The final chapter focuses on three issues of great importance for the present situation: unity and diversity in mission, the gospel in relation to cultures, and Bible and dialogue models."

About the Contributor(s): Johannes Nissen is Associate Professor of Practical Theology at the University of Aarhus, Denmark. He has published a number of books and articles, especially on hermeneutics, the Bible and ethics, New Testament and mission, Christian religious education, and diaconia.