This original essay will be of interest to all those concerned with the inter-relationships between theology and the Bible.

Is the Bible infallible or inerrant, as some churches claim? Is it a historical document or a piece of literature, as some scholars suggest? This book offers a brief introduction to the question of biblical authority, using essays written by sixteen scholars who use the Bible as the Word of God in their own religious tradition and in their scholarship. Beginning with an introduction to the foundational issues of biblical authority, these scholars each present a different, but sympathetic, view of the Bible from his or her own perspective and experience. Their voices include traditional Reformed, Lutheran, Wesleyan, Catholic, Jewish, and Orthodox views; recent conservative or evangelical positions; and critical African American, Asian American, Hispanic, feminist, and womanist perspectives. --From publisher's description.

This readable, faith-friendly, one-semester textbook aids students as they engage in their first reading of the biblical text in an academic setting. The authors, who have significant undergraduate teaching experience, approach the Christian Scriptures from historical, literary, and theological perspectives. Text boxes, illustrations, maps, and suggestions for further reading are included. This new edition incorporates professor and student feedback, adds a glossary, has been revised throughout, and is supplemented by updated and expanded web-based pedagogical resources.

Engaging Scripture proposes that Christians must read Scripture theologically, redressing the recent domination of professional scholarship in this area by historical-criticism. Drawing on the best interpretive traditions of the past, Fowl develops, argues for and displays a new model for the theological interpretation of Scripture. This interpretive framework should enable Christians, and particularly Christian theologians, to interpret Scripture in a way that helps them to live and worship faithfully. Theological and theoretical questions are illustrated by reference to particular Christian convictions, practices, and concerns in the United States and Britain, and by engaging scriptural passages. These serve as examples of the sort of interpretation Fowl is advocating. In summary, the book looks toward bridging the chasm that arose between biblical studies and theological study following the rise of modernity.

In language that is clear and compelling, Bergant explores the world of the Bible and biblical scholarship in an introduction that is sure to spark enthusiasm and further interest. This volume instills solid knowledge of Scripture and, thereby, knowledge of Christ, demonstrating that the Bible is an inexhaustible source of challenge and delight, of inspiration and guidance, and a testimony to ultimate meaning and value.

Healing the Wounds of Trauma: How the Church Can Help offers a practical approach to engaging the Bible and mental health principles to find God's healing for wounds of the heart. The approach has been field-tested since 2001 with leaders from Catholic, Orthodox, Protestant, and independent churches. This is the core book of the Bible-based trauma healing ministry of the Trauma Healing Institute. It is to be used by adult participants in a healing group or training session, led by certified trauma healing facilitators who are using the accompanying Facilitator Guide. This edition contains stories that can be effectively used in North American and global city contexts.

A widely recognized biblical scholar demonstrates both the practice of theological interpretation and the fruitfulness of this approach to biblical texts.

A thoughtful and provocative collection, in the vein of the intellectual spiritual classic The Weight of Glory, from N. T. Wright, the influential Bishop, Bible scholar, and bestselling author widely regarded as a modern C. S. Lewis. An unusual combination of scholar, churchman, and leader, N. T. Wright—hailed by Newsweek as “the world’s leading New Testament scholar”—is not only incredibly insightful, but conveys his knowledge in terms that excite and inspire Christian leaders worldwide, allowing them to see the Bible from a fresh viewpoint. In this challenging and stimulating collection of popular essays, sermons, and talks, Wright provide a series of case studies which explore how the Bible can be applied to some of the most pressing contemporary issues facing us, including: Why it is possible to love the Bible and affirm evolution Why women should be allowed to be ordained Where Christians today have lost focus, and why it is important for them to engage in politics—and why that involvement benefits everyone Why the Christian belief in heaven means we should be at the forefront of the environmental movement And much more Helpful, practical, and wise, Surprised by Scripture invites readers to examine their own hearts and minds and presents new models for understanding how to affirm the Bible in today’s world—as well as new ideas and renewed energy for deepening our faith and engaging with the world around us.

The books of Ruth and Esther show ordinary women in extraordinarily difficult situations. In spite of extreme hardship and probable disaster, they continue to trust God - even when He seems distant. This in-depth, six-lesson study shows God caring for His people, bringing good from hardship. Ruth and Esther's courage and faith will inspire you to hope-no matter what you're facing. Engage Bible Studies connect you with the enduring truth of God's Word. Come out of the clutter and clanging of our culture and discover the peace of meeting the God of the Bible in the pages of His Word. Engage Bible Studies take you verse by verse into the richness of the Scriptures in ways that impact your heart and illumine your mind. You won't find dry doctrinal debates. You will find simple tools that cultivate your understanding and engage your heart. Tools for transformation. You also will learn how to apply God's Word in your everyday life. You are beginning an incredible journey!

Christopher R. Smith traces the history of textual additions to the Bible such as chapter and verse numbers, section headings and study notes. He invites us to pare down to the original text to see what we'll find.