The poetic books of the Old Testament--Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Solomon--are often called humankind's reach toward God. The other books of the Old Testament picture God's reach toward man through the redemptive story. Yet these five books reveal the very hear of men and women struggling with monumental issues such as suffering, sin, forgiveness, joy, worship, and the passionate love between a man and woman. C. Hassell Bullock, a noted Old Testament scholar, delves deep into the hearts of the five poetic books, offering readers helpful details such as harmeneutical considerations for each book, theological content and themes, detailed analysis of each book, and cultural perspectives. Hebrew is a language of "intrinsic musical quality that naturally supports poetic expression," says Bullock in his introduction. That poetic expression comes from the heart of the Old Testament writers and reaches all of us exactly where we are in our own struggles and joys.

This new isagogics textbooks examines and explores each book of the Old Testament, preparing students of the Bible to read Israels texts with understanding and insight. It helps answer questions such as What is helpful and what is detrimental to evangelical faith? And How do conservative scholars respond to critical views of the Old Testament? The book interacts with scholars in a respectful way while providing evangelical assessments that foster historical and theological confidence in the Old Testament.

The Old Testament prophets spoke to Israel in times of historical and moral crisis. They saw themselves as being a part of a story that God was weaving throughout history--a story of repentance, encouragement, and a coming Messiah. In this updated introductory book, each major and minor prophet and his writing are clustered with the major historical events of their time. Our generational distance from the age of the prophets might seem to be a measureless chasm. Yet we dare not make the mistake of assuming that passing years have rendered irrelevant not only the Old Testament prophets, but also the God who comprehends, spans, and transcends all time. In these pages, C. Hassell Bullock presents a clear picture of some of history's most profound spokesmen--the Old Testament prophets--and the God who shaped them.

A Respected Scholar Introduces Students to the Discipline of Old Testament Studies Richard Hess, a trusted scholar of the Old Testament and the ancient Near East, offers a substantial introduction to the Old Testament that is accessibly written and informed by the latest biblical scholarship. Hess summarizes the contents of the Old Testament, introduces the academic study of the discipline, and helps readers understand the complex world of critical and interpretive issues, addressing major concerns in the critical interpretation of each Old Testament book and key texts. This volume provides a fulsome treatment for students preparing for ministry and assumes no prior knowledge of the Old Testament. Readers will learn how each book of the Old Testament was understood by its first readers, how it advances the larger message of the whole Bible, and what its message contributes to Christian belief and the Christian community. Twenty maps, ninety photos, sidebars, and recommendations for further study add to the book's usefulness for students. Resources for professors are available through Baker Academic's Textbook eSources.

Many introductions to the Old Testament are either too simple, not providing all the necessary information, or overly complicated and written at a level out of the reach of an average person without seminary training. This work is neither. The author is thorough, (providing over 500 footnotes), but at a level that is understandable, and in a concise manner.In this work, Weaver answers important questions such as:-who wrote the book?-when was it written?-where was it written?-why was it written?-to whom was it written?The author also presents a convincing biblical/conservative response to those critical of the Scriptures, answering such questions as:-how was the Pentateuch (Genesis-Deuteronomy) transmitted?-who was the Pharaoh of the exodus?-when did the exodus occur?-are the census numbers recorded in the book of Numbers accurate?-is the chronology of the kings recorded in the book of 1 & 2 Kings reliable?-does the book of Esther belong in the canon of Scripture?-is there more than one author of the book of Isaiah?-who was Darius the Mede (a character in the book of Daniel)?-is the story of Jonah historical?Additionally, Weaver develops the most important theological themes found within each respective book of the Old Testament.One of the great features of this book, not found in most other introductions, are the descriptions of archaeological discoveries (both sites and artifacts), which affirm the historicity of the Scriptures. Such an addition, will build your faith and strengthen your confidence in the inspired Word.In this work, the author demonstrates his passion and commitment to provide high quality resources, at an affordable price, within the reach of anyone serious about studying God's Word.Get your copy today!