Matthean Sets of Parables (PDF)

Matthean Parables have often been read through the lens of their Synoptic parallels, which has, for instance, led to the claim that Matthew does not have a parable theory of its own. Peter Yaw Oppong-Kumi offers a careful and detailed analysis of the three parabolic compositions in the Gospel of Matthew. He presents a new approach to Matthew's parables and calls for a reading of the gospel that frees it from the 'dependency' of its sources. Through meticulous study the author shows the interconnectedness of Matthew's parable compositions through their common theology and context. He offers some intriguing evidence of how certain theological thoughts of the Gospel influenced the composition of Matthean sets of parables and how, for instance, these theological thoughts explain the crucial change the author made to Mk 4:8 or the famous textual problem of the Parable of Two Sons. Peter Yaw Oppong-Kumi demonstrates how Matthew's parable compositions have been constructed as a narrative and rhetorical piece to respond to one important question of the gospel, namely who accepts or rejects the Gospel's protagonist and what are the ramifications of that.

Born 1964; studied Philosophy and Theology ; 1996 ordained priest; 2010 PhD in Tübingen; currently an associate pastor at Mössingen parish, Germany.