This unique commentary helps preachers see how knowledge of first-century Judaism can help them avoid incorporating misunderstandings and stereotypes into their sermons on the letters. Ronald Allen and Clark Williamson explore insights from recent Christian-Jewish dialogue, continuities between Judaism and the theology of Paul, and the Roman occupation to help preachers understand the Jewish context of the letters. As in their previous book, Preaching the Gospels without Blaming the Jews, they also suggest how today’s preacher can deal with issues or comments in the text that are inappropriate or controversial in today’s context.

Clark M. Williamson is Indiana Professor Emeritus of Christian Thought at Christian Theological Seminary in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Ronald J. Allen is Professor Emeritus of Preaching and Gospels and Letters at Christian Theological Seminary in Indianapolis, Indiana. He has written or edited more than forty books, including A Faith of Your Own: Naming What You Really Believe.