New Testament Times: Understanding the World of the First Century

by Merrill C. Tenney

This popular guide to the first-century world is now available in full color. The correct and full interpretation of Scripture often depends on having an understanding of the culture in which the writers of the Bible lived. These men naturally spoke in the imagery and circumstances of their political and historical situations, and translating their words into our language and modern context can prove difficult. Merrill Tenney's New Testament Times thoroughly explores and explains the political, social, and cultural forces of the first century, allowing you a deeper understanding of the world in which the Christian church was born. You will find full-color photographs, maps, and charts throughout the book to help you visualize that world. An excellent tool for pastors, Bible study groups, and individual Christians, New Testament Times provides the answers to many questions we pose as we study God's Word. Merrill C. Tenney (1904-1985) was professor of Bible and theology and dean of the g

Genres: History, Christian, Biblical Studies, Nonfiction, Reference, Historical, Christianity

384 pages, Hardcover

First published June 1, 1965

Reviews

[Randy Corn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tenney is a first-rate scholar and shows a real command of the NT world with this book. As I read it this time I thought of what a bloody world it was. The cruelty of men was on clear display. I have no doubt that had weapons of mass destruction been available in those days, the world would have ceased to exist. That sad picture makes the message of Christianity stand out. I would certainly recommend this book to anyone wanting insight into that era, but I believe it has been surpassed by more recent contributions to the field.

[Read1000books · Rating 3 out of 5]

Great background information regarding the political and cultural events within the geographic area of the Roman Empire beginning with the Maccabean period (i.e. between the Old and New Testaments) through the end of the reign of Emperor Hadrian in A.D. 138. All the various individuals associated with the Maccabees can be tedious but those readers who persevere will be rewarded with many insights in the material about the time of Christ, the apostles, and the early church.

[Rick · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very informational and accessible. It was a text for a class I took which usually means 'b o r i n g' yet it was anything but.

[Joshua Lawson · Rating 3 out of 5]

A concise overview of New Testament history. The serious student will want to go deeper, but this is a good place to start in understanding the times of Christ and the early church.

[Lisa Hemphill · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an excellent book to get useful and understandable information regarding ancient Israel. For a novice like myself it helped me see scripture in a new light.