J. Albert Harrill examines early Christianity in its Greco-Roman context, which includes ancient Judaism. His primary research interests have been on social and cultural history. He holds a Ph.D. in New Testament and early Christian literature from the University of Chicago.

As a research scholar, he has published widely in academic journals and has authored three books: Paul the Apostle: His Life and Legacy in Their Roman Context (Cambridge University Press, 2012); Slaves in the New Testament: Literary, Social, and Moral Dimensions (Fortress Press, 2006); and The Manumission of Slaves in Early Christianity (Mohr Siebeck, 1995).  

As a teacher, Professor Harrill has introduced students to the fascinating world of the apostle Paul and his influence in early Christianity, the historical Jesus and the gospel traditions, Greek and Roman slavery, literary forgery in the early Christian tradition, the interpretation of dreams in antiquity, and ancient Roman religion.  Harrill’s teaching career spans nearly 35 years and has received recognition by peers and students alike.

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