No non-Jewish scholar, certainly in the English-speaking world, is as conversant with the relevant Rabbinic literature as is E.P Sanders. Indeed, very few Christian New Testament scholars evince any sound knowledge of first-century C.E. Judaism let alone expertise in Rabbinic writings. Of particular importance in this contribution of Sanders is the opening chapter, "The Synoptic Jesus and the Law: Conflicts and agreement in comparison with other contemporary debates".