J. Clinton McCann

NCLA Review -Here is a thorough guide through a dozen of the best-loved Psalms, some well-known and others less familiar. McCann, an internationally recognized expert on the Psalms, is Professor of Biblical Interpretation at Eden Theological Seminary in St. Louis. He has written other books on the Psalms and is also the author of Judges in The Interpretive Contemporary Series. Certainly scholarly with bibliographical references and detailed commentary, this book can be understood and show more appreciated by laypeople. Each chapter allows the reader to understand and appreciate the original meaning and consider ways in which our faith life of today can be enriched through a better understanding of these selected psalms. Study questions for group or individual study are included. Rating: 3 —MF Westminster John Knox Press 2009, 150p, 9780664231767, $16.95 [223.2] show less

NO OF PAGES: 204 SUB CAT I: Psalms SUB CAT II: Torah SUB CAT III: DESCRIPTION: Clinton McCann's "A Theological Introduction to the Psalms" represents a fresh approach to the Book of Psalms. Taking his point of departure from the newest frontier of research, McCann reads the psalms in the context of their final shape and canonical form. He interprets the psalms in their identity as scripture as well as in their character as songs, prayers, and poetry from Israel's history. McCann's intent is show more to contribute to the church's recovery of the psalms as torah - as instruction (not as law), as a guide to prayer, praise of God, and pious living. The explicit connections which McCann draws from the psalms to the New Testament, and to Christian faith and life, are extensive, making his work suitable for serious study of the psalms both in academic and in church settings. An appendix examines the tradition of singing the psalms and offers suggestions and resources for the use of the psalms in worship.NOTES: Donated by Gary and Angie Springer. SUBTITLE: The Psalms as Torah show less