Reading the Bible - by William C Creasy (Paperback)

About the Book

In Reading the Bible, Dr. Bill Creasy takes you on an extraordinary adventure through the entire Bible, introducing you to unforgettable characters, gripping drama, uproarious comedy, and profound tragedy, all the while examining the literary genres and rhetorical strategies that make the Bible the greatest story ever told.

Book Synopsis

Learn how to read the Bible as literature and fall in love with God's Word.

We all want to read the Bible verse-by-verse, cover-to-cover, but what happens when you can't get past Leviticus or bog down and quit in Chronicles? How can you make the journey through the Bible spring to life with unforgettable characters, drama, and glittering poetry and prose?

In Reading the Bible: A Literary Guide to Scripture, Dr. Bill Creasy leads you on an unforgettable adventure book-by-book, Genesis through Revelation. Stemming from his popular course at UCLA, The English Bible as Literature, this work delves deeply into the text of the Bible, unveiling its rich literary genres and ancient Near Eastern origins. Recognized as among the top two percent of educators in the U.S., Creasy challenges the notion that the Bible is simply an anthology, instead revealing it as a collection of 'little books' that warrant meticulous exploration.

In this book you will learn how to:

• Read the Bible as a unified literary work
• Engage each book of the Bible in its proper literary genre
• Meet biblical characters as unique people
• Discover the subtle techniques of scriptural storytelling
• Understand the drama of redemption

With the aim of nurturing "knowledgeable readers of Scripture" who can both comprehend and apply its teachings within their own life, Reading the Bible serves as an indispensable guide for those seeking a profound understanding of the world's most influential text.

This book and its companion, Reading the Bible Study Guide, are perfect for group Bible study programs in churches, schools, and seminaries!

Review Quotes

'A lucid, learned, and gripping reading of the Bible, showing its echoes and subtle allusions. Dr. Creasy uncovers literary depths that will engage practiced readers and newcomers to Scripture.'--Rabbi David Wolpe, Max Webb Emeritus Rabbi of Sinai Temple, Scholar in Residence at the Maimonides Fund, and Rabbinic Fellow at the Anti-Defamation League

'A masterful and inspiring exploration of the Bible not only as sacred text, but as profound, complex, and deeply human literature that continues to inspire the hearts and minds of seekers, believers, and scholars alike.'--Rabbi Yoshi Zweiback

'Dr. Bill Creasy has dedicated his life to sharing the poetic riches and truth of the Bible with people of all faith traditions--and those of no faith whatsoever. Through classroom teaching at UCLA, podcasting, and online courses, he has brought the ancient literary forms of Hebrew and Greek to life in English. This book is a distillation of the knowledge that has made him a world-famous teacher.'--Scott Hahn, founder and president of St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology

'Dr. Creasy has been critical in my understanding of the comprehensive story of Scripture. His ability not only to grasp but to communicate the Bible's profound truths has changed the way I have come to know God and his interaction with human beings throughout history.'--Fr. Mike Schmitz, Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministry for the Diocese of Deluth, Founder of the Bible in a Year podcast with over 700 million downloads

'Dr. Creasy has written a brilliant, must-read book for anyone who loves Scripture and wants a deeper and richer understanding of God's Word.'--Mark Burnett and Roma Downey, Producers of The Bible miniseries and the feature film, Son of God

'Dr. William Creasy's Reading the Bible: A Literary Guide to Scripture is a masterful and engaging work that makes Scripture accessible to all. With his years of experience guiding pilgrims through the Holy Land and teaching students at UCLA and in parishes, Dr. Creasy brings a unique depth of insight to the text. He skillfully unveils the Bible's literary beauty, helping readers see it as a grand and unified narrative rather than a confusing collection of books. His clear and practical approach invites readers to celebrate the mystery of God revealed in Scripture. Whether you are a seasoned student or encountering the Bible for the first time, this book will deepen your understanding and appreciation of God's Word.'--Most Rev. John P. Dolan, bishop of the Diocese of Phoenix

'It is a testament to Dr. Creasy's loving familiarity with the Bible, and to his teaching ability, that he can write a five-hundred-page book surveying the entire Bible without it becoming boring. Indeed, by Creasy giving a taste of the individual books and contextualizing them within the whole of sacred Scripture, the reader is left thirsting for more. Any Christian looking to grow in familiarity with the Bible, and with the love of God revealed in it, will benefit from this book.'--Wilton Cardinal Gregory, seventh archbishop of Washington, DC

'Reading the Bible: A Literary Guide to Scripture is an invaluable guide to the literary complexity and historical framework of the Hebrew Bible. Dr. Creasy has created a profoundly compelling window on the unique characters and stories of the Bible.'--Prof. Jean-Pierre Isbouts, professor emeritus at Fielding Graduate University in Santa Barbara, California, and bestselling author of The Biblical World, In the Footsteps of Jesus, and The Story of Christianity

'What a gift Dr. Creasy has given us in this beautiful book as he unpacks the Word of God in fresh, powerful and intimate ways.'--Sheila Walsh, bestselling author, recording artist, and co-host of TBN's Better Together and Praise

Dr. Bill Creasy invites us to join him on a journey through Scripture, not as a daunting reading assignment but as a great adventure. Bill's approach to the Bible presents Scripture as a unified literary work, rich with metaphors, similes, and symbols--a grand story. Walking through the Bible with Dr. Creasy as your guide will lead you to a more intimate, personal relationship with Jesus Christ.--Msgr. Richard Duncanson, University of San Diego Board of Trustees, Emeritus