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Exploring the Context, Purpose, and Meaning of the Story of God

by N. T. Wright; Michael F. Bird

A fresh, engaging tour through the world of the New Testament

This study is a gift for anyone who has ever opened the New Testament and thought, I wish I understood the world behind these words. N. T. Wright and Michael Bird—two scholars who manage to be both brilliant and wonderfully down‑to‑earth—serve as guides through the landscape, culture, and story that shaped the early Christian movement.

The tone is lively, accessible, and ecumenical. Rather than assuming prior knowledge, the study opens the door wide for readers from all backgrounds to step into the world of Jesus and the apostles with curiosity and confidence.

What the study covers

Across eight sessions, Wright and Bird explore the major movements of the New Testament story:

• The Books of the New Testament — how the writings fit together as one unfolding narrative
• The World of Jesus and the Apostles — the political, cultural, and religious context
• The Life and Death of Jesus — the heart of the gospel story
• The Resurrection of Jesus — the event that changed everything
• The Ministry of Paul — missionary journeys, letters, and theology
• The Early Christians and the Church — how the movement grew in the Greco‑Roman world
• The Mission of the Church — the ongoing call to witness and transformation
• The Creation of the New Testament — how the canon formed and why it matters

Each session includes streaming video teaching, discussion questions, and personal reflection materials.

Strengths of the study

1. Accessible scholarship

Wright and Bird bring academic depth without academic heaviness. They explain complex ideas—Second Temple Judaism, Roman imperial culture, early church formation—in ways that feel clear, engaging, and even fun.

2. A strong sense of story

Rather than treating the New Testament as a collection of isolated books, the study presents it as a unified narrative of God’s faithfulness. Readers see how Jesus’ ministry, Paul’s letters, and the early church all fit into one sweeping story.

3. Rich historical context

Understanding the world of Jesus and the apostles brings the New Testament to life. The study helps readers see why Jesus’ parables were so provocative, why Paul’s mission was so radical, and why the early church grew so explosively.

4. Ecumenical and invitational

The teaching avoids denominational divides and focuses on shared Christian essentials—Jesus, resurrection, mission, Scripture, and discipleship. It works beautifully in mixed‑tradition groups.

5. Practical discipleship

This isn’t just a history lesson. Wright and Bird consistently draw connections between the early church’s mission and our own call to live out the gospel today.

Who this study is for

• Small groups wanting a deeper understanding of Scripture
• Individuals who enjoy learning the “story behind the story”
• Ecumenical settings where participants come from varied traditions
• Anyone who wants to read the New Testament with fresh eyes
• Leaders seeking a resource that blends scholarship and spiritual formation

It’s especially helpful for those who feel intimidated by biblical history or theology—this study makes both feel accessible and exciting.

A pastoral takeaway

The heart of this study is simple: the New Testament is not just ancient text—it is the living story of God’s faithfulness, still unfolding today. Wright and Bird remind us that Jesus didn’t come to offer abstract ideas but to launch a kingdom that transforms lives, communities, and the world.

A question to carry with you

As you consider the world behind the New Testament, what part of Jesus’ story feels newly alive or newly compelling to you—and how might that shape the way you follow Him today?