Stories of the Jewish Church III: Acts 10-15

Course Info

It is not uncommon to read Acts as a history of the early Church. But too often people forget that it was a Jewish Church. And when we say the Jewish Church - that is not something most people today can imagine. Though the Book of Acts includes many descriptions of historical events, it also preserves sermons and descriptions of the lives of the early Christ-followers. Acts preserves a record of how early believers understood their own faith in the first-century context. This course focuses on the realities of first-century life in light of the historical and cultural context of early Judaism. 

This third part of the course explores the perspective of believers who worshipped in the Temple and met at homes in anticipation of Yeshua's return. Learn about different types of synagogues and associations that functioned across the Mediterranean where Jews and Godfearers from the nations worshipped. Re-discover the stories of the Jewish Church.

About Author

Pinchas Shir

Associate Professor of Ancient Cultures

Pinchas Shir, Israel Bible Center’s Associate Professor of Ancient Cultures, is nearing the completion of his Ph.D. studies in the Department of Religion at Groningen University in the Netherlands. His academic interests focus on ancient dining culture, culinary contexts of the Second Temple period, and particularly on the table interactions between Jews and Gentiles in antiquity. In addition, Pinchas is keenly interested in the archaeology of Ancient Israel and the Mediterranean.

Currently residing in North America, Assoc. Professor Shir lectures internationally and maintains a strong online presence where all can hear his teachings.