Franciscan Masters of Scripture

In the Middle Ages few authors produced commentaries on The Acts of the Apostles. Peter of John Olivi (1248-1298) authored an excellent exposition, basing himself on the previous work of Venerable Bede (672-735), Rabanus Maurus (780-856), and the Ordinary Gloss. His was a commentary mainly on the literal sense. From time to time he expounds on an allegorical meaning. His commentary stems from his lectures to Franciscan students and may date to ca. 1290.

Olivi's commentaries stem mainly from his teaching of Franciscan students in their study houses (studia). Unfortunately only his Commentary on Mark's Gospel has appeared in English translation. Peter of John Olivi's Commentary on Luke is largely focused on its literal sense although his insights are often non-traditional and penetrating. Through this small book, he is presented as a Franciscan biblical interpreter not only to the Franciscan Family, but also to the world at large.