Bruce Longenecker's The Lost Letters Of Pergamum

The Lost Letters of Pergamum is a compilation of letters mainly between a fictional character, Antipas, and the Gospel/Acts of the Apostle writer, Luke. However, there are letters to other Christians and pagans of the first century. The book is a fictional book that is written in narrative form. Although this book is a work of fiction, “it does not mean these conversations did not take place (10).” These letters that have been found in the city of Pergamum were translated from their original language into English. They were scrolls and the letters make up the book.

The author, Bruce Longenecker, studied and received his doctorate of philosophy (PhD.) at the University of Durham. He gives us a small glimpse of what might have possibly

Antipas’ questions about Jesus and his followers become stronger than ever. Luke encourages Antipas to find some Christians and go to their meeting. Antipas and Rufinus (a leader/sponsor of the gladiatorial contest), arrive at the house of Kalandion, on the Lord’s Day. Antipas, who is asked to read Luke’s writings, is completely fascinated by his observations of the Christians. He makes a note that “the gatherers are very diverse with regard to their social statures, ethnic backgrounds, and civic positions (90).” It was clear that something was different about them. Antipas reported back to Luke saying, “I have never seen members of association act in that fashion (90).” The lives of Christians made a huge impression on this man with pagan roots. Even though Antipas had made note that his first impressions of the Christians was positive. Rufinus, on the other hand, was very skeptical and

Antipas was asked to serve by helping to oversee renovations to the temple Asklepion as well as the library in Pergamum. Antipas end up becoming closely connected to these particular Christians. He became particularly close to a girl named Nouna, who was kept by Demetrius and Diotis. Antipas and his companions made trips to other cities. On these journeys, Antipas sees other Christian people living out their faith. This is especially clear and present whenever Antipas is on the way home to Caesarea. He is accompanied by a man named Simon on the journey. Simon becomes very sick when he gives his place on a ship, to a woman and children, in order to keep them dry. Once they are in Antioch, Antipas and Simon look for other Christians. This is so Simon can receive some much needed care for his illness, and also that both can receive some much needed Christian