Intertextuality and historical approaches to the use of Scripture in the New Testament

Abstract

In a previous article in this journal (2002:418-31), I offered a taxonomy of five ways that the term “intertextuality” is being used in biblical studies. In this article, I wish to clarify the relationship between intertextuality and historical approaches to the use of Scripture in the New  Testament. I take as a case study the use of Isaiah 8:12-13 in 1 Peter 3:14-15 and conclude that historical and literary approaches both have an important role to play in elucidating the meaning of this text. I also take the opportunity of responding to some of the arguments put forward by critics of intertextuality.