New Testament Field GuideSample

Geopolitics & Culture: Behind the Text

One helpful way to think of the power dynamics of the Promised Land is the law of “cats and mice.” And that includes what happens “when the cats are away!”

There’s one word that describes the cultural context of the New Testament. There’s another word that explains how that culture was transmitted to the largest empire the world had ever seen. Let’s start with a trip to ancient Greece in the time of Alexander the Great.

Hellenistic Culture

The Polis

There’s one key political figure who looms larger than life when the Gospels open. He is part Jew, but his loyalties and ambitions lie elsewhere.

Herod’s Building Projects INTERACTIVE MAP

Explore Herod’s building projects with the following Bible Journey videos.

Cesarea Maritima

Sebaste

Jericho

Herod’s Temple

Herodium

Masada

Wrap-up

Dr. Nicole wraps up the lesson on empires in the context of the fullness of time.