Description: This book recounts the Roman and Jewish context of New Testament times...the lives of John and Jesus, and the history of the first two generations of the Church.
Details: This work is indispensable for anyone who wants to gain a clear understanding of NT background. Bruce is a scholar but his approach to academics is not too difficult. He does not add conjecture where evidence is lacking but at the same time supports his conclusions with dependable sources. What we do know of the ancient world is set forth and Bruce makes the study interesting and compelling. The chapters on the sects of Judaism were fascinating considering the recent discoveries at Qumran and the possible connection of John the Baptist to the Essenes. Rome is also a key player and we need not exhaustively cover the empire to understand its significance. What I like most about Bruce and other writers like him is their integrity without being pretentious and intellectualy superior. As a recent convert to Christianity circa 1980, I read this for the first time and it was foundational for my growth as a believer. If I had to narrow my library down to a few titles, this would be in the top 10.
Review Summary: New Testament Histroy
Date: 2008-04-05
Details: F.F.Bruce has written a good History of the New Testament. H explains the topics in the book well.
Review Summary: Great Resource
Date: 2007-10-16
Details: I read this book 25 years ago. It is an excellent overview of the historical period in which the New Testament was born. After reading this, you will have all the important basics you need to understand the Greek, Roman, and Jewish historical, cultural, and political backgrounds to the New Testament. It reads as a no-nonsense history of the period, with the student of the Bible in mind.
Review Summary: Great read. Great Information
Date: 2007-09-10
Details: One of the most balanced history books on Bible history available. Dr. Bruce is a phenomenal historian with a great deal of objectivity for an evangelical. He's not afraid to write about the controversial, but certainly remains faithful to the basic tenets of the Christian faith. This book is a must read for anyone who wishes to understand early Christianity in the context of its historical setting.
Review Summary: Amazing Scholarship
Date: 2007-04-11
Details: FF Bruce was thorough and brilliantly so. His adeptness in the biblical and related languages is second to none. This volume is a must for all serious studies of the Bible. There is so much here to be gleaned and treasured.
out of 18 Reviews
