Early in my adult Christian life, I determined to understand the Bible in general and the New Testament in particular. I began reading the Bible book by book, chapter by chapter; some I understood and most I did not. Initially when I got to the difficult parts, I would skip them but continue to read. Finally, I would read the difficult parts, even the genealogies. After a while, I came to know where certain subjects were discussed or to identify books or chapter by certain passages, e.g., the love chapter, the resurrection chapter, the beatitudes, etc. Even with this knowledge, I was neither satisfied nor fulfilled in the sense that I "knew" the Bible. I then began studying the Bible more systematically, using study aids and reading books about the Bible.

As a preacher of the Gospel and a teacher of the Bible, I cannot think of anything as important and necessary in aiding my ministry than knowing as much as I can about the Bible. This is especially true of the New Testament.

During my studies at the Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary [Now, Palmer Theological Seminary], I have been exposed to many books and subjects concerning the Bible; some required much study and attention while others were cursory at best. My desire then became to undertake, along with using other books and studies, a more comprehensive study of the New Testament for my own understanding and to aid me in my teaching and preaching in the local church.

I wish to expand on the theme that Paul presented to Timothy in 2 Timothy 3:16:"[Scripture] is useful for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, so that everyone who belongs to God may be proficient, equipped for every good work." (New Revised Standard Version)

There seems to be numerous introductory and survey texts on the New Testament, but they are designed more for the theologian, preacher, and seminary student; not many are geared toward the typical church laity, the average church member.

What is needed is a guide or manual for teaching the New Testament, for understanding both its internal and external features and aspects. With regard to the latter, I must admit, I had not given much thought to the external aspects of the New Testament until I went to seminary, where I was overwhelmed, to say the least.