Unveiling the Kingdom of God in the Book of Acts
A Conversation with Dr. Gregory Lanier
As we embark on a journey through the book of Acts, we find ourselves in the midst of a dynamic narrative that showcases the enthroned Lord Jesus at work through his Spirit and the apostles. The message of salvation is being proclaimed to all who will call upon the name of the Lord, from Jerusalem to the ends of the earth. But to truly grasp the significance of this narrative, we must first understand the historical context in which it was written.
The Greco-Roman and Jewish World Behind the New Testament
Dr. Gregory Lanier, associate professor of New Testament at Reformed Theological Seminary in Orlando, joins us to shed light on the cultural background of the New Testament. His expertise in this area is evident in his forthcoming book, which explores the Greco-Roman and Jewish world behind the New Testament and its influence on the writing of Acts.
Reading the Bible in Context
As we delve into the book of Acts, it’s essential to recognize the importance of understanding the original audience and context. Dr. Lanier emphasizes that we must first comprehend the meaning of a particular text to its first audience before applying it to our lives. He illustrates this point by imagining if Scripture were written today, using modern cultural references. Without knowledge of these references, we would struggle to understand the text.
The Kingdom of God in the Book of Acts
The book of Acts is characterized by a strong theme of the kingdom of God. As we follow Paul and his ministry companions, we see them taking the message of this kingdom deep into the heart of the Roman Empire. Dr. Lanier helps us appreciate the implications of this theme by highlighting the importance of understanding the cultural context in which the book of Acts was written.
Understanding the Cultural Background
Dr. Lanier stresses that to responsibly handle the book of Acts, we must have some knowledge of the historical figures, philosophies, and cultural influences of the time. This includes understanding the references to Augustus, Tiberius, Claudius, stoicism, and epicureanism that appear throughout Luke’s Gospel and the book of Acts.
By grasping the cultural context of the book of Acts, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the kingdom of God and its significance in our lives today. Join us as we continue to explore the riches of the book of Acts and uncover the treasures of God’s kingdom.
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