In this accessible guide to interpreting the Bible, senior New Testament scholar Robert Stein helps readers identify various biblical genres, understand the meaning of biblical texts, and apply that meaning to contemporary life. This edition has been completely revised throughout to reflect Stein's current thinking and changes to the discipline over the past decade. Students of the Bible will find the book effective in group settings. Praise for the first edition "Stein's work is both a fine introduction to the task of biblical hermeneutics for the novice and an innovative refresher for the veteran teacher or pastor."--Faith & Mission

This handbook provides a comprehensive guide to methods, terms, and concepts used by biblical interpreters. It offers students and non-specialists an accessible resource for understanding the complex vocabulary that accompanies serious biblical studies. Articles, arranged alphabetically, explain terminology associated with reading the Bible as literature, clarify the various methods Bible scholars use to study biblical texts, and illuminate how different interpretive approaches can contribute to our understanding. Article references and topical bibliographies point readers to resources for further study. This handbook, now updated and revised to be even more useful for students, was previously published as Interpreting the Bible: A Handbook of Terms and Methods. It is a suitable complement to any standard hermeneutics textbook.

This completely revised edition helps readers identify various biblical genres, understand the meaning of biblical texts, and apply that meaning to contemporary life.

Reading Responsibly: A Guide to Biblical Interpretation focuses on two key areas: methods and ethics of interpretation. The book introduces, explains, and guides students in the understanding and application of particular methods commonly used by biblical scholars in the study of the Bible. The methods discussed focus on historical, literary, and reader-oriented aspects of biblical interpretation. The attention to ethics occurs mainly in the last chapter. Because the Bible is an extremely influential book, it often motivates people to act in beneficial or harmful ways. The focus on love for others motivates charitable giving or actions designed to help others. Emphasis on God’s wrath may lead to exclusivism and even violence. Readings leading to disrespect and mental or physical abuse, stem from an irresponsible use of the Bible. Responsible readings give full consideration to the text in its proper context and never call for action that is inconsistent with love and justice.

BASIC BIBLE INTERPRETATION Can the Bible really be understood? Are Old Testament prophecies relevant for today? How can I understand the symbolism of the Book of Revelation? What is the relationship of the Old Testament to the New Testament? Why study Bible interpretation? Dr. Roy Zuck points out that it is essential for understanding and teaching the Bible properly, essential as a step beyond observation, and essential for applying the Bible correctly. He discusses the challenges of Bible interpretation, considers the problems of Bible interpretation, explores the history of Bible interpretation, and defines key terms--all in a practical, down-to-earth way. Though Dr. Zuck's many years of teaching and scholarship are evident in this book, he has written in language understandable to all who are serious about bible study and who want to know better what Scripture means.

Misinterpretation of Scripture is one of the major problems that faces the Church. We are living in an image centred world that demands short cuts to answers, and has a limited attention span for study. This book discusses the many obstacles that can keep us from a truly biblical interpretation of scripture. Mayhue's grasp of the methods of biblical interpretation enables him to provide our modern generation a simple way to understand what the Bible says and avoid the errors that are commonly made. It should be mandatory reading for anyone interested in finding out what scripture says. Both scholar and new believer can be impacted by these studies. They cover a wide range of subjects and purposes including: Teaching a basic Bible study method Warning about interpretation mistakes Exposing current theological error Providing right steps to avoid wrong doctrine Emphasizing truthfulness and trustworthiness of Scripture.

Studying, Interpreting, and Applying the Bible combines into one volume the popular trilogy by Walter Henrichsen and Gayle Jackson: - A Layman's Guide to Studying the Bible - A Layman's Guide to Interpreting the Bible - A Layman's Guide to Applying the Bible This book will help students as well as ministers, young people and old alike, as they learn to study Scripture more easily and conveniently. The chapters on studying the Bible help the beginning or experienced Bible student mine God's Word for its riches through verse analysis, chapter analysis, the overview of a book, the study of a topic, and the study of Bible characters (including charts, diagrams, and other helpful illustrations). The unit on interpreting the Bible explains Bible interpretation based on grammar, history, and theology. The section on applying the Bible moves beyond study to life applications, enabling a person to - be motivated to make personal application - move beyond a "to do" list to an internal desire to obey - consider the risks involved in obeying - use specific application principles