Wondrous Depth: Preaching the Old Testament Paperback – September 19, 2005

by Ellen F. Davis

Excellent Book

Genres: Old Testament, Theology, Biblical Studies, Christianity

Paperback

First published January 1, 2005

Reviews

[Allison Wise · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVED THIS BOOK!!!!! Davis is a genius and so cool! I hope to continue to read her work!

[Christine · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ellen Davis provides a healthy reminder about the importance of preaching the Old Testament. For example, she notes how throughout the centuries the Psalms were commonly preached on. Yet today a sermon on a psalm is rare in many traditions. This book would be improved by including more meat about exactly how to carry out some of her recommendations.

[Fraser Perrett · Rating 3 out of 5]

Eating the meat, spitting out the bones

[Allison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay, so I admit that since I am a student of Dr. Davis', my opinion is hardly objective. Nevertheless, this is one of the best books I've read in a long time. This is not a how-to, a you-ought-to, or any other sort of manual for understanding and preaching the Old Testament - it is a glimpse into a perspective that delights in and cherishes the Old Testament as a gift. Davis' four sermons at the end of the book are exquisite pieces of craftsmanship, at once shimmering and piercing in their beauty and depth. This is a book not just for preachers, but for all who care about Christian life and witness.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Davis has many helpful insights into how to talk about or write about scripture. One example: "[A] good question is one that leads you and your hearers more deeply into the story, not away from it into pious abstractions..." (page 8). I was challenged, convicted, and encouraged by the sermons she included as illustrative examples. I am looking forward to reading more of her writing in the future.