The Influence of Greco-Roman Culture on the New Testament

The New Testament, as the foundational text of Christianity, emerged during a pivotal moment in world history: the intersection of Greco-Roman culture with Jewish tradition in the first century CE. This period, defined by the dominance of the Roman Empire and the spread of Greek philosophy and language, was one in which cultural exchange, adaptation, and transformation were inevitable. The Roman Empire, having conquered vast swathes of territory, became the central political and military force across the Mediterranean, and with it came the imposition of Roman rule. Yet, as a result of Alexander the Great's conquests centuries before, Greek language and ideas had already permeated much of the ancient world, deeply influencing local cultures and religious traditions.

It was against this backdrop that the New Testament was written, a collection of texts that would go on to shape not only Christianity but the course of Western civilization. Understanding the influence of Greco-Roman culture on these texts requires a comprehensive analysis of the political, social, and intellectual currents of the time.