With the exception of the Lord Jesus Christ Himself, no one figures more prominently in the pages of the New Testament than the Apostle Paul. Author of thirteen of the books of the New Testament and central figure in the book of Acts, Paul was the individual most responsible for the spread of the gospel in the first century. Yet the great apostle was not alone in his labors. Beside him were numerous co-laborers. Set against him were many foes--most of whom owe their limited fame almost entirely to their relationship to the man they opposed.

This volume sheds light on those in Paul's shadow, both friend and foe. Dr. Hiebert carefully surveys all the scriptural data concerning "prominent personalities" (such as Apollos, Barnabas, and Luke) and the "lesser lights" (such as Demas, Epaphras, and Philemon)--twenty-five sketches in all. The author seeks to demonstrate how each of these figures contributed to the life and ministry of the Apostle Paul. In addition, Dr. Hiebert includes two chapters briefly surveying "all the others, named and unnamed." The reverent scholarship and devotional warmth make this a valuable reference work.