The HarperCollins Visual Guide to the New Testament: What Archaeology Reveals about the First Christians

By Jonathan L. Reed and Dina Nayeri

This one-of-a-kind presentation of the New Testament world and its archaeological treasures provides a new, more complete understanding of the world in which Christianity was born. Through lavish photographs, architectural plans, extensive maps, and detailed charts, you can explore the landscape of Nazareth where Jesus grew up; sit at the shores of Galilee where he preached; and enter the streets and temple of Jerusalem where his ministry was fulfilled. An experienced archaeologist and biblical expert will guide you throughout your journey around Israel and beyond--on the Mediterranean voyages of Paul to the homes and synagogues of the Roman Empire, where he planted the seeds of Christianity. Visit Emperor Nero's "Golden House," witness the desperation of the Jewish revolutionaries at Masada, and explore the magnificent basilicas of Constantine the Great. The HarperCollins Visual Guide to the New Testament features: Rich descriptions of the worlds of Jesus, Paul, and the first Christians Full-color photographs of excavations, artifacts, coins, and pottery from New Testament sites Extensive maps Architectural floor plans of temples, palaces, and synagogues Commentary on how archaeology relates to the Bible Examination of modern excavation techniques and methods A beginners' guide to understanding pottery, coins, temples, and inscriptions

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0060842490
• ISBN13: 9780060842499
• Release Date: November 2007
• Publisher: HarperOne
• Length: 176 Pages
• Weight: 1.54 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.4" x 9.0" x 12.0"

Customer Reviews

The best available

This book has the best collection of photos that is available for the study of the New Testament. The author explains everything from how archaeology works to what the new discoveries mean for Christians and interested readers of the Bible. It is great that every page has illustrations, maps, and photos. You can really see what the authors of the New Testament were talking about. Reed includes lots of stories from his own experience as an archaeologist in the Holy Land. Great study guide for people interested in knowing more about Jesus and St. Paul.

Outstanding overview

Reed's book makes for both entertaining and educational reading. Going in, I had some general knowledge of critical biblical scholarship, but practically no knowledge of what archeology in the holy lands can actually tell us. I came away with a great appreciation of both the importance and limitations of biblical archeology. This book is at its absolute best when it describes the context for the creation of particular New Testament texts. Its treatment of the origin of Revelation is extremely enlightening for example. I did, however, occasionally want him to be a little more critical of the historicity of the accounts in the biblical texts themselves. Instead he maintains caution, which is certainly understandable even if a little frustrating. Overall an excellent read.