This is a print on demand book and is therefore non- returnable. Typical studies of marriage and family in the early Christian period focus on very limited evidence found in Scripture. This book offers a broader, richer picture of the first Christian families by drawing together research by experts ranging from archaeologists to ancient historians. Exploring the nature of households within the ancient Greco-Roman world, the contributors assemble a new understanding of ancient Christian families that is both compelling and instructive. The book covers key aspects of ancient family life, from meals and childrearing to women's roles and the lives of slaves. Three concluding chapters explore the implications of all this information for theological education today. Contributors:David L. Balch Suzanne Dixon J. Albert Harrill Ross S. Kaemer Christian Laes Peter Lampe Amy-Jill Levine Margaret Y. MacDonald Dale B. Martin Eric M. Meyers Margaret M. Mitchell Carolyn Osiek Beryl Rawson Richard Saller Timothy F. Sedgwick Monika Trümper Andrew Wallace-Hadrill