Resurrection and Spirit: From the Pentateuch to Luke-Acts
[Thesis]
Lidbeck, Brian W.
Oss, Douglas
Assemblies of God Theological Seminary
2019
294 p.
Ph.D.
Assemblies of God Theological Seminary
2019
This dissertation employs a biblical-theological approach in examining two of Luke's most prominent themes, the resurrection and the Holy Spirit. The purpose is to secure a more holistic understanding of Lukan pneumatology by demonstrating its strong association with Christology. The study explores Luke's dependence on the Hebrew Scriptures in formulating his eschatological perspective and developing his views on pneumatology and the doctrine of the Resurrection. The discussion pays close attention to individual eschatology that is rooted in the Pentateuch and finds expression in relation to Luke's reflection on Christ's resurrection. Likewise, Luke's use of Numbers 11-12; the Davidic king themes in 1 and 2 Samuel; and the development of messianic, pneumatological, and resurrection themes in the prophets receive treatment. This work primarily argues that the various messianic threads Luke follows in the Old Testament meet in Christ at Pentecost. Christ's resurrection and the Spirit both serve Luke's purpose in glorifying Jesus as Lord and Christ (Acts 2:36). The themes of resurrection and Spirit converge at Pentecost in identifying Jesus as Lord and Christ, in demonstrating Jesus's status as the one who exercises the divine prerogative of pouring out the Spirit, and in empowering the disciples with a prophetic anointing to proclaim the resurrection of Christ. This study also offers some reflection on Luke's use of christocentric cultic images and the implications of his Christology for critical scholarship and the Pentecostal debate.