An Introduction to the Bible Sacred Texts and Imperial Contexts

This groundbreaking introductory text explores the emergence of the Christian Bible in the first century and places it in the broader context of history, particularly the empires in power at the time. Explores the historical role the Bible has played in subsequent empires, and its enduring influence in the contemporary world, resulting in a balanced overview of the historical forces that shaped the Christian canon Explores topics including: the historical study of the Gospel traditions; the influence of Roman rule in the provinces where Paul spent much of his ministry; other early Christian texts; and the Bible's interpretation and use by different faith communities Presents the Gospels in their historical context by date of composition Incorporates a range of student-friendly features throughout, including study questions, bibliographies, timelines, and illustrations and photos

David M. Carr is Professor of Old Testament/Hebrew Bible at Union Theological Seminary in New York. His previous books include Reading the Fractures of Genesis: Historical and Literary Approaches (1996); The Erotic Word: Sexuality, Spirituality and the Bible (2003); and Writing on the Tablet of the Heart: Origins of Scripture and Literature (2005).

Colleen M. Conway is Professor of Religious Studies at Seton Hall University, South Orange, New Jersey. Her books include Men and Women in the Fourth Gospel: Gender and Johannine Characterization (1999) and Behold the Man: Jesus and Greco Roman Masculinity (2008).