The Drama of Scripture - Finding Our Place in the Biblical Story

The story of the Bible and its account of God's action in the world give meaning to our lives and provide us with the foundation for our actions. The Drama of Scripture is an introduction to the basic story line and theology of the Bible. In considering the biblical story, the authors emphasize the unity of the whole, viewing the Bible as a drama in six acts--creation, sin, Israel, Christ, church, and new creation. Two overarching themes tie the biblical story together--covenant in the Old Testament and kingdom in the New Testament. Throughout, the authors suggest, God is revealed through the story and calls us to participate in his drama.

This updated and revised edition surveys the grand narrative of the Bible, demonstrating how the biblical story forms the foundation of a Christian worldview.

Praise for the First Edition

"Much recent scholarship has emphasized the narrative quality of Scripture. This book takes that insight and brings it to life, enabling even the beginner to grasp the sense of Scripture as a single great story--a drama in which we are all invited to play a part. I am delighted to see solid scholarship made easily accessible in this splendid fashion."
--N. T. Wright, University of St. Andrews; former bishop of Durham

"An intelligent, engaging overview of the narrative of Scripture in six acts. Bartholomew and Goheen have produced a clear and theologically sensitive account of the Bible that is perfect for college students or adult Bible study groups."
--Christopher Seitz, Wycliffe College, University of Toronto

"This is a vivid introduction to reading the Bible as a coherent story of God's purposes for the world. It will not only help the new reader but also enable the experienced reader to distinguish the central themes of Scripture from mere sidelights."
--Gordon J. Wenham, author of Story as Torah and Psalms as Torah

"A volume that will help inexperienced readers of the Bible get a view of the big picture before moving into more atomistic treatments of the Bible. It will serve well in introductory level Bible courses and may serve equally well in basic courses in hermeneutics. Its easy, nontechnical language will make it a popular text with such students."
--Review of Biblical Literature

"Every once in a while a book comes along that immediately meets a real need. This is one of those books. . . . [It] will serve college students, pastors, and scholars well in their efforts to understand and live the Christian story."
--Canadian Evangelical Review

"The book succeeds in making a case for a cohesive narrative in scripture, most successfully in relating the NT to OT in themes of covenant and promise, and when exploring briefly the idea of the contemporary Christian church continuing to be a player in the drama."
--Journal for the Study of the New Testament