The Book of Acts and Paul in Roman Custody

by Brian Rapske

Book Overview

This volume provides a unique opportunity not only to learn about the custodial system of the Graeco-Roman world, but to better view Paul's persona and Christian mission as well. Brian Rapske's outstanding study shows Luke himself to be an ardent helper of Paul the missionary prisoner. "The author has produced an invaluable resource for both Acts and Pauline scholars, having placed the prison narratives of Paul in both their cultural and literary...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0802829120
• ISBN13: 9780802829122
• Release Date: September 2004
• Publisher: William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company
• Length: 520 Pages
• Weight: 1.68 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.2" x 6.0" x 9.0"

Customer Reviews

Spectacular!

As all the volumes in the "Book of Acts in the 1st Century" series are, Rapske's work is spectacular and opens us to so much more information than we had before. Having read all of the volumes, I can say that Rapske's is easily the most interesting (perhaps because of the subject), and is easy to comprehend for a technical subject. I would add that I contacted the author by email for several questions, and found him to be quite down to earth and helpful. You can't go wrong if you are a student of the 1st century setting behind Biblical works!

He Fills the Gap

This volume fills a huge gap and provides a unique opportunity to learn about the custodial system of the Graeco-Roman world. There has been a great need for a careful treatment of Paul's imprisonments. This arduous task has now been accomplished by Brian Rapske. His use of ancient literary sources and archaeological evidence is sheer overwhelming and breathtaking. He elucidates nearly all issues concerning custodial practices, Roman law, trials and incarcerations both generally and in relation to Paul. It is a mine of information and enhances the historicity of the Book of Acts. Working through the book is a tour de force - but it is worth the effort. All future exposition of Acts will have to build upon this magisterial work.