The Old Testament book of Daniel contains well-known stories: Daniel in the den of lions, his three companions in a fiery furnace, and the strange handwriting on the wall at Belshazzar's feast, which struck terror in the heart of the Babylonian king. However, the book can be difficult to understand. Along with stories about Judean exiles working in the court of pagan kings (chapters 1-6), it also consists of Daniel's enigmatic visions and prophecies about the future (chapters 7-12). It is written in two languages, Hebrew and Aramaic, and the language division does not match the subject division. Ralph Davis explores the book's background, discusses significant interpretative issues and problems, and offers a lively exposition of Daniel's message, which may be summed up in the words of Jesus: 'the end is not yet ... but the one who endures to the end will be saved' (Mark 13:7, 13). The book is essentially 'a realistic survival manual for the saints', still vitally relevant for the church in today's world.

This exposition is rooted first in a thorough analysis of the Hebrew text, employing helpful insights from archaeology and linguistics, and second in the major theological and literary themes discovered in each section. Finally the author brings the fragments together in an expository treatment 'that is not ashamed to stoop to the level of application.'

2 Kings provides a fastpaced narrative of insight into the history of Israel under its monarchy. This book is a continuation of the narrative begun in 1 Samuel and continued through 2 Samuel and 1 Kings. Ralph finishes it off with a captivating and rewarding journey through 2 Kings. Written between 561 BC and 538BC, 2nd Kings gives us a warning about the consequences of sin, especially the catastrophic repercussions of Israel's love affair with idolatry. Despite struggling with other problems, we see that the Jewish people learned from their experience. They never made a mistake of this enormity again. Through prophets such as Elisha and Elijah we see God's compassion for his people and the opportunity for repentance. An opportunity spoilt by Judah, climaxing with the subjugation of the kingdom by the Babylonians. Illuminating, accessible and laced with his unique sense of humour, Davis' practical devotional expository applies events to the contemporary reader providing parallels to alert us in the 21st century.

This layman’s commentary on the gospel of Luke will encourage you to take a fresh look at what can feel like a very familiar book. Let Dale Ralph Davis to guide you through Luke’s investigation into the man Jesus, who has come to seek and to save the lost. Following on from volume one, this book picks up at the beginning of chapter 14 and includes a number of Jesus’ parables, as well as his crucifixion and resurrection.

Esteemed biblical scholar Dale Ralph Davis examines the treasure to be found in Luke’s gospel. His humor and love for his Saviour shine through in this addition to the Focus on the Bible series. Taking a few verses at a time, the exegesis draws the reader into the fascination that Luke has for this man Jesus. Volume one covers chapters 1–13 of Luke, while volume two covers chapters 14–24.

Filled with the characteristic warm humour and biblical clarity that readers have come to expect, Dale Ralph Davis’ exposition of Psalms 38–51 will help readers to get to know God’s Word better. Each chapter begins with Davis’ own translation of the Psalm from the Hebrew, before delving into his exposition. Peppered with sports anecdotes and references to military history, this book follows in the same vein as The Way of the Righteous in the Muck of Life: Psalms 1–12; Slogging Along in the Paths of Righteousness: Psalms 13–24; and In the Presence of my Enemies: Psalms 25–37. For those who enjoyed Davis’ previous works, this will not disappoint. For those who are unfamiliar with his writings, allow this book to direct your eyes to the God of the psalmist and find your exceeding joy in him.

Beloved author Dale Ralph Davis looks at one of the most fascinating characters in the Bible, and the God who was faithful to him. The character of Jacob that we meet in chapters 25-35 of Genesis is a fascinating one. A kaleidoscopic blend of deviousness and doggedness, of trickery and tenacity, of folly and faith. As readers we can't help being drawn into his story. With his trademark wit and perceptive comments Dale Ralph Davis guides us through the story of this rogue and traces the evidence of grace, providence, blessing throughout his life. Taking us chapter by chapter through this fundamental section of scripture, Davis highlights not only the character of Jacob, but the character of the God who cared for him and faithfully kept his promises to him.

Isaiah chapters 6-12 are overflowing with prediction, containing some of the most famous references in the Old Testament to the coming Messiah. Covering a time in Judah's history when it was being attacked and threatened on all sides, each chapter is full of rich biblical truths, revealing the character of Yahweh and His plan for His children. Although the remnant of His people would be reduced to a stump, a shoot would come forth - Immanuel, God with us.

In the opening pages of the Psalms, believers discover foundational truth for right living and great delight as children of God. Trusted theologian Dale Ralph Davis leads readers through a careful study of Psalms 1-12 with clear application for daily life. These beautiful Psalms see the Psalmist go through both good and terribly bad times. The righteous rely on God, and the Psalms teach us how. This book is ideal for use by small groups, as a teaching guide or for reference.

With typical wit and wisdom Dale Ralph Davis opens up chapters 12-25 of Genesis. These beautiful and insightful expositions guide you through some of the early chapters of the Bible and will deepen your understanding of this important area of Scripture which help shape our understanding. This is an ideal resource for pastors as well small groups and personal study.

"I am a bit puzzled over why many Christians seem to think the Old Testament is such a 'problem.' I know the usual answers to that but I can find many of the same 'difficulties' with the New Testament. What I am not so puzzled about is why some pastors and teachers are perplexed about expounding Old Testament texts. For nearly two hundred years a skeptical brand of Old Testament criticism has largely held sway in our universities and divinity halls; it 'ungodded' the Old Testament, implied the Old Testament documents were extremely complex and involved and managed to make Old Testament studies mostly boring, lifeless and dull. Of course the occasional student finds this high priestly craft of Old Testament criticism attractive but many simply write the Old Testament off. If it's as complicated as they have been taught then it is far too bewildering and esoteric for them to bother about except for dipping into the Psalms for occasional funerals. I'm not on a crusade against the villains of Old Testament studies. One learns even from the 'villains.' And there have been far more hopeful signs in Old Testament studies in recent years. But I still believe that traditional Old Testament criticism has had the effect of killing the Old Testament for the church. This little tome can hardly reverse that, but it is meant as an exercise in reading the Old Testament for fun and profit. As my motherinlaw used to say, 'It's different anyway.' And maybe it will help. Most of what I do in the following pages involves discussing examples of Old Testament narratives. I have tried to select examples from a broad range of possibilities. By the way, I assume that you have the biblical text handy in order tocarry on your 'Berean' work." Dale Ralph Davis

Benedictions - spoken blessings at the end of church services and gatherings - can be nuggets of gospel gold to cherish to as we part from each other for another week. Here Derek W. H. Thomas has selected benedictions spoken by his colleague and friend, Dale Ralph Davis, to encourage and inspire the reader. Best known for his Old Testament expositions, Davis knows the value of remembering and clinging to God's promises. Dale Ralph Davis retired from his post as Minister in Residence at First Presbyterian Church in Columbia, South Carolina in Spring 2018, and was presented with this book to mark the occasion. Before coming to First Presbyterian Church he and his wife Barbara lived in Mississippi, Ralph having previously been pastor of Woodland Presbyterian Church, Hattiesburg, Mississippi and Professor of Old Testament at Reformed Theological Seminary, Jackson, Mississippi, as well as writing a number of popular books. 'Benedictions are gospel words. They remind us at the end of the service that we receive the blessings of God's covenant because Christ received its curses. After every service of worship, we conclude with a reminder that, as Christians, we live under the shade of the Almighty, taking refuge beneath His wings because, wonder of wonders, we are free from the condemnation of sin.' - Derek W. H. Thomas 'But as the final hymn comes to an end, there is one last word of gospel grace as he pronounces the benediction Ralph Davis is as much preaching God's word to you now as he was in the sermon. He is not only praying for you; he is announcing to you all that is yours by faith in Christ. What a way to end the Lord's Day and to begin the week.' - Sinclair B. Ferguson

Dale Ralph Davis plunges right into the middle of King David's hard times with a study that is resonant for our lives. King David's faith brought him through the muddy parts of life. Will we find that depression is our final response to a hard path? Will faith carry us across? Find the encouragement that Psalms 13-24 hold for the Scripture-filled life.

The Psalms can be very helpful, but they can also be hard. Following on from The Way of the Righteous in the Muck of Life and Slogging Along the Paths of Righteousness, Dale Ralph Davis delves into Psalms 25 to 37. Using his own recognisable humour and razor-sharp observations these expositions help us to engage with the conflict in these twelve psalms.

Davis brings cultural and historical colour to the task of interpretation and adds a pastor's heart for personal application. You will find a point of contact with the lives of Samuel, Saul, Jonathan and David as Davis answers the question 'What does God seek when he looks on the heart?' Davis presents simple exposition of the literary and theological character of the text in a bright and fascinating way.

Davis brings cultural and historical colour to the task of interpreting one of the most studied parts of the Bible. The lessons in 2 Samuel from the life of Israel, and David in particular, have obvious modern parallels. Davis writes with a pastor's heart AND the incisive brain of a respected theologian specialising in the Old Testament texts.

The range of scholarship is extraordinary (is there any learned book or paper on First Kings that this writer has not winkled out?), His humour and humanity, plus a priceless Americanstyle turn of phrase, add relish to the dish. Here is a safe and strong pair of hands to guide new, and older, readers through the treasure and the uninspiring bits of First Kings. Rev Dick Lucas, The Proclamation Trust, London Robust thats the word a robust understanding, defence, explanation and application of First Kings as the Word of God. Here is no First Kings in my own words the boring, fruitless fate of most commentaries on Bible History but a delicious feast of truth, proof that the ancients were right to call the historians prophets.Dr Alec Motyer this exposition enables the contemporary reader to breath the air of 1 Kings, relive its challenges, and above all, to encounter the personally the God who speaks and acts throughout its pages. This is a book to unsettle spiritual complacency and challenge us to a deep integrity in our relationship with the living God. David Jackman, The Proclamation Trust, London