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A Class-Book of New Testament History
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Public-domain ebook sourced from Project Gutenberg #65247.
About this book
This work is a scholarly survey of the historical bridge between the Hebrew Scriptures and the emergence of the Christian narrative, compiled by G. F. Maclean. It begins with a detailed account of the Jewish community under Persian rule, tracing the succession of high priests from Jaddua through the turbulent era of Alexander the Great’s conquests, and then follows the shifting political landscape as the Ptolemaic and Seleucid dynasties vie for control of the Levant. The opening chapters weave together biblical references, Josephus’s testimony, and contemporary historiography to illustrate how religious offices, diplomatic negotiations, and regional conflicts shaped the backdrop of New‑Testament events.
The author writes in a nineteenth‑century academic voice, employing a formal, narrative style that blends meticulous chronology with occasional interpretive commentary. Readers who appreciate a dense, source‑rich exposition of ancient Near Eastern politics, students of biblical history, clergy seeking contextual depth, or anyone interested in the interplay of empire and faith during the intertestamental period, will find this volume rewarding. Its focus on priestly lineages, diplomatic treaties, and the cultural milieu of the Hellenistic world offers a thorough grounding for those wishing to understand the historical currents that precede the New Testament.
Who appears in A Class-Book of New Testament History
- JadduaElderly Jewish high priest, white beard, tall turban, flowing priestly robes, solemn expression
- AlexanderYoung Macedonian king, wavy dark hair, laurel wreath, regal armor, confident gaze
- NehemiahMiddle‑aged Jewish official, short beard, simple linen tunic, modest sandals, thoughtful demeanor
The opening · free to read
First printed 1866. Reprinted 1867, 1869, 1871, 1873, 1875, 1877, 1879, 1880, 1882, 1885, 1888, 1890.
NOTICE.
THE present Volume forms a sequel to the Author’s Class-Book of Old Testament History, continuing the Narrative from the point at which it there ends, and carrying it on to the close of St Paul’s second imprisonment at Rome.
In its preparation, as in that of the former Volume, the most recent and trustworthy Authorities[1] have been consulted, notes subjoined, and references to larger Works added. It is thus hoped that it may prove at once a useful Class-Book and a convenient Companion to the study of the Greek Testament.
All questions relating to the Canonicity of the several Books of the New Testament have been considered in another Volume of the Cambridge School Class-Books, viz. The Bible in the Church, by the Rev. B. F. Westcott.
SYNOPSIS OF CONTENTS.
BOOK I. The connection between the Old and New Testaments.
PART I. The Jews under the Persians, and the Kings of Egypt.
CHAP. I. High-Priesthood of Jaddua――Alexander at Jerusalem
CHAP. II. Ptolemy Soter and Ptolemy Philadelphus
CHAP. III. Ptolemy Euergetes and Ptolemy Philopator
PART II. The Jews under the Kings of Syria.
CHAP. I. Antiochus the Great――Seleucus Philopator
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