Whilst the greatest effort has been made to ensure the quality of this text, due to the historical nature of this content, in some rare cases there may be minor issues with legibility. The first volume of Prolegomena in this work must, therefore, be occupied with the historical aspect of the question. The background of Acts i.-xv. Is' Jewish, that of the last chapters mainly Gentile. The Christian background is common to both, but its characteristics are rapidly changing. The first volume, therefore, deals with these three points - contemporary Jewish history and religion, the organisation and general mental attitude of the world of the Roman Empire, the evolution of the early Christian preaching and ideas. In the second volume the literary phenomena of the book are the subject of investigation. A third volume will deal with the exegesis of the Text. Although various scholars have contributed to these volumes, the Editors are responsible for the whole, as, in order to give the work coherence, they have not scrupled to rearrange, abbreviate, or expand the chapters submitted to them and they are fully sensible of the patience displayed by their fellow-workers in accepting their suggestions. For the present volume the Editors acknowledge with gratitude the help which they have received from Canon Box and from Professor Wensink, as well as from the scholars whose definite contributions are printed. They are also greatly indebted to Miss Edith Coe for much help in the correction of proof. They have endeavoured to indicate their appreciation of the unfailing kindness and great learning of Professor George Foot Moore by dedicating to him this volume. Among many privileges which they have received in the United States they value his help as second only to his friendship.
