Interpreting Christian Scripture

Online access available as well.

The Dictionary of New Testament Background takes full advantage of the flourishing study of the Dead Sea Scrolls and offers individual articles focused on the most important scrolls. In addition, the Dictionary encompasses the fullness of second-temple and later Jewish writings, whether pseudepigraphic, rabbinic, parables, proverbs, histories or inscriptions. Articles abound on aspects of Jewish history, faith and thought, including topics such as family, purity, liturgy and messianism. The full scope of Greco-Roman culture is displayed in articles ranging across language and rhetoric, literacy and book culture, religion and cults, honor and shame, patrons and benefactors, travel and trade, intellectual movements and ideas, and ancient geographical perspectives.

Provides background information regarding imagery used in the Bible. A great resource for understanding nuances that would have been clear to the original audience.

There are also copies available in the stacks as well as online.

Available online and in the Reference Room. Readers of the New Testament often encounter quotes or allusions to Old Testament stories and prophecies that are unfamiliar or obscure. In order to fully understand the teachings of Jesus and his followers, it is important to understand the large body of Scripture that preceded and informed their thinking. . . a comprehensive commentary on Old Testament quotations, allusions, and echoes that appear from Matthew through Revelation.

Available in the Reference Room and online.

Available online.

Available online; an earlier edition is available in the Reference Room.

Available online and in print. This one volume commentary provides background information on each book of the Bible before providing a brief chapter by chapter commentary.