Book Description
Readers who effectively discern God’s Word speaking in Scripture to today’s world distinguish between the cultural circumstances of origin of the biblical writings and their abiding message. This new book by distinguished biblical scholar Edgar McKnight begins by dealing with the reality, necessity, and value of the completely human nature of the Bible. After discussions of the specific geographical and historical setting of the Bible and the contribution of archaeology, consideration is given to the major themes and translations of the Bible, the formation of the canon, and the language and literary means of expounding the message. The final chapter deals with the credulous, critical, and creative readings of the Bible that are possible and even necessary in light of its character as Word of God in historical and literary form.
Book Reviews
Written for conservative Christians, this book provides a thoughtful and balanced introduction to the Bible in its ancient settings, diverse translations, and contemporary uses. Rejecting simplistic affirmations about its character, McKnight testifies to the enduring power of the Word.
— Phyllis Trible
University Professor of Biblical Studies
Wake Forest University
Clearly and patiently McKnight explains how and why an understanding of the Bible as an historical and literary document is necessary and contributes to a fuller appreciation of the Bible as Scripture. We who seek to discern the word of God speaking through the Bible’s ancient texts are in McKnight’s debt.
— Sandra Hack Polaski
Associate Professor of New Testament
Baptist Theological Seminary at Richmond
Richmond, Virginia
Edgar McKnight, a premier New Testament scholar, has written an extremely insightful guide for interpreting the Bible. Written for the non-specialist, this guide is clear, concise, and comprehensive. Every Bible study class in every church would greatly benefit from a careful reading and discussion of this book by Edgar McKnight.
— Mitchell G. Reddish
O.L.Walker Chair of Christian Studies and Chair,
Department of Religious Studies
Stetson University