The most common English translations of the Bible often sound like a single, somewhat archaic voice. In fact, the Bible is made up of many separate books composed by multiple writers in a wide range of styles and perspectives. It is, as Michael Carasik demonstrates, not a remote text reserved for churches and synagogues but rather a human document full of history, poetry, politics, theology, and spirituality. Using historic, linguistic, anthropological, and theological sources, Carasik helps us distinguish between the Jewish Bible’s voices—the mythic, the historical, the prophetic, the theological, and the legal. By articulating the differences among these voices, he shows us not just their messages and meanings but also what mattered to the authors. In these contrasts we encounter the Bible anew as a living work whose many voices tell us about the world out of which the Bible grew—and the world that it created. Listen to the author's podcast.

The most common English translations of the Bible often sound like a single, somewhat archaic voice. In fact, the Bible is made up of many separate books composed by multiple writers in a wide range of styles and perspectives. It is, as Michael Carasik demonstrates, not a remote text reserved for churches and synagogues but rather a human document full of history, poetry, politics, theology, and spirituality. Using historic, linguistic, anthropological, and theological sources, Carasik helps us distinguish between the Jewish Bible's voices--the mythic, the historical, the prophetic, the theological, and the legal. By articulating the differences among these voices, he shows us not just their messages and meanings but also what mattered to the authors. In these contrasts we encounter the Bible anew, as a living work whose many voices tell us about the world out of which the Bible grew--and the world that it created.

Advocating a pluralistic reading that acknowledges the many voices speaking in the Bible, Susan Gillingham offers theological, historical, and literary insights into the compilation of Scripture and the development of biblical studies. Providing one of the most accessible and helpful introductions to the Bible available, this volume clearly outlines the main issues in understanding Scripture and demonstrates, using Psalm 8 as an example, the best method for reading the Bible today.

Pluralism presents both promises and challenges for Christian theology in the next millennium. Here biblical scholars, religious ethicists, and theologians reflect on the meaning and abiding relevance of the Christian revelation for communities of faith and the life of the church.

FOREWORD BY JOHN ORTBERG "Many people claim to ‘hear God’s voice,’ though not always with discernment. I’ve found Liz Ditty to be a trustworthy guide in learning how to listen, and how to do so with wise discernment.” —Philip Yancey, Best-selling author “Liz Ditty writes with warmth, humor, and grace about the spiritual practices that too often feel overwhelming. She approaches the spiritual life with simplicity and generosity and tells a story of learning to listen to the voice of God that inspires me to do the same. God’s Many Voices is a book for anyone who believes God is still speaking, and anyone who needs a friend to walk them directly toward that Holy Voice.” —Micha Boyett, Author of Found: A Story of Questions, Grace, and Everyday Prayer Do you wish to hear God speak to you in your everyday life? God’s Many Voices will help you discover a God who is infinitely closer and more involved in our world than we give Him credit for. This book is an invitation to learn God’s voice from the scriptures and then recognize it everywhere in daily life. Author Liz Ditty uses biblical teaching and relatable examples, reinforced with reflective exercises at the end of each chapter to open readers’ ears and hearts to what God is telling them. Only His voice in our lives can give us confidence in our decisions and dreams, give us freedom from our fears and failures, and lead us toward the joy of being fully alive, accepted, and loved by God.

Ethically and nationally diverse scholars familiar with both non-western and Western hermeneutic traditions explore what it means to hear, heed and appreciate biblical interpretations from the non-western world in this illuminating collection of writings. Ten voices emanate from across the globe, from Sri lanka to Africa, Guatemala to Canada, and Hong Kong to the United States, including: M. Daniel carroll Rodas David A. deSilva Barbara M. Leung Lai J. Ayodeji Adewuya Grant LeMarquand Nijay Gupta Chloe Sun K.K. Yeo Daniel K. Darko Oswaldo Padilla

You Can Take Control of Your Thoughts! Confused by the competing voices in your head? You're not alone! Not mastering your thought life will eat away at your self-worth, poison your relationships, stunt your growth, and complicate your life. In The Four Voices, best-selling author and Bible teacher Patrick Morley will show you how to conquer those thoughts and feelings that keep dragging you down. With God's help, you can set your heart free and find peace of mind. The Loudest Voice Doesn't Have to Win!