Digital Logos Edition
Matthew–Luke is a biblical examination of the historical, geographical, cultural, and economic background of the Synoptic Gospels. It provides a twenty-first century understanding of the first-century world. Much more than simply theology or a word study, The Bible Knowledge Background Commentary transports the reader back into the setting of the New Testament to see, touch, and hear as much of that world as possible.
For the entire set, see The Bible Knowledge Background Commentary: New Testament (3 vols.).
“Now he was telling them a parable to show that at all times they ought to pray and not to lose heart (v. 1): This opening line is not part of the parable proper but is Luke’s editorial introduction. Luke understands the parable as teaching Christians that at all times they ought to pray and not to lose heart. As the parable is later interpreted (vv. 7–8), however, it also teaches something about the faithfulness of God himself. The idea is not that Christians pray at every moment (though compare 1 Thess. 5:17), but that their lives should be characterized by prayer. Of course, the major item for which the disciples are to pray is the Lord’s return.” (Page 367)
“The Markan evangelist seems to be challenging the people of the Roman Empire to view Jesus Christ, not Julius Caesar, as the true son of God, in whom the good news begins. As we read Mark’s Gospel we hear Jesus proclaimed God’s Son, by God himself, by unclean spirits, and by Peter. Indeed, toward the end of the narrative, the Roman centurion confesses Jesus to be the true ‘Son of God’ (Mark 15:39).” (Page 21)
“The name Jesus means ‘the Lord will save.’ Given his saving mission, it is suitable. Matthew is careful to qualify that Jesus will save his people from their sins, not from the Romans or Gentiles in general. This is an important qualification, for many Jews entertained a militant messianism in which the destruction of Rome and the liberation of Israel were anticipated.” (Page 47)
“The idea is not that no temptation ever come upon Jesus’ follower, but that God not allow his follower to be overcome by temptation. See 2 Thess. 3:3 ‘he shall guard you from evil.’” (Page 125)