Robert H. Stein

This is the perfect book for one who is getting familiar with how to better interpret the Bible and avoid misunderstanding that would mislead one to either misapply it's meaning to practical life or discounting as impractical or irrelevant for life. The author begins by naming the components involved in hermeneutics to different types of Scripture how to identify the general rules to apply to each type. Stein even proposes that the Spirit of God in intimately involved in the process of interpreting texts and discusses some terms as "illumination" and "foolishness" as it is applied in relation to the Spirit.

Stein provides many and various Biblical texts of all types as examples how each should b interpreted according to its genre. He provides some simple illustrations that help visualize and, thereby, apprehend more clearly the issues of interpretation being discussed.

The reading is clear, simple, focused and to the point. I recommend it highly for beginners like me in gaining a coherent understanding of the Biblical texts.

I also recommend his two others of his books, "Difficult Passages in the New Testament" and "The Method and Message of Jesus' Teachings." In the former, he rehearses passages that may seem puzzling and, in the latter, he concentrates on the form and content of Jesus' teachings. Interestingly enough, in the "Method and Message," Stein devotes a full chapter, almost 30 pages, to the parables.

For those new to the Bible, Christian or not, who want to gain a better grasp of how to approach the Bible and for older believers who just wish a refresher course, these three books are a great place to start.… (more)

This book is exactly what it purports to be - a survey of the life of Christ. The 18 chapters in this book cover quite a bit of ground. Part 1 (3 chapters) discusses some methodological issues, including the role of presuppositions, sources, and chronology. Part 2 (the remaining 15 chapters) discusses key events or characteristics of the life of Christ. Because so much ground is covered, no topic is really explored in depth, though there are quite a few perceptive and cogent observations. However, I often found myself wanting more, but it was outside the scope of this work. Usefully at the end of every chapter is a list of references for those wanting to pursue a particular topic with more rigor. While the book hits apologetic notes, the intended audience is clearly believers. This would be a great first resource for believers wanting a firmer grounding in the life and person of Jesus, but there are better books to offer a non-believer interested in learning about Jesus.… (more)