The purpose of this book, and the other volumes in this series, is the empowerment of the laoj (laos = laity) - the people of God: 1. To acquaint them with a brief geographical, historical and religious background of the New Testament in order to be familiar with the context in which the writings originated. 2. To provide an introduction to the books of the New Testament, and a brief commentary on the text of each book, in order to give them a background, and the tools, with which to interpret texts while preaching or leading in Bible Study. 3. To provide them with the basic tools required for an informed understanding and interpretation of the New Testament.