Jesus, Patrons, and Benefactors : 9783161499012 : 23 Mar 2009 : Scholars use patrons and benefactors in the interpretation of Jesus and the Gospels, but this practice needs re-evaluation. Many New Testament studies build from outdated classical scholarship and only superficial interaction with archaeological research. Recent classical studies have improved modern understanding of these ancient categories tremendously. Archaeological advances shed new light on first-century Palestine. Jonathan Marshall evaluates the categories of patrons and benefactors in light of the findings of new classical studies and archaeological work. He offers a much needed clarification between socio-historical patron-client relationships and Roman patrocinium . He also elucidates differences between patrocinium and benefaction. An in-depth investigation of cities, villages, and leadership in first-century Palestine reveals the minimal attestation of benefaction and, still less, patrocinium in the area and am