The Bible--God's Word for the Biblically-Inept
The series of which this is the third volume (Revelation and Daniel were published in 1998) takes advantage of the popularity of the "Idiots" and "Dummies" books, which attempt to explain a subject to nonspecialists. The goal of the series is to make learning the Bible simple and fun. The text briefly summarizes the content of each book of the Bible and emphasizes major theological concepts. Illustrations and quotations from other writers are scattered throughout. Each chapter concludes with study questions and a "Chapter Wrap-Up." A sidebar on every page contains definitions of vocabulary used in the text, scripture references, and keys to the structure of the text. Reading the "Big Picture" summaries throughout the book, one could get a fair idea of the flow of the books of the Bible. However, certain problems make this a less-than-ideal guide. Richards takes a conservative viewpoint and seldom presents opposing ideas. He introduces later theological terminology (such as Adam and Eve's "sin nature"), which may obscure rather than illuminate. Those who share the author's assumptions and are seeking a guided tour of the Bible may find this volume (and series) helpful. Not a high-priority purchase.?Craig W. Beard, Univ. of Alabama at Birmingham Lib.Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.