Acknowledgements
The production of an academic book is often a slow, tedious process. In addition to the intrinsic tasks of framing the argument, writing, rewriting, pursuing obscure resources, and sharpening the diction at critical points, there are the extrinsic delays, interruptions, and obstacles that are unrelated to the intellectual project itself. In short, life gets in the way of one’s research. In writing this book I have experienced an ample amount of both intrinsic and extrinsic challenges. Thankfully, I have had a more than ample supply of family members, friends, professional colleagues, and publisher’s staff without whose encouragement, suggestions, and support, the book might never have reached the point of publication. To paraphrase the Apostle Paul, “where troubles increased, grace abounded all the more” (Rom 5:20).
In particular, I wish to thank Professors David Moessner and Margaret Mitchell, co-editors of the NovTSupp series, for accepting the proposal and offering helpful suggestions. Dr. Matthew Calhoun, Professor Moessner’s assistant, was always swift in his communication and helpful in numerous logistical matters. I am also grateful to the anonymous outside reviewer for devoting time to a careful reading of the manuscript and offering remarks that improved the final product. Much earlier in the process a dear friend and professional colleague, Professor Mark Allan Powell, read the entire manuscript. His detailed feedback without question led to the refinement of the book and also included a hefty amount of moral support. Finally, I’m grateful to Tessa Schild and Fem Eggers at Brill whose assistance has demonstrated the highest level of professionalism and responsiveness, not to mention considerable patience. They have been a pleasure to work with as we shepherded the book through the process toward publication.