Meaning: The quote "The New Testament witnesses were fully aware of the background against which the resurrection took place" by Josh McDowell, a well-known Christian author and apologist, highlights the historical context and awareness of the individuals who witnessed the resurrection of Jesus Christ as documented in the New Testament. This statement underscores the significance of understanding the cultural, religious, and historical backdrop of the events surrounding Jesus' resurrection as described in the biblical accounts.

The New Testament, which includes the four Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) and the Acts of the Apostles, provides the primary source of information about the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. According to the biblical narrative, Jesus was crucified, died, and was buried, but on the third day, he rose from the dead, an event that is central to the Christian faith and theology. McDowell's quote suggests that the individuals who witnessed and later testified to the resurrection were cognizant of the broader context in which this miraculous event occurred.

To understand the significance of McDowell's statement, it is essential to consider the historical and cultural setting of the time in which the events described in the New Testament took place. First-century Palestine was under Roman occupation, and the Jewish people were living under the influence of Roman rule. This context is crucial in understanding the political and social dynamics that framed the life and ministry of Jesus, as well as the religious expectations and beliefs of the Jewish people at that time.

Moreover, the religious landscape of ancient Judea, with its complex tapestry of Jewish sects, such as the Pharisees, Sadducees, Essenes, and Zealots, provides important background information for comprehending the religious milieu in which Jesus and his followers operated. The diverse beliefs, practices, and interpretations of Jewish law and tradition within this context shaped the interactions and conflicts that are depicted in the New Testament accounts.

Furthermore, McDowell's quote implies that the witnesses to the resurrection were not only aware of the historical and cultural backdrop but also recognized the significance of the event within the framework of Jewish messianic expectations and eschatological beliefs. The concept of resurrection itself held specific theological and eschatological meanings within Second Temple Judaism, and the New Testament writers and witnesses would have been intimately familiar with these nuances.

In addition to the historical and religious context, McDowell's statement also points to the awareness of the New Testament witnesses regarding the implications of the resurrection within the broader narrative of salvation history. The early Christian community, shaped by the teachings of Jesus and the proclamation of his resurrection, understood this event as the fulfillment of God's promises and the inauguration of a new era in which redemption and reconciliation were made available to all humanity.

In conclusion, Josh McDowell's quote emphasizes the depth of understanding and awareness possessed by the New Testament witnesses regarding the background against which the resurrection of Jesus took place. By acknowledging the historical, cultural, religious, and theological dimensions of the events surrounding the resurrection, McDowell invites readers to explore the multifaceted significance of this pivotal moment in the Christian faith. Understanding the context in which the resurrection occurred enriches the interpretation and appreciation of its profound impact on the early followers of Jesus and its enduring relevance for believers today.