| This book uses an unusual format to offer graduate students an introduction to an academic (as distinct from a theological or pastoral) appreciation of the New Testament. Walker, who currently serves as development director of the University of Chicago Divinity School, has fashioned seven essays on what he considers key facts about the New Testament writings, facts important for grasping the nature and context of these biblical texts. They include such affirmations as: the New Testament is a “library” (rather than a single work); it was written in Greek; it is, in fact, a written text; there are four canonical gospels, but other gospels were produced by early Christianity; the evangelists were anonymous; and Paul wrote before the gospels were composed. Study questions and a select bibliography conclude each essay. |