The prophets Ezekiel and Daniel dealt with a people living in captivity and persecution under foreign kings. Though they mainly addressed the current issues of their era, their warnings could predict future destruction or offer peace and redemption after a period of affliction. These messages were rarely welcome, and at times they came from unwilling messengers. But in the face of confusion and suffering, paired with God's insistence, they speak with courage and give hope and truth to nations and generations.

"Ancient World Studies the Book of Isaiah" is an inductive Bible study of Isaiah, chapter by chapter, verse by verse, suitable for any serious student of the Bible. It includes thirty five-day lessons, with numerous notes, definitions, and introductions, as well as maps, charts, timelines and historical summaries for the nations mentioned in Isaiah.

This volume in the Old Testament for Everyone series covers one of the most popular books of the Old Testament, a book known for its themes of suffering and doubt. Taking the form of a play, with different characters relating different themes, the book of Job tells the story of one man whose life fell apart, who went to the depths and questioned God, and whose life was eventually rebuilt. Goldingay's careful and compelling commentary explores the book of Job's enduring message and is perfect for daily devotion, Sunday school preparation, or brief visits with the Bible.

The story of Abraham and Isaac is a story of near universal importance. Sitting near the core of three of the world's great religious traditions, this nineteen verse story opens a world of interpretive possibilities, raising questions of family, loyalty, faith, and choices that are common to all.This collection of essays takes up the question of how our interpretation of this pivotal text has changed over time, and how, even in unlikely intellectual places, the story influences our thought.It begins by exploring various readings of Abraham and the Akedah story throughout the traditional lenses of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. From there, it moves into modern and postmodern readings, including how such varied thinkers as Kant and Kierkegaard, Kafka and Derrida have enaged the text.The book demonstrates the diversity of interpretations, and the dramatic impact of the story on the western intellectual tradition.

In this careful reconstruction of the prophet Jeremiah's life and work, Professor Holladay attempts to sort out Jeremiah's utterances chronologically and to hear them as closely as possible within the context of the events of their time.Jeremiah is a model for us to understand the prophets of the Old Testament. But more than that, he alone of the prophets saw his relationship with God as a problem to be grappled with rather than an obligation to be taken for granted. His willingness to question and to doubt was unique and, Holladay suggests, may put him more in step with our time than his own. For while many of us are willing to undertake a life of faith lived under God's guidance, few of us do not at some point question God's ways.

Memory and Covenant combines a close reading of texts in the deuteronomic, priestly, and holiness traditions with analysis of ritual and scrutiny of the different terminology used in each tradition regarding memory. Ellman demonstrates that the exploration of the concept of memory is critical to understanding the overall cosmologies, theologies, and religious programs of these distinct traditions. All three regard memory as a vital element of religious practice and as the principal instrument of covenant fidelity - but in very different ways. Ellman shows that for the deuteronomic tradition, memory is an epistemological and pedagogical means for keeping Israel faithful to its God and God's commandments, even when Israelites are far from the temple and its worship. The priestly tradition, however, understands that the covenant depends on God's memory, which must be aroused by the sensory stimuli of the temple cult. The holiness school incorporates the priestly idea of sensory memory but places responsibility for remembering on Israel. A subsequent layer of priestly tradition revives the centrality of God's memory within a thorough-going theology uniting temple worship with creation.

The volume brings together eight new essays on Amos, which focus on a range of issues within the book. They represent a number of different approaches to the text from the text-critical to teh psychoanalytical, and from composition to reception. Arising out of a symposium to honour John Barton for his 60th birthday, the essays all respond, either directly or indirectly, to his "Amos's Oracles Against the Nations," and to his lifelong concern with both ethics and method in biblical study.

For each Sunday in Cycle A, the writers and editors of "Charting the Course," an integral part of Emphasis: A Lectionary Preaching Journal from CSS Publishing Company, delve into the heart of the lectionary readings, providing you, the pastor with in-depth lectionary-based commentary; relating several fresh, solid ideas based squarely on the lectionary texts -- for creating sermons that speak powerfully to your audience. The team of Navigating the Sermon looks for overall topics for the entire Cycle A church year that hold the readings together. Then, they zero in on the theme and the specific scripture links, suggesting directions for the sermon and worship service. Since a single application for each week may not provide what you are looking for at that particular time, "Navigating the Sermon" in most cases suggests several ideas, giving you the opportunity to select the one that matches your specific needs.
This book is like having a dedicated, thoroughly versed sermon research and sermon resource team right in your own study to help you create riveting sermons that are truly yours and that speak powerfully to your audience.

This volume introduces ancient Israel's Scriptures, or the Hebrew Bible, commonly called the Old Testament. It also traces the legacy of monotheism first found in the pages of the Old Testament. Where pertinent to the message of the Old Testament, the book explores issues of history, comparative religions, and sociology, while striking a balance among these topics by focusing primarily on literary features of the text. In addition, frequent sidebar discussions introduce the reader to contemporary scholarship, especially the results of historical-critical research and archaeology. Along the way, the book explores how the Old Testament conceptualized and gave rise to monotheism, one of the most significant developments in history, giving this study a currency for twenty-first-century readers.

Preaching's Preacher's Guide to the Best Bible Reference The prophet Jeremiah and King Josiah were born at the end of the longest, darkest reign in Judah's history. Human sacrifice and practice of the black arts were just two features of the wickedness that filled Jerusalem from one end to the other with innocent blood. As outspoken prophet and reforming king, these two men gave their country its finest opportunity of renewal and its last hope of surviving as the kingdom of David. The book of Jeremiah is full of turmoil and national tragedy, the story of key people like Baruch, Gedaliah and Ebedmelech the Ethiopian, and the drama of rediscovering the forgotten book of Mosaic law. National events interweave with the lives of individuals; the rediscovered book of God's law transforms Josiah, Jeremiah and the future of the world. Derek Kidner, in this volume that was formerly part of the widely respected The Bible Speaks Today series, gives careful attention to the text and reveals its startling relevance to our own troubled time.

Was Esther unique - an anomaly in patriarchal society? Conventionally, scholars see ancient Israelite and Jewish women as excluded from the public world, their power concentrated instead in the domestic realm and exercised through familial structures. Rebecca S. Hancock demonstrates, in contrast, that because of the patrimonial character of ancient Jewish society, the state was often organized along familial lines. The presence of women in roles of queen consort or queen is therefore a key political, and not simply domestic, feature.Attention to the narrative of Esther and comparison with Hellenistic and Persian historiography depicting "wise women" acting in royal contexts reveals that Esther is in fact representative of a wider tradition. Women could participate in political life structured along familial and kinship lines. Further, Hancock's demonstration qualifies the bifurcation of "public" (male-dominated) and "private" (female-dominated) space in the ancient Near East.

In the ancient world, much as today, nations and rulers sought strength in force, influence and, sometimes, strange or material idols. Above these stood the Israelite prophets, messengers from God who brought hard words as well as good news. Using metaphors, imagery, and poetic language, a colorful portrait of God's love for His people, especially the poor and oppressed, is painted. Though they didn't always heed His Word, many found themselves amid the consequences of their actions (or lack thereof), including imminent destruction. In "Prophetic Books I: Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations, and Baruch," Fr. William A. Anderson probes these visions, prophecies, and oracles, offering historical insight to the messages as well as spiritual insight into the action. He takes us from Judah to Assyria, through the Babylonian exile and back again, describing how God can work good out of evil and send grace through sin.

Micah Kiel discusses the overly simplistic nomenclature ('Deuteronomistic') given to Tobit's perspective on retribution and attempts to show, by coordinating it with Sirach and parts of 1 Enoch, how the book's view is much more complex than is normally asserted. Kiel argues that the return of Tobit's sight is a catalyst that ushers in new theological insight, specifically, that the world does not run to the tightly mechanized scheme of act and consequence. Kiel's close comparison between Tobit and selected contemporaneous literature provides context and support for such narrative observations. Sirach and parts of 1 Enoch demonstrate how authors at the time of Tobit were expressing their views of retribution in the realm of creation theology. The created order in Tobit is unruly and rises up in opposition to God's righteous characters. By way of this quirky tale, the author of Tobit suggests that God does not function strictly according to old formulae. Instead, a divine incursion into human reality is necessary for the reversal of suffering.

Distinguished scholar John Eaton has spent a lifetime studying the Psalms. In this book, informed by both his pastoral concerns and his commitment to environmental issues, he offers spiritual insights into 52 of the best-loved Psalms. Each discussion ends with a related prayer. Eaton also provides a concise and helpful introduction to the psalms, explaining the who's and why's of their authorship and discussing the psalms as poetry and song, as well as their use in worship. The Psalms are widely regarded as some of the world's greatest literature. This book makes them accessible to readers of all ages.

The book of Exodus is about a journey: a journey out of Egypt, but more particularly a journey from a land where God's power, sovereignty and continuing interest in his people could be easily questioned, to a place where God dwelt in the midst of his people. Exodus describes God's power, his redemption of his people, his covenant requirements at Sinai, and the rules of his worship. John L. Mackay interacts with other scholars in either text or footnotes. In addition to exploring the meaning of the text he examines the chonology, authorship, composition and structure of Exodus. In addition, at the end of each section he provides a reflective comment.

For decades, the prophetic book of Joel has been the focus of scrutiny that belies its brevity. It captures readers with its vivid descriptions of locusts and military invasion and the distress that they cause. It then reveals the concern of YHWH for the covenant community as it systematically reverses the crises that it announces. The book of Joel also offers a window into the rhetorical function of "the day of YHWH" as it uses the phrase to announce both judgment and restoration. Reflecting the creativity of the Old Testament prophetic spirit, the book then guides its readers from utter anguish to the hope of restoration, rooted in the presence of YHWH. From the Depths of Despair to the Promise of Presence delves into Joel's rhetoric and explores the ways in which it seeks to persuade its audience to adopt its perspective in order to respond to a time of crisis. Barker evaluates the state of the discussion surrounding Joel's composition and relationship to the Book of the Twelve. He develops a model of rhetorical criticism that builds on the foundations of previous approaches and proposes modifications that address the specific challenges posed by the book of Joel. He then puts this model into practice and demonstrates that the book of Joel moves from scenes of devastation to promises of restoration in articulating the necessity of calling and relying on YHWH in all circumstances. He explores the persuasive potential of Joel by focusing on its rhetorical structures and strategy. He examines the way the book of Joel engages its audience and guides the people to realize that they must turn to YHWH so that YHWH will turn and bring restoration. From the Depths of Despair to the Promise of Presence invites the reader to enter into the world of Joel. It calls the reader to experience the ways in which the book of Joel intertwines threats of destruction and the hope of renewal in order to reveal the character of YHWH.

These essays explore new methods and overlooked traditions that appear to shed light on how the founders of the Christian movement understood the older sacred tradition and sought new and creative ways to let it speak to their own times. Gurtner discusses the Matthean version of the temptation narrative. Chandler investigates the exhortation to 'love your neighbour as yourself' from Lev. 19.18b. Talbot re-examines Jesus' offer of rest in Mt. 11.28-30. Myers explores the ways Matthew's appeal to Isa. 42.1-4 in Mt. 12.17-21 affects the characterization of Jesus in his Gospel. Hamilton explores 1 Enoch 6-11 as a retelling of Genesis 3-6. Herzer seeks to explain varuiys aspects of Mt. 27.51b-53. McWhirter explores the citation of Exod 23.20, Mal. 3.1, and Isa. 40.3 in Mk 1.2-3. Hopkins investigates the manner in which Jesus engages questions and persons regarding purity and impurity. Miller notes that victory songs are a generally acknowledges category of Hebrew poetry. Gregerman argues that studies of early Christian proselytism to Gentiles are largely focussed on missionary methods of converts.

The Vital Issues Series draws upon the insights and study of numerous evangelical scholars and writers to address the practical questions and issues of contemporary life. Chosen from past issues of Bibliotheca Sacra, these volumes address questions faced by every believer who sincerely desires to please God and to be more Christ-like.

"Mark Ellingsen's new" Lectionary Preaching Workbook" will be a wonderful resource for pastors for decades to come. I say this because I find the book to be exegetically sound, theologically strong, homiletically creative, liturgically sensitive, and imminently practical in the best sense of that word. Practical Theology of the highest order -- that's what describes Ellingsen's workbook. A modest hope is that preachers who have found themselves timid about approaching the lectionary will see in Mark Ellingsen's workbook a way to test the waters, and eventually dive in. Ellingsen provides here the opportunity for that homiletical leap of faith
"William J. Carl III, Ph.D.
President and Professor of Homiletics
Pittsburgh Theological Seminary
"Dr. Ellingsen presents the preacher with a resource that deeply enriches weekly sermon preparation. Not only does he offer exegetical and theological information for the lections, but sermon topics, themes, and other resources as well... I also appreciate the resources that he offers at the beginning of the workbook: the review of the books of the Bible, a theological overview, as well as reviews of the various seasons of the church. Unlike so many lectionary resources that are grounded in the scriptures, Dr. Ellingsen incorporates a strong focus on the theological emphasis of the texts and context. I will definitely encourage the students to purchase this workbook.
"Lucy Lind Hogan, Ph.D.
Hugh Latimer Elderdice Professor of Preaching and Worship
Wesley Theological Seminary
Washington DC
"Mark Ellingsen's "Lectionary Preaching Workbook" (Series IX Cycle A) is a rich and stimulating resource for preachers, especially those who manage the adamant deadline (really, lifeline) imposed on preachers by weekly worship. Each section is filled with theological reflection, liturgical sensibility, exegetical sketches, along with sermon prompts, outlines, and "gimmicks." This last is his own word for what amount to suggestions for why a sermon on a particular text can be made to matter to both preacher and audience...
Ellingsen's stated intent is to be an unbiased conversation partner with the preacher and in this goal he is careful to provide a range of options for topic and approach for each occasion... The closer a preacher is to wanting to continue in the Protestant tradition if theologically informed, exegetically nuanced, liturgically sensitive, and rhetorically focused preacher, the more that preacher will find "Lectionary Preaching Workbook" a sturdy companion.
"Henry J. (Hank) Langknecht
Haman-Pfahler Professor of Homiletics and Christian Communications
Trinity Lutheran Seminary
Columbus, Ohio
Mark Ellingsen, a minister in the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America (ELCA), has been a professor of Church History at the Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta, Georgia, since 1993. He graduated magna cum laude from Gettysburg College (Pennsylvania) and Yale University, from which he received three master's degrees in divinity, arts, and philosophy, as well as his Ph.D. He has authored eighteen books including "Sin Bravely: A Joyful Alternative to a Purpose-Driven Life" (Continuum) and "The Integrity of Narrative" (Wipf and Stock). He and his wife have three grown children. When he is not writing or teaching, Ellingsen enjoys discussing politics, sports, and playing guitar.

Holm's book is an innovative approach to the biblical Book of Daniel.

The books of the Bible covered in "Historical Books II" share a common emphasis centered on the need for the people to remain faithful to the covenant established between God and the Israelites. If the nation remains faithful to God's covenant, God will protect Israel and lead it to be victorious in battles, but if the nation abandons the covenant, God will abandon Israel and allow other nations to plunder and conquer this nation established by God.

Synopsis: One of the most perplexing and misunderstood books of the Bible, Ezekiel has left many scholars and exegetes scratching their heads regarding its message, coherency, and interpretation. Brian Peterson's look at the book of Ezekiel as a unified whole set within an exilic context helps explain some of the more difficult symbolic aspects in the book and makes Ezekiel as a whole more intelligible. Drawing on ancient Near Eastern concepts and motifs such as covenant and treaty curses, the various gods that made up the Babylonian pantheon, and the position that Israel held as the people of Yahweh, Peterson enlightens readers by showing that Ezekiel can only be understood in its original context. By placing the book first in its historical context, Peterson demonstrates how the original hearers of its message would have understood it, and how this message can be appreciated and applied by people today as well. Endorsements: "Not a commentary, theology, or a handbook on biblical backgrounds, this remarkable work combines all three of these and more with vital information about the historical, cultural, and religious milieu of the world in which Ezekiel, the most mysterious of prophets, lived and ministered." --Eugene H. Merrill, PhD Distinguished Professor of Old Testament Studies Dallas Theological Seminary "Ironically, by taking the reader on a journey to a world far away and long ago, "Ezekiel in Context" brings the text of this fascinating biblical book alive. Peterson's sensitivity to the ancient milieu in which the book of Ezekiel was shaped and to the literary pictures through which its message was communicated makes this monograph essential reading for those interested in hearing the original message of this exilic prophet." --Mark J. Boda, PhD (Cantab.) Professor of Old Testament, McMaster Divinity College Professor in the Faculty of Theology, McMaster University Author Biography: Brian Peterson is Assistant Professor of Old Testament at Prairie Bible College in Three Hills, Alberta, Canada. He completed his PhD at the University of Toronto in Hebrew Bible in 2009.

2013 Reprint of 1963 Edition. Full facsimile of the original edition, not reproduced with Optical Recognition Software. K. C. Pillai (1900-1970) was a Bishop-at-large of the Indian Orthodox Church in Madras India. He spent the last twenty years of his life in the United States of America on a special mission to acquaint Christians with the orientalisms and customs of the Bible. He wrote books and worked with western Christians to help clarify what he believed were difficult Scriptural passages through an understanding of the eastern manners and customs. During his time in the United States, he became associated with Victor Paul Wierwille, with whom he worked through every orientalism in the Bible from Genesis through Revelation over a six-week period in 1953.

How can something be created from nothing? How does Genesis relate to the New Testament and Christian faith? In this eight-week study, homiletics professor and pastor J. Ellsworth Kalas approaches Genesis as a very personal and almost intimate book. Instead of viewing it as an academic study or as a puzzle to be solved, the author reads Genesis in a very personal, up-close way. Easy-to-follow, step-by-step suggestions for leading a group are provided, as well as questions to facilitate class discussion. Immersion, inspired by a fresh translation the Common English Bible stands firmly on Scripture and helps readers explore the emotional, spiritual, and intellectual needs of their personal faith. More importantly, they ll be able to discover God s revelation through readings and reflections."