Ebook
How to Read the Bible Well takes on the big questions about the Bible that we've always wanted to ask. What do people mean when they say it's the Word of God? In what way, exactly? How can an ancient world text be offering supposedly timeless truths? Can we really take what "the Bible says" as authoritative for life today? Isn't it obviously sexist and outdated? Do we have to believe in Adam and Eve, and the world being made in six days? Why did God command genocide in the Old Testament? Are people really going to burn in hell for eternity? Why is there evil and suffering in the world? And, how can we explain the Big Story of the Bible, from cover to cover, in ways that will make sense to people today? Stephen Burnhope suggests there are very good answers to all of these questions and more--once we know how to read the Bible well!
“Steve’s work has many virtues. First, its level of discourse is
accessible to the average reader. Second, the topics covered help
Christian readers deal with difficult questions not often
addressed. For instance, I was impressed with his treatment of the
violence texts in the Old Testament. Third, in dealing with
difficult questions, Steve does not attempt to give neat answers.
Rather, he sets out various options and allows for mystery,
striking a suitably postmodern tone.”
—Derek Morphew, author of Biblical Interpretation 101
“Is the Bible human words or the word of God? Is there a Big Story
to it? Perhaps, as Stephen Burnhope suggests, it is a Box Set. Do
we need to read the Old Testament? Where does Jesus fit? This book
is a gift from a theologian for those who need answers. Readers
will return to the Bible with renewed passion and confidence to
hear its message afresh.”
—Graham H. Twelftree, Academic Dean, London School of
Theology
“This is an accessible, inspiring guide to reading the Bible which
successfully reveals the reliability, relevance, and timeless power
of the word of God. Steve offers guidance in the form of a useful
‘tool kit’ to a broad range of readers. Whether you are looking for
mind-stretching insight or a practical guide, How to Read the
Bible Well is a book which will help you to do just
that.”
—David Graham, Lead Pastor, Southcourt Baptist Church, Aylesbury,
UK
“Steve’s work has many virtues. First, its level of discourse is
accessible to the average reader. Second, the topics covered help
Christian readers deal with difficult questions not often
addressed. For instance, I was impressed with his treatment of the
violence texts in the Old Testament. Third, in dealing with
difficult questions, Steve does not attempt to give neat answers.
Rather, he sets out various options and allows for mystery,
striking a suitably postmodern tone.”
—Derek Morphew, author of Biblical Interpretation 101
“Is the Bible human words or the word of God? Is there a Big Story
to it? Perhaps, as Stephen Burnhope suggests, it is a Box Set. Do
we need to read the Old Testament? Where does Jesus fit? This book
is a gift from a theologian for those who need answers. Readers
will return to the Bible with renewed passion and confidence to
hear its message afresh.”
—Graham H. Twelftree, Academic Dean, London School of
Theology
“This is an accessible, inspiring guide to reading the Bible which
successfully reveals the reliability, relevance, and timeless power
of the word of God. Steve offers guidance in the form of a useful
‘tool kit’ to a broad range of readers. Whether you are looking for
mind-stretching insight or a practical guide, How to Read the
Bible Well is a book which will help you to do just
that.”
—David Graham, Lead Pastor, Southcourt Baptist Church, Aylesbury,
UK
Stephen Burnhope is Senior Pastor of Aylesbury Vineyard Church
in the United Kingdom. He is the author of Atonement and the New
Perspective (Pickwick, 2018).