Unlocking the Bible Story (4 vols.)

by Colin Smith

Publisher:

Moody

, 2002

Overview

DISCOVER, LEARN, WORSHIP—The threefold approach behind Unlocking the Bible Story, designed to show how the entire Bible points to Jesus Christ.

What began as a sermon series by Colin Smith, to be preached over a period of two years at Arlington Heights Evangelical Free Church in Illinois—in order to teach the story of the Old Testament—quickly became this four volume series. Smith, uniting the Old and New Testament story, provides a big picture view of Scripture with his two volumes covering the Old Testament, and two covering the New. This series packs the main themes and concepts of the Bible into its pages, providing the reader with rich encouragement and life-changing truths.

Each of the eighty chapters in this four volume series begins with a key question to unlock, and ends with a summary of the answer from the Bible. At the beginning of each chapter there are signposts that point out discoveries you will make, truths you will learn, and insights that will help you to worship. Finally, in each chapter of the Old Testament volumes, you will find a "Spotlight on Christ" which will help you to see how the whole Bible points us forward to Jesus Christ.

Endorsements

One of the most urgent needs in the church today is for a crisp and comprehensive knowledge of the Bible's storyline. To grasp how the sacred history moves from Genesis to Revelation not only brings fresh insight into how the Bible hangs together, and what each part contributes to the whole, but also is crucial for developing a Christian worldview. Colin Smith has met these needs admirably. I hope these volumes will circulate widely and be read and re-read.

—D. A. Carson

In a postmodern age where many know only of the stories of the Bible, but little of a comprehensive view of Scripture and a biblical worldview, Colin Smith's Unlocking the Bible Story is a breath of fresh air. Read it to understand how God has worked throughout history and through the ages to provide salvation and redemption for fallen man.

—Joseph Stowell, President, Moody Bible Institute

For all who are wondering how the pieces fit into the jigsaw of God's revelation, Colin Smith has provided an answer, which is refreshingly simple, biblically accurate and will prove phenomenally helpful to the serious Bible student and the new beginner alike.

—Alistar Begg, Senior Pastor, Parkside Church

This is a satisfying and insightful overview of Scripture that tells 'the old, old story' in a fascinating way. Even seasoned Bible students will find their eyes opened and their hearts warmed as they read it.

—Warren Wiersbe

Unlocking the Bible Story explores the mountain peaks of Scripture, helping us trace the Bible's story line form beginning to end. I promise, it does unlock the Bible, showing us the unity of God's revelation. Best of all, it shows that Christ is the central theme, as the biblical narrative moves from one event to another. Excellent for those who want to 'get into' the Bible.

—Erwin W. Lutzer, Senior Pastor, Moody Church

At first glance the Bible appears to many people as a puzzle, with parts that are not easily assembled. Here is a simplified explanation for understanding and learning to love the Scriptures. My colleague, Colin Smith, capably serves up a pleasing and satisfying literary meal that merits thoughtful consumption in our day of biblical starvation.

—Howard G. Hendricks, Chairman, Center for Christian Leadership, Dallas Theological Seminary

Unlocking the Bible Story flows from the pen of a pastor who understands how important it is to encourage God's people to read and discover the power of the Bible. Colin Smith has written a practical tool to facilitate the wonderful adventure of reading and understanding the Bible. I recommend that every pastor and church consider deepening their Bible knowledge by utilizing this tool that has produced incredible results in the church Pastor Smith leads.

—William Hamel, President, Evangelical Free Church of America

Colin Smth (M.Phil London Bible College) serves as Senior Pastor of the Orchard Evangelical Free Church (previously called the Arlington Heights Evangelical Free Church). Previously, Colin served as the Senior Pastor of the Enfield Evangelical Free Church in London for 16 years. While in London, he was active in the Fellowship of Independent Evangelical Churches in England, and has served the Fellowship as President. Colin is the author of The 10 Greatest Struggles of Your Life, 10 Keys for Unlocking the Christian Life, Unlocking the Bible Story Series and 10 Keys for Unlocking the Bible. He can be heard daily on the Unlocking the Bible radio broadcast (www.unlockingthebible.org).