New Testament Theology

An Introduction to the Theology and Themes of 1 and 2 Thessalonians Like Paul's other early churches, Thessalonica experienced great societal pressure to conform to the surrounding culture. But amid persecution, the Thessalonians remained faithful to their call to holiness as they patiently awaited Jesus's return. These epistles provide a positive and practical example of what Christians should believe and how they should behave today. In this volume of the New Testament Theology series, author Andrew Malone explores 1 and 2 Thessalonians to highlight the life cycle of Christian discipleship―turning away from idols, trusting in the gospel message, having hope that the Lord will return, and continually pleasing the one true God until that return. Through clear and engaging theological examinations, Malone expounds on predominant themes―enhancing gospel reputation, persistence in the face of opposition, Christian life within an unbelieving society, and more―explaining how they are relevant for the church today. • Part of the New Testament Theology Series: Other volumes include Ministry in the New Realm; United to Christ, Walking in the Spirit; and more • Ideal for Church Leaders: A great discipleship resource and tool for modeling after a healthy church • Written by Andrew Malone: Author and lecturer in biblical studies at Ridley College Andrew S. Malone (ThD, Ridley College) is lecturer in biblical studies at Ridley College in Australia. He is the author of God's Mediators: A Biblical Theology of Priesthood and Knowing Jesus in the Old Testament? A Fresh Look at Christophanies.

An Introduction to the Theology of 2 Peter and Jude from Matthew S. Harmon Even though Peter and Jude wrote their canonical letters almost 2,000 years ago, the church today still faces similar challenges as their original readers. What do these short, overlooked books have to teach Christians today about God, humanity, and God's redemptive plan? In this addition to the New Testament Theology series, Matthew S. Harmon examines the unique themes of 2 Peter and Jude as well as their common ground, addressing topics such as false teaching, God's authority, and the new heavens and the new earth. Analyzing the historical and biblical context of both books, Harmon helps readers understand how these key themes apply to them today―giving Christians comfort and motivation in the face of serious challenges and opposition to the gospel. • Part of the New Testament Theology Series: Other volumes include The Mission of the Triune God; United to Christ, Walking in the Spirit; and The Beginning of the Gospel • Ideal for Anyone Wanting to Study the Bible More Deeply: Perfect for pastors, seminarians, college students, and laypeople • Written by Matthew S. Harmon: Author of the entries for 2 Peter and Jude in the ESV Expository Commentary (Volume 12) and Asking the Right Questions: A Practical Guide to Understanding and Applying the Bible Matthew S. Harmon (PhD, Wheaton College) is professor of New Testament Studies at Grace College and Theological Seminary in Winona Lake, Indiana. He was previously on staff with Cru for eight years and is the author of numerous books, including commentaries on Galatians, Philippians, 2 Peter, and Jude. He also cohosts the Various and Sundry podcast. Matthew and his wife, Kate, live in Warsaw, Indiana, and have two sons.

An Introduction to the Theology and Themes of James Genuine Christian faith shows itself in the spiritual fruit of a transformed life. No New Testament book makes this reality more clear than the epistle of James. Known for its practical wisdom, the book of James offers a concise reflection of Jesus's teachings, challenges our everyday actions, and provides clear guidance for building a life upon his words. In this volume of the New Testament Theology series, Robert L. Plummer explores the central themes and theology of James, offering insightful connections between this epistle and the broader narrative of Scripture. Through thoughtful and engaging analysis, Plummer examines 6 key themes―Jesus Christ, faith and works, trials and temptations, poverty and riches, speech and anger, and prayer and perseverance. Living Faith will ultimately help readers gain a deeper understanding of this beloved letter and its important relevance to Christian life. • Part of the New Testament Theology Series: Other volumes include The Appearing of God Our Savior; To Walk and to Please God; and Ministry in the New Realm • Ideal for Anyone Wanting to Study the Bible More Deeply: Perfect for pastors, seminarians, college students, and laypeople • Covers Important Theological Themes: Faith and works, trials and temptations, poverty and riches, speech and anger, prayer and perseverance Robert L. Plummer (PhD, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary) is the Collin and Evelyn Aikman professor of biblical studies at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and host of the popular screencast at DailyDoseOfGreek.com. He has authored, coauthored, or edited numerous books, including 40 Questions About Interpreting the Bible; Beginning with New Testament Greek; Greek for Life; and Held in Honor.

An Introduction to the Theology and Themes of Romans The book of Romans, often regarded as one of the greatest letters ever written, provides a thorough explanation of Christian doctrine. Yet, in explaining Paul's gospel, Romans is not just for preachers and people who have not yet come to faith. Paul's purpose in Romans is to strengthen believers with the gospel of God thereby equipping them for every good work, to live holy lives, be protected from evil, and to live as those who belong to the day of Christ's glorious return. In this volume of the New Testament Theology series, Brian S. Rosner explores the key theology and themes of Romans, including sin, righteousness, justification, judgment, union with Christ, Christian conduct, hope, and more. By examining the letter's Old Testament connections and the full scope of Paul's gospel, this volume seeks to strengthen and encourage today's disciples of Jesus. • Part of the New Testament Theology Series: Other volumes include Living Faith; The Appearing of God Our Savior; and To Walk and to Please God • Ideal for Anyone Wanting to Study the Bible More Deeply: Perfect for pastors, seminarians, college students, and laypeople • Covers Important Theological Themes: Sin, righteousness, justification, judgment, union with Christ, Christian conduct, hope, and more Brian Rosner (PhD, Cambridge) was principal at Ridley College in Melbourne, Australia from 2012–2024, where he now lectures in New Testament. He previously taught at the University of Aberdeen and Moore Theological College. Rosner is the author or editor of many books, including How to Find Yourself: Why Looking Inward Is Not the Answer. He is married to Natalie and has four children.

Is our hope in the gospel of Christ sufficient for our every need? After reflecting on this question during periods of difficult earthly circumstances, Paul wrote two letters to the church at Colossae to express the hidden hope "laid up for you in heaven" (Colossians 1:5) and found in the person of Christ. In this volume of the “New Testament Theology” series, author Kevin W. McFadden focuses on the specific teachings of Paul to examine the theology and themes of Colossians and Philemon. While reading this comprehensive yet concise study, believers will learn what it means to live a Christ-centered life as they explore Christ as hope, our knowledge of God, and our life above in heaven and here on earth.

Understanding Mark in the Context of the Old and New Testaments The book of Mark―the first and shortest Gospel written―serves as both a historical and theological account, connecting Jesus to the whole storyline of the Bible. Mark writes against the backdrop of the Old Testament and draws from other New Testament writers, specifically Peter and Paul, to articulate many themes that are found in the rest of the New Testament. In this addition to the New Testament Theology series, scholar Peter Orr offers an accessible summary of the theology of Mark, examining its relationship to both the Old and New Testaments. Each chapter focuses on a key theological theme―the identity of Christ, the announcement of the kingdom, the call to follow, and more―and explains how it is relevant for the church today. • Part of the New Testament Theology Series: Other volumes include The Joy of Hearing; The Mission of the Triune God; and United to Christ, Walking in the Spirit • Ideal for Anyone Wanting to Study the Bible More Deeply: Perfect for pastors, seminarians, college students, and laypeople • Written by Peter Orr: New Testament lecturer and author of Fight for Your Pastor Peter Orr (PhD, University of Durham) is a New Testament lecturer at Moore Theological College in Sydney, Australia. He is the author of Exalted Above the Heavens: The Risen and Ascended Christ and a contributor to Theology Is for Preaching and Romans and the Legacy of St Paul. Orr and his wife, Emma, have four sons and are members at All Saints Petersham.

An Introduction to the Biblical Theology of Hebrews The book of Hebrews can be intimidating for modern-day Christians due to its connection to Old Testament text. However, once understood, this New Testament epistle offers great insights into the superiority and sufficiency of Jesus―rightly justifying his place as high priest. In this addition to the New Testament Theology series, scholar Dennis E. Johnson highlights the main biblical-theological themes of Hebrews. Johnson explores how Jesus fulfills perfect priesthood by becoming the covenant mediator and the trailblazer who leads his people into a better inheritance. Hebrews calls Christian believers, both of the early church and today, to hold fast to their faith even when faced with persecution and exclusion. It reminds us to cling to the eternal Son who offered his body and blood as the everlasting sacrifice for our sin. • Ideal for Anyone Wanting to Study the Bible More Deeply: Perfect for pastors, seminarians, college students, and laypeople • Helpful Bible Study Resource: A great companion to commentaries on Hebrews • Part of the New Testament Theology Series: Other volumes include Ministry in the New Realm and Hidden with Christ in God Dennis E. Johnson (PhD, Fuller Theological Seminary) is professor emeritus of practical theology at Westminster Seminary California and assistant pastor of Westminster Presbyterian Church in Dayton, Tennessee. He is the author of several books and contributed to the ESV Study Bible and the ESV Expository Commentary. Dennis and his wife, Jane, live in Dayton and have four children and sixteen grandchildren.

The Book of Revelation is a work of profound theology. But its literary form makes it impenetrable to many modern listeners and open to all kinds of misinterpretations. Richard Bauckham explains how the book's imagery conveyed meaning in its original context and how the book's theology is inseparable from its literary structure and composition. Revelation is seen to offer not an esoteric and encoded forecast of historical events but rather a theocentric vision of the coming of God's universal kingdom, contextualized in the late first-century world dominated by Roman power and ideology. It calls on Christians to confront the political idolatries of the time and to participate in God's purpose of gathering all the nations into his kingdom. Once Revelation is properly grounded in its original context it is seen to transcend that context and speak to the contemporary church. This study concludes by highlighting Revelation's continuing relevance for today.

An Introduction to the Theology and Themes of Philippians "To live is Christ, and to die is gain" (Philippians 1:21). This bold and countercultural statement captures the central message of Philippians. In this New Testament letter, Paul offers practical advice for godly living and encourages believers to stay connected to the gospel amid hardship. Because the church shares in the sufferings of Christ, believers can experience joy even in suffering as they wait for the Lord to make all things new. In this volume of the New Testament Theology series, author Chris Bruno explores the theology and themes of Philippians and highlights how this letter fits into broader biblical theology. Through clear and engaging examinations, Bruno expounds on predominant themes―the church's union with Christ, the church as ambassadors of the kingdom, the gospel proclaimed and opposed, the hope of life with Christ, and suffering with joy. • For Those Interested in Biblical Theology: Ideal for college and seminary students, pastors, and professors • Helpful Bible Study Resource: A great companion to commentaries on Philippians • Part of the New Testament Theology Series: Other volumes include Ministry in the New Realm; United to Christ, Walking in the Spirit; and more Chris Bruno (PhD, Wheaton College) serves as assistant professor of New Testament and Greek at Bethlehem College & Seminary in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He previously taught Bible and theology at Cedarville University and Northland International University and served as a pastor at Harbor Church in Honolulu, Hawaii. Chris and his wife, Katie, have four sons.

An Introduction to the Theology and Themes of Matthew Who is Jesus, and how can I become more like him? These fundamental questions echo through the ages, shape the Great Commission, and lie at the heart of the Christian life. Thankfully, the Gospel of Matthew offers a compelling answer, presenting Jesus as King, Teacher, and Messiah, while showing what it looks like to live faithfully in response to his call. In this volume of the New Testament Theology series, scholar and pastor Jonathan Pennington explores the key theology and themes of Matthew to help readers gain a clearer understanding of both Scripture and Jesus. Whether you're a pastor, student, or thoughtful believer, this book will deepen your grasp of Christ and inspire a life that reflects his character. • Helpful Bible Study Resource: A great companion to commentaries on Matthew • For Those Interested in Biblical Theology: Ideal for college and seminary students, pastors, and professors • Part of the New Testament Theology Series: Other volumes include Sharing Christ in Joy and Sorrow; Ministry in the New Realm; United to Christ, Walking in the Spirit; and more Jonathan Pennington (PhD, University of St Andrews) serves as professor of New Testament interpretation at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and pastor of spiritual formation at Sojourn East church in Louisville, Kentucky. He is the author of several books including Reading the Gospels Wisely;The Sermon on the Mount and Human Flourishing; and Jesus the Great Philosopher.

Join New Testament Scholar Thomas Schreiner as He Explores the Meaning and Purpose of Galatians In a time marked by confusion and change, the pathway to salvation for the Galatians seemed unclear. While the false teachers contended for circumcision and obedience to the law as necessary for justification before God, Paul presented the truth of the gospel and redrew the lines of salvation around the cross of Jesus Christ. In this addition to the New Testament Theology series, scholar Thomas R. Schreiner addresses the conflict between Paul and his opponents in Galatia, examines the gospel itself, and shows what it looks like to live out the truth of the gospel in the new era. After examining the dominant biblical-theological themes of Galatians, readers will be reminded of the gift of grace Christ offers through his death on the cross―the only possible path to salvation and true unity among believers. • For Those Interested in Biblical Theology: Ideal for college and seminary students, pastors, and professors • Helpful Bible Study Resource: A great companion to commentaries on Galatians • Part of the New Testament Theology Series: Other volumes include Ministry in the New Realm; To Walk and to Please God; and more Thomas R. Schreiner (PhD, Fuller Theological Seminary) is the James Buchanan Harrison Professor of New Testament Interpretation and associate dean of the School of Theology at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.

An Introduction to the Theology and Themes of 1 and 2 Timothy and Titus The letters of 1 and 2 Timothy and Titus were written by Paul to trusted coworkers toward the end of his apostolic ministry. As Paul's delegates, they were to teach and defend the truth, model godly living, and ensure that godly church leadership was in place. But these letters are more than just a how-to guide for ministry. In this volume of the New Testament Theology series, Claire Smith explores the central themes and theology of each letter, which consistently focus on God's eternal plan in Christ to save a people for himself. Emphasizing that we live between the two appearings of Christ Jesus in history, Smith encourages readers to live in this present time as God's household (1 Timothy), how to endure suffering as believers (2 Timothy), and how to live in an unbelieving world (Titus). • Part of the New Testament Theology Series: Other volumes include To Walk and to Please God; Ministry in the New Realm; United to Christ; and more • Resource for Church Leaders: Explores 1 and 2 Timothy and Titus, written to guide church leaders toward authentic and gospel-centered ministry • Great for Studying the Bible More Deeply: Perfect for pastors, seminarians, college students, and laypeople Claire S. Smith (PhD, Moore Theological College/University of Western Sydney) is an independent researcher, a writer, and a women's Bible teacher. She is the author of God's Good Design: What the Bible Really Says about Men and Women, and Pauline Communities as 'Scholastic Communities': A Study of the Vocabulary of 'Teaching' in 1 Corinthians, 1 and 2 Timothy and Titus. She and her husband are members of Naremburn Cammeray Anglican Church in Sydney. They have a married son and daughter-in-law.

Understanding Luke's Narrative in the Book of Acts The book of Acts is unlike any other in Scripture; it has no rival in terms of a book spanning so many different lands. Written by a Gentile, it recounts the birth of the church age and the lives of early Christians that serve as lasting examples for the church today. When believers see how these events worked together to fulfill God's promises, they gain a better understanding of the Trinitarian heart of Acts. In The Mission of the Triune God, author Patrick Schreiner argues that Luke's theology stems from the order of his narrative. He shows how the major themes in Acts, including the formation of the church, salvation offered to all flesh, and the prolific spread of the gospel, connect. Through Schreiner's clear presentation and helpful graphics, readers follow the early church as it grows "all under the plan of God, centered on King Jesus, and empowered by the Spirit." • Covers Main Theological Themes: A great companion to commentaries on Acts • Studies the Birth of the Church Age: Schreiner examines the lives of early Christians after Jesus's ascension • Informative and Accessible: Tables and graphics help readers visualize key theological themes • Part of the New Testament Theology series Patrick Schreiner (PhD, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary) is associate professor of New Testament and biblical theology and endowed chair at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Kansas City, Missouri. He is the author of The Kingdom of God and the Glory of the Cross; Matthew, Disciple and Scribe; The Ascension of Christ; and The Visual Word.

An Introduction to the Dominant Biblical-Theological Themes of the Gospel of Luke The Gospel of Luke is a wonderfully detailed account of the ministry and miracles of Jesus Christ. What many readers don't realize is that Luke, who was likely a Gentile, wrote his Gospel with a thorough knowledge of the Old Testament―pointing to Jesus's life, ministry, and death as the culmination of Old Testament expectations and prophecy. In this addition to the New Testament Theology series, Benjamin L. Gladd explains the dominant biblical-theological themes in the Gospel of Luke, including the defeat of evil, peace in heaven and earth, the incorporation of the nations, and the kingdom of God. This resource is perfect for those looking to dig deeper into studying the interconnectedness of Scripture. • For Those Interested in Biblical Theology: Ideal for college and seminary students, laypeople, and pastors • Helpful Bible Study Resource: A great companion to commentaries on Luke • Part of the New Testament Theology Series: Other volumes include The Joy of Hearing: A Theology of the Book of Revelation and The Mission of the Triune God: A Theology of Acts Benjamin L. Gladd (PhD, Wheaton College) is the executive director of the Carson Center for Theological Renewal. He has written several books on biblical theology, edits the Essential Studies in Biblical Theology series, and serves on the editorial board of Themelios.

Best known for its interpersonal, emotionally raw, and pastorally distressed tone, 2 Corinthians is one of Paul's most distinctive epistles. In this letter to his complicated church in Corinth, Paul aims to expand on the deeply paradoxical nature of the Christian life. The importance of understanding this key doctrine makes 2 Corinthians an ideal study for believers today. In this volume of the “New Testament Theology” series, bestselling author Dane Ortlund explores 2 Corinthians to reveal the core arguments presented by Paul. Through clear and engaging theological examinations, Ortlund expounds two predominant themes—inaugurated eschatology and strength through weakness—and connects various other motifs traced throughout this epistle. Readers will learn how Christ's resurrection ushered in the new realm—one where life and ministry are flipped upside down, and God's power is intertwined with human weakness.