The First Urban Christians

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The First Urban Christians is a study of the social background of the world in which the apostle

Paul lived and wrote. It paints a picture of what it was actually like to be a first century Christian
in a Pauline church, drawing on archaeological evidence as well as both biblical and non-biblical
literary evidence. The approach is scholarly, employing all the tools of modern anthropology and
sociology. (Some Christians will probably find this disturbing, but I think without good reason.)

The topics looked at in detail include: the way in which the early Christian communities
maintained their separation from the rest of the world (while preserving an ability to accept
converts) and a common sense of community with other churches; the social status of the first
Christian converts and its significance for the growth of Christianity; the methods used to maintain
order within communities; and the role played by rituals such as baptism and the celebration of the
Lord's Supper.

The First Urban Christians is a good introduction for anyone wanting to understand the context in
which Paul's letters were written. This is perhaps particularly relevant for Christians given the
recent debates within various churches over issues such as the ordination of women. Non-
Christians should not turn away, however — the early Christians are as interesting a religious
group as any other. A prior reading of the New Testament is recommended for those not familiar
with it.

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