Basic Introduction to the New Testament

by Robert (editor) Walton

The writings of internationally respected preacher and teacher John Stott continue to speak to millions of readers around the world. This book—originally published in 1954 as Men with a Message—introduces readers to the message of the New Testament writers, including Mark, Matthew, Luke, John, Paul, and more.

This trim new issue presents the text of the book's 1994 edition, which bears the vintage Stott hallmarks—comprehensive knowledge of his subject, acute intellectual rigor, and powerful analysis—and was updated and expanded by Stephen Motyer at John Stott's invitation.

Genres: Reference, Biblical Studies

240 pages, Paperback

Published January 1, 1980

Reviews

[George P. · Rating 5 out of 5]

To read the New Testament well, you need to see the forest for the trees. The trees are the analysis of individual paragraphs, sentences and words — an analysis best performed by commentaries on individual books. The forest is the synthesis of the meaning of entire books and authors — an undertaking best performed by introductions.

John Stott’s Basic Introduction to the New Testament is a forestry manual, a trustworthy synthesis of the message of Christianity’s foundational authors. First published in 1951 as Men with a Message, then revised by Stott personally in 1964 and again in 2001, this new edition was undertaken by Stephen Motyer at Stott’s invitation. The book’s nine chapters examine the “man” and the “message” of Mark, Matthew, Luke-Acts, John and the Johannine letters, Paul, Hebrews, James, Peter and Revelation, respectively. Stott originally wrote a non-technical introduction for a broad audience, and Motyer retains Stott’s concision, apt phrasing and overall perspective, even as he adds details here and there based on more recent study.

I foresee several uses for this book. Christian individuals might find it helpful as a complement to their devotional reading, which is tree-work. Stott will show them where a tree lies in the forest of a given author or of the New Testament as a whole. Christian groups — say, a Sunday school class, small group or book club — could use Stott as part of a class on how to read the New Testament. And preachers should find it helpful as they work their way through an expository sermon series on a specific book.

However used, this new edition of Basic Introduction to the New Testament was a delight to read, and I highly recommend it.

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P.S. If you found my review helpful, please vote “Yes” on my Amazon.com review page.

P.P.S. This review is cross-posted at InfluenceMagazine.com.

[Jared Donis · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is underrated. A tiny theological gem reflecting the core message of the NT. Stott's insights full of lessons. I'm inspired.

[Jason Crow · Rating 4 out of 5]

I honestly have very little recollection of this book. It is a book by book discussion of the message of the New Testament as acccording to its authors. I read it over some period of time, so I was likely using it as a morning devotional.

[Mike Studdard · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good intro to scholarly review of the New Testament by author. Enjoyed the book and plan to read it again.

[Timothy Hui · Rating 4 out of 5]

Helpful and handy little tool.

[Martins · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another enlightening read by John Stott.
So important for anyone wanting to better understand the new testament.