New Testament History: The Jews, The Romans, And the Church

by F.F. Bruce

The story of the New Testament is best understood when it is set in its historical context, which is what F.F. Bruce does brilliantly in this book. He begins by explaining the political, social, intellectual, and religious aspects of the Jewish people after their return from exile. The life and ministry of Jesus is then set within that culture. After the crucifixion of Jesus, "none of the authorities . . . could have reckoned with the event that confounded all their calculations," says Bruce—"Jesus' rising from the dead and appearing to his disciples. . . . It took [his followers] quite by surprise. But it transformed them from a crowd of demoralized and frightened people into a band of men with a mission and purpose which, without delay, they proceeded to translate into action." The second half of New Testament History is given to the actions of the followers of Jesus—the story of the early church, and the expansion of Christianity throughout the Roman Empire.
Bruce's details make the story come alive. For instance, in the New Testament Pilate is mentioned, condemns Jesus to death, and disappears from the story. Bruce, however, quotes Philo as describing Pilate as "naturally inflexible, a blend of self-will and relentlessness" and then Professor Bruce paints a fuller picture of the prefect of Judaea through additional stories and details about the man.
"New Testament History" is an excellent clear summary, situating the New Testament in its historical context. Bruce is restrained in his judgments, judicious in his acceptance or rejection of harmonizations, and writes well. Jewish religious parties and sects are clearly explained, the various Herods get their due, and the uneasy relationship between Rome and Christianity is helpfully explored.

624 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 18, 2018

About the author

Frederick Fyvie Bruce FBA was a Biblical scholar who supported the historical reliability of the New Testament. His first book, The New Testament Documents: Are They Reliable? (1943), was voted by the American evangelical periodical Christianity Today in 2006 as one of the top 50 books "which had shaped evangelicals".

Reviews

[Larry B Gray · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome Study of the Early Church

A very thorough and detailed look at the history of the new testament church. It is easy to understand, read and follow. I really like this book and I highly recommend it.

[Robert LD Bowdell · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Best !!

This currently no doubt was best New Testament History book that I've read. The details and references are exceptional. Bruce stays firm to the New Testament Scripture while combining the well of History around the time briefly before and during the 1st Century