Wondrous Depth: Preaching the Old Testament

by Ellen F. Davis

Ellen Davis is concerned by what she calls a "shallow reading" of Scripture--a reading of what we think we already know instead of an attempt to dig deeper for new insights and revelations. Wondrous Depth is a collection of essays in which Davis argues for a more engaged reading of Scripture that opens the reader up to new knowledge and understanding. Davis also demonstrates that preaching and biblical interpretation are essentially related to one another in that it is essential for preachers to engage in thorough reading and interpretation of Scripture from the pulpit and to encourage their congregations to read the Bible with depth and sensitivity as well.

Genres: Old Testament, Theology, Biblical Studies, Christianity

176 pages, 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.