Reading Christian Scripture- the Pentateuch as Scripture

This book offers an accessible introduction to the Pentateuch in its literary, theological, and canonical contexts. "Accessible, theologically rich, visually engaging, and highly relevant"This accessible survey textbook helps readers discover that the Pentateuch is the essential launching pad and starting point for encountering God and God's ways in the world. "A textbook with a (major) difference: It generates excitement and builds confidence in its readers, even as it gives them vast amounts of information, beautifully presented and in readily comprehensible language. With the skill of the best teachers, Beldman and Rhodes anticipate the myriad questions that thoughtful students pose, and they address them with clarity and directness. A textbook this good could go a long way toward raising up a new generation of wise readers and scholars for the church." -- Ellen F. Davis, Duke Divinity School "A very readable and quite comprehensive guide. Beldman and Rhodes reveal the theological riches of the Pentateuch, which in many ways are foundational to Christian faith and germane to the mission of the people of God in the world today. A wonderful resource!" -- M. Daniel Carroll R., Litfin Divinity School, Wheaton College (emeritus) "How I wish I'd had this book when I taught the Pentateuch years ago, and how I envy professors and students who will have the pleasure and benefit of having it as a textbook today! It explores not only the what of the text's content but also how the different genres work and why these books matter theologically for disciples of Christ." -- Christopher J. H. Wright, Langham Partnership "This book is, quite literally, outstanding: It stands out in a crowded market of introductions both to the Bible generally and to the Pentateuch specifically. It does so in a host of ways, including its design and its numerous sidebars, figures, and other helps that make this volume perfect for classroom use. The greenest of students and the most seasoned of scholars will learn much from this book." -- Brent A. Strawn, Duke University "An accessible, theologically rich, visually engaging, and highly relevant resource for students and church leaders. I will use this valuable resource in my courses." -- Chloe T. Sun, Fuller Theological Seminary "This textbook will jolt readers awake to the riches and depths of the Pentateuch. Beldman and Rhodes don't shy away from the hard stuff, but they also help you rediscover familiar passages. What a gift to have this book!" -- Matthew Lynch, Regent College "This textbook exhibits a notable sensitivity to ethnic and cultural diversity that will serve many different communities in the body of Christ. Though fit for the classroom, it puts the academic study of the Pentateuch in service of hearing the voice of the living God." -- Andrew M. King, Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and Spurgeon College Contemporary readers often struggle with the Pentateuch, finding it difficult to understand, if not outright boring or even offensive. In this accessible survey textbook, David J. H. Beldman and Michael J. Rhodes help students discover that the Pentateuch is an essential launching pad and starting point for encountering God and God's ways in the world. These texts are the "big bang" of the Bible: The entire universe of the scriptural story spins out and takes shape from these first explosive texts. Beldman and Rhodes help students read these texts within their literary, historical, canonical, and theological contexts. Textboxes highlight the way the Pentateuch can spark the theological, ethical, and missional imaginations of contemporary readers, and substantial "Living the Text" sections at the close of each chapter explore how God's people might live differently in response. In addition to the main chapters exploring the specific books of the Pentateuch, shorter "How to Read" chapters explore some of the Pentateuch's trickier terrain, including ● "How to Read Biblical Law Today: Wise Guidance for Justice, Mercy, and Mission"; ● "How to Read Torah's Rituals Today: Sacred Rites and Holy Habits"; and ● "How to Read Violent Texts Today: Wrestling Until We Receive a Blessing." This textbook is grounded in the view that the Pentateuch should be read as Christian Scripture. Although the book covers critical issues such as authorship, background, and history, its primary focus is on the message and theology of the Pentateuch and the contribution these texts make to the Christian canon. Indeed, Beldman and Rhodes argue throughout that the Pentateuch opens up horizons for Christian readers on some of today's most pressing theological, ethical, and missional questions. Reading Christian Scripture is a series of survey textbooks that cover the Old and New Testaments. Beautifully designed in full color with maps, sidebars, images, and illustrations to hold interest and aid learning, Reading the Pentateuch as Christian Scripture offers a faith-friendly introduction to students. Additional resources for instructors are available through textbook eSources.