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Contending with Paul: The Hidden Story Behind the Writing of Matthew, Mark, and Luke
Awarded Amazon's "#1 New Release in Christian History" and "#1 New Release in Biographies of Judaism"
Contending with The Hidden Story Behind the Writing of Matthew, Mark and Luke, is not a book that easily fits into existing genres. Within its pages one will find history, theology, biography, and literary criticism. This book focuses primarily on the first two generations of the Christian movement. The first generation includes the Apostles, Jesus’ family members, and Paul. It is this generation who would first debate how the message of Jesus should be presented to the Gentile world (non-Jews) and what would be expected of those Gentiles who desired to follow Jesus. It is the second generation of believers who began to write in a new literary genre that Christians call “gospels.” The Gospel of Matthew, the Gospel of Mark, and the Gospel of Luke, are the earliest three to have survived, and it is through these writings that the debates of the first generation get carried forward by the second. Though all three gospels were written after the death of Paul, it is asserted by the author that each gospel writer contended with his continuing influence in some way, though each from their own distinctive vantage point.
Paul’s influence may be underestimated if one only counts his 13 extant works in the New Testament. To ask if a mere 13 letters sent out to churches and individuals throughout the Graeco-Roman world would have been enough to influence the later gospel writers is to ask the wrong question. For the benefit of using a round number, it can be estimated that Paul ministered for 30 years. Also, for the sake of a round number, the churches and individuals to whom he corresponded may be estimated to be 20. Supposing he wrote to each of these entities twice a year, Paul’s total ministerial correspondence would rise from his 13 extant works to an output of 1,200. Paul would likely have been a dynamic figure in person as well. He is portrayed as a vigorous traveler and a debater in the marketplaces and synagogues that he came upon. Herein lies the influence. Not only is it credible that Paul’s influence would have been felt by the gospel writers, it may have been impossible for them to completely isolate themselves from it.
Paul’s base of power had been outside of Judea, in many of the larger Greek speaking cities of the Graeco-Roman world, and this is where his influence resided. It is here where Paul founded his churches, and it is here where his letters would have been received, preserved, and compiled. It is from this matrix that a Gentile believer would compose the first gospel, Mark, around 70 CE, some six years after Paul’s death. Matthew writes his gospel sometime after 80 CE, partially in rebuttal of Mark’s pro-Paul and anti-Mosaic Law themes. Several years after Matthew, Luke pens his two-volume work, the Gospel of Luke and the Acts of the Apostles (Luke/Acts). As will be shown, Luke will take issue with his predecessors on several theological fronts.
The author’s goal is for you to understand the figures of this era Peter, the chief Apostle; James, the brother of Jesus; Paul, the new believer; and the writers that have come to be known to history as Matthew, Mark, and Luke. This book expounds on the fascinating interactions between these figures, and how these interactions shaped much of the anthology that we now call the New Testament.
Even today, Christian groups can find themselves breaking apart into ideological camps.
Contending with The Hidden Story Behind the Writing of Matthew, Mark and Luke, is not a book that easily fits into existing genres. Within its pages one will find history, theology, biography, and literary criticism. This book focuses primarily on the first two generations of the Christian movement. The first generation includes the Apostles, Jesus’ family members, and Paul. It is this generation who would first debate how the message of Jesus should be presented to the Gentile world (non-Jews) and what would be expected of those Gentiles who desired to follow Jesus. It is the second generation of believers who began to write in a new literary genre that Christians call “gospels.” The Gospel of Matthew, the Gospel of Mark, and the Gospel of Luke, are the earliest three to have survived, and it is through these writings that the debates of the first generation get carried forward by the second. Though all three gospels were written after the death of Paul, it is asserted by the author that each gospel writer contended with his continuing influence in some way, though each from their own distinctive vantage point.
Paul’s influence may be underestimated if one only counts his 13 extant works in the New Testament. To ask if a mere 13 letters sent out to churches and individuals throughout the Graeco-Roman world would have been enough to influence the later gospel writers is to ask the wrong question. For the benefit of using a round number, it can be estimated that Paul ministered for 30 years. Also, for the sake of a round number, the churches and individuals to whom he corresponded may be estimated to be 20. Supposing he wrote to each of these entities twice a year, Paul’s total ministerial correspondence would rise from his 13 extant works to an output of 1,200. Paul would likely have been a dynamic figure in person as well. He is portrayed as a vigorous traveler and a debater in the marketplaces and synagogues that he came upon. Herein lies the influence. Not only is it credible that Paul’s influence would have been felt by the gospel writers, it may have been impossible for them to completely isolate themselves from it.
Paul’s base of power had been outside of Judea, in many of the larger Greek speaking cities of the Graeco-Roman world, and this is where his influence resided. It is here where Paul founded his churches, and it is here where his letters would have been received, preserved, and compiled. It is from this matrix that a Gentile believer would compose the first gospel, Mark, around 70 CE, some six years after Paul’s death. Matthew writes his gospel sometime after 80 CE, partially in rebuttal of Mark’s pro-Paul and anti-Mosaic Law themes. Several years after Matthew, Luke pens his two-volume work, the Gospel of Luke and the Acts of the Apostles (Luke/Acts). As will be shown, Luke will take issue with his predecessors on several theological fronts.
The author’s goal is for you to understand the figures of this era Peter, the chief Apostle; James, the brother of Jesus; Paul, the new believer; and the writers that have come to be known to history as Matthew, Mark, and Luke. This book expounds on the fascinating interactions between these figures, and how these interactions shaped much of the anthology that we now call the New Testament.
Even today, Christian groups can find themselves breaking apart into ideological camps.
191 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 6, 2024
126 people are currently reading
44 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
September 27, 2024
An interesting read
If you’re fond of historical novels, then you should read “Contending with Paul” by William Joseph Cobble. It’s the first book in a series that depicts in depth the history of the gospels of Matthew, Luke and Mark.
Along the chapters, readers will learn about the importance and influence of Paul during the years where the gospels were written. The writer includes preserved and valuable evidence that was useful for the gospels’ redaction, part of that evidence were the letters that Paul wrote throughout his life.
It’s an enthralling book that touches topics of history, theology and some critics about the gospels, the religion and renowned figures that interacted through the years where the New Testament was written. I learned a lot after reading it. I found it very interesting and well-explained. All in all, It's a recommended account.
If you’re fond of historical novels, then you should read “Contending with Paul” by William Joseph Cobble. It’s the first book in a series that depicts in depth the history of the gospels of Matthew, Luke and Mark.
Along the chapters, readers will learn about the importance and influence of Paul during the years where the gospels were written. The writer includes preserved and valuable evidence that was useful for the gospels’ redaction, part of that evidence were the letters that Paul wrote throughout his life.
It’s an enthralling book that touches topics of history, theology and some critics about the gospels, the religion and renowned figures that interacted through the years where the New Testament was written. I learned a lot after reading it. I found it very interesting and well-explained. All in all, It's a recommended account.
September 26, 2024
interesting book
This book aims to explain the different interpretations of Paul’s life, teachings and influence over Christianism over the time. I think Cobble did a great job in the way he developed the book. The way he introduces Mattew, Mark and Luke’s perspective and interpretations, enrich the reading and makes the reader get different points of view.
Since I was little, I’ve been taught about Christianism and this important characters in Jesus’ life. Reading this book helped me get a deeper view of their life, how they lived and interpreted Jesus’ life. I recommend this book for those who want to learn more about the influence of Jesus in his apostles as well and get to know better about Paul’s life in the second generation of Christianism.
This book aims to explain the different interpretations of Paul’s life, teachings and influence over Christianism over the time. I think Cobble did a great job in the way he developed the book. The way he introduces Mattew, Mark and Luke’s perspective and interpretations, enrich the reading and makes the reader get different points of view.
Since I was little, I’ve been taught about Christianism and this important characters in Jesus’ life. Reading this book helped me get a deeper view of their life, how they lived and interpreted Jesus’ life. I recommend this book for those who want to learn more about the influence of Jesus in his apostles as well and get to know better about Paul’s life in the second generation of Christianism.
September 27, 2024
Didactic and Interesting
For those curious about history and in one way or another about general culture, this book will make you understand in a much clearer and concise way the history of the gospel, the characters that surrounded all this path of religious construction, its relevance, the teachings they left during their lives and many more concepts that perhaps in other texts could easily put you to sleep.
I loved the book, because its narrative awakens a legitimate interest in investigating and scrutinizing the why of these characters, their relevance for the apostolic world and the sustenance of their legacy.
Let yourself be enveloped by a different work in these times where there is so much “soft” literature without much background. Fantastic.
For those curious about history and in one way or another about general culture, this book will make you understand in a much clearer and concise way the history of the gospel, the characters that surrounded all this path of religious construction, its relevance, the teachings they left during their lives and many more concepts that perhaps in other texts could easily put you to sleep.
I loved the book, because its narrative awakens a legitimate interest in investigating and scrutinizing the why of these characters, their relevance for the apostolic world and the sustenance of their legacy.
Let yourself be enveloped by a different work in these times where there is so much “soft” literature without much background. Fantastic.
June 24, 2024
Eye opening
I was raised a Catholic and am now a Presbyterian. In neither denomination do services or teaching go into the historic context of the New Testament writings. This book does that and sheds light on the historical rationale for the New Testament writings. It provides new insight (to me) while not distracting from Jesus message. Fascinating read.
I was raised a Catholic and am now a Presbyterian. In neither denomination do services or teaching go into the historic context of the New Testament writings. This book does that and sheds light on the historical rationale for the New Testament writings. It provides new insight (to me) while not distracting from Jesus message. Fascinating read.
October 6, 2025
As if a journalist has combed through the gospels to find us Easter Eggs
A genuinely unique take on the gospels, and a refreshing one at that. The author lays out at the start that he means to study the Bible carefully and objectively. Recognizing from the very start that the Twelve Apostles might now share the perspectives of latecomers like Paul. This conflict is common in all human enterprises, and is no different than any other human enterprise. And the author masterfully explores that early generation of the Apostles, Jesus' family and Paul.
This is a book for someone who loves the nuts and bolts of the chronology (When did Paul write his extant letters (50 BC), when did James die (44 BC), when was the sack of Jerusalem, when was James murdered, when did Mark write 66 BC, and how the political realities of the time might've shaped each writers gospel.
This is a deep dive, and it makes the bible feel more real. Trying to dissect the time period these authors were living in, and the conflicts that might've been taking place inside the early church teachers. Exploring conflicts that led to James maybe setting up to remove Paul back to Rome (where he was later executed as a Roman citizen.
He then breaks down many chapters: "Gospel of Mark written by a Gentile for Gentiles"; Jesus' siblings; how the editting of Mark, Matthew and Luke might've shaped what we read today; how the same event is written by different Apostles (Jesus walking on water in Mark vs Matthew).
The whole book was interesting, and it felt like an investigative journalist was combing through the texts of the Bible trying to constantly find little Easter Eggs (pun intended) in the texts.
Very refreshing indeed.
A genuinely unique take on the gospels, and a refreshing one at that. The author lays out at the start that he means to study the Bible carefully and objectively. Recognizing from the very start that the Twelve Apostles might now share the perspectives of latecomers like Paul. This conflict is common in all human enterprises, and is no different than any other human enterprise. And the author masterfully explores that early generation of the Apostles, Jesus' family and Paul.
This is a book for someone who loves the nuts and bolts of the chronology (When did Paul write his extant letters (50 BC), when did James die (44 BC), when was the sack of Jerusalem, when was James murdered, when did Mark write 66 BC, and how the political realities of the time might've shaped each writers gospel.
This is a deep dive, and it makes the bible feel more real. Trying to dissect the time period these authors were living in, and the conflicts that might've been taking place inside the early church teachers. Exploring conflicts that led to James maybe setting up to remove Paul back to Rome (where he was later executed as a Roman citizen.
He then breaks down many chapters: "Gospel of Mark written by a Gentile for Gentiles"; Jesus' siblings; how the editting of Mark, Matthew and Luke might've shaped what we read today; how the same event is written by different Apostles (Jesus walking on water in Mark vs Matthew).
The whole book was interesting, and it felt like an investigative journalist was combing through the texts of the Bible trying to constantly find little Easter Eggs (pun intended) in the texts.
Very refreshing indeed.
February 13, 2025
St. Paul is such an amazing saint and character who lived a very fascinating life; his story of conversion and life twist is incredible. People say that there is much more to know about Paul than what we can get from what the evangelists wrote, and Cobble takes the courage to guide us in the understanding. This book is very interesting as it explores the different points of view from the evangelists but also Paul’s letters, which were very important for the development of Christianity. The author will expand not only on the gospel part; he will explore the history behind and theology, also providing a critical insight that will be very valuable. I have learned so much from this book. I have heard a lot about Paul’s life and see him as a great character but sometimes stick to the history of his conversion. Now I know much more about his life. This book made me recognize the importance of Paul in my religion. This is not only for Christians, it is also part of humanity’s history, and you will love the author’s way of writing about such an adventurous character.
March 4, 2025
A thought-provoking look on how the Gospels may push back on Paul’s legacy
Contending with Paul is a deep dive and enjoyable read into how the Gospel writers, especially Luke, may have subtly pushed back against Paul’s influence. The author makes a compelling case that Luke didn’t see Paul as a true apostle, emphasizing his blindness after Damascus to cast doubt on his claim of seeing the risen Christ. The argument is thought-provoking, though it doesn’t fully address Paul’s other encounters with Jesus, like his vision of the third heaven or his trance in the Temple. Still, the book does a great job showing how early Christian writers weren’t just recording history but actively shaping it in response to Paul’s controversial legacy. Insightful, well-researched, and a must-read for anyone interested in the hidden tensions of the early church.
Contending with Paul is a deep dive and enjoyable read into how the Gospel writers, especially Luke, may have subtly pushed back against Paul’s influence. The author makes a compelling case that Luke didn’t see Paul as a true apostle, emphasizing his blindness after Damascus to cast doubt on his claim of seeing the risen Christ. The argument is thought-provoking, though it doesn’t fully address Paul’s other encounters with Jesus, like his vision of the third heaven or his trance in the Temple. Still, the book does a great job showing how early Christian writers weren’t just recording history but actively shaping it in response to Paul’s controversial legacy. Insightful, well-researched, and a must-read for anyone interested in the hidden tensions of the early church.
March 4, 2025
Incredible
This book caught my attention as soon as I read its cover. I am a Catholic and I expect the same and I consider St. Paul to be one of the most virtuous people who ever lived. Regardless of people's beliefs, St. Paul proclaims many things that are necessary for the personal, spiritual and social development of people. Therefore, I consider that this is a book that, although it speaks of Catholic spirituality, is useful for anyone who wants to read virtuous things with multiple teachings. The things that the Gospels and St. Paul proclaim are teachings and advice that anyone would like to read and live. This book is extremely easy to read and uses a unique narrative that allows the reader to understand topics that at first glance can be complex. Highly recommended!
This book caught my attention as soon as I read its cover. I am a Catholic and I expect the same and I consider St. Paul to be one of the most virtuous people who ever lived. Regardless of people's beliefs, St. Paul proclaims many things that are necessary for the personal, spiritual and social development of people. Therefore, I consider that this is a book that, although it speaks of Catholic spirituality, is useful for anyone who wants to read virtuous things with multiple teachings. The things that the Gospels and St. Paul proclaim are teachings and advice that anyone would like to read and live. This book is extremely easy to read and uses a unique narrative that allows the reader to understand topics that at first glance can be complex. Highly recommended!
September 27, 2024
Interesting!
It is a must read for believers of Catholicism, especially for those interested in studying and delving deeper into the sacred scriptures. The book explores Paul's influence on the scriptures and how his interactions with other important people in Christian history impacted the development and communication of the word of God, which is reflected in the New Testament.
The author of Contending with Paul, William Joseph Cobble, did a great job blending theology, history and literature to create this piece. I think it is very interesting to see the contradictions between them and the different points of view of each one because in my opinion, it makes them more believable. It is a different but very recommendable read!
It is a must read for believers of Catholicism, especially for those interested in studying and delving deeper into the sacred scriptures. The book explores Paul's influence on the scriptures and how his interactions with other important people in Christian history impacted the development and communication of the word of God, which is reflected in the New Testament.
The author of Contending with Paul, William Joseph Cobble, did a great job blending theology, history and literature to create this piece. I think it is very interesting to see the contradictions between them and the different points of view of each one because in my opinion, it makes them more believable. It is a different but very recommendable read!
February 11, 2025
Interesting
What really caught my attention in this book is how it demonstrates that different interpretations and views of the same message can lead to differences, debates, and even tensions. However, these situations are also an essential part of the ongoing development and growth of any community.
Without them, progress might be limited. I believe that handling the different interpretations of this text with respect can enrich our understanding, leading to a broader, deeper, and more nuanced truth. It is clear that the diversity of perspectives and the confrontation of ideas are key to both personal and collective growth.
Respecting differing interpretations ultimately helps us understand the complex realities we all face.
What really caught my attention in this book is how it demonstrates that different interpretations and views of the same message can lead to differences, debates, and even tensions. However, these situations are also an essential part of the ongoing development and growth of any community.
Without them, progress might be limited. I believe that handling the different interpretations of this text with respect can enrich our understanding, leading to a broader, deeper, and more nuanced truth. It is clear that the diversity of perspectives and the confrontation of ideas are key to both personal and collective growth.
Respecting differing interpretations ultimately helps us understand the complex realities we all face.
February 15, 2025
Helpful guide.
This book was a gift from a friend and I would like to recommend it to anyone who is interested in learning more about the New Testament. This reading is a valuable resource that will help you better understand the New Testament and where Christianity came from. ''Contending with Paul'' will focus primarily on Christianity’s first and second generations. In addition, you will find history, theology, biography, and biblical criticism. I am sure this read will help you to shape and strengthen your beliefs. This guide will help you with your spiritual growth, with historical and cultural perspective, and practical application. This book is definitely helpful for personal and spiritual resilience.
This book was a gift from a friend and I would like to recommend it to anyone who is interested in learning more about the New Testament. This reading is a valuable resource that will help you better understand the New Testament and where Christianity came from. ''Contending with Paul'' will focus primarily on Christianity’s first and second generations. In addition, you will find history, theology, biography, and biblical criticism. I am sure this read will help you to shape and strengthen your beliefs. This guide will help you with your spiritual growth, with historical and cultural perspective, and practical application. This book is definitely helpful for personal and spiritual resilience.
February 13, 2025
This is a thought- provoking, interesting and engaging piece of work that offers a deep exploration of the role of the apostle Paul in Christianity and his huge influence.
Something I really liked about this book is that it blends not only theology but also history, biography, and literary criticism in a sublime way. I was never bored reading this book or feeling like there were irrelevant details.
The writing style is respectful and organized, which makes it easier to follow the reading. I used to read titles about religion but none of the ones I enjoyed were as complete as this one.
This was an enlightening read that I highly recommend.
Something I really liked about this book is that it blends not only theology but also history, biography, and literary criticism in a sublime way. I was never bored reading this book or feeling like there were irrelevant details.
The writing style is respectful and organized, which makes it easier to follow the reading. I used to read titles about religion but none of the ones I enjoyed were as complete as this one.
This was an enlightening read that I highly recommend.
February 15, 2025
Wow, I learned a lot
I really like history and specifically the history behind religion and being a Catholic, I especially liked this one. The book clearly has a lot of research behind it that leads to a lot of historical and biblical data that, being Catholic or not, causes a lot of curiosity and from my perspective, surprise. In addition, I think that if you are still getting close to the Gospel and its main characters, this book can be a much easier and key guide for you to better understand the importance and the times of each one in history and in the New Testament. Excellent, I really liked it a lot.
I really like history and specifically the history behind religion and being a Catholic, I especially liked this one. The book clearly has a lot of research behind it that leads to a lot of historical and biblical data that, being Catholic or not, causes a lot of curiosity and from my perspective, surprise. In addition, I think that if you are still getting close to the Gospel and its main characters, this book can be a much easier and key guide for you to better understand the importance and the times of each one in history and in the New Testament. Excellent, I really liked it a lot.
November 28, 2025
The author of this book makes points about Paul that I had always considered "off" through the gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and Acts. He states that Mark was the first gospel written and was greatly influenced by Paul. Matthew used Mark as a template but is written for the Jewish audience. The author shows that there was quite a bit of contention between the Pauline churches and the mother church in Jerusalem. A good book for those wanting to study what was going on between the early churches.
June 23, 2024
Paul and the apostles
The author writes a book about the significance of Paul and his effect on the other gospel writers. He points out the differences between all of the gospels and how each one has a different interpretation of what Jesus said and did. I found this book very interesting and made some good points about things that I didn’t realize before.I recommend this book for all who wanna learn more about Paul and the holy gospels.
The author writes a book about the significance of Paul and his effect on the other gospel writers. He points out the differences between all of the gospels and how each one has a different interpretation of what Jesus said and did. I found this book very interesting and made some good points about things that I didn’t realize before.I recommend this book for all who wanna learn more about Paul and the holy gospels.
February 14, 2025
Fascinating and well-researched
Contending with Paul is a fascinating and well-researched look at the early Christian movement and the debates that shaped the New Testament. I liked its balance between deep historical analysis and accessible writing. Cobble dives into theology, history, and literary criticism, yet the book never feels overly academic.
Contending with Paul offers a thought-provoking perspective. Recommended.
July 7, 2024
This is a keeper!
This book is scholarly without being stuffy. Found I read it slowly to ponder the points. I read it first as Kindle Unlimited, but have now decided to purchase a digital copy to keep. Be sure you read to the end, appendices are good!
This book is scholarly without being stuffy. Found I read it slowly to ponder the points. I read it first as Kindle Unlimited, but have now decided to purchase a digital copy to keep. Be sure you read to the end, appendices are good!
March 21, 2025
A different perspective
Your book offers a good depth for a faith based reading. It is a different perspective on Christianity. I’d add the book to the list of theology resources for world view and religious debates.
Leo
Your book offers a good depth for a faith based reading. It is a different perspective on Christianity. I’d add the book to the list of theology resources for world view and religious debates.
Leo
June 2, 2024
Easy To Understand
An excellent deep dive on the books of Matthew, Mark & Luke with historical backgrounds that piques the reader’s interest. Highly recommend
An excellent deep dive on the books of Matthew, Mark & Luke with historical backgrounds that piques the reader’s interest. Highly recommend
December 6, 2024
Too many hypotheticals.
Having read just the first book, I expected more solid evidence for its claims. I’ll press on. Maybe the second one will change my mind.
Having read just the first book, I expected more solid evidence for its claims. I’ll press on. Maybe the second one will change my mind.
August 19, 2025
Fantastic read. Well-written and easily read.
November 28, 2025
This book is very thought provoking. I liked the comparisons between the gospels of Matthew, Mark and Luke as well as the book of Acts of the Apostles. I plan on reading the second book!
September 26, 2024
Very interesting; I learned a lot that I had never known about the Gospel writers and Paul, especially how Mark had written his gospel long before the others. I did not know there was contention between Matthew, Luke and Paul.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews