Where did the Bible come from? How do we know the right books are in
the Bible? Does the Bible contain errors? What are the oldest copies we have of
the Bible? How do we know that the Bible hasn't been changed over the years? Why
are there so many translations of the Bible, and which one should I use?
These
are just some of the important questions about the Bible that are discussed in this
book. Understanding basic facts about the origin of the Bible is essential for every
Christian, but it can also be confusing and difficult. Here, two well-known scholars,
authors of a more technical book, A General Introduction to the Bible,
explain simply and clearly these basic facts. Inspiration, the biblical canon, major
manuscripts, textual criticism, early translations, and modern versions are some
of the major topics discussed. Careful explanations of important points are given
throughout, as the entire field of biblical introduction is covered.
Completely
updated and revised edition of the 1974 work (more than 78,000 copies sold). Helpful
charts have been added, along with an index of subjects, persons, and Scripture.
This book is ideally suited for Bible students, pastors, and professors.
While writing for readers without previous training, the authors do not gloss over
difficult and complex issues when they arise. The nature of inspiration, the extent
of the canon, and the usefulness of modern versions are all clearly discussed.
The
authors write: "The chain of communication from God to us is strong.
It has several solid links: inspiration, collection, transmission, and translations.
The strength of these links provide the contemporary Christian with the moral certitude
that the Spirit-inspired original text of Scripture has been providentially preserved
by God so that for all practical purposes the Bible in our hands is the infallible
and inerrant word of God."
