Understanding God's Word: An Introduction to Interpreting the Bible (Neilsen)

Description

A faithful believer will spend their lifetime interpreting God’s word. But when confused by ancient and complex texts or led astray by small-group discussion, readers are at risk of making faulty conclusions and unbiblical applications. How can Christians correctly interpret and faithfully apply Scripture to their lives the way God intends?

This helpful guide presents 6 hermeneutical tools and demonstrates how to use them effectively in personal or small-group Bible studies. These tools are designed to help Christians read carefully and in context, identify core themes and main points, discover Christ in each passage, and respond faithfully within their own lives. Part of the Theology Basics series, this guide by author and pastor Jon Nielson makes biblical interpretation clear, meaningful, and practical for those looking for a highly accessible guide to studying God’s word.

• Clear Language and Easy-to-Follow Methods: Ideal for new Christians, students, homeschool groups, or anyone wanting a highly accessible guide to biblical interpretation; perfect for individual or group study
• Practical Tools: 6 hermeneutical tools to incorporate in personal or small-group Bible studies
• Part of the Theology Basics Series: A collection of books and study guides to introduce students to systematic theology, biblical theology, and biblical interpretation
• Companion Workbook and Video Series Sold Separately: Invites further interaction with the text to integrate study with application

Content

Introduction

Chapter 1: Basics of Bible Study
Chapter 2: The Context Tool
Chapter 3: The Courtroom Tool
Chapter 4: The Crux Tool
Chapter 5: The Construction Tool
Chapter 6: The Clarity Tool
Chapter 7: The Cross Tool

Conclusion
General Index
Scripture Index

Endorsement

“I’m so grateful to finally have a clear, informative, and helpful introductory resource to help God’s people faithfully interpret Scripture. In Understanding God’s Word, Jon Nielson provides six ‘tools’ that give contours to hermeneutical application for the pastor and layperson alike. This volume will undoubtedly be my go-to recommendation for anybody wanting to rightly and accurately interpret the Bible!”
—Brian Cosby, Senior Pastor, Wayside Presbyterian Church, Signal Mountain, Tennessee; Adjunct Professor of Historical Theology, Reformed Theological Seminary, Atlanta

“These principles have transformed the way I personally read, understand, and teach God’s word. I have been using them for over a decade and highly recommend them. Jon Nielson clearly explains each principle using language we can all understand, working through multiple examples so we can practice and develop our own interpretive muscles. At the end of each chapter, I find myself confident and excited to keep trying. I pray this book will encourage many to dig into God’s word, producing fruit and life transformation. I can’t wait to use this in our church. What a fantastic resource!”
—Abi Byrd, Ministry Associate, McLean Bible Church, Arlington, Virginia; Women’s Instructor, The Charles Simeon Trust; author, You Stand in Grace: Devotions for Walking in Faith

About the Author

Jon Nielson (DMin, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School) serves as the senior pastor of Christ Presbyterian Church of Wheaton in Wheaton, Illinois. He is coeditor of the book Gospel-Centered Youth Ministry and author of the Theology Basics series. He and his wife, Jeanne, have four children.