"In the throng of current introductions to the New Testament, it is refreshing to find one that is not just a repository for the classical historical-critical issues but takes the additional steps to explain what is at stake for interpretation, shapes and sharpens the interpretive skill of the readers, and opens their minds to how the New Testament can inform and shape both minister and ministry. This is an engaging and well-written introduction that you will want to adopt for your classroom."

Duane F. Watson, professor of New Testament studies, Malone University, Canton, Ohio

"This excellent introduction meets a special need, especially for seminarians concerned about how their academic study of the New Testament relates to ministry. David deSilva is conversant with a wide range of scholarship for the entire New Testament canon, its historical setting, and both traditional and more current approaches to the text (including rhetorical, literary and social approaches). His concern for ministry application is a valuable and unique feature, and his extensive proficiency in the ancient sources, already demonstrated in his earlier works, makes him an especially trustworthy guide in this area."

Craig S. Keener, Eastern Seminary

"This introduction helpfully and without apology attends to both the intellectual and spiritual formation of the reader. . . . I am happy to commend this introduction to a whole range of readers--students, pastors and educated laypersons."

Ben Witherington III, Asbury Theological Seminary

"This compendious handbook to the New Testament writings will prove an invaluable resource in the classroom and study. The approach is lively and topical, with a special section devoted to the application of scholarship to ministry--a feature not often found in quality books like this. . . . In all, here is a volume that carves for itself a distinctive place in what is an overcrowded market, and will be welcomed by hard-pressed students and alert pastors alike. Well done!"

Ralph P. Martin, Fuller Theological Seminary

"If the textbooks available are not adequate, write one that is! This is precisely what David deSilva has done in his new interdisciplinary introduction to the New Testament--to the benefit of his students, and likewise for all who aspire to apply New Testament content to the ministry needs of the world today. . . . This book is highly recommended, and Professor deSilva is to be thanked for welcoming the rest of us into his classroom!"

Paul N. Anderson, George Fox University

"David deSilva's An Introduction to the New Testament has served as an excellent resource both in the classroom and for individual study. Now in this second edition his discussion of the documents of the New Testament and related cultural, social, and historical issues continues to offer a clear and engaging general introduction to these topics that often add important details beyond a bare introduction. Indeed, in this second edition he has deepened the discussion at many points based on his further research, evident in the numerous articles and books he has published since the first edition. The addition of colored photographs enhances the value of the photos considerably. He retains distinctive attention to the pastoral issues reflected in the documents of this edition, a focus that is especially valuable for students preparing for ministry. His ministry formation sections are thoughtful exercises in engaging the issues raised by the texts and provide good starting points for debate and discussion. The twenty-six exegetical skills sections are another distinctive feature retained in this second edition, offering brief, clear introductions to the various skills used in the interpretation of the New Testament. In sum, this second edition enhances an already exceptional introduction to the New Testament that serves the general reader well and especially those preparing for ministry."

Rodney A. Whitacre, Trinity School for Ministry

"David deSilva provides us with a reliable, thorough and eminently useful introduction to the New Testament that allows students to experience the spiritual and historical significance of these writings for communities of faith. . . . His writing is remarkably clear and interesting, covering material of such significance that many students will find here a textbook that they will want to keep, one to which they will return repeatedly long after the course is over."

Mark Allan Powell, Trinity Lutheran Seminary

"David deSilva has written the New Testament introduction that I have wanted to use (and wish I had written). It is not only readable and comprehensive, but it also incorporates the latest in scholarly approaches to the New Testament. In this workwe really do discover the New Testament in its historical, rhetorical and social context. Furthermore, it reads the New Testament as a pastoral and practical work. What more could one ask for? What more could one offer to students? I am indeed excited about this work."

Peter H. Davids, Tyndale Theological Seminary (The Netherlands)

"DeSilva's An Introduction to the New Testament is a clearly written and balanced exploration of the critical issues of New Testament studies written by a renowned scholar and seasoned teacher. His excellent discussions of socio-cultural issues, such as honor/shame dynamics and patronage, are essential for anyone wanting a historically based study of the New Testament grounded in the cultural values of the first century."

Karen H. Jobes, Gerald F. Hawthorne Professor Emerita of New Testament Greek and Exegesis, Wheaton College and Graduate School

"David deSilva's updated New Testament introduction is an outstanding book. A lively and engaging text, it succeeds in blending top-notch scholarship with practical preparation for ministry. The book expertly uncovers the cultural, social, and rhetorical settings of the New Testament writings and teems with exegetical insights. In addition, deSilva explores a whole range of interpretive strategies and demonstrates them with biblical texts. As a special feature, a must-read section on ministry formation crowns each chapter. Ideal for a seminary classroom, this book also serves as a resource that pastors can turn to again and again. I heartily commend it!"

Dean Flemming, professor of New Testament and mission, MidAmerica NazareneUniversity