"The book of Proverbs is a treasure trove of spiritual and practical wisdom that equips us to live our best lives. Knowledge is important, but if it isn't converted into action, it fails to create transformational change in our lives. It is important to gain a thoughtful and practical understanding of the seven foundational principles in the book of Proverbs: Wisdom, Understanding, Prudence, Knowledge, Discretion, Discernment, and Fear of the Lord....

In this groundbreaking work of biblical analysis and interpretation, one of the most admired religious leaders of our time shows that religiously inspired violence has as its source misreadings of the texts of the Hebrew Bible, the New Testament, and the Koran. When religion becomes a zero-sum conceit--i.e., my religion is the only "right" path to God, therefore your religion is by definition "wrong"--Violence between peoples of different beliefs...

While drawing on the resources of the new biblical "narratology," this reading of 1 Samuel diverges from the mainstream in fundamental ways. It pretends to no ideological neutrality, but espouses a "critical narratology" informed by such cultural practices as feminism and psychoanalysis. It follows a structuralist tradition which finds meaning more in the text's large-scale mythic patterns than in close reading of particular passages. It seeks methods...

How can we learn to be effective culture warriors? We live in dangerous times. Not only does violence stalk us in the form of terrorism and crime, but our culture itself is crumbling. Our society tolerates and even praises what would once have been barely spoken of. If we stand up we are branded as intolerant, the term today's culture considers the inexcusable offense. If we don't speak up, people won't know biblical truth. How is a Christian to respond?...

Among New Testament writers, who is the best historian? Without a doubt, says Justo Gonzalez, it's Luke. Concerned about the particulars of people and events, Luke also gives readers the big picture, positioning the stories of Jesus not just in the history of Israel but in the history of humankind. Luke uniquely tells us the grand story of salvation - then and now. Gonzalez skillfully highlights key themes in Luke's storytelling, including his strong...

"Marilynne Robinson, winner of the Pulitzer Prize and National Humanities Medal, presents a thrilling, radiant interpretation of the first book of the Bible"--

"Too often when we come to the Bible, questions make us uncomfortable. But questions are often a good thing. When we stop viewing the Bible through the lens of our own agendas and ask the questions the Bible is asking, something extraordinary happens. We form a new and deeper way of thinking about Scripture and understanding the Bible. As we do, we move further into the depths and mystery of God. Asking Better Questions of the Bible is a journey into...

In 'Love Wins,' Rob Bell confronted the troubling questions that many people of faith were afraid to ask about heaven, hell, fate, and faith. Using the same inquisitive approach, he now turns to our most sacred book, providing insights and answers that make clear why the Bible is so revered and what makes it truly inspiring and essential to our lives. Rob takes us deep into actual passages to reveal the humanity behind the Scriptures. You cannot get...

"The world's most influential commentator on Paul delves deeply into the letter to the Romans and draws out its vital, enduring and Spirit-filled importance for Christians today"--

This book answers foundational questions: Who wrote the Bible? What is its message? Why is it thought to be a "holy" book? How does one read and interpret it? Best of all, though, you'll broaden your vision of Jesus Christ, the focal point of Scripture. How? By better understanding the geographical, religious, and historical concerns that shaped the world in which he lived. You'll see Jesus as never before: both as a man of his times and culture,...