W. Brian Shelton - Quest for the Historical Apostles

J ust as the apostolic college was an assembly of individuals with a common cause, this book had its own writing college that deserves mention. The fellowship of Clarkesville United Methodist Church provided the initial impetus for this work when they reached for insight beyond what a book on the apostles could offer. Thanks are due to David Nelson, Wells Turner, and the Baker editorial and production professionals for their generous support. Thanks to Torri Beck and the Seby Jones Library staff at Toccoa Falls College for endless research support. President Robert Myers and five school deans offered understanding to their provost to pursue a meaningful outlet amid numerous other administrative responsibilities. Special thanks to Kent Rothwell for laboring through a draft from a laymans perspective simply out of a love for learning and a contribution to friendship. Finally, the work would not have been possible without initial recommendations by Drs. Robert Yarbrough, Joel Green, Bryan Litfin, and Kenneth Steinhauser, as well as their influence on me.

Particular thanks go to Sally Shelton, whose interest in biblical studies continues to mature alongside my own. Her dedication to dialoguing about apostolic journeys, tying together pieces of the New Testament, and sacrificial supporting of writing projects is invaluable. It is my hope that Annie, Katie, and Maggie Shelton will follow in her footsteps and someday profit from the journeys of the apostles presented here.

While it seems idealistic, expressing acknowledgment to thirteen apostles long gone seems fitting. My respect for these fellow believers deepened as their journeys and sacrifices slowly unfolded to me. I realized the profound inspiration that they continue to offer those who journey and sacrifice for the same kingdom cause generations later. Although the church is regularly criticized, I think the apostles would be proud that the message instrumental to their own lives continues to be perpetuated among Christians around the world.

Rome, Lent 2017