Bible
The Art of Narrative Analogy Identifying and Interpreting Parallel Passages in the Bible Seth D. Postell The Art of Narrative Analogy offers a literary approach for understanding the relationship between the two Testaments, and between various biblical narratives, that is more sensitive to the verbal meaning of the Old Testament than popular typological approaches. Seth Postell argues that narrative analogy—the delib- erate paralleling of characters, events, and themes across biblical texts—provides a more exegetically responsible and theologically fruitful method for understanding the Bible’s unity and depth. Drawing on extensive examples from the Hebrew Bible and the New Testament, Postell reveals how scriptural authors employ parallels to illuminate theological truths and deepen narrative coherence. From the connections between Rahab and Lot to the analogies between Jonah and the calming of the storm in Mark’s Gospel, he shows how these parallels invite readers into the Bible’s grand theo- logical narrative. Postell also integrates illustrations from modern storytelling, such as Star Wars , to demonstrate how analogy shapes meaning in both ancient and contemporary contexts. “If you’re looking to expand your tool kit for reading the Bible on its own terms, this book is essential reading.” —Tim Mackie, cofounder of BibleProject “Clear, creative, and engaging, The Art of Narrative Analogy makes complex concepts accessible and the task of interpretation less daunting.” —Jillian L. Ross, Liberty Theological Seminary “A brilliant tool for understanding and enjoying the Bible.” —L. Michael Morales, Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary
NOVEMBER 2025 • 232 pages • $24.99 • paper • 9781540967497
Seth D. Postell (PhD, Gateway Seminary) is the academic dean of Israel College of the Bible (ONE FOR ISRAEL Bible College) in Netanya, Israel. He is the author of Adam as Israel and With All Your Mind and Heart . He has contributed essays to several academic volumes and translated the book of Genesis for the Tree of Life version of the Bible.
CONTENTS
Introduction
1. Narrative Analogy and Its Importance for Biblical Interpretation 2. The Distinction Between Narrative Analogy and Typology
3. How to Identify a Narrative Analogy 4. How to Interpret a Narrative Analogy
5. Interpreting Narrative Analogies Expressing Similarities 6. Interpreting Narrative Analogies Expressing Differences
7. Interpreting Dynamic Narrative Analogies 8. Interpreting Extended Narrative Analogies 9. Interpreting Predictive Analogies Conclusion Indexes
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