Reading the New Testament - Basic Primer for Biblical Study

In this review of Reading the New Testament the bottom line is simple: this is an accessible, clearly written primer for those beginning structured study of the New Testament. Mark J. Keown presents a more basic follow-up to his three-volume Discovering the New Testament series, and the single biggest reason to buy is its practical orientation: concise chapters on exegesis, hermeneutics, background context, and an introduction to each part of the New Testament make it an ideal first step for students and church study groups.

Key Features

• Accessible introduction: Presents foundational material without assuming advanced prior knowledge, so beginners can follow the main themes and methods.
• Exegesis and hermeneutics chapters: Offers a clear, basic account of interpretive methods that helps readers approach texts responsibly.
• Background context: Summarizes relevant Jewish and Greco-Roman background to situate New Testament writings historically and culturally.
• Survey of the New Testament: Introduces each major part of the New Testament, helping readers see structure and purpose across the canon.
• Companion to a larger series: Acts as a simpler, more concise counterpart to the three-volume Discovering the New Testament, useful for those not ready for the multi-volume study.

Who It's For

This book is well suited to beginners in biblical study, adult education classes, small-group leaders, and students looking for a straightforward primer before moving to more comprehensive resources. It is especially helpful for those who want practical guidance on reading and interpreting New Testament texts without wading into technical scholarship.

Readers seeking exhaustive scholarly apparatus, extensive footnoting, or a full classroom textbook review may want a more detailed volume or the original three-volume series. This book is intentionally basic, so advanced seminarians or researchers should look elsewhere for deep technical treatment.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Clear, beginner-friendly explanations of exegesis and hermeneutical approaches.
• Concise background sections that make the New Testament more intelligible by covering Jewish and Greco-Roman context.
• Helpful chapter-by-chapter introductions to the parts of the New Testament that orient new readers.

Cons

• Not a substitute for the full three-volume Discovering the New Testament series if a deep, comprehensive treatment is required.

Specifications

Our Verdict

Reading the New Testament is a solid, practical primer that delivers clear explanations of interpretive method and historical context without overwhelming the reader. Those beginning their biblical study or leading introductory groups will find good value here; readers needing exhaustive scholarly detail should consult the longer three-volume series instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this book suitable for someone with no background in biblical studies?
Yes. The book is written as a basic introduction and assumes little or no prior knowledge.

Does it cover historical background for the New Testament?
Yes. It includes chapters on Jewish and Greco-Roman background to help situate the texts.

Is this a replacement for the three-volume series?
No. It is a more basic companion to the three-volume Discovering the New Testament series, not a full substitute.