Reading the Historical Books: A Student's Guide To Engaging The Biblical Text

Biblical history can be some of the most difficult material for beginning students to grasp. The conventions of contemporary history writing are quite different from those of ancient Israelite writers. Here a master teacher offers basic orientation to the genre and conventions of the Old Testament historical books, helping students become careful and attentive readers.
Written in an accessible style with many ancient and contemporary examples, this book introduces students to some of the phenomena they will encounter in the historical books and provides strategies for understanding their significance. The goal is to make further reading and study of Scripture more informed and sensitive. Sidebars, discussion questions, and further reading suggestions are included.
Contents
Introduction
1. Discovering the Context of the Text
2. Listening to the Story in the Text
3. Discerning the Interests of the Text
4. Examining History in the Text
5. Examining the Shape of History in the Text
Conclusion: Toward a Definition of Biblical Historiography
Indexes