Introducing the New Testament, 2nd ed. (Its Literature and Theology)

A newly updated edition of a beloved guide to the New Testament

For more than twenty-five years, Introducing the New Testament: Its Literature and Theology has been the go-to resource for readers seeking a guide to interpreting the New Testament. Now this remarkable volume has been thoroughly revised for a new generation. Every chapter has been updated, and the sections on Paul have been substantially rewritten. Wonderfully readable and well supplied with maps and photographs, this volume is both an ideal textbook for biblical studies courses and a superb introduction for general readers wanting an overview of the New Testament.

The book begins with an overview of the nature of the New Testament and the world in which it was written. Thereafter, the authors examine the twenty-seven books of the New Testament, illuminating each book’s key messages and explaining why they continue to inspire and challenge readers today. Separate chapters also explore the types of literature found in the New Testament, the life and teachings of Jesus, Paul’s life and world, and the formation of the New Testament canon. In addition, numerous sidebars offer a wealth of relevant background information that helps modern readers more fully grasp biblical themes. Unlike other New Testament surveys that devote significant space to scholarly debates, this volume prioritizes the New Testament’s background, content, and theology. While the authors are attuned to current debates in biblical studies, their primary aim is to make the message of the Christian Scriptures accessible to thoughtful general readers. Engaging and informative, this volume is a trustworthy guide for anyone who wants to understand the New Testament.