An Introduction to the New Testament - 2nd Edition by David A deSilva (Hardcover)

About the Book

This comprehensive New Testament introduction not only outlines historical, social, cultural, and rhetorical contexts, but it also points students preparing for ministry to relevant facets of biblical interpretation. Brimming with maps, photos, points of interest, and aids to learning, this beautiful, full-color second edition of an established textbook is the first choice for those who want to integrate scholarship and ministry.

Book Synopsis

This New Testament introduction is different.Many introductions zero in on the historical contexts in which the New Testament literature was written. This introduction goes further--to give particular attention to the social, cultural, and rhetorical contexts of the New Testament authors and their writings.Few introductions to the New Testament integrate instruction in exegetical and interpretive strategies with the customary considerations of authorship, dating, audience, and message. This introduction capitalizes on the opportunity, introducing students to a relevant facet of interpretation with each portion of New Testament literature.Rarely do introductions to the New Testament approach their task mindful of students preparing for ministry. This introduction is explicit in doing so, recognizing as it does that the New Testament itself--in its parts and as a whole--is a pastoral resource. Each chapter on the New Testament literature closes with a discussion of implications for ministry formation.These integrative features alone would distinguish this introduction from others. But in addition, its pages brim with maps, photos, points of interest, and aids to learning. Separate chapters explore the historical and cultural environment of the New Testament era, the nature of the Gospels and the quest for the historical Jesus, and the life of Paul.First published in 2004, David A. deSilva's comprehensive and carefully crafted introduction to the New Testament has been long established as an authoritative textbook and resource for students. This beautiful, full-color second edition has been updated throughout with new scholarship and numerous images. It is the first choice for those convinced that a New Testament introduction should integrate scholarship and ministry.

Review Quotes

"David deSilva's An Introduction to the New Testament has served as an excellent resource both in the classroom and for individual study. Now in this second edition his discussion of the documents of the New Testament and related cultural, social, and historical issues continues to offer a clear and engaging general introduction to these topics that often add important details beyond a bare introduction. Indeed, in this second edition he has deepened the discussion at many points based on his further research, evident in the numerous articles and books he has published since the first edition. The addition of colored photographs enhances the value of the photos considerably. He retains distinctive attention to the pastoral issues reflected in the documents of this edition, a focus that is especially valuable for students preparing for ministry. His ministry formation sections are thoughtful exercises in engaging the issues raised by the texts and provide good starting points for debate and discussion. The twenty-six exegetical skills sections are another distinctive feature retained in this second edition, offering brief, clear introductions to the various skills used in the interpretation of the New Testament. In sum, this second edition enhances an already exceptional introduction to the New Testament that serves the general reader well and especially those preparing for ministry."

"DeSilva's An Introduction to the New Testament is a clearly written and balanced exploration of the critical issues of New Testament studies written by a renowned scholar and seasoned teacher. His excellent discussions of socio-cultural issues, such as honor/shame dynamics and patronage, are essential for anyone wanting a historically based study of the New Testament grounded in the cultural values of the first century."

About the Author

David A. deSilva (PhD, Emory University) is Trustees' Distinguished Professor of New Testament and Greek at Ashland Theological Seminary in Ashland, Ohio. He is the author of over twenty-five books and an ordained elder in the Florida Conference of the United Methodist Church.