James D.G. Dunn….thricely honored?

It is, of course, a great privilege to have a Feschrift written for you.  It is exceptional to have two written for you.  But three?  Truly James Dunn is greatly admired!

The first, The Holy Spirit and Christian Origins (Eerdmans, 2004; eds. Stanton et al.), was written by expert scholars on topics mostly in the area of Paul and the Spirit.  I would say that this is one of the best Feschriften I have ever seen in terms of critically-engaging and insightful essays on a common (for the most part) subject matter.

The second, recently released (?), Jesus in Early Christian Memory (Continuum, 2009?; eds. S. McKnight and T. Mournet) concentrates on the matter of the Gospels and oral traditions.

Jimmy just mentioned to me the third one which is soon coming (in honor of his 70th Birthday)

Jesus and Paul: Global Perspectives (Continuum, Nov. 2009).

Here is the offical description:

This title features a new generation of scholars who examine many of the themes explored by the outstanding scholar James D. G. Dunn. James D. G. Dunn has been one of the most influential New Testament scholars of the late 20th and early 21st centuries. His works have altered the very way biblical theologians view Jesus and Paul. This book is written in gratitude of his influence and mentorship. The focus of the work parallels the major research of Dunn’s career. It emphasizes the life and teachings of Jesus as remembered by his disciples, the new perspective on Paul, teachings in the Pauline letters, and relevant topics related to ancient Judaism, the Law, Soteriology and Christology in the New Testament. A new generation of scholars, who are being widely recognized in their respective fields and who have published a number of books, journal articles, and academic essays, would also now like the opportunity to honour their former teacher and to demonstrate to the scholastic community the breadth of his influence.

I assume the first public appearance of this book will be at SBL.