A question of discipleship - remarks on Matthew 8 :18-23

Abstract

This paper analyses Matthew 8:18-23 using a narratological approach. Focusing on a number of narrative 'gaps' in the narrative and the resulting creation of narrative suspense, the paper considers the effect of this suspense on the reader. It is argued that Matthew 8:18-23 does not so much present two pictures of 'good' and 'bad' discipleship, but rather invites the reader to ponder the question of discipleship in the sense of following Jesus in a radical way.