Major New Testament Study Tool

Here is a Bible-study workbook for adults interested in learning the in-depth background of our New Testament faith. "Introducing the Cultural Context of the New Testament" is the second book in the "Hear the Word" Series and it offers the reader an approach with which to appreciate the differences between Mediterranean culture and our American culture, while also showing us how to bridge the gap that exists between us and the ancient world of the gospels.

Author - John J. Pilch Ph.D.

"'Hear the Word' is an exciting new program for the study of the scriptures! This program is intended for the serious Bible student and will challenge the advanced learner. It guides the person to read the Bible directly and involves hands-on use of the Bible as one studies. The requirements of the program are Time, Commitment, and Participation on the part of the learner. The program invites learners in—simply, easily, and directly!"
—Jean Marie Weber, Associate Director-Office for Schools and Child, Youth Ministries President-National Conference of Diocesan Directors of Religious Education (NCDD)

"'Hear the Word' should quiet those who doubt the pastoral effectiveness of scholarship that digs into the cultural roots of biblical texts. John Pilch builds bridges for contemporary American Bible readers to cross over into the strange world of the Bible. Pastors should be warned: people exposed to this form of Bible study will become even less tolerant of conventional preaching. 'Hear the Word' is a unique pastoral and educational resource."
—Leland J. White, Editor, "Biblical Theology Bulletin"

"This book, with its workbook format, will be a valuable resource for introducing the cultural context of the Hebrew Bible in many contexts. It combines good, self-teaching pedagogy with up-to-date social science methodology applied in an engaging fashion."
—Claudia V. Camp, Associate Professor of Religion, Texas Christian University

"Like all literature, the stories and history of the Bible are embedded in their own culture and landscape. Dr. Pilch carefully and methodically leads us deeply into this other world, and then helps us apply our new understanding directly to the Bible text. A whole new feeling and appreciation for the text evolves!"
—Dr. Winifred Whelan, Program Director - Graduate Theology, Saint Bonaventure University

Wellness Spirituality by John J. Pilch
Introducing the Cultural Context of the Old Testament by John J. Pilch Ph.D.