This volume represents a guide to the background and study of the Old Testament that incorporates current scholarship with an affirming faith stance. The book's treatment of the Old Testament and intertestamental literature provides a theologically balanced approach with attention to traditional concerns of introduction plus a focus on issues of relevance and practical religious value. A comprehensive compilation that includes maps, charts and tables, a glossary, indices, and drawings, this work offers a significant contribution to the study and appreciation of the Old Testament.

This book provides an up-to-date theologically balanced introduction to the Bible and its study, which takes biblical scholarship seriously and takes an affirming stance on faith. Its treatment of the New Testament literature attempts to provide a theologically balanced approach with attention to traditional concerns of introduction, plus a focus on issues of relevance and practical religious value in the study and interpretation of scripture. In doing so, the authors avoid the polemic tone of some of the more conservative introductions, as well as the more speculative and 'value-free' perspectives of more progressive readings. Each chapter relating to a biblical book is divided into the following categories: a brief overview of the book; background concerns; literary considerations; the message; value and relevance for today; issues for discussion and reflection; further reading. Under these rubrics, the volume explores a wide range of questions readers have put to the bible both historically and more recently.