Want to look at a lot of topical material, but not ready to dig into the minutiae? If so, Patzia’s The Making of the New Testament may be just the starter for you. This book is jam-packed with information on a variety of relevant topics. Not that this jam-packing results in a cheap treatment of the subject matter: The author manages to offer a great many details and maintains a scholarly composure throughout this book, informing the reader with an easily-grasped style (one that is smooth and orderly, but not breezy) and never overwhelming with technical terms. A glossary is offered for those few terms that might need a bit more clarification for the beginner. Subjects are arranged in an informal outline style, and items of relevance are very easy to find.

The student will most appreciate Patzia’s detailed descriptions of transcription processes and textual variants. Conservatives may find themselves a bit annoyed by Patzia’s non-commital on certain issues, but should view this in a good light: Patzia writes fairly and as someone without an axe to grind.

In conclusion, we find this work to be an excellent value. The Making of the New Testament should be a top consideration for the making of a personal library.