We are far removed from the time and culture of the biblical world, and this distance easily leads to misunderstanding and misinterpretation. Our understanding and appreciation for God's Word increases exponentially when we know about the context in which the biblical books were written. So while many Bible commentaries explain the theological meaning of the text, The Baker Illustrated Bible Background Commentary provides fascinating cultural and historical insights into God's Word.
Richly illustrated with full-color photos throughout, this one-volume background commentary includes articles by leading Old and New Testament scholars on subjects such as
- countries, cities, and cultures of the Holy Land and the Greco-Roman world
- warfare and execution
- religious groups and customs
- fashion, athletics, feasts, and celebrations
- honor, shame, and hospitality
- and much more
This colorful, informative volume is an essential companion for pastors, teachers, and laypeople who want to enhance their personal Bible study and help others do the same.
Endorsements
"Scott Duvall and Daniel Hays have assembled a first-class team of biblical scholars to explore the important background material related to both the Old Testament and the New. More than merely a survey of dates, times, places, people, and events, as significant as those things may be, The Baker Illustrated Bible Background Commentary provides illumination to challenging and perplexing interpretive issues, guiding readers to fresh understandings of the biblical text. Drawing on recent archaeological findings and insights from ancient sources, the informative articles, combined with the well-researched textual commentary, provide a rich resource for students, teachers, and pastors. As an added bonus, the book is helpfully and beautifully illustrated. It is a genuine joy to recommend this splendid resource." - David S. Dockery, Distinguished Professor of Theology, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary
"Hays and Duvall have done the church a favor in bringing to us the Baker Illustrated Bible Background Commentary. By offering keen theological insight into the text, helpful historical and cultural analysis, and full-color pictures to go along with it, they have given every person desiring to grow in their knowledge of the Bible an invaluable tool to do so. This is a wonderful resource that both pastors and lay leaders will find extremely beneficial in their teaching and study of Scripture. I highly recommend it." - Dr. Jarrett Stephens, teaching pastor, Prestonwood Baptist Church
"I love this book for three reasons. First, though the book is large, the articles are short, to the point, and cover a range of issues. Second, the articles are clear and informative and will make better readers and followers of Jesus. Third, the book is beautifully designed and supplemented. Reading the Bible is a communal, contextual, and constructive act. Thankfully, this book brings readers into conversation with many who have studied the context of Scripture in depth. This is a great resource that will serve the church for many years to come." - Patrick Schreiner, assistant professor of New Testament language and literature, Western Seminary
"This book is an amazing, helpful, hands-on, must-have resource for any student or teacher of the Scriptures. When you can connect the words and pictures of Scripture with the historical context and culture in such a meaningful way, it makes teaching and living out your faith so much richer and fuller. The truth of God's Word comes alive in a transformative way. As a pastor, I am grateful for a resource that will benefit my own study and that I can wholeheartedly recommend to our church family." - Brandon Barnard, teaching pastor, Fellowship Bible Church, Little Rock, AR
J. Scott Duvall (PhD, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary) is professor of New Testament and J. C. and Mae Fuller Chair of Biblical Studies at Ouachita Baptist University in Arkadelphia, Arkansas.
J. Daniel Hays (PhD, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary) is dean of the School of Christian Studies and professor of biblical studies at Ouachita Baptist University.
