In order to properly understand and apply the Bible, we need two crucial sources of information. The first is the Bible itself, the second is a good understanding of the cultural context of the passage you are reading. This unique commentary provides, verse by verse, the crucial cultural context you need for a more enriched study of the Bible. Written in clear, non-technical language.
Jesus tells us not to pray like the pagans (Matthew 6:7-8). But how did the pagans pray?
Greek prayers consisted of assigning as many titles as possible to the requested deity, in the hope of attracting their attention. Pagan prayers generally reminded the deity of favors granted or sacrifices offered, in an attempt to obtain a response from him, as when making a contract. Jesus centers effective prayer on an intimate relationship, not on a business partnership model, as in ancient paganism.
What was unusual about Jesus casting out demons “with authority”?
There were many exorcists (individuals who attempted to cast demons out of other people) in Jesus' day. They used two main methods to expel demons: (1) sickening or frightening the demon into coming out (for example, by placing a smelly root under the nose of the possessed person in the hope that the demon would not be able to bear the smell); (2) invoking the name of a superior spirit to get rid of an inferior spirit. So people are amazed that Jesus could be so effective by simply ordering the demons to leave.
In order to properly understand and apply the Bible, we need two crucial sources of information. The first is the Bible itself, quite simply. The second is a good understanding of the cultural context of the passage you are reading.
Only with context can you fully grasp the author's original concern and purpose. This unique commentary provides, verse by verse, the crucial cultural context you need for a more enriched study of the Bible.
Written in clear, non-technical language, this invaluable aid contains:
- a glossary of cultural terms and important historical figures
- maps and tables
- an up-to-date bibliography of commentaries and other resources for every book of the New Testament
- introductory essays on the importance of cultural context and the use of this unique commentary
ISBN: 9782895761501