Redaction-critical studies of the Gospel of Matthew have tended to portray the disciples as having "little faith" but essentially understanding Jesus' identity and message. Brown (New Testament studies, Bethel Seminary, Minnesota) argues that with the application of narrative study a substantially different picture emerges. He describes the disciples as being in ideological conflict with Jesus and speculates on Matthew's purpose for such a characterization. Annotation (c) Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)