"The NIV First-Century Study Bible was created to help you understand God’s Word in its original cultural context. It introduces you to an ancient world vastly different from your own, but rich in valuable life lessons. This Bible is designed with great tools to help answer your questions about life in Bible times. As you dive in, you’ll see how the ancient past holds applicable truths for life today.

The NIV First-Century Study Bible includes fascinating articles from Pastor Kent Dobson, unpacking the culture of Bible times, illuminating Scripture passages, and asking thoughtful questions along the way. Kent is the teaching pastor at Mars Hill Bible Church in Grandville, Michigan, where he initially served as the worship director. He has been featured on Biblical programs for the History Channel and the Discovery Channel. Kent fell in love with Biblical studies in Israel and had the privilege of learning from both Jewish and Christian scholars. After his time in Israel, he returned to the States to teach high school religion and Bible before responding to God's call to the pastorate. Today, he keeps his connection to the Holy Land strong, leading tours to Israel that combine study and prayer, inspired by the ancient discipline of spiritual pilgrimage.

This edition includes unique features to help shed light on the historical context of the Scriptures:

Complete NIV Bible text • Day In the Life Articles, describing daily life in Bible times • Word Studies expound upon original Hebrew words • “Addressing the Text” articles help you dive deeper • Study notes include writings from early church writers, rabbis, and extra-biblical sources • Full Color photographs, maps, and diagrams • Book introductions and outlines. The First Century Study Bible helps you explore Scripture in its Jewish and Early Christian context. Order yours today.

This Bible offers supplemental information on the following topics: Abomination that Causes Desolation, Antiochus IV Epiphanies, Conversion, Covenant, Dead Sea Scrolls, Essenes, Desert Law, Diviners in the Ancient World, Intertestamental Times, The Ethics of War, The Shema, Life in the Diaspora, The Greek Lions, The Biblical View on Slavery, Did Moses write the Torah, The Spirit of YHWH, Zealots, Wine Making"