An Introduction to the Bible (Paperback, Revised &Amp; E)

"Professor Rogerson's Introduction provides all the information necessary for reading the Bible with pleasure and profit, and it does so in a clear and concise way without fuss or condescension. Based on years of teaching, it covers a remarkably broad range of issues from the formation of different canons in different communities to the use and abuse of biblical texts in forming opinion on such contemporary issues as capital punishment and reproductive rights. It is a special boon that it covers both the Hebrew Bible/Old Testament and the New Testament. This is the best Introduction that has come my way in a long time." Joseph Blenkinsopp, University of Notre Dame "Rogerson combines the integrity of a scholar, the wisdom of a teacher and the heart of a pastor to write a clear and authoritative introduction. Facts that are often unknown and opinions that are sometimes avoided because they challenge our prejudices will go a long way towards making for a better-informed and more humane use of Scripture." Hugh Williamson, University of Oxford The Bible is one of the most influential and profound texts in human history - it is disturbing, unconventional, and never content with the world as it is. Reviews of the revised edition: "Rogerson's superb book belongs in all libraries." - Choice "This detailed volume makes an excellent tool for guided introduction or revision course in any formal study setting." - Journal for the Study of the New Testament "A complete introductory work accessible to a public of non-specialists interested in the development of modern scientific exegesis. The rich selection of examples and the depth of reflection would be of interest to pastors, pastoral agents and students." - Review of Biblical Literature "I would like to praise the author for his clear prose that is used as a vehicle for his nonideological communication on the Bible. Reading this book, one meets a seasoned scholar who has the ability to present his profound insights in a laudably didactic way This introduction is one of the finest books to be used in an undergraduate course both for theologians and 'others.' I hope the book will be read so often that a fourth edition is needed in the foreseeable future." - Review of Biblical Literature This classic introduction presents a concise and accessible guide to all aspects of biblical study: the nature and purpose of the Bible; how biblical writers wrote; the making of both Old and New Testaments; the making of the Apocrypha; what was left out and what kept in the Bible and why; and how the Bible has been shaped by and continues to shape religion, culture and politics. Completely revised and updated - and considerably extended with much more material on the making of the Old and New Testaments - this third edition takes full account of recent developments in scholarship. It includes maps and a glossary of key terms. Praise for the Third Edition: 'This book is not just a reprint of John Rogerson's informative book on the Bible but a thoroughly revised edition in which the author has brought the information up to date. This book is designed as a textbook, and it should be assessed as that. I would like to praise the author for his clear prose that is used as a vehicle for his nonideological communication on the Bible. Reading this book, one meets a seasoned scholar who has the ability to present his profound insights in a laudably didactic way. ]This introduction is one of the finest books to be used in an undergraduate course both for theologians and "others." I hope the book will be read so often that a fourth edition is needed in the foreseeable future.' Bob Becking, Review of Biblical Literature (November 2012)