During the research and writing of this doctoral dissertation numerous people have assisted me in various ways. In the first place, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to my promoter, Dr. Herman J. Selderhuis, professor at the Theological University of Apeldoorn. From my initial con- tact with him, right up until the finishing details of the project, his enthusiasm and drive to get things done was a constant source of encouragement. The second reader, Dr. A.N.S. Lane, professor at the London School of Theology, perused the entire manuscript with his sharp eye for incorrect or unsubstantiated details. This book has benefited greatly from his comments, and I thank him for his work.