Cartas del Nuevo Testamento: Contexto Histórico
How to Read the New Testament Letters in Context
Understanding the Historical Context of New Testament Letters
- The New Testament contains 21 letters written by apostles to communities of Jesus followers across the Roman Empire, akin to reading someone else's mail.
- These letters were composed in a prose style known as discourse, which often assumes background information not explicitly stated.
- There are three levels of historical context essential for understanding these letters: their place within the broader narrative of Scripture, cultural context, and situational context.
The Broader Narrative of Scripture
- The overarching story begins with God creating humanity to govern creation alongside Him; however, humanity chose self-governance leading to violence and death.
- God promised Abraham that life and blessing would spread through him and his descendants, culminating in Jesus' life, death, and resurrection as fulfillment of this promise.
Cultural Context: The Roman Empire
- During the first century, Rome controlled territories around the Mediterranean through conquest and imposed heavy tributes on conquered peoples.
- Social hierarchy was pronounced; wealthy men could ascend socially while women, slaves, children, and the poor faced systemic disadvantages.
- In contrast, early Christian communities treated all individuals with love and dignity regardless of social status.
Situational Context: Specific Issues Addressed in Letters
- Each letter addresses specific issues within individual churches; for example, Paul's letter to Romans tackles divisions between Jewish and non-Jewish Christians due to differing cultural practices.
- Paul highlights controversies arising from Jewish sacramental laws causing rifts among believers—some higher-status Christians looked down on Jewish followers while Jews condemned non-Jews as inferior.
Unity Through Faith
- Paul emphasizes that despite significant differences in culture and status among Roman Christians, they are united through faith in Jesus Christ at the center of their community.
- The theological discussions throughout these letters aim to address societal divisions while reinforcing unity among believers.
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