Criticism and exegesis of sacred texts Books

Book SynopsisThis is the second volume of a practical and readable introduction to the Psalms which effectively unfolds the text and meaning as songs for the people of God. The expositions represent Michael Wilcock's attempts over many years to unfold God's Word to real people confronting the raw questions of life in the church and in the world. He sees the Psalter as a collection, an anthology, a hymnal, a book of songs. It is full of pictures that show us a variety of places in a land of spiritual experience. In his view it is important for Christians today to appropriate the range of human emotion that is embodied in the Psalms. We also need their imaginative vitality. The book will be helpful in using the Psalms in church services, and includes an exposition of every Psalm, long or short, familiar or neglected. The Bible Speaks Today series covers every book of the Old and New Testaments, as well as Bible themes that run through the whole of Scripture. These revised editions are updated with contemporary language and Bible translations to help you to follow and to teach the Bible in today's world.

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Book SynopsisDespite the centuries which separate us from the authors of these proverbs, the everyday realities of human existence remain: making friends, coping with sexuality, handling money, responding to poverty, making a living, learning through loss, muddling through difficulties, facing death. David Atkinson shows how Proverbs addresses all these issues. Wisdom, he argues, is about helping to cope; about seeing the world in a fresh way to five new resources for living; about working out what living for God means in the very ordinariness of daily life. These sayings, he explains, bring such concerns to life in vivid, imaginative, often humorous pictures, linking the cosmic and the homely. The ancient book puts a mirror up to our behaviour, and asks: 'Are you like this? Is there not a better way to live?' The Bible Speaks Today series covers every book of the Old and New Testaments, as well as Bible themes that run through the whole of Scripture. These revised editions are updated with contemporary language and Bible translations to help you to follow and to teach the Bible in today’s world.

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Book SynopsisTrade Review“Captivating and clearly written book about, among other things, ancient manuscript production with focus on the Chester Beatty and Bodmer Papyri, but also discussing the Nag Hammadi and Medinet Madi codices and a recent find such as Codex Tchacos. With many illustrations and excellent indices.”—Johannes van Oort, Brill journal Vigiliae Christianae“A stimulating introduction to working with early Christian manuscripts.”—Thomas Johann Bauer, Zeitschrift für Antikes Christentum“Nongbri is to be congratulated for his ability to synthensize large amounts of data and present a clear and cogent picture of the issues in manuscript study.”—Sean A. Adams, Journal for the Study of the New Testament“There is much to commend in this wonderful rich and informative book about books. Nongbri’s discussion should be of interest for all scholars of the New Testament writings.”—Paul Foster, Expository TimesFinalist for the 2019 PROSE awards, Theology and Religious Studies categoryWinner of the 2019 Ramirez Family Award for Most Significant Scholarly Book, presented by the Texas Institute of LettersWinner of the 2019 George A. and Jean S. DeLong History Book Prize sponsored by the Society for the History of Authorship, Reading and Publishing (SHARP)Winner of the 2019 Best Book Relating to the New Testament Award, sponsored by the Biblical Archaeology Society“With a skeptical eye, a large amount of original archival research, a comprehensive command of the bibliography, and fine critical judgment, this essential book takes apart most of what has been claimed for generations about early Christian manuscripts. This is the best available broad treatment of its subject and is certain to have a wide audience.”—Roger S. Bagnall, New York University;“Breath-taking. . . . With its spectacular archival research and clear, level-headed thinking, this book is a model of scholarship. As a result of Nongbri’s research, we know both more and less about these important early Christian books.”—AnneMarie Luijendijk, Princeton University“Nongbri offers an engaging account of early Christian manuscripts and their modern discoverers, interpreters, and publicists. His lucid narrative offers useful guidance about what can and cannot be known about these important relics.”—Harold W. Attridge, Yale University“In a study that is erudite, persuasive, and massively documented, Brent Nongbri explodes many of the dominant assumptions of early Christian textual scholars. This is a must read for anyone interested in the ‘archaeology’ of Christian manuscripts.”—Bart D. Ehrman, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

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Book SynopsisMany of us know and love the stories and characters of the Old Testament such as Joseph, Moses and Jonah. But how do we view its importance in relation to New Testament teaching and our 21st century experiences? This accessible yet powerful addition to the Pocket Guide series draw together the threads of Scripture to help us understand the power of God’s word when viewed in its completeness. Trade Review...If the world is still here in a hundred years' time, these thrilling pages will still be looked upon as a treasure trove among God's faithful people. -- Richard Bewes (OBE (1939 – 2019), formerly of All Souls Church, Langham Place, London, England)...it is a huge privilege to commend the author of the Pocket Guide you now hold in your hand- although, quite frankly, his work speaks for itself so well that it does not need me to approve it. -- D. A. Carson (Emeritus Professor of New Testament, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, Deerfield, Illinois)In nearly every conceivable way this little book is outstanding to the point that I can hardly believe so much useful content is concentrated into so few pages. If your typical book is coffee, Loving the Old Testament is espresso. It's clearly written, interesting, supported by meticulous and creative scholarship, not infrequently humorous, reverent and pious (in the best sense), and very practically applicable especially to a local church context. Furthermore, if you know anything about biblical studies from the last 100 years, you'll know that Moyter's is essentially the evangelical Gandalf. If you're a pastor, I'd encourage you to buy a couple dozen copies and keep them on your free book table or stocked in your bookstore. -- Timothy Raymond- Credo MagazineNow 90, Alec Motyer retains all his old clarity, warmth and charm as he shares his infectious affection for, and insight into, Jesus's Bible. This is a first-rate get-you-started book. -- J. I. Packer ((1926–2020), Board of Governors’ Professor of Theology, Regent College, Vancouver, Canada)A Christian's Pocket Guide to Loving the Old Testament, and Alec Motyer's recent volume Preaching? prove that faithful believers 'will still bear fruit in old age-they will stay fresh and green.' (Ps. 92:14) Why? Because they will continue proclaiming, 'The Lord is upright; he is my Rock, and there is no wickedness in him.' (Ps. 92:15) -- Tim Keller ((1950 – 2023) Redeemer City to City)Motyer is that rare scholar who can write plainly, say something quotable in a few words, and write sympathetically to ordinary folk. Who might benefit from this little book? My ninth-grade Bible students last year would have been much helped. This year's kids will thank me. It would make a nice study for a Sunday school class. Even the minister who has preached and taught through the Old Testament will enjoy the read and learn something, too. -- New HorizonsA welcome volume that will be useful for teachers trying to convince their students about the value of the Old Testament or for intelligent lay persons to learn from a seasoned pastor-theologian why they should love the Old Testament. -- Themelios Journal

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Book SynopsisThe ESV Study Bible, Large Print edition transforms the content of the award-winning ESV Study Bible into a highly readable, large-print type.

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Book SynopsisEvidence for Jesus, from Josh and Sean McDowell, provides answers to tough questions about the life, ministry, and divinity of Jesus. Written in a handy and readable format, it offers quick insights about Christ to refute combative skeptics, encourage curious seekers, and alleviate nagging doubts in the minds of brand new or lifelong Christians.

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Book SynopsisThe Koran has constituted a remarkably strong core of identity and continuity for a religious tradition that is now in its fifteenth century. This Very Short Introduction explores the significance of the Koran both in the modern world and in traditional Muslim culture. Michael Cook provides a lucid and direct account of the Koran as codex, as scripture, as liturgy, and as the embodiment of truth, and examines its means of formation and dissemination. He also discusses issues of interpretation for certain key verses, demonstrating that fecundity of the text for readers throughout the world.ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.

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Book SynopsisUsing his unique perspective as an Israeli Christian, respected Bible teacher Amir Tsarfati paints a fascinating picture of the end times. Grounded in Scripture, he shows how biblical prophecies are being fulfilled and how the Rapture, Antichrist, and Great Tribulation will play out in our world today.

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Book SynopsisWorld-renowned scholar Michael Gorman presents a straightforward approach to the complex task of biblical exegesis. This third edition of Gorman's widely used and trusted textbook (over 60,000 copies sold) has been thoroughly updated and revised to reflect developments in the academy and the classroom over the past decade. The new edition explains recent developments in theological interpretation and explores missional and non-Western readings of the biblical text. Adaptable for students in various settings, it includes clear explanations, practical hints, suggested exercises, and sample papers.Table of ContentsContentsIntroduction to the Third EditionIntroduction to the Revised and Expanded Edition (2009)Introduction to the First Edition (2001)Part One: Orientation1. The Task2. The TextPart Two: The Elements3. First Element: Survey4. Second Element: Contextual Analysis5. Third Element: Formal Analysis6. Fourth Element: Detailed Analysis7. Fifth Element: Synthesis8. Sixth Element: Reflection--Theological Interpretation9. Seventh Element: Expansion and RefinementPart Three: Hints and Resources10. Exegesis and the Exegete11. Resources for ExegesisAppendix A: Tables of Exegetical MethodsAppendix B: Practical Guidelines for Writing a Research Exegesis PaperAppendix C: Sample Exegesis Papers and Sample Exegetical SummaryAppendix D: Selected Internet Resources for Biblical StudiesIndex

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Book SynopsisRenowned biblical scholar Stanley Porter offers an accessible introduction to hermeneutics to help students and pastors better interpret and understand God's Word. Interpretation for Preaching and Teaching focuses on various levels of interpretation and proclamation, which are arranged in a necessary hierarchy: language and linguistics, the biblical text, biblical theology, systematic theology, and homiletics. Stanley Porter grounds the discussion within a conversation of biblical authority and offers a fresh examination of the key issues. The result is a workable method that introduces each of the major topics of interpretation and addresses some of the complexities of their use. This book provides the basics for a Bible interpreter to move from fundamental questions about the task of biblical interpretation to understanding a text and its theology to creating and delivering a sermon. It offers valuable guidance for professors and students of hermeneutics and equips pastors and Bible teachers to deliver a relevant message to those who rely on them to be faithful interpreters.Table of Contents1. What Is Hermeneutics, and Why Are so Many Talking about It?2. Hermeneutics and the Authority of Scripture3. Hermeneutics at the Level of Language and Linguistics4. Hermeneutics at the Level of Text: Part 15. Hermeneutics at the Level of Text: Part 26. Hermeneutics at the Level of Biblical Theology7. Hermeneutics at the Level of Systematic Theology8. Hermeneutics at the Level of HomileticsIndexes

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Book SynopsisThis book contains translations of all of the texts found in ''Apocrypha and Pseudepigrapha''. Non-Canonical texts such as the first and second book of Adam and Eve, the secrets of Enoch, the Psalms of Solomon and the Testaments of the Twelve Patriarchs.This book contains translations of all of the texts found in ''Apocrypha and Pseudepigrapha''. Non-Canonical texts such as the first and second book of Adam and Eve, the secrets of Enoch, the Psalms of Solomon and the Testaments of the Twelve Patriarchs.  

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Book SynopsisWhere do we come from? What is our purpose? The early chapters of Genesis proclaim the origin of the world, and of human life on earth. In The Message of Genesis 1-11, David Atkinson explores how the first eleven chapters serve as an overture to the rest of the Bible. They evoke wonder as God is portrayed in his creative power and beauty. They reveal his loving mercy and salvation even in his terrible judgment of those who turn from him and despoil the harmony of creation. With vivid, provocative insight, Atkinson illuminates how the meaning of Genesis is still resonant today – providing the insight that allows us to understand both the greatness and the tragic flaw inherent in human beings. Although it was written thousands of years ago, the message of Genesis is one of timely urgency for the modern world: we are responsible participants in God's creation who must, like Noah, confront the possibility of global catastrophe. Part of the loved and trusted The Bible Speaks Today series of commentaries, The Message of Genesis 1-11 offers an insightful, readable exposition of the Biblical text and thought-provoking discussion of how its meaning relates to contemporary life. Used by Bible students and teachers around the world, The Bible Speaks Today commentaries are ideal for anyone studying or preaching Genesis and who want to delve deeper into the text. This beautifully redesigned edition has also been sensitively updated to include modern references and use the NRSV Bible text. Readable and reliable, The Message of Genesis 1-11 will help for anyone looking for a commentary on the Genesis that makes clear its meaning both in its original context and for twenty-first century readers.

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Book SynopsisThis is the first volume of a practical and readable introduction to the Psalms which effectively unfolds the text and meaning as songs for the people of God. The expositions represent Michael Wilcock's attempts over many years to unfold God's Word to real people confronting the raw questions of life in the church and in the world. He sees the Psalter as a collection, an anthology, a hymnal, a book of songs. It is full of pictures that show us a variety of places in a land of spiritual experience. In his view it is important for Christians today to appropriate the range of human emotion that is embodied in the Psalms. We also need their imaginative vitality. The book will be helpful in using the Psalms in church services, and includes an exposition of every Psalm, long or short, familiar or neglected. The Bible Speaks Today series covers every book of the Old and New Testaments, as well as Bible themes that run through the whole of Scripture. These revised editions are updated with contemporary language and Bible translations to help you to follow and to teach the Bible in today's world.

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Book SynopsisEverything we do, say and think is, in some sense, emotional. We describe ourselves and our experiences in terms of how we feel. In the New Testament, Jesus and Paul displayed a wide range of emotions in their lives and teaching. Thomas Aquinas, John Calvin, Jonathan Edwards and others have recognized the vital importance of emotion in Christian experience. However, in recent times, many preachers and theologians have pushed emotion to the sidelines. The relationship between reason and emotion can be confused or obscure in much of our thinking. We need to look afresh at the causes, nature and role of felt experience in Christian living. In this significant new study, Matthew Elliott asks 'What is an emotion?', and applies recent studies of emotion to the New Testament. While he discusses the vocabulary of emotion - love, joy, hope, jealousy, fear, sorrow, anger - his primary concern is with emotion itself, how it was perceived by the New Testament writers in their cultural context, and what role they thought it should play in the lives of Christian believers. He argues that our feelings play an essential role in Christian faith, theology and ethics.

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Book SynopsisNow in large print! Build a firm foundation for your faith with the NKJV Foundation Study Bible from Thomas Nelson. Designed for beginners or experienced students of Scripture, this trusted Bible is an accessible and edifying guide to study God’s Word.

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Book SynopsisThis Catholic commentary on First Corinthians interprets Scripture from within the living tradition of the Church for pastoral ministers and lay readers alike.

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Book SynopsisThis Catholic commentary on First and Second Thessalonians interprets Scripture from within the living tradition of the Church for pastoral ministers, lay readers, and students.

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Book SynopsisEnjoy the Bible that goes where you go. Thomas Nelson’s Checkbook Bible offers a complete Bible that’s as easy to read as it is to carry; Traveling with God’s Word has never been so effortless.

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Book SynopsisMost people, even those who are nonreligious, are familiar with the book of Jonah: a rebellious prophet defies God and is swallowed by a whale. Less familiar to most people is the second half of this Biblical story - what happens after Jonah is released from the belly of the fish. Yet it is in this second half of the story that one of the most powerful and important lessons of the Bible is hidden.The famous story shows how, if we would understand the mercy of God, it will always take us in directions we would rather not go, toward people we would rather not care about, and ultimately into the deepest counsels of God. In a time of growing division, The Prodigal Prophet shows us God''s love among people, and how Christians must listen to God''s call even when it takes them to uncomfortable places.The Prodigal Prophet won CRT Biblical Studies book of the year in 2019.Trade ReviewTim Keller has established himself as one of the most gifted, trusted and insightful writers in the contemporary American Church ... must-read for anyone preaching through or leading a Bible study on this Old Testament prophet. * Premier Christianity *Timothy Keller skilfully addresses the deep implications for our contemporary witness, highlighting a number of issues whichare very relevant to today's divided society while eschewing overt political and cultural partisanship. I heartily recommend this book for all Christians and not only for preachers and teachers.' * Methodist Recorder *'a must-read for anyone preaching through or leading a Bible study on this Old Testament prophet.' * Christianity Magazine *

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Book SynopsisExam board: EdexcelLevel: A-levelSubject: Religious StudiesFirst teaching: September 2016First exams: Summer 2017Build, reinforce and assess students' knowledge throughout their course; tailored to the 2016 Edexcel A level specification and brought to you by the leading Religious Studies publisher, this guide combines clear content coverage with practice questions and sample answers.Written by teachers with extensive examining experience, this guide:- Helps students identify what they need to know with a concise summary of the topics examined at AS and A-level- Consolidates understanding through assessment tips- Offers opportunities for students to improve their exam technique by consulting sample student answers and commentary for each question type- Builds understanding through accessible explanations of key definitions and thinkers

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Book SynopsisA new and better society has been the constant dream of men and women. Responding to this dream, John Stott has been attracted back again and again by Paul's letter to the young church at Ephesus. It portrays a new society of Christ's making that stands out in bright relief against our colourless world of oppression, heartache, separation and division. Paul's letter, with its exultant vision of a renewed human community, has, says John Stott, 'stirred me deeply'. John Stott expounds Paul's theme of uniting all things in Christ by uniting his church and breaking down all that separates us from God, one ethnic group from another, husband from wife, parent from child, master from slave. Paul's insights are for all who want to build the church into the new society God has planned it to be.

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Book SynopsisThe Book of Ruth is a tale of charm and delight, providing a contrast to the concurrent anarchy depicted in the book of Judges. Telling the simple story of a family who are struck by tragedy, but experience love and acceptance in unexpected ways, in Ruth’s narrative we are clearly shown God’s guiding hand as everything endured leads to the births of both King David and, finally, Jesus Christ. David Atkinson illuminates The Message of Ruth in this encouraging and thoughtful commentary, showing us how theologically the story of Ruth is a story about God’s providence. From Naomi and Ruth herself to Boaz, he guides us through the narrative and explores how each character fits into God’s purposes for history and what that means for us living as Christians today. A revised edition in the much-loved Bible Speaks Today series of commentaries, The Message of Ruth offers a thorough, readable exposition of both the Biblical text and what it can teach modern Christians. Used by Bible students and teachers around the world, the Bible Speaks Today commentaries are ideal for students and preachers who are looking to broaden their knowledge and understanding of Scripture and its continued relevance in the twenty-first century. This beautifully redesigned edition has been sensitively updated to include modern references and use the NIV Bible text. The Message of Ruth will be helpful for anyone looking for accessible commentaries on Ruth that explore it more deeply, considering its meaning both for its original audience and for Christians reading it today.

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Book SynopsisThe destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonians in 587 BC is the likely setting for the book of Lamentations. This was the most traumatic event in the whole of Old Testament history, with its extreme human suffering, devastation of the ancient city, national humiliation, and the undermining of all that was thought to be theologically guaranteed - the Davidic monarchy, the city of Zion, and the temple of the God of Israel. It is out of that unspeakable pain that Lamentations speaks, in poetry of astonishing beauty and intricacy, though soaked in tears. If we neglect this book, says Chris Wright, we miss the challenge and reward of wrestling with the massive theological issues that permeate it. How can suffering be endured alongside faith in an all-loving, good God? Even if these events are recognized and accepted as God's judgment, has not the flood of brutality and evil gone beyond all bounds? If anarchy, death and destruction stalk the land, can the centre of Israel's faith hold? Wright shows that as Christian readers we must not, and cannot, isolate Lamentations from the rest of the Bible; and equally, that we should not read the rest of the Bible without Lamentations. We must still let it speak for itself, as a book for today.

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Book SynopsisA brand new edition of the renowned New American Standard Bible, reflecting the best traditions of Cambridge Bible typography and production values. Cambridge''s original Pitt Minion Bibles were notable for their use of a compact typeface designed for Cambridge University Press in the heyday of hot-metal composition. They have been a feature of the Cambridge list for over half a century. The NASB Pitt Minion Reference Edition now follows in this historic tradition, using a stylish modern digital typeface which like its predecessor combines utility and elegance. It uses the Lexicon typeface, carefully chosen for its economical use of space. This is the font used for dictionaries and encyclopaedias because it accommodates a lot of characters in a small space. The result is a classic Bible for the twenty first century produced in a remarkably compact yet readable form. Cambridge''s NASB Pitt Minion Bibles feature red-letter text for the words of Christ and full cross-references. Printe

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Book Synopsis‘This is an exceptional piece of biblical theology ... Preachers will find this work a rich source of sermon material and all who are interested in the Bible will be amazed at its unity.’ Evangelical Times Who shall ascend the mountain of the LORD?' (Psalm 24:3). This stimulating study explores the narrative context, literary structure and theology of Leviticus. Morales follows its dramatic movement, examines the tabernacle cult and the Day of Atonement, and tracks the development from Sinai's tabernacle to Zion's temple - and from the earthly to the heavenly Mount Zion in the New Testament. He shows how life with God in the house of God was the original goal of the creation of the cosmos, and became the goal of redemption and the new creation.Trade ReviewOnce in a while I will run into a book that feels like a revelation. Beale’s The Temple and the Church’s Mission (also in the NSBT series) was such a book; Who Shall Ascend is without a doubt another ... Every page is filled with multiple insights, some of them profoundly impacting ... Who Shall Ascend has the potential to revolutionise one’s reading of the Bible, and cause a hereto obscure book become understandable, even treasured. One can forgive Morales for pursuing a few (most interesting, some fascinating!) side-trails loosely related to his main points, as an excited tour guide is wont to do. At the risk of overstatement, Who Shall Ascend was so impacting that my reading of the Bible has been forever changed. -- Lindsay Kennedy * My Digital Seminary *This is an exceptional piece of biblical theology ... Preachers will find this work a rich source of sermon material and all who are interested in the Bible will be amazed at its unity. -- Philip H. Eveson * Evangelical Times *

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Book SynopsisWith the turmoil in the Middle East, there is a growing interest about Islam - the world's second largest religion and one of the fastest growing - and its holy book, the Koran (or Qur'an). This English guide explores the history, structure, and basic tenets of Islam's sacred scripture.Trade Review“…I was quickly humbled by this guide, which showed me how much I had misunderstood. I would recommend this to anyone interested in Islam…” (Catholic Herald, 26 November 2004) The Qur'an's overall context of hostility to those who disbelieve in Mohammed's prophecy is downplayed in one forthcoming book, The Koran for Dummies by Sohaid Sultan. Under the heading "Discovering the Basic Messages of the Koran," Sultan lists as Mohammed's basic themes "The unity of God," "Worship and service to God," "Prophets to teach and guide," "Completion of past revelations," "Guidance to a spiritual path," "Movement for social change," "Accountability of deeds." All of which sounds pretty harmless—nothing about making war on unbelievers. (Publishers Weekly, May 10, 2004) "...provides an introduction to Islam's holy book." (Publishers Weekly, February 9, 2004)Table of ContentsIntroduction 1 About This Book 1 Conventions Used in This Book 2 Foolish Assumptions 3 How This Book Is Organized 4 Part I: Revealing the Word of God: The Book 4 Part II: Searching for the Soul of the Koran 4 Part III: Seeing the Koranic Worldview 4 Part IV: Living the Koran 5 Part V: Relating the Koran to the World 5 Part VI: The Part of Tens 5 Icons Used in This Book 5 Where to Go from Here 6 Part I: Revealing the Word of God: The Book 7 Chapter 1: Getting to Know the Koran 9 Receiving Revelation Straight from the Source 9 Guiding the Way: Prophet Muhammad 10 Discovering the Basic Messages of the Koran 11 The unity of God 11 Worship and service to God 11 Prophets to teach and guide 11 Completion of past revelations 12 Guidance to a spiritual path 12 Movement for social change 12 Accountability of deeds 13 Naming the Revelation 13 The Guidance 13 The Criterion 14 The Proof 14 The Reminder 15 The Healing 16 Hearing the Words: The Audience of the Koran 16 Knowing the Essentials about Islam and Muslims 17 The Six Pillars of Belief 17 The Five Pillars of Islam 18 Muslims: The followers of Islam 19 Chapter 2: From Revelation to Written Book 21 Revealing the Koran to Muhammad 21 The beginning of revelation 22 The stages of revelation 24 The Meccan and Medinan periods 24 Transmitting revelation to the community 26 Collecting the Koran as a Book 27 Conforming the Koran’s dialects 28 The Koran in modern-day print 29 Memorizing Miracles: Preserving the Koran throughout History 31 Experiencing the Koran as Divine Art 32 Recitation 32 Calligraphy 35 Chapter 3: Mapping Out the Structure of the Book 37 Discerning the Structure of the Koran 37 Ayat 37 Surahs 38 Juz’ 39 Discovering Surah Names and Themes 40 Finding Your Way through the Moral Narrative 46 Through divine signs 47 Through laws 47 Through stories of the past 48 Simplifying the Moral Narrative of Shorter Surahs 52 Chapter 4: Discovering the Language of the Koran 53 Arabic: Plain, Clear, and Eloquent 53 Digging down to the roots 54 Reading translations of the Koran 56 Literary Style in the Sacred Scripture 57 Key literary elements of the Koran 58 Clear and figurative passages 60 Hearing the Voice of the Koran 62 Chapter 5: Relating the Koran to Abrahamic Revelations 65 Previous Revelations: Between Sacred and Corrupted 65 Linking the Three Faiths: Common Experiences in the Scriptures 66 Uniting faiths with belief in One God 67 Bridging the gap between divine laws 67 Sharing the legacy of prophetic stories 69 Contrasting the Koran with Judeo-Christian Scriptures 70 Finding a worldview of history in the Scriptures 70 Reforming laws 72 Reforming religious rituals 72 Extending God’s covenant to all peoples 73 Giving a new angle on prophetic stories 73 Checking the prophetic pulse of Muhammad in the lBiblical Scripture 75 Differing on Mary and the message of Jesus 76 Part II: Searching for the Soul of the Koran 79 Chapter 6: Interpreting the Koran 81 Coming to Know the Guidance 81 Having room for interpretation 82 Knowing the key terms of Koranic interpretation 82 Finding the Tasfir that fits 84 Drawing out Interpretations 85 Looking at clear and ambiguous passages 85 Interpreting outer meanings 86 Interpreting inner meanings 88 Examining general and specific passages 88 Keeping circumstances behind revelation in mind 90 Abrogating passages 90 Chapter 7: Understanding Interpretations of the Koran Today 93 Getting to Know Famous Commentators of the Koran 93 Among the companions 94 In successive generations 95 Classic works of Koranic interpretation 96 Influential Movements of the Twentieth Century 98 Mawdudi: Framework for a movement 99 Qutub: The controversial revolutionary 101 Muhammad Rida: The influential reformer 103 Muhammad al-Ghazali: Thematic Tafsir 103 Another School of Thought: The Shi’ites 104 Ali 104 Two famous Shi’ite Koranic interpreters 105 Part III: Seeing the Koranic Worldview 107 Chapter 8: Meeting God, Prophets, and Mankind 109 Conceptualizing God 109 “A” is for “Allah” 109 Exploring the concept of God 110 Experiencing God through divine attributes 113 Knowing God 117 Prophets of God: Preaching a Divine Message 119 Prophets and messengers 119 Abraham: Beloved Friend of God and Father of Faith 120 Moses: The Liberator 122 Jesus: The Spirit of God 125 The Status and Nature of Man 128 Human nature through Adam 129 The purpose of human life 131 Chapter 9: Divining Nature, the Universe, and the Unseen 133 The Divine Ways of Nature 133 Patterns of creation 134 God’s creations in the skies 134 Earthly creations 136 Inheriting the Earth: The Role of Mankind in Nature 139 The Unseen World: Angels versus Satan 140 The angels: Pure creations of God 141 Satan: An avowed enemy 142 Accounting for the Soul 143 The Day of Judgment 143 The eternal bliss of heaven 144 Hell: Torment of the fire 145 God’s Mercy, God’s Wrath: Reconciling the two 145 Chapter 10: Taking the Koranic View of Other Faith Traditions 147 Islam: One Religion under God 147 A brotherhood of Muslims 148 Limits to an inclusive theology 149 Honoring Freedom of Choice and Respecting Diversity 151 Protecting freedom of choice 152 Embracing diversity as the Will of God 152 Examining Some Controversial Passages on Interfaith Relations 153 Fighting against “unbelievers” 154 Forbidding “friendship” with People of the Book 156 Part IV: Living the Koran 157 Chapter 11: Following in the Footsteps of Muhammad 159 The Scripture Speaks about Muhammad 159 Servant of God and mortal man 160 Muhammad’s divine mission 160 Muhammad as the best example for humanity 161 Muhammad’s mercy for humanity 161 Muhammad as a seal of the prophets 162 Doing as God and His Messenger Do 163 Looking at Some Key Prophetic Sayings 165 Muhammad speaks about God 165 Muhammad speaks about virtue 166 Chapter 12: Putting Meaning into Ritual 169 Declaring Faith: More than Just Words 170 Conversing with the Divine: Prayer 170 Understanding the purpose of prayer 171 Approaching prayer: Purity of mind and body 172 Let the prayer begin! 175 Raising the Soul over the Ego: Fasting 180 Remembering and thanking God 180 Enjoying the communal aspects of fasting 182 Purifying Wealth, Uplifting the Needy: Almsgiving 183 Opening your wallet and improving the world 183 Receiving alms 184 Journeying to the House of God: Pilgrimage 186 Following the path of Abraham 186 Journeying through the pilgrimage 186 Chapter 13: Understanding the Koranic View of Self 191 Connecting the Three Dots of Self Awareness 191 The wild horse and the rider 192 The three states of self 193 The Seven Gates to the Heart 194 The ears and tongue 194 The eyes 195 The hands and legs 196 The stomach 197 The sexual organs 197 Blessed Is the Baby’s Soul, a Soul without Sin 198 The Soul’s Journey: From Pre-Birth to the Hereafter 199 Pre-worldly existence 199 Earthly life 199 The grave 200 The Day of Judgment 200 The final abode 201 The Muslim Self: A State of Being 201 The Kafir: A Faithless Self 202 Chapter 14: Achieving Koranic Ethics and Morality 203 Discovering Ethical Principles in the Koran 203 Preserving religion 203 Preserving life 204 Preserving lineage 205 Preserving property 206 Preserving honor 206 Leading the Life of Good Virtue and Character 207 Discouraged behaviors 207 Encouraged behaviors 210 Purifying the Heart 212 Remembering the Divine: Dhikr 212 Following God’s laws 213 Keeping company with pious people 214 Controlling passion and struggling for good 214 Chapter 15: Raising a Family the Koranic Way 215 Healthy Family Equals Healthy Society 215 Looking for a Spouse: Let the Search Begin 216 Looking beyond the surface 216 Making sure the marriage is legal 217 Giving equal time: Polygamy for men 218 Celebrating Marriage as the Basis of Family 219 Practically speaking: Basic functions within a marriage 220 Intimacy: Both spiritual and physical 222 Preserving modesty through Scriptural teaching 223 Bringing Up Children 224 Treating parents well: The best act of piety 225 Raising children with wisdom 226 Parental responsibilities to their children 227 A Matter of Inheritance: Who Gets What 228 Tackling Divorce in the Koran 229 Part V: Relating the Koran to the World 231 Chapter 16: Connecting the Koran to Society 233 Divining a Community of the Middle Path 233 Having a balanced approach to the Divine 234 Balancing the worldly and the spiritual in society 234 Managing justice and mercy in society 235 Avoiding extremes in religious practice and manners 236 Witnessing the Truth 237 Enjoining Good and Forbidding Evil 238 Uniting a Community with the Rope of God 240 Equality of mankind before God 240 The brotherhood of man 241 Leadership and Citizenship in the Koran 243 Forming a political identity 244 Governing by the Book 245 Living up to citizenship 246 Receiving the rights of citizenship 247 Non-Muslims living in Muslim lands 249 Jihad: Struggling in the Path of God 252 Struggling against evil 252 Jihad as armed struggle 253 Chapter 17: Purifying Society through Islamic Law 255 Defining Shariah 256 Extracting and Interpreting Sacred Law 257 Searching for Rulings and Principals 258 In the Koran 258 In the prophetic tradition 261 In the consensus of the scholars 263 In juristic analogy 264 Exploring the Contents of the Sacred Law 264 Understanding the Islamic Penal Code 265 Punishing murder 266 Punishing the spreading of violence 267 Punishing theft 268 Preventing unlawful sexual relations 269 Looking at the Four Schools of Law 270 The Hanafi School of Law 270 The Maliki School of Law 271 The Shafi’i School of Law 271 The Hanbali School 272 Chapter 18: Struggling for God: Jihad 273 Finding the Spirit of Jihad 274 Defending life and religion 274 Defending human rights and freedom of worship 275 Dispelling the myths behind passage 9:5 276 Connecting Qital with Islamic Law 279 Understanding Martyrdom 279 Looking at Jihad in today’s World 280 Chapter 19: Discussing Women in the Koran 283 Finding Equality in the Scripture 284 Eve: A model for gender equality 284 The Virgin Mary: A divinely inspired woman 286 Other famous and infamous women in the Koran 288 Discerning Women’s Rights in Divine Law 290 Right to inheritance 291 Right to own property, manage business, and control wealth 291 Right to work and equal pay 292 Right to education 292 Right to social and political participation 293 Rights of marriage 293 Right to initiate divorce 293 Right to bear witness to business transactions 294 Chapter 20: The Koran and Modernity 295 Differentiating between Modernity and Modern Culture 295 Promoting Social Progress 296 Focusing on Issues of Modernity 297 Science 298 The arts 298 Human rights 299 Economics and free trade 300 Morality and secularism 301 Imagining an Islamic Democracy 302 Debating the rule of law between citizenry and God 303 Expressing the will of the people through elections 305 Holding public officials responsible 305 Liberty and Koranic ideals 306 Social equality and Islamic law 307 Part VI: The Part of Tens 309 Chapter 21: Ten Misconceptions about the Koran 311 Misconception #1: Muhammad Wrote the Koran 311 Misconception #2: The Koran Is Incoherent and Unorganized 312 Misconception #3: The Koran Is Void of Reason 313 Misconception #4: The Koran Espouses Polytheism 314 Misconception #5: The Koran Says That God Belongs to One People 315 Misconception #6: God Is Wrathful and Unloving in the Koran 316 Misconception #7: The Koran Preaches Fatalism 316 Misconception #8: Jihad Means “Holy War” 317 Misconception #9: The Koran Discourages Interfaith Dialogue and Cooperation 318 Misconception #10: The Scripture Values Men More than Women 319 Chapter 22: Ten Ways to Dig Deeper into the Koran 321 Comparing “Translations” 321 Listening to the Koran 323 Looking at Different Interpretations 324 Reading Books 325 Studying Arabic 326 Studying the Koran 326 Surfing Web Sites 327 Taking Classes 328 Talking to Muslims 328 Visiting Your Local Mosque 329 Appendix A: Glossary of Koranic Terms 331 Appendix B: Finding Prophets in the Koran 339 Index 341

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Book SynopsisSuited to high school and college students, the ESV Student Study Bible is also a versatile resource for anyone engaged in serious study of God's Word. Contains introductions, study notes, and more.

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Book SynopsisThe 'great fish' has probably made Jonah the best known of the twelve minor prophets of the Old Testament. The book bearing his name, comprising just 48 verses, has tantalized and intrigued its readers throughout the ages. However, undue preoccupation with the fish may cause us to miss what is actually going on in this narrative. Although the story of Jonah seems fairly straightforward on the surface, Rosemary Nixon explores its fascinating complexity to show how the author grapples with conflicting perceptions of God. While we might question some of the story's extra-ordinary features, we ourselves are also questioned by the God who called Jonah, and challenged to hear His word afresh. The Bible Speaks Today series covers every book of the Old and New Testaments, as well as Bible themes that run through the whole of Scripture. These revised editions are redesigned inside and out and have been sensitively updated with contemporary language and Bible translations to help you follow, study and teach the Bible in today's world.

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Book SynopsisA Bible Study book for individuals or groups, which explores how the Bible today can help us better to understand the processes of death and grieving. Why must we die? What makes a 'good' death? How can we best prepare for death - our own and others'? How and why do people mourn?Trade Review"Is death something to be feared? What is the point of a funeral? How should we prepare for one? Can it ever be right to allow, or even to help, someone to die? The Bible can help us understand".

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Book SynopsisThe guides in this series are designed to help the reader understand the Bible in fresh ways under the guidance of one of the world's leading New Testament scholars. Thoughtful questions, prayer suggestions, and useful background and cultural information are offered.

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Book SynopsisDiscovering Exodus is a comprehensive, up-to-date introduction to the book of Exodus that offers commentary on structure, content and interpretation that is ideal for students of theology.

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Book SynopsisIn this exploration of the central themes of Scripture, Richard Rohr transforms the written word, discovering in these ancient texts a new and vital meaning, relevant and essential to all believers. He uncovers what the Bible says about morality, power, wisdom and the generosity of God in a manner that inspires in us a life-changing response.Trade ReviewThings Hidden is an invitation of gospel proportion to move on into the life God intends, a life of joy and obedience. -- Walter Brueggemann, Professor Emeritus of Old Testament at Columbia Theological SeminaryLife-giving and challenging. * Preach Magazine *This is an evangelical book in the fullest and deepest sense of that word. Methodists will find here a writer with a Methodist heart. * Methodist Recorder *

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Book SynopsisAn easy-to-learn, easy-to-use tool for in-depth Bible studyBeloved and acclaimed for more than five generations, the Thompson® Chain-Reference® Bible is unparalleled in its ability to enrich personal devotions, topical study, and sermon preparation. This unique reference Bible enables you to search the breadth of Scripture’s teachings on thousands of topics and allows you to follow those topics throughout the entire Bible. With over 100,000 references, covering over 8,000 topics, the chain-reference system is an ideal tool for comprehensive topical study. The Thompson Chain-Reference Bible also offers a library of additional study resources that allows readers to interpret the Bible using related scripture passages rather than consulting a commentary.The KJV Thompson Chain-Reference Bible, Large Print is printed in the KJV Comfort Print® typeface for easy reading. Expertly designed specifically to be used fo

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Book SynopsisThe Jesus Bible Artist Edition, ESV, helps you encounter the living Jesus in all of Scripture. This beautiful special edition features the cover art of Joshua Noom.

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Book SynopsisEach volume in the affordable Nelson's Quick Reference(tm) Series stands alone or can be a solid foundation for an easy-to-use Bible reference library.

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Book SynopsisIn this comprehensive exposition, a leading scholar explores the unfolding theological unity of the entire Bible from the vantage point of the New Testament.Table of Contents1. Introduction2. The Redemptive-Historical Storyline of the Old Testament3. The Eschatological Storyline of the Old Testament in Relation to Judaism and the New Testament: The Old Testament Focus on the Latter Days (Part 1)4. The Eschatological Storyline of the Old Testament in Relation to Judaism and the New Testament: The Jewish Focus on the Latter Days (Part 2)5. The Eschatological Storyline of the Old Testament in Relation to Judaism and the New Testament: The New Testament Focus on the Latter Days (Part 3)6. Conclusion to the Relation of the Eschatological Storyline of the Old Testament in Relation to Judaism and the New Testament (Part 4)7. The Story of the "Already and Not Yet" End-Time Great Tribulation8. The Story of the "Already and Not Yet" Latter-Day Resurrection and New Creational Kingdom as a Framework for New Testament Theology (Part 1: The Gospels and Acts)9. The Story of the "Already and Not Yet" Latter-Day Resurrection and New Creational Kingdom as a Framework for New Testament Theology (Part 2: Pauline Theology)10. The Story of the "Already and Not Yet" Resurrection and New Creational Kingdom as a Framework for Pauline Testament Theology (Part 3: More Explicit Pauline Expressions of Resurrection as New Creation)11. The Story of the "Already and Not Yet" Resurrection and New Creational Kingdom as a Framework for New Testament Theology: The General Epistles and Revelation (Part 4)12. The Story of Sin as Idolatry: Resembling the Image That Is Revered Either for Ruin or for Restoration.13. The Story of the Restoration of God's Image in Humanity (Part 1: The Old Testament and Synoptic Gospels)14. The Story of the Restoration of God's Image in Humanity (Part 2: Paul, Hebrews, and Revelation)15. The Story of Salvation as New Creation (Part 1): Already and Not Yet Latter-Day Justification16. The Story of Salvation as New Creation (Part 2): Already and Not-Yet Reconciliation as New Creation and Restoration from Exile17. The Story of the Spirit: The Transforming Agent of the Eschatological New Creation18. The Story of the Commencement of the Spirit's Building of Believers into the Transformed Temple of the End-Time New Creation19. The Story of the Eden Sanctuary, Israel's Temple, and Christ and the Church as the Ongoing Transformed Eschatological Temple of God in the New Creational Kingdom20. The Story of the Church as the Transformed Restored Eschatological Israel in the New Creation (Part 1)21. The Story of the Church as the Transformed and Restored Eschatological Israel in the New Creation (Part 2)22. The Story of the Relationship of Israel's Land Promises to the Fulfillment of Israel's Restoration and New Creation Prophecies in Christ and the Church23. The Distinguishing Marks of the Church as Storyline Facets of the Eschatological New Creation and Transformations of Israel's Distinguishing Marks (Part 1): The Sunday Sabbath Observance of the Church as a New Creational, End-Time Reality24. The Distinguishing Marks of the Church as Storyline Facets of the Eschtological New Creation and Transformations of Israel's Distinguishing Marks (Part 2)25. The Story of Christian Living as Transformed New Creational Life (Part 1)26. The Story of Christian Living as Transformed New Creational Life (Part 2)27. Conclusion (Part 1): The Relationship of Inaugurated and Consummative Eschatological Realities to the Parallel Realities Experienced by Old Testament Saints28. Conclusion (Part 2): The Purpose of the Redemptive-Historical Story and Implications for Christian Living in the "Already and Not Yet" Eschatological AgeIndexes

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Book SynopsisIn this addition to the successful Catholic Commentary on Sacred Scripture (CCSS) series, two esteemed scholars interpret Galatians from within the living tradition of the Church. The CCSS relates Scripture to Christian life today, is faithfully Catholic, and is supplemented by features designed to help pastoral ministers, lay readers, and students understand the Bible more deeply and use it more effectively. Its attractive packaging and accessible writing style make it a series to own--and to read!

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Book SynopsisThe Bible For Dummies (9781119293507) was previously published as The Bible For Dummies (9780764552960). While this version features a new Dummies cover and design, the content is the same as the prior release and should not be considered a new or updated product.Table of ContentsIntroduction 1 Part 1: What the Bible Is All About 7 Chapter 1: From Moses to Modernity: Introducing the Good Book 9 Chapter 2: Lights, Camera, Action! Previewing the Bible’s Stage and Storyline 25 Part 2: Exploring the Hebrew Bible — The Old Testament 35 Chapter 3: Creation, Paradise Lost, and Other Mysteries of Life (Genesis 1–3) 37 Chapter 4: The Fallout from “The Fall” (Genesis 4–11) 53 Chapter 5: The Babylonian Hillbillies: The Adventures of Abraham and His Family (Genesis 12–25:18) 67 Chapter 6: The Birth of a Nation: Isaac, Jacob, and Their Many Children (Genesis 25:19–50) 87 Chapter 7: Holy Moses! Exploring Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy 109 Chapter 8: An Experiment in Theocracy: Joshua, Judges, and Ruth 135 Chapter 9: The King and “I Am”: 1 and 2 Samuel 153 Chapter 10: A Tale of Two Kingdoms: 1 and 2 Kings and 1 and 2 Chronicles 175 Chapter 11: Strangers in a Strange Land: Israel in Exile with Daniel and Esther 197 Chapter 12: Home for the Holidays: Returning to the Promised Land with Ezra and Nehemiah 209 Chapter 13: More Than Mere Fortune-tellers: The Prophets 219 Chapter 14: Israel’s Wisdom Literature and Love Poetry: Proverbs, Job, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Songs 237 Chapter 15: Rockin’ the Temple: Music in Ancient Israel (Psalms) 251 Part 3: Revealing the Bible’s Hidden Treasures in the Apocrypha 261 Chapter 16: Rebels with a Cause: The Books of 1 and 2 Maccabees 263 Chapter 17: The Apocrypha’s Other “Hidden Treasures” 271 Part 4: Discovering What’s New About the New Testament 281 Chapter 18: From Birth to Baptism: Jesus Prepares for the Ministry (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) 283 Chapter 19: Jesus Christ, Superstar: Jesus’ “Ministry Years” (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) 301 Chapter 20: The Early Christian Church (Acts 1–8, 10–12, and 15) 333 Chapter 21: The Traveling Salesman of Tarsus: Paul’s Life and Letters 347 Chapter 22: Wait a Minute, Mr Postman: The New Testament’s General Letters 371 Chapter 23: The Beginning of the End: The Revelation of John 383 Part 5: That Was Then, This Is Now: Discovering the Bible’s Enduring Influence 397 Chapter 24: The Bible and the Abrahamic Faiths: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam 399 Chapter 25: Michelangelo, Milton, and Movies: Art, Literature, Life, and the Bible 407 Part 6: The Part of Tens 419 Chapter 26: Ten+ People You Should Know from the Bible 421 Chapter 27: Ten Holidays You Can Take Thanks to the Bible 429 Index 437

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Book SynopsisA study Bible with thousands of verse commentary notes designed by women specifically for women to receive God’s truth for balance, hope, and transformation.The Woman’s Study Bible poignantly reveals the Word of God to women, inviting them to receive God’s truth for balance, hope, and transformation. Special features designed to speak to a woman’s heart appear throughout the Bible text, revealing Scripture-based insights about how godly womanhood grows from a woman’s identity as a Christ-follower and a child of the kingdom.Now with a beautiful full-color redesign, The Woman’s Study Bible reflects the contributions of over 80 women from a wide variety of ethnic, denominational, educational, and occupational backgrounds.Trusted by women worldwide, The Woman’s Study Bible has been recognized with the ECPA Platinum Award for selling over 4

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Book Synopsis2013 ECPA Christian Book Award winner!The stunning full-color Chronological Life Application Study Bible is a refreshing way to experience God's Story and a trusted way to apply it to life. Journey through the 10 eras of Bible history in a chronological Bible experience and gain a deeper understanding of God's Word. Includes Life Application notes and features from the best-selling Life Application Study Bible as well as new features on Bible history and geographyThe Bible is arranged in 10 chronological sections that help the reader to see how the various pieces of the Bible fit together. Section intros and timelines set the stage for the passages in each section. Archaeological notes and photographs help to bring God's story to life in a whole new way. And of course, the Life Application resources answer the all-important questionso what?This edition of the CLASB features the New Living Translation.

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Book SynopsisThis addition to the Catholic Biblical Theology of the Sacraments series provides readers with a deeper appreciation of God's gifts and call in the sacraments through a renewed encounter with God's Word. James Prothro offers a biblical theology of the sacrament of reconciliation--the restoration of the sinner through forgiveness and repentance. Prothro fleshes out the patterns in which God's people in the Old and New Testaments approach the merciful God, confess, and are forgiven and called to reengage their relationship with God by growing in faith and love through God's ministry of grace. Series editors are Timothy C. Gray and John Sehorn. Gray and Sehorn teach at the Augustine Institute Graduate School of Theology, which prepares students for Christian mission through on-campus and distance-education programs. Gray is also president of the Augustine Institute.Table of ContentsSeries Preface1. Confession and Reconciliation: An Encounter with Divine Mercy2. Sin, Mercy, and Promise: Foundations in Genesis 1-113. Mercy, Penalty, and Mediation: The Patriarchs and the Exodus4. Rebuke and Promise for Israel: Kings and Prophets5. Confession, Restoration, and Penance: Psalms and Sages6. Confessing in Hope, Awaiting the Messiah7. Jesus and the Mission of Restoration8. Christ, the Spirit, and the Ministry of Forgiveness9. Be Reconciled to God! Sin and Restoration in the Pauline Letters10. Growing in Christ, Confessing in Hope: The Catholic Epistles and Revelation11. The Manifold Mercy of GodSuggested ResourcesIndexes

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Book SynopsisThis study has been specially commissioned to cover An Introduction to the Gospel of Luke and Themes in the Synoptic Gospels, Units AS 1 and A2 1, of the current CCEA Religious Studies specification. It has been through a meticulous quality assurance process. The author provides a detailed introduction to the Gospel of Luke, including its key narratives and themes. She then explores the person of Jesus, as well as the passion and resurrection narratives, in the context of the synoptic gospels. Included are tasks, practice essay titles of exam standard and activities highlighting other aspects of human experience. Contents: • Understanding the Gospel of Luke • Key Narratives in Luke’s Gospel • The Kingdom of God in the Parables and Miracles in Luke’s Gospel • Key Themes in Luke’s Gospel • Understanding the Gospel Tradition • The Person of Jesus in the Synoptic Gospels • The Passion and Resurrection Narratives in the Synoptic Gospels • Synoptic Assessment: Religious Texts, Authority and Interpretation A detailed Glossary, Bibliography and Index are also provided.Table of ContentsAreas explored include: • Understanding the Gospel of Luke • Key Narratives in Luke’s Gospel • The Kingdom of God in the Parables and Miracles in Luke’s Gospel • Key Themes in Luke’s Gospel • Understanding the Gospel Tradition • The Person of Jesus in the Synoptic Gospels • The Passion and Resurrection Narratives in the Synoptic Gospels • Synoptic Assessment: Religious Texts, Authority and Interpretation A detailed glossary and index are also provided.

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Book SynopsisIn today's world it's easy to wander away from God. Hectic schedules and the quest for success often mean that time with God gets neglected. But if we slow down long enough to listen, these three minor prophets - Jonah, Joel and Amos - can have a major impact on the quality of our lives. 12 studies for individuals or groups. This revised study features additional questions for starting group discussions and for meeting God in personal reflection, together with expanded leader's notes and an extra "now or later" section in each study.

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Book SynopsisTimes were hard for the first readers of the letter to the Hebrews. Many had been exposed to fierce persecution. They had been assaulted, their homes had been plundered, and some had been cast into prison. To such people this letter came as an encouragement. The writer of the letter turns their eyes to Christ, and shows how he fulfils the hope expressed in the Old Testament sacrifices. He calls his readers to a steadfast faith that will take them through the hard times they now face. Such encouragement and challenge is never without relevance to Christians. Raymond Brown demonstrates this clearly in his passage-by-passage exposition.

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