This profusely illustrated book introduces the reader to both the content of the Bible and to the life, faith, and history of ancient Israel, early Judaism, and early Christianity. Part 1 offers an overall introduction to the study of the Bible, including the techniques of Bible criticism. Part 2 discusses the life, faith, and literature of ancient Israel from the earliest times to the end of Babylonian exile. Part 3 presents the history of the restored Jewish community from the days of the return through the early years of Roman rule, with a look at some apocryphal and apocolyptic...

This is the third and final volume in the comprehensive three-volume set of commentaries on all of the lectionary texts for Sunday reading (including the Psalms) and for special days in all communions, treating the readings for each year in a single volume. The three volumes are based on The Common Lectionary (1992) together with other readings kept in the Episcopal, Lutheran, and Roman Catholic churches. A complete index of texts is included in each volume, making it useful for those who do not follow the lectionary or who are looking for commentaries on specific texts. Continuing acclaim...