New, valuable understandings of the historical and
religious contexts of New Testament writings continue to
emerge. This accessibly written introduction examines over two
dozen such crises and how the biblical text addresses, reflects,
and embodies them. From the ministry of Jesus, to the rise and
propagation of the Christian movement, to the epistles of Paul and
other leaders, to a vision of God’s final cosmic victory, the New
Testament books are succinctly introduced in literary, historical,
and theological perspective.
Designed for optimal classroom use, each chapter offers four
primary features: (a) definition and exploration
of relevant contextual crises; (b) connections with the
biblical writings; (c) primary features of the biblical narrative;
and (d) an application section that engages the student
directly and invites thoughtful response.