The Zondervan Illustrated Bible Backgrounds Commentary: New Testament is a concise and relevant study of the New Testament. The series, edited by Clinton E. Arnold, allows you to gain a deeper understanding of the biblical text as well as research background information about the people and places mentioned in the Bible. The vivid pictures, maps, and timelines place you within reach of the beauty, wonder, and discovery offered by the ancient world and made relevant to today’s audiences.
Have you ever wondered what an ancient papyrus copy of the letter to the Galatians looks like? Letters in the ancient world were not able to be forwarded with the tap of a button, but rather were personally brought before a specific congregation and read aloud for all to hear. Most likely after the original audience heard the message, the letter was passed on, as was the case for the Galatians letter, to the surrounding churches.
Explore the historical and cultural background of the New Testament
With the search capability available in this series you can, for example, discover why in Galatians 2:11-13 Paul rebuked Peter (called Cephas), as well as why Paul used the term ‘pillar’ in reference to Jesus’ disciples. This passage in Galatians 2 provides an important lesson from Paul: the conduct of one who follows Christ should be in agreement with the message of the gospel. In this passage Paul rebukes Peter for first accepting the Gentile Christians only to walk away from them at the arrival of the Jewish leaders sent by James. Paul wanted to make it known that his intentions toward the gospel message were true. His concern was not with pleasing people but with sharing the gospel message with integrity and sincerity.
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