The Image of the Invisible God

An Exegetical Study of Colossians 1:15-20

by T.R. Niles

Book cover: The Image of the Invisible God

Extent: 330 pages

Publisher: Mohr Siebeck

Subjects: Biblical Studies, Classical Studies, Philosophy

Series: Wissenschaftliche Untersuchungen zum Neuen Testament 2.Reihe

Series volume number: 599

Language: English

Paperback (Published)

(September 2023)

ISBN: 9783161614736

9.09 x 6.06 inches

Price: $112.00

In stock

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In order to elucidate the specific contours of the image concept of Colossians, T.R. Niles situates the predication of Christ as the “image of the invisible God” in various ancient image discourses, such as those of Qumran, the Wisdom of Solomon, Philo, and Plutarch.

Given the human propensity for making and using various kinds of images, it is little surprise that religious-philosophical authors from various ancient cultures used the concept of an “image” when speaking of the divine. What does the author of Colossians mean to convey by calling Jesus Christ the “image of the invisible God”? Through an examination of various image discourses and a detailed exegetical study of Colossians 1:15-20, T.R. Niles situates the image concept of Colossians within the image discourse of the first century A.D. and elucidates its specific contours.

  • By (author) Travis R Niles

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