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Introducing the New Testament: A Historical, Literary, and Theological Survey by Mark Allan Powell
maryloulynninmi's review against another edition
4.0
Great general introduction
This is a great general introduction to the writings of the New Testament. It gives a balanced look at various scholarly opinions but it remains very readable.
This is a great general introduction to the writings of the New Testament. It gives a balanced look at various scholarly opinions but it remains very readable.
nrt43's review against another edition
4.0
If you are looking for a good introduction to the NT, this is a good choice. Mark Allan Powell provides a chapter on each NT book as well as separate chapters on the NT world, NT writings, Jesus, the Gospels, the NT letters, and Paul. He does a great job at giving you the big picture without overwhelming you. Most chapters include an introduction, an overview of the book, historical background, and a list of the major themes. He is not afraid of broaching controversial topics, and he does so without forcing his own opinions too much into the conversation. All in all, a great book at learning the basic content and background to the NT. As an added bonus, he also has a website with flash cards and a quiz on every chapter with numerous articles for further reading and references. Highly recommended.
femmerien's review against another edition
4.0
This book is fun and informative. It presents the New Testament as a compilation of books that each have incredible depth and fascinating backgrounds. Powell is open and honest about the difficulties and mystery the New Testament is full of and does not attempt to solve any problems. There are many pictures, figures, tables and lists to help make the info more visual.
Somehow the Preface was my highlight of reading this book, it is seriously hilarious and a welcome change in the midst of somewhat dull academical theological research for my degree.
Somehow the Preface was my highlight of reading this book, it is seriously hilarious and a welcome change in the midst of somewhat dull academical theological research for my degree.
eupomene's review against another edition
5.0
This year in EfM the biggest treat was reading the New Testament yet again (and for the very first time) along with this text by Powell. I can't recommend this book highly enough. He is witty and engaging and fun. When much of your scripture reading is taken in pieces through the lectionary and on church days, reading through it with this is a whole new experience. No need to be in a class to read it.
Added plus - the artwork used within is stunning.
Added plus - the artwork used within is stunning.
rmardel's review against another edition
3.0
Originally read in 2015, at which time I was using it as a year 2 EFM text. I thought the book was clear, but rather elementary and read as if it was written at about an early-high school level. I loved the pictures though.
Read again in 2017/2018, this time as a mentor with an EFM group. The book is clearly written and is a thorough introduction that both groups I have gone through EFM with have enjoyed. I still love the pictures, but although I think it is probably perfect for this use, I also consider it a bit simplistic and basic, good for a lay study group such a EFM, where not everyone will want to go into greater scholarship, or again, as an entry-level introduction to New Testament scholarship.
Read again in 2017/2018, this time as a mentor with an EFM group. The book is clearly written and is a thorough introduction that both groups I have gone through EFM with have enjoyed. I still love the pictures, but although I think it is probably perfect for this use, I also consider it a bit simplistic and basic, good for a lay study group such a EFM, where not everyone will want to go into greater scholarship, or again, as an entry-level introduction to New Testament scholarship.
dejunker's review against another edition
5.0
This is the best textbook I’ve ever read, partly because it is the only textbook I’ve been able to read all the way through! It is well written, concise yet a lot of information, nonjudgmental and stating multiple views. The best are the side boxes, nonessential but still good information to have. A bonus is the artwork! I’ve tried another New Testament textbook but couldn’t stick with it even in seminary. This is the best.
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