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A Reader's Guide to the Bible
Approaching the Bible for the first time can be intimidating. At sixty-six books, nearly 800,000 words, and numerous kings, prophets, and deliverers, as well as priests and apostles, where should you begin? In what order should you read it? Why are there narratives here and over there, but other things mixed between? And is there an alternative to reading the Bible from Genesis to Revelation? In A Reader’s Guide to the Bible John Goldingay places the biblical books in their times and settings, and then lays out a memorable pattern for understanding the Bible. Three categories of biblical books—story, word, and response—form three doors into the cathedral that is the the story of God and his people, the word of God to his people, and the people’s response to God. Whether you are a person of Christian faith or other faith, or no faith at all, here is a reliable guide to exploring the Bible. Written by a highly accomplished biblical scholar, A Reader’s Guide to the Bible joins a clear and direct style with a maestro’s touch.
179 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 14, 2017
About the author
John E. Goldingay
87 books73 followersJohn Goldingay is David Allan Hubbard Professor of Old Testament at Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, California. An internationally respected Old Testament scholar, Goldingay is the author of many commentaries and books.
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
January 4, 2018
While statistics tell us that the amount of people who read their Bible continues to fall, there is no shortage of guidebooks for Bible reading on the market. Popular level books by liberals (John Dominic Crossan, Harvey Cox, Marcus Borg), Post-Evangelicals (Peter Enns, Rob Bell), Traditional Evangelicals (Gordon Fee & Doug Stuart, John Walton, RC Sproul), Fundamentalists (Henrietta Mears, John McArthur) flood the market and continue to sell well. Perhaps better than ever, since modern readers find the Bible so disorienting. John Goldingay offers his guidance through the realm of Scripture in A Reader's Guide to the Bible.
Goldingay is one my favorite Old Testament scholars and commentators. He is the David Allan Hubbard Professor of Old Testament at Fuller Theological Seminary, the author of a masterful 3 volume Old Testament Theology and has written several critical commentaries, notably, Daniel in the Word Biblical Commentary, and 3 volume Psalms commentary in the Baker's Commentary on Old Testament Wisdom. He also provides the Old Testament counterpoint to N.T. Wright, with the 17 volume Old Testament For Everyone Series (WJK).
In A Reader's Guide to the Bible, Goldingay covers the history, narrative, and various genres of Scripture in 4 brief sections. Instead of providing a book by book overview, he opens with an introductory section, providing a broad chronology of the Bible, and a look at biblical geography (part 1). Next, he examines the story of Scripture from the Creation in Genesis to the early church of Acts (part 2). In part 3, Goldingay explores the biblical genres which provide "God's word for his people": the instructions to the priests in the Pentateuch, the prophets, apostolic letters, the wisdom of Proverbs and Song of Songs, and Apocalyptic in Daniel and Revelation. Finally, in part 4, he examines Scriptures which describe Israel's response to God—prayer in praise in Psalms and Lamentations, and the doubt and uncertainty described in Ecclesiastes and Job. An epilogue describes the value of reading the Bible today.
One of the things that Goldingay does quite well, is noting the contexts that the biblical authors wrote in and to. He points, occasionally, to various sources and settings behind the text (source criticism), but his focus throughout remains on the final form of Scripture. For example, in referring to the opening books of the Bible, Goldingay writes:
So in Genesis, Goldingay notes three-time periods that the final text is relevant to (1) the Exodus (Moses' timeframe), (2) the Davidic Monarchy under David and Solomon, and (3) the exile (40-41). By reading Genesis with an eye to the concerns of these periods, Goldingay avoids reading modern scientific concerns back into the text (as in the creation accounts):
This same focus on the contexts of the communities that produced and received these Scriptures is carried through the Deuteronomic history, the time of the Exile and, in the New Testament the early church, as does the same reticence of falling down the source criticism rabbit hole(e.g. Goldingay mentions the various time periods/sections in Isaiah, the synoptic triple tradition, and Q, the questionable authorship of some epistles like second Peter, but on the whole, doesn't question the contested letters of Paul, or chase down sources and authorship).
The essay that serves as the epilogue, underscores the continuing relevance of reading the Old Testament for Christians. Goldingay contends that the Old Testament provides the necessary background which enables us to understand Jesus, and asks all the questions which Jesus is the answer to (177-180). However, the Old Testament has its own intrinsic value as well. It illustrates God at work in the life of His people, and it addresses a broader range of concerns than the New Testament does (181-183).
Goldingay is a great scholar but this is not a heavy book. I've probably used more theological jargon writing this review than Goldingay did in his whole book. He presents a broad overview of the biblical story cognizant of the thought world of its original authors and their intended audience, but he does so, in simple, accessible language. And he does this in only a 186 pages.
Although, I do have a couple of minor critiques. First, there is a small editorial error in the opening pages of the book (1-2). When Goldingay gives an outline for his book, he mentions 3 chapters in his introductory section (part 1). There are only 2 chapters in that section ("The Events of the Bible" and "The Land of the Bible"), so this throws all his other chapter numbers off by 1. Perhaps this is a reflection of an earlier draft. This is not really a substantive complaint, but I hate seeing this kind of editorial oversight in a finished product.
Secondly, I had a difficult time figuring out who the intended audience was for this book. This book was published by IVP Academic, (InterVarsity Press's academic imprint), but I have a hard time envisioning this book being used in the classroom. While Goldingay is a thoughtful scholar and there are some real gems here, its brevity, lack of critical engagement, footnotes or even a bibliography, means it is really intended as a popular level book. In fact, the only suggested reading for those who want to go deeper with individual books is his "Old Testament for Everyone" and N.T. Wright's "New Testament for Everyone" series, which are non-technical, lay commentaries. On the other hand, there is enough substance here that I think lay readers may also find the lack of works cited frustrating, or find his discussion of some scripture genres or books, overly brief. I followed along with Goldingay just fine, but I have also read a lot (and went to seminary). I wondered if certain sections would make as much sense, or provide enough detail for me if I was a total neophyte.
But on the whole, I found this a handy overview of the Bible, its history, narrative, and various genres, commending the whole scripture to the people of God. Serious students will want more than this book offers but as an entry-level guidebook, this is pretty good. I give it 3-and-a-half stars. - ★★★½
Notice of material connection: I received a copy of this book from IVP Academic in exchange for my honest review.
Goldingay is one my favorite Old Testament scholars and commentators. He is the David Allan Hubbard Professor of Old Testament at Fuller Theological Seminary, the author of a masterful 3 volume Old Testament Theology and has written several critical commentaries, notably, Daniel in the Word Biblical Commentary, and 3 volume Psalms commentary in the Baker's Commentary on Old Testament Wisdom. He also provides the Old Testament counterpoint to N.T. Wright, with the 17 volume Old Testament For Everyone Series (WJK).
In A Reader's Guide to the Bible, Goldingay covers the history, narrative, and various genres of Scripture in 4 brief sections. Instead of providing a book by book overview, he opens with an introductory section, providing a broad chronology of the Bible, and a look at biblical geography (part 1). Next, he examines the story of Scripture from the Creation in Genesis to the early church of Acts (part 2). In part 3, Goldingay explores the biblical genres which provide "God's word for his people": the instructions to the priests in the Pentateuch, the prophets, apostolic letters, the wisdom of Proverbs and Song of Songs, and Apocalyptic in Daniel and Revelation. Finally, in part 4, he examines Scriptures which describe Israel's response to God—prayer in praise in Psalms and Lamentations, and the doubt and uncertainty described in Ecclesiastes and Job. An epilogue describes the value of reading the Bible today.
One of the things that Goldingay does quite well, is noting the contexts that the biblical authors wrote in and to. He points, occasionally, to various sources and settings behind the text (source criticism), but his focus throughout remains on the final form of Scripture. For example, in referring to the opening books of the Bible, Goldingay writes:
Some of the threads that make up the first five books in the Bible can be unwoven, and we can then see how the story was applied to the people in different periods. We will note some examples of this below. But it is a delicate exercise, and it is guesswork. Since only the conflated version has been preserved we concentrate on that. (35).
So in Genesis, Goldingay notes three-time periods that the final text is relevant to (1) the Exodus (Moses' timeframe), (2) the Davidic Monarchy under David and Solomon, and (3) the exile (40-41). By reading Genesis with an eye to the concerns of these periods, Goldingay avoids reading modern scientific concerns back into the text (as in the creation accounts):
These stories thus relate to a period in Israel's life, which helps to short-circuit the problems that arise when they are treated as scientific narratives. There are various ways of fitting scientific discoveries and the creation stories together. But we miss the point of Genesis if we concentrate on this question. Genesis is concerned with bringing a message to the people in its day that will help them understand their own lives and help them follow the truth (42).
This same focus on the contexts of the communities that produced and received these Scriptures is carried through the Deuteronomic history, the time of the Exile and, in the New Testament the early church, as does the same reticence of falling down the source criticism rabbit hole(e.g. Goldingay mentions the various time periods/sections in Isaiah, the synoptic triple tradition, and Q, the questionable authorship of some epistles like second Peter, but on the whole, doesn't question the contested letters of Paul, or chase down sources and authorship).
The essay that serves as the epilogue, underscores the continuing relevance of reading the Old Testament for Christians. Goldingay contends that the Old Testament provides the necessary background which enables us to understand Jesus, and asks all the questions which Jesus is the answer to (177-180). However, the Old Testament has its own intrinsic value as well. It illustrates God at work in the life of His people, and it addresses a broader range of concerns than the New Testament does (181-183).
Goldingay is a great scholar but this is not a heavy book. I've probably used more theological jargon writing this review than Goldingay did in his whole book. He presents a broad overview of the biblical story cognizant of the thought world of its original authors and their intended audience, but he does so, in simple, accessible language. And he does this in only a 186 pages.
Although, I do have a couple of minor critiques. First, there is a small editorial error in the opening pages of the book (1-2). When Goldingay gives an outline for his book, he mentions 3 chapters in his introductory section (part 1). There are only 2 chapters in that section ("The Events of the Bible" and "The Land of the Bible"), so this throws all his other chapter numbers off by 1. Perhaps this is a reflection of an earlier draft. This is not really a substantive complaint, but I hate seeing this kind of editorial oversight in a finished product.
Secondly, I had a difficult time figuring out who the intended audience was for this book. This book was published by IVP Academic, (InterVarsity Press's academic imprint), but I have a hard time envisioning this book being used in the classroom. While Goldingay is a thoughtful scholar and there are some real gems here, its brevity, lack of critical engagement, footnotes or even a bibliography, means it is really intended as a popular level book. In fact, the only suggested reading for those who want to go deeper with individual books is his "Old Testament for Everyone" and N.T. Wright's "New Testament for Everyone" series, which are non-technical, lay commentaries. On the other hand, there is enough substance here that I think lay readers may also find the lack of works cited frustrating, or find his discussion of some scripture genres or books, overly brief. I followed along with Goldingay just fine, but I have also read a lot (and went to seminary). I wondered if certain sections would make as much sense, or provide enough detail for me if I was a total neophyte.
But on the whole, I found this a handy overview of the Bible, its history, narrative, and various genres, commending the whole scripture to the people of God. Serious students will want more than this book offers but as an entry-level guidebook, this is pretty good. I give it 3-and-a-half stars. - ★★★½
Notice of material connection: I received a copy of this book from IVP Academic in exchange for my honest review.
November 11, 2017
Over the years I have observed that many Christians struggle with reading the Bible. When we have talked it becomes clear that the majority of them have difficulty connecting the dots: fathoming how it all fits together and why. John Goldingay, the David Allan Hubbard Professor of Old Testament at Fuller Theological Seminary, has just provided a comfortably readable aid for interested Christians in his brand-spanking-new "A Reader's Guide to the Bible." This 192 softback easily tackles the big picture of Scriptures' trajectory, and the overall emphasis of the different genres in the Bible. It is written for interested students of Scripture, whatever stage of their faith-walk they may be in.
"A Reader's Guide to the Bible" begins by covering the historical and political events surrounding the Scriptures from the creation account through the Assyrian and Babylonian exiles to the time of Jesus and just beyond. Next, the author sketches out the geographical details where most of the biblical story unfolds. Though the material may appear elementary for more seasoned disciples, nevertheless newer readers will likely have some "Aha!" moments that will enable them to grasp the "why" and "wherefore" of certain episodes in Scripture.
The remainder of the book covers the sixty-six books of Scripture simply and helpfully. Here Goldingay lumps together the sacred writings in a way that gives the learner a solid sense of how the story of God and his people flows together. The author addresses themes, styles, purposes and goals of the various books of the Bible, and how they fit together. Yet even more importantly, the author keeps the main point the main point; "The writers imply that their story is basically historical, but they invite us to respond to it as it stands as a story, to see what it means and what it has to say" (34-5).
The final chapter is a delightful and essential conclusion to the whole volume. Goldingay explains the significance and value of the Old Testament for Christians, and its deep-rooted connection to the New Testament. The author basically takes on N.T. Wright's position of the five-act play, where each act is significant, makes the story as a whole, and finds it's climax in one of the latter acts; "the Old Testament leads to the New and hints at what becomes explicit there" (180).
"A Reader's Guide to the Bible" is a very useful manuscript. I wasn't always satisfied with some of the author's assertions (i.e. multiple authors of "Isaiah," the date of Daniel's writing, etc.), nonetheless it is a masterful tool that is well written and brilliantly simple. This book would be perfect for a high school and adult Christian Education class in a congregation; as well as an "Introduction to the Bible" college course. Also, if a person is looking for a personal resource that will bring some clarity to their reading of Scripture, then they will find this to be just the volume the need. I happily and highly recommend this book.
Thanks to IVP Academic for providing, upon my request, the free copy of the book used for this review. The assessments are mine given without restrictions or requirements (as per Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255).
"A Reader's Guide to the Bible" begins by covering the historical and political events surrounding the Scriptures from the creation account through the Assyrian and Babylonian exiles to the time of Jesus and just beyond. Next, the author sketches out the geographical details where most of the biblical story unfolds. Though the material may appear elementary for more seasoned disciples, nevertheless newer readers will likely have some "Aha!" moments that will enable them to grasp the "why" and "wherefore" of certain episodes in Scripture.
The remainder of the book covers the sixty-six books of Scripture simply and helpfully. Here Goldingay lumps together the sacred writings in a way that gives the learner a solid sense of how the story of God and his people flows together. The author addresses themes, styles, purposes and goals of the various books of the Bible, and how they fit together. Yet even more importantly, the author keeps the main point the main point; "The writers imply that their story is basically historical, but they invite us to respond to it as it stands as a story, to see what it means and what it has to say" (34-5).
The final chapter is a delightful and essential conclusion to the whole volume. Goldingay explains the significance and value of the Old Testament for Christians, and its deep-rooted connection to the New Testament. The author basically takes on N.T. Wright's position of the five-act play, where each act is significant, makes the story as a whole, and finds it's climax in one of the latter acts; "the Old Testament leads to the New and hints at what becomes explicit there" (180).
"A Reader's Guide to the Bible" is a very useful manuscript. I wasn't always satisfied with some of the author's assertions (i.e. multiple authors of "Isaiah," the date of Daniel's writing, etc.), nonetheless it is a masterful tool that is well written and brilliantly simple. This book would be perfect for a high school and adult Christian Education class in a congregation; as well as an "Introduction to the Bible" college course. Also, if a person is looking for a personal resource that will bring some clarity to their reading of Scripture, then they will find this to be just the volume the need. I happily and highly recommend this book.
Thanks to IVP Academic for providing, upon my request, the free copy of the book used for this review. The assessments are mine given without restrictions or requirements (as per Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255).
April 21, 2022
Awesome guide! Required reading!
Great introductory guide to the overarching narrative & redemptive salvation history displayed in the incredibly diverse library of Scripture, which tells the story of the one true Creator God working through his chosen people, Israel, culminating in the life, death, and resurrection Messiah Jesus, Sovereign Lord of all. This is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand and faithfully live in accord with the whole of God’s great kingdom story.
Great introductory guide to the overarching narrative & redemptive salvation history displayed in the incredibly diverse library of Scripture, which tells the story of the one true Creator God working through his chosen people, Israel, culminating in the life, death, and resurrection Messiah Jesus, Sovereign Lord of all. This is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand and faithfully live in accord with the whole of God’s great kingdom story.
January 25, 2021
A wonderfully approachable guide for those who are starting to explore the Bible for the first time (or even those just trying to read it in context for the first time). I appreciate that Goldingay writes in such a way that does not exclude non-Christians. This is a book I would recommend to any beginner or seeker, and one I will be hanging on to.
June 12, 2021
Short recap of scripture
Coming in at under 200 pages, the author covers a lot of ground succinct and at the same times leaves one wanting to know more about the Bible. I have read several overviews of the Bible and Goldingay’s summaries are factual and stripped of guessing.
Coming in at under 200 pages, the author covers a lot of ground succinct and at the same times leaves one wanting to know more about the Bible. I have read several overviews of the Bible and Goldingay’s summaries are factual and stripped of guessing.
May 28, 2023
The content of the book is excellent, definitely great for an introduction to the Bible. However, my main complaint with this book is the way it is ordered. I am just not sure I track with Goldingay's rationale for why he orders it as he does.
December 18, 2018
“Must Know” without much “Nice To Know”
Great introduction, whether you profess to be a Christian or you want to understand the Bible from a literary or advisory context.
Great introduction, whether you profess to be a Christian or you want to understand the Bible from a literary or advisory context.
December 19, 2024
A great intro and overview from a leading scholar.
Read
January 21, 2018I took a seminar on the Bible's history and geography at Bartlesville Wesleyan College in 1985 with Dr. Bob Black. It was, and still is, one of the best seminars of my life. This book by Goldingay may have been lifted from Dr. Blacks's notes, or Dr. Black lifted his course notes from Goldingay.
It is easy to read, but shows a depth of knowledge of the Bible that is profound. It is easy to follow in outline, and creates a desire to read deeper in the text of the Bible. It is the story of God and his people that the author focuses on, and I am included in the focus.
For a pastor who needs an occasional return or refresher to some basics of Biblical knowledge without being talked down to, this is just the book.
It is easy to read, but shows a depth of knowledge of the Bible that is profound. It is easy to follow in outline, and creates a desire to read deeper in the text of the Bible. It is the story of God and his people that the author focuses on, and I am included in the focus.
For a pastor who needs an occasional return or refresher to some basics of Biblical knowledge without being talked down to, this is just the book.
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews