Additional information
by David A. deSilva (Author)
Southwestern Journal of Theology 2025 Book Award (Biblical Reference / Biblical Backgrounds)
A fundamental principle of biblical interpretation is the importance of context--historical, literary, and canonical. But an often-neglected source of context for understanding Scripture is the field of archaeology. The physical and cultural world we inhabit affects us deeply, and that was no less true for the original writers and readers of Scripture. Archaeology provides insights into important questions like, What did these believers see day to day? What messages did they receive from their environment? What social practices influenced them?
In this first of three planned volumes, New Testament scholar David deSilva uses archaeological findings to explore places where the apostle Paul ministered and his audiences lived. This visually compelling and beautifully designed book contains more than 250 full-color photographs of sites and artifacts. The author focuses on the fruits of archaeology in regard to the sites associated with Paul's ministry in Acts and in Paul's own writings. This book helps readers understand the real-life situations Paul addressed.
This volume will be an important supplemental textbook for courses on the New Testament and for anyone who wants to better understand the lived context of Paul and his readers.
Back Jacket
"You will see Paul's world come alive in the pages of this book"
Leading New Testament scholar David deSilva explores the archaeology of particular sites and their relevance for thinking about Paul's missionary activity, his congregations, and his letters.
"Drawing on his decades of scholarship, and with eloquent and jargon-free prose, deSilva tells an exciting story of the 'what, where, and how' of first-century life in the Roman Empire. Beautiful photos illuminate historical settings and invite readers to imagine themselves as travelers with Paul. An essential resource for scholars, pastors, and all curious Bible readers."
--Lynn H. Cohick, Houston Christian University
"What a rich source of information! DeSilva provides details and pictures that provoke the imaginations of all New Testament readers. The narratives surrounding the life and ministry of the apostle Paul and his associates come freshly to life with deSilva's discussions and depictions. An indispensable tool for group or individual study."
--Dennis R. Edwards, North Park Theological Seminary
"DeSilva offers an expert guided tour through key locations in Paul's life and ministry. You will see Paul's world come alive in the pages of this book, and it is bound to enrich your reading of Acts and Paul's letters."
--Nijay K. Gupta, Northern Seminary
"This carefully researched, lucidly written, richly illustrated, and handsomely produced volume is an essential guide for all who are interested in learning more about the archaeological record of sites associated with the far-flung ministry of Paul."
--Todd D. Still, Baylor's Truett Seminary
"DeSilva skillfully weaves together the biblical texts with ancient evidence of the civic, religious, and cultural life in each city Paul visited. The reader cannot help but come away with a deeper understanding of the context of the ancient world and the challenges Paul faced as he tirelessly worked to declare the gospel message."
--Suzanne Nicholson, Asbury University
"DeSilva has brought together his extensive knowledge of the world of the New Testament into a clear and user-friendly textbook for students of Paul's ministry."
--Jarvis J. Williams, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary
Author Biography
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 more than 30 books on the New Testament and Second Temple Period Jewish literature, including Introducing the Apocrypha, Discovering Revelation, Judea Under Greek and Roman Rule, and commentaries on Hebrews, Galatians, and Ephesians. He is also an ordained elder in the Global Methodist Church.
