Engaging New Institutional Economics with New Testament Studies: Methods and Case Studies on Wealth, Poverty, Economic Relationships, and Material Culture

In Engaging New Institutional Economics with New Testament Studies: Methods and Case Studies on Wealth, Poverty, Economic Relationships, and Material Culture, the intersection of economics and biblical scholarship takes center stage, offering a groundbreaking approach to understanding the economic underpinnings of the New Testament. This book explores how the vast economic landscape of the Roman Empire shaped early Christian communities, delving into themes of wealth, poverty, and material culture through the lens of New Institutional Economics (NIE). The book also conducts a thorough literature review, addressing a common misunderstanding rooted in the confusing use of the term "economics." Many scholars have narrowly assumed that economics refers exclusively to neo-classical economics. However, this work deliberately advocates for the merits of NIE, demonstrating how it offers a more nuanced framework for analyzing the economic realities of the ancient world and their impact on New Testament narratives. Through detailed case studies, including an analysis of wealth possession in the Gospel of Luke, the book illustrates how NIE can unlock new insights into the New Testament's engagement with economic structures. Far from being merely an academic exercise, this book argues that the New Testament offers profound wisdom for navigating the ethical and moral complexities of economic behavior in the modern world. Scholars and readers alike will find a valuable resource for exploring the rich, yet often overlooked, economic dimensions of the New Testament.

Alex Hon Ho Ip is associate professor at the Divinity School of Chung Chi College, The Chinese University of Hong Kong.