The God Who Became Human
‘A Biblical Theology of Incarnation’ is the subheading of a new book The God Who Became Human by Graham Cole coming out through IVP later this year (May in the UK, August in the USA).
In this book Cole attempts to show that the doctrine of the incarnation was not a unexpected event, but was in fact part of Israel’s hope.
Here’s an excerpt from the blurb:
Graham Cole’s stimulating study addresses such questions. He begins by exploring the purpose of creation in terms of God fashioning a palace-temple for dwelling with the creature made in the divine image, then follows God’s acts in Israel’s history to redeem a people of his own among whom he can dwell. In particular, he examines theophanic language: God is presented as a person who speaks, acts and feels as though embodied. He considers Israel’s messianic hope, and then the testimony of the New Testament: ‘The Word became flesh and dwelt among us’ (John 1:14), in the person of Jesus Christ.
Cole also addresses the question raised by Anselm – ‘Why did God become man?’ – and finds abundant New Testament answers. He concludes with a consideration of the theological and existential significance of the incarnation.
I must say, this looks fascinating! I think I’ll have to read it when it comes out. As the latest volume in the wonderful New Studies in Biblical Theology series, you can expect a great scholarly read.
