Understanding the sociological setting for the New Testament in Asia Minor and Europe--the Greco-Roman world--is essential for correctly interpreting the letters of Paul. Hubbard addresses the realms of religion and superstition, of education and philosophy, of the urban society, and of the family. Each major section begins with a brief fictional tale, followed by descriptions of the cultural setting related to that vignette, and culminating in drawing out the implications of the cultural setting for understanding Paul's letters written to that world.

"This is, quite simply, the most accessible, engaging, and helpful introduction to the wider world of the earliest Christians that is available. It is achieved through a mixture of imaginative narrative evocations, thoughtful sociocultural descriptions, and careful, nuanced interpretations of relevant biblical texts. The result is not just an excellent introduction to but also an immersion in the life and times of the earliest believers, one that brings the NT to life for our times as well."--Robert Banks, adjunct professor, ancient history, and associate, Centre for the Study of Christian History and Experience, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia

"Hubbard has woven intriguing narratives with cultural and NT contexts to give readers a vivid picture of what the primitive 'Jesus movement' meant to the ancient world. The depth of his cultural research and the thoroughness of his scholarship on the topic of NT Christianity offer readers not just a glimpse but also a total immersion in Greco-Roman life. I commend this work of historical and intellectual importance."--Barry H. Corey, president, Biola University

"With his fine work illuminating the social and historical background of the writings of Paul, Hubbard has created an excellent tool that should be welcomed by those looking for a college or university textbook to teach the Greco-Roman cultural context behind the NT. Students will find the book very readable and informative. Hubbard has truly harnessed 'both the power of narrative and the efficiency of prose' to make the story of the spread of Christianity much more 'engaging, interesting, and educational.'"--Roger Gehring, author of House Church and Mission