Biblical Theology in the Life of the Early Church

Recovering an Ancient Vision
This book helps readers interested in biblical theology consider how the early church, from the apostolic fathers to Augustine, thought about the unity of Scripture.
2025 Gospel Coalition Book Award (Theological Studies)

Southwestern Journal of Theology 2025 Book Award (Honorable Mention, Theological Studies)

Biblical Theology in the Life of the Early Church recasts biblical theology as a practice cultivated in Christian community rather than a solely academic pursuit. Stephen Presley argues that the early church fathers crafted an ecclesial biblical theology that was lived out communally and oriented believers toward beholding God's glory.

This volume brings patristic biblical interpretation into conversation with contemporary biblical theology, exploring how assumptions and methods of figures such as Irenaeus and Augustine can guide modern hermeneutics. Presley shows how early Christian theologians emphasized virtue and discipleship alongside exegesis, patiently shaping readers to inhabit Scripture's narrative. He illuminates the catechetical and liturgical scaffolding that informed patristic biblical theology, centered on Christ as the cornerstone.

Students and scholars of theology, church history, hermeneutics, and patristics will find valuable new insights.

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