New, valuable understanding of the historical and religious contexts of the New Testament writings continue to emerge. This accessibly written introduction examines over two dozen such crises and how biblical text addresses, reflects, and embodies them. From the ministry of Jesus to the rise and propagation of the Christian movement to the epistles of Paul and other leaders to a vision of God's final cosmic victory, the New Testament books are succinctly introduced in literary, historical, and theological perspective. Designed for optimal classroom use, each chapter offers four primary features: (1) definition and exploration of relevant contextual crises, (2) connections with the biblical writings, (3) theological message of the biblical narrative, and (4) an application section that engages the student directly and invites thoughtful response. (Back cover).