Introducing the Old Testament Story: Reading Scripture As Spiritual Formation

Introducing the Old Testament Story: Reading Scripture as Spiritual Formation familiarizes students with the Ancient Near Eastern writings that compose the Old Testament. Through the application of literary, historical, and cultural analysis, this textbook helps the modern reader not only understand the story of the ancient Hebrews and their relationship to God, but also to experience it as the ancient Hebrews did, encouraging a deeply personal and divine connection with the material. The text begins by providing background information regarding the Old Testament. The first two chapters provide context as to what the Old Testament is, where and when its story occurred, a general idea of what the story is about, how the story progressed over time, how to approach scholarly study of the writings, and the authenticity of the works. Each succeeding chapter addresses specific writings within the Old Testament, bringing to light the literary devices at play, the cultural context and significance of each piece, and how ancient Hebrews would have consumed and reacted to each selection. Written to inspire engagement with Old Testament writings on both an academic and spiritual level, Introducing the Old Testament Story is ideal for introductory or survey courses on the Old Testament, as well as courses on religion, especially those focusing on the place of the Bible in spiritual formation.

About the Author :
David Brisben, Ph.D., is a professor of Christian ministries at John Brown University. He earned his master’s in divinity degree from Erskine Seminary and his doctorate degree from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. His passion for storytelling, and more specifically the stories found in the Old and New Testaments, drives his vocational calling to teach students what it means to enter and live in God’s story.

Review :
This book is a must read for anyone who has fallen asleep reading Leviticus. Or for anyone who questions the canonical inspiration of Hebrew scripture, or the relevance of the Old Testament in the story of salvation. This text is clear, concise, and at the same time stays well-focused on a depth of narrative insight that doesn't forsake its intention to be introductory. The author reintroduces the ancient biblical story as a narrative of God's revelation to God's people in order to spiritually shape them to be God's witnesses in their own time and place. Brisben maintains that the Old Testament, because it is God's Word, still has the power and purpose to accomplish this intention in God's people today. This textbook is well referenced, and included helpful sidebars and summary diagrams to help readers visualize narrative connections, chiastic structures and the chronological sequencing of an epic adventure story. Each chapter ends with study questions and a personal application section. With challenging language, Brisben confronts head-on common dismissive or disinterested attitudes of doubt or resistance many folks have regarding Old Testament texts. At times he seems to dare us to read this story again with eyes wide open and prejudice suspended. Yes! Take a daring journey into the story of the Old Testament with your guide Dr. David Brisben and discover how the ancient story of God's faithfulness can result in surprising spiritual formation as a participant in God's covenant saga." —Dr. Robbie F. Castleman, author of Interpreting The God-Breathed Word (Baker Books Academic), New Testament Essentials, and Story-Shaped Worship (InterVarsity Press) "Brisben's book reminds the church and those who serve her that we belong to a larger story of mercy and redemption. We would do well to follow him as he guides us into the rhythms of grace that claim our lives. A delightful read, accessible and edifying no matter where one might be on the journey of faith." —Craig Meek, Assistant Minister of Pastoral Care, St. Giles Cathedral, Edinburgh, Scotland "Brisben does in this book what few other authors on the Old Testament do – he combines solid, critical scholarship on the Old Testament with a faithful application of the text to the life of the modern reader. Leading his readers into how they can "enter into the story of the Old Testament," Brisben provides insights that will help students to see not only the content of the Old Testament, but why that content matters today, to them. He begins with a thoughtful presentation of Old Testament Background, and a discussion of the Authenticity of the text, as Christians readers have generally understood those issues. Then, in successive chapters, he surveys the literary structures and basic content of the books of the Old Testament. Each chapter concludes with thoughtful study questions and application to the life of the modern reader. Brisben's unique contribution in all of this is his clear and convincing reading of the text of the Old Testament that calls the modern reader to enter into this ancient story. Both professors and students will find Brisben's contribution here a refreshing change from the typical survey of the Old Testament."—David H. Vila, Ph.D., Professor of Religion & Philosophy, Director, Abila Archaeological Project Northern Jordan, John Brown University