Encountering Jesus in the Real World of the Gospels

by Cyndi Parker

Encountering Jesus in the Real World of the Gospels draws readers into a deeper understanding of ancient Israel and first-century Judaism—the clothing, setting, political climate, and more—all to better understand Jesus’ ministry. Instead of reading the Gospels through twenty-first-century eyes, author Cyndi Parker introduces readers to the larger context with the weight of the Old Testament behind them. This is an approachable and conversational book that introduces the reader to the complex human world of Jesus. Have you ever wondered if it is important that Jesus grew up in Nazareth but moved his public ministry to Capernaum, even though Jerusalem was the capital of Jewish thought? Does it seem strange to you that Pharisees, Sadducees, and Essenes held significantly divergent religious views, even though they were all Jewish? In this book, Cyndi Parker guides us through the intriguing drama of history that created the context of first-century Judaism. She extends an invitation to readers to take a new look at the long drama of God’s interactions with humanity that reach a climax in the life of Jesus. Encountering Jesus in the Real World of the Gospels focuses on the complexities of the political, social, literary, and religious context of the Gospels. The purpose is to advance readers’ understanding of the Gospels and help them encounter Jesus, the disciples, and crowds as real people in a real place at a time vastly different from today. Come explore the land of ancient Israel with its dramatic history, culture, and religion. Includes many images, maps, photos, and drawings throughout!

Genres: History, Theology

188 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 15, 2021

Reviews

[Bill Hooten · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a really, really good book! It seems that in the last few years that there has been an intensified effort to understand the "Jewishness" of Jesus. The reasoning is that the more we understand the culture, customs, and habits of a 1st century Jew; the more we could understand and interpret the words and actions of Jesus. In this volume, by Cyndi Parker, there is an attempt to explain the land and terrain in Palestine and how it relates to the things that Jesus said and did. I believe that she has done a remarkable job explaining that, and doing it in such a way that the layman can grasp and understand the impact of what she is saying. If you are a student of the Bible, I think it would profit you to read this book.

[Jon Bauman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a volume that I will recommend many times over to those who are looking for a cultural primer for reading the Bible, and specifically, engaging with Jesus in the Gospels. Dr. Parker has done a tremendous job summarizing the narrative and story of the OT, of the time between the testaments, and of the various Gospel writers portrayal of Christs birth, life, ministry, death, and resurrection. She points out things that many look over, or don’t know to ask about, that correct our vision when engaging with the text to be more in line with how things were then, and not now.

As a pastor, a resource like this is one that I could use in many applications. As a Christian, this book has enriched my understanding and love of Christ.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author does a masterful job of tying the Hebrew Bible into the Gospels. One of the many ideas I learned was that when an OT verse is mentioned in the NT, the authors knew that the Jewish readers and hearers would likely know the entire passage because of the memory work they did as part of their lives. So when it is recorded that Jesus said, for example, "My God, my God why have you forsaken me." There is deeper meaning. We, believers without much of an understanding of the Jewish-ness of Jesus, don't realize there is much more to Psalm 22 that that phrase.

The book appeals to the intellect but for people who experience Jesus with their minds rather than feelings, it's a very exciting book.

[C · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every mature christian who knows the Bible should be ready to explore the years between Malachi and the New Testament. God was not silent for 400 years but was active. Thanks to the author who introduces us to second temple literature and broad strokes of the setting for the arrival and life of Christ.

[John B · Rating 5 out of 5]

A refreshing writer…

Cyndi Parker is a refreshing writer. She writes with clarity and precision, like a sniper her words hits to the heart of the matter; JESUS! Her great insights on the historical and geographical context paints a beautiful picture in high definition… You will be pleased , a refreshed after reading her book.

[Deborah Dunn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I went to a retreat where the author was the speaker, and afterwards I wanted more. So I read this book this year during lent. It is amazing!! So many insights to deepen my faith. God is surely the best story-teller, and seeing the connections He has been making and preparing throughout history to show us who He is and bring redemption to His world is so beautiful!!
Thank you Cyndi!!

[geoffrey ellerby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent!

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and will be rereading it to make sure that l process all that it contains. It is a wonderful aid that will help you to understand the context of the Bible-- the Book I consider to be the most important one in the world.

[Josh Cooper · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent primer to the socio-economic-political-geographical and religious background of the New Testament.

[Matt DeVore · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author retells the familiar story of Jesus while incorporating context from the Scriptures, world history, geography, and culture to enrich the reader’s understanding.

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Recommend to any and all readers of the Bible. This short book is packed with insights and context as to the people, place, and time the gospels were written.

[bella bell · Rating 3 out of 5]

did i procrastinate reading this bc i thought it would be incredibly boring? yes. was i pleasantly surprised by it? also yes.

[Alan L. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Incredible insight

I deeply appreciate how this book by helping me understand the culture helps me understand better Bible passages. Incredible insight

[Lily Kennedy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book before and during a trip to Israel (edit - and PALESTINE - rip my young unknowing xian zionist self) where the author, Cyndi Parker, was my tour guide and professor. The geographical and biblical knowledge she possesses and shares in this book is remarkable, and highlights the biblical text in a way I had never learned before. This book will make you fall in love with Jesus and his teachings even more, by learning the details of the historical political world he lived in.