The Art of Narrative Analogy: Identifying and Interpreting Parallel Passages in the Bible

In The Art of Narrative Analogy, Seth Postell 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. He argues that narrative analogy--the deliberate 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 theological narrative. Postell also integrates illustrations from modern storytelling, such as Star Wars, to demonstrate how analogy shapes meaning in both ancient and contemporary contexts.

Postell offers clear criteria for identifying narrative analogies, and practical guidance for interpreting them, making this volume an indispensable resource for students, pastors, and church leaders.

From the Back Cover

”If you’re looking to expand your tool kit for reading the Bible on its own terms, this book is essential reading"

This accessible book 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. Drawing on extensive examples from the Hebrew Bible and the New Testament, Seth Postell reveals how scriptural authors employ parallels to illuminate theological truths and deepen narrative coherence.

“Postell gifts pastors, students, and scholars with a first-of-its-kind guide to identifying and interpreting narrative analogies. Clear, creative, and engaging, The Art of Narrative Analogy makes complex concepts accessible and the task of interpretation less daunting. Grounded in sound methodology, this modest yet innovative work is poised to become an essential primer--one that will shape the study of Scripture’s use of Scripture for years to come."
--Jillian L. Ross, Liberty Theological Seminary

"One of the most crucial skills in reading the Bible is learning to recognize narrative analogies between different stories. Postell’s book is an accessible and practical introduction to this all-important topic. He shows how the biblical authors use narrative analogy pervasively and to great effect. 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

"The Art of Narrative Analogy is a remarkable achievement and a brilliant tool for understanding and enjoying the Bible. In a fun and engaging way, Postell takes students by the hand and equips them to explore the Scriptures for themselves, uncovering their significance and majestic beauty. I highly recommend this book, which not only is a delight to read but also gives us the lenses to delight afresh in familiar Bible stories as we learn to read them with new eyes. The Art of Narrative Analogy winsomely curbs false hermeneutical assumptions and will undoubtedly revolutionize many people’s approaches to studying the Bible."
--L. Michael Morales, Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary