This book originated in my doctoral dissertation defended at Emory University in 2013. I extend my sincere gratitude to Professor Carl R. Holladay, my dissertation ad- visor, particularly for his guidance in formulating the thesis of the research and his help on the final chapters. I am especially indebted to Professor Thomas S. Burns, who provided his expert advice on the matters of Roman history and was exception- ally thorough and helpful in checking and commenting on each chapter as it was written. In preparation for publication, my manuscript has greatly profited from im- provements suggested by my other committee members, Professors Luke T. Johnson and Walter T. Wilson. The flaws that remain, of course, are entirely my own. Finally, this work would not have been possible except for the support and encouragement I received from my wife, to whom I dedicate this book.