Cultural Or Political Background Of The New Testament (Essay Sample)

Political Background in New Testament
Name Institution Affiliation
Political Background in New Testament
I find the unique political organization structure of the Roman Empire in the new Testament interesting. Events surrounding the life and ministry of Jesus illustrates the distinct leadership structure within the Roman Empire thereby putting religion at loggerheads with politics. First, the highest authority is Emperor. In Mark 12:17 Jesus responded to allegations that he was an overshadow to the Roman supreme authority by affirming that give Caesar what belongs to Caesar and God what belongs to God. It is clear that the Emperor during that time had a title of Caesar.
Second in Command were Kings who were appointed by Emperor and handled local authority. During Jesus' life and ministry, Herod of Antipas was the king. Kings were dominant. In Mathew 2:16, Herod ordered the killing of all male babies under the age of two. Herod was acting like a paranoid ruler fearing that his kingship will be taken. As a matter of fact, Herod killed his three son's for to avoid a power struggle between them. I wonder that even then politicians were that insecure and could do anything to maintain their power.
Governors were the third in command. Ideally, governors represented emperor in different territories and were directly responsible to him. Much of their obligations included tax collection and finance. Governors also had supreme authority including trials. For example, Mathew 27 narrates that Pontius Pilate was the governor Judea, who was responsible for execution.
In summary, Jesus and the entire New Testament happened several years ago. For instance, Pontius Pilate ruled between AD 26–36. I find the clear political outline in the Roman Empire during that time intriguing. Many parts of the world were still struggling to establish political systems, ...