My Book for November is a mini Bible Commentary, Getting to Know the Bible.
The Introduction explains that this Booklet is based on an outline programme devised by Father John Daley (from St Theresa's Church, Birstal, Leicester) as part of a Bible Reading Scheme to encourage his Parishioners to read the Bible.
Part One begins with a Gospel according to St Matthew. Father John explains that the Gospel is in seven parts:
(1) the birth and infancy of Jesus
(2-6) Jesus teaching and missionary journeys and actions
(7) The Passion, death and resurrection of Jesus. Also that seven is a Jewish mystical number.
There follows brief comments on each Chapter, for example: -
'Chapter 18 Gentle, general advice. We are to reflect God's forgiveness to one another.'
Part Two switches to the beginning of the Bible with The Book of Genesis. Genesis means 'in the beginning'.
Part Three then considers the Books of Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers and Deuteronomy. I liked the honest comment for Leviticus - 'L is a book of Laws. You may find it difficult to read, even boring. Browse and see what you find'.
Part Four looks at the historical books of Joshua, Judges, Ruth, Samuel and Kings, Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah and Maccabees. The main points are given.
The Booklet goes on to examine the Gospel of St Mark, said to be the earliest of the Gospel accounts. Father John raises an interesting point: -
"If Mark's account is the first and best, why didn't Matthew and Luke simply copy it?"
Altogether there are twelve parts which encompass the whole Bible. Included in this latter Section is a note on the use of story in the Bible and the Booklet ends with a comment of the Birth of Jesus in the Gospel According to St Matthew and St Luke.
This Booklet can be used individually or in groups. The main passages of the Old Testament Books are brought to the readers' attention and the Gospels can be read thoroughly.
The comments are brief but this presents as an excellent and concise introductory guide to encourage the reader in Bible Study.
Why not start this Advent?
Excellent value too.
Getting to Know the Bible (Redemptorist Publications), £2.95
Book Corner written by Lynn Winter
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