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Making Sense of the Bible: How to Connect With God Through His Word
I Want to Read the Bible, but Where Do I Start?
The Bible can seem like an intimidating book, but it may be easier to understand than you think. Making Sense of the Bible will teach you how to enjoy studying it on your own.
David Whitehead has been helping people engage with the Bible for years, including through his popular website, The Daily Bible Verse. The Bible is an incredible gift from God to you, and this brief "user's manual" will teach you how to get the most out of it. Perfect for individual or group use, this book answers basic questions like how to know which Bible version is right for you, and from there introduces you to its stories, people, and major themes.
In the end, reading the Bible isn't just about knowledge, it's about connecting with the God who speaks through His Word. Let this engaging book help you hear what He wants to tell you.
The Bible can seem like an intimidating book, but it may be easier to understand than you think. Making Sense of the Bible will teach you how to enjoy studying it on your own.
David Whitehead has been helping people engage with the Bible for years, including through his popular website, The Daily Bible Verse. The Bible is an incredible gift from God to you, and this brief "user's manual" will teach you how to get the most out of it. Perfect for individual or group use, this book answers basic questions like how to know which Bible version is right for you, and from there introduces you to its stories, people, and major themes.
In the end, reading the Bible isn't just about knowledge, it's about connecting with the God who speaks through His Word. Let this engaging book help you hear what He wants to tell you.
- GenresChristian
176 pages, Paperback
First published August 12, 2014
22 people are currently reading
311 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
August 16, 2014
In many ways, it doesn't get more basic than Making Sense of the Bible. Whitehead does a good enough job in giving readers essential background information; he covers all the basics.
In the introduction, he discusses why it's important for believers to read the Bible. He covers why it's important to have an understanding of the Bible, but, even more important to have a relationship with God--a relationship grounded in the truth of God's Revelation.
In the first chapter, he addresses a question that may authentically confuse some: WHY are there so many translations?! He covers the basics there as well. (Whole books have been written on translation philosophies and what translations are really "best." Whitehead offers a good introduction, but, it is by no means a thorough discussion of the subject.)
In the second chapter, he discusses "the heart of the reader." He discusses reading and studying the Bible. He writes,
"It's humbling to think that we don't judge the Bible, the Bible judges us. If we see the Bible in the way it speaks of itself--as the very Word of God--then our reaction to the Scriptures is more than just a reaction. It is a clue to the condition of our heart" (30).
In the third chapter, he discusses writing styles in the Bible.
Whitehead's strength perhaps is his ability to summarize. This is revealed in chapters four through 12. In these chapters, Whitehead summarizes essentially all 66 books of the Bible--perhaps not with equal depth. These summaries come about through his discussions about genres: gospels, epistles, Old Testament narratives, poetry, and prophetic literature. He also summarizes the lives of Abraham, Moses, David, and Jesus. It would be hard to understand many portions of the New Testament without a good idea of who Abraham, Moses, and David were. And this book will give readers what they need to grasp the big picture of the Bible. It is mostly summary work. Are his summaries the best summaries available on the books of the Bible? Probably not. I really LOVE, LOVE, LOVE How to Read the Bible through the Jesus Lens: A Guide to Christ-Focused Reading of Scripture. And I loved Woodrow Kroll's Read Your Bible One Book at a Time: A Refreshing Way to Read God's Word with New Insight and Meaning.
I was personally annoyed by the author's dismissive attitude of Revelation. Revelation is one of my favorite, favorite, favorite books of the Bible. It has SO MUCH to offer readers, and this author dismisses it as "not based upon real events" and warns readers that "they won't get much out of Revelation." It is a book about the future, yes, but that doesn't mean that it's not based upon real events just because those events are in the future instead of the past.
In the introduction, he discusses why it's important for believers to read the Bible. He covers why it's important to have an understanding of the Bible, but, even more important to have a relationship with God--a relationship grounded in the truth of God's Revelation.
In the first chapter, he addresses a question that may authentically confuse some: WHY are there so many translations?! He covers the basics there as well. (Whole books have been written on translation philosophies and what translations are really "best." Whitehead offers a good introduction, but, it is by no means a thorough discussion of the subject.)
In the second chapter, he discusses "the heart of the reader." He discusses reading and studying the Bible. He writes,
"It's humbling to think that we don't judge the Bible, the Bible judges us. If we see the Bible in the way it speaks of itself--as the very Word of God--then our reaction to the Scriptures is more than just a reaction. It is a clue to the condition of our heart" (30).
In the third chapter, he discusses writing styles in the Bible.
Whitehead's strength perhaps is his ability to summarize. This is revealed in chapters four through 12. In these chapters, Whitehead summarizes essentially all 66 books of the Bible--perhaps not with equal depth. These summaries come about through his discussions about genres: gospels, epistles, Old Testament narratives, poetry, and prophetic literature. He also summarizes the lives of Abraham, Moses, David, and Jesus. It would be hard to understand many portions of the New Testament without a good idea of who Abraham, Moses, and David were. And this book will give readers what they need to grasp the big picture of the Bible. It is mostly summary work. Are his summaries the best summaries available on the books of the Bible? Probably not. I really LOVE, LOVE, LOVE How to Read the Bible through the Jesus Lens: A Guide to Christ-Focused Reading of Scripture. And I loved Woodrow Kroll's Read Your Bible One Book at a Time: A Refreshing Way to Read God's Word with New Insight and Meaning.
I was personally annoyed by the author's dismissive attitude of Revelation. Revelation is one of my favorite, favorite, favorite books of the Bible. It has SO MUCH to offer readers, and this author dismisses it as "not based upon real events" and warns readers that "they won't get much out of Revelation." It is a book about the future, yes, but that doesn't mean that it's not based upon real events just because those events are in the future instead of the past.
August 29, 2014
When seeing this title offered by Bethany House, I liked it immediately because of the title. However, there was a sinking feeling that the title might not live up to its words. It did not take long to realize the author, David Whitehead, truly intends to help readers Make Sense Of The Bible. This book made me want to pick up the Bible without fear of not understanding any one of its sixty-six books. David Whitehead's book is a small book. It's very easy to understand. He incredibly and cleverly describes the message of each book of the Bible.
I had so many wrong ideas. I found the right answers. It made me feel like a friend had given me a small and easy quiz to take with the desire that I make a hundred on the quiz. For example, what does it mean when hearing a pastor or anyone say the words "Major and Minor Prophets?" The answer is amazing to me and a simple one. Also, I did not realize there is so much Poetry in the Bible. People read the Bible just for its Poetry. There are metaphors and other poetic methods to lighten our way or darken our way. Then, at the end of all the chapters is a wonderful paragraph describing what has been read in those chapters.
The Bible stories are written delightfully. I wanted to read about the Red Sea opening up again. I wanted to read about Moses and the Burning Bush again. There is the story of Jesus making more wine at the wedding in the New Testament. The author relates this to the wine that will be drank at another wedding which is mentioned in Revelations.
Most of all David Whitehead gets across the point that no part of the Bible is out of date. All of the books pertain to our time of life because these are personal love messages to us from God. This is one of those books that would make a fine gift. It is one of those books that go on a forever shelf in your home. Making Sense of The Bible by David Whitehead is unforgettable, but its also usable. The user friendliness of the book is the best part to me.bakerpublishinggroup.com/books/mak...
I had so many wrong ideas. I found the right answers. It made me feel like a friend had given me a small and easy quiz to take with the desire that I make a hundred on the quiz. For example, what does it mean when hearing a pastor or anyone say the words "Major and Minor Prophets?" The answer is amazing to me and a simple one. Also, I did not realize there is so much Poetry in the Bible. People read the Bible just for its Poetry. There are metaphors and other poetic methods to lighten our way or darken our way. Then, at the end of all the chapters is a wonderful paragraph describing what has been read in those chapters.
The Bible stories are written delightfully. I wanted to read about the Red Sea opening up again. I wanted to read about Moses and the Burning Bush again. There is the story of Jesus making more wine at the wedding in the New Testament. The author relates this to the wine that will be drank at another wedding which is mentioned in Revelations.
Most of all David Whitehead gets across the point that no part of the Bible is out of date. All of the books pertain to our time of life because these are personal love messages to us from God. This is one of those books that would make a fine gift. It is one of those books that go on a forever shelf in your home. Making Sense of The Bible by David Whitehead is unforgettable, but its also usable. The user friendliness of the book is the best part to me.bakerpublishinggroup.com/books/mak...
August 20, 2014
“I want to read the Bible, but where do I start? The Bible can seem like an intimidating book, but it may be easier to understand than you think. Making Sense of the Bible will teach you how to enjoy studying it on your own.”
As the Author, David Whitehead, says right in the introduction – “The goal in reading the Bible is not to simply read the Bible. The goal in reading the Bible is to get to know and interact with the God of the Bible.” This is such a true statement.
I just finished reading this book and what an interesting book this turned out to be. It truly starts off by answering the simplest, yet so often asked question… why are there so many translations? Such an innocent question that I’ve heard asked many times. This book takes on that question and so many others.
By walking us through an overview of the various books of the bible – both Old and New Testament – we get a broad overview of the author, the message, the location, the culture, and the audience to whom the book was written.
The Bible is a big book, but it can be read and understood. This book would be an ideal addition to a Bible study for both a new or seasoned believer.
About the Author: David Whitehead has been helping people connect with Jesus Christ for more than 30 years throughout the U.S, and abroad. He is the pastor of Grace in Manhattan and a Church-planting coach for Redeemer City to City.
*Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book through the Bethany House Blogger Review Program, in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.
*Reviews of this book were posted at the following locations:
Amazon, Christian Book, Deeper Shopping, Goodreads, and to be featured on my blog at http://titus3.wordpress.com
As the Author, David Whitehead, says right in the introduction – “The goal in reading the Bible is not to simply read the Bible. The goal in reading the Bible is to get to know and interact with the God of the Bible.” This is such a true statement.
I just finished reading this book and what an interesting book this turned out to be. It truly starts off by answering the simplest, yet so often asked question… why are there so many translations? Such an innocent question that I’ve heard asked many times. This book takes on that question and so many others.
By walking us through an overview of the various books of the bible – both Old and New Testament – we get a broad overview of the author, the message, the location, the culture, and the audience to whom the book was written.
The Bible is a big book, but it can be read and understood. This book would be an ideal addition to a Bible study for both a new or seasoned believer.
About the Author: David Whitehead has been helping people connect with Jesus Christ for more than 30 years throughout the U.S, and abroad. He is the pastor of Grace in Manhattan and a Church-planting coach for Redeemer City to City.
*Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book through the Bethany House Blogger Review Program, in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.
*Reviews of this book were posted at the following locations:
Amazon, Christian Book, Deeper Shopping, Goodreads, and to be featured on my blog at http://titus3.wordpress.com
August 14, 2014
Afternoon Loverlies! I received Making Sense Of The Bible written by David Whitehead to review. This book will be released on August 19, 2014. I hate to say that I have not finished this book, but I am sure I will sooner or later. It has been really hard for me to focus on finishing this book, I just cannot keep my attention on it. It is easy to read and not a very long book at all. I believe I just had different expectations on how the book would be. So far from what I read, the author has taken certain stories from the Bible and explained why they did what they did. Example: The story of Abram and his son, where God asks him to sacrifice his son. The author I believe did a decent job at explaining that story. I do wish I had someone who understands the story better to talk with, so I can ask questions.
I believe this book would be well used in a bible study group at church. There is a chapter in this book called The Epistles, in this chapter Whitehead explains what some of the books in the Bible are written about. This example I took from the book word for word. Example: "ROMANS - The most systematic of Paul's epistles. This letter explains the plan of salvation for the Gentiles and the Jews (Whitehead, p. 68. 2014)." One last thing I want to share about this book, is in the back of the book the author put a one year Bible reading plan. Which I think is pretty neat to have. Just because I couldn't focus does not mean that you all would have the same issue. From what I was able to focus on reading, it seems like it is a good book to grab and read for yourself. Have A Blessed Day!
I believe this book would be well used in a bible study group at church. There is a chapter in this book called The Epistles, in this chapter Whitehead explains what some of the books in the Bible are written about. This example I took from the book word for word. Example: "ROMANS - The most systematic of Paul's epistles. This letter explains the plan of salvation for the Gentiles and the Jews (Whitehead, p. 68. 2014)." One last thing I want to share about this book, is in the back of the book the author put a one year Bible reading plan. Which I think is pretty neat to have. Just because I couldn't focus does not mean that you all would have the same issue. From what I was able to focus on reading, it seems like it is a good book to grab and read for yourself. Have A Blessed Day!
September 13, 2014
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book is an excellent introduction to the Bible for new Christians or for those who have never read the Bible.This is only my first go round reading the Bible this year (beyond what I get from church every Sunday and what I got from Catholic school years ago), so some of it would have been helpful to me in the beginning of the year to become reaquainted with the Bible. It's very basic, so if you're beyond the basics, this book isn't for you. Things like why are there so many different translations, which may be right for you, and the pros and cons of each type of translation.
For someone like me, who has gone slightly beyond the basics, it was kind of boring, going over stuff that I already knew. There were some pearls hidden in there, however, that pulled this book out of boring drudgery. Overall, though, I was disappointed in it, as I didn't realise it was at such a beginner level.
I'm sure there have got to be better books out there for beginners, something that is a little more indepth.
This book is an excellent introduction to the Bible for new Christians or for those who have never read the Bible.This is only my first go round reading the Bible this year (beyond what I get from church every Sunday and what I got from Catholic school years ago), so some of it would have been helpful to me in the beginning of the year to become reaquainted with the Bible. It's very basic, so if you're beyond the basics, this book isn't for you. Things like why are there so many different translations, which may be right for you, and the pros and cons of each type of translation.
For someone like me, who has gone slightly beyond the basics, it was kind of boring, going over stuff that I already knew. There were some pearls hidden in there, however, that pulled this book out of boring drudgery. Overall, though, I was disappointed in it, as I didn't realise it was at such a beginner level.
I'm sure there have got to be better books out there for beginners, something that is a little more indepth.
August 19, 2014
This is a good book for new Christians or other Christians not at all familiar with the Bible. It is a very elementary introduction to the Bible. He explains the overall themes, gives synopsis of the books, looks at four major characters in the Bible.
My disappointment in the book is the subtitle about connecting with God. Whitehead's book is about becoming more familiar with the Bible so one is better able to read it. But there is a difference between reading the Bible and connecting with God. Getting to know God better and interacting with Him more is something beyond the scope of this book.
See my complete review at http://bit.ly/1kRD8Ag.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher for the purpose of an independent and honest review.
My disappointment in the book is the subtitle about connecting with God. Whitehead's book is about becoming more familiar with the Bible so one is better able to read it. But there is a difference between reading the Bible and connecting with God. Getting to know God better and interacting with Him more is something beyond the scope of this book.
See my complete review at http://bit.ly/1kRD8Ag.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher for the purpose of an independent and honest review.
September 27, 2014
I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for an honest review. This book is excellent for new Believers in Christ, or someone who has been just thinking of picking up the Bible who doesn't know God. I really liked it for that purpose.It is very helpful. I like the insight on the different translations, the various writing styles of the Bible. Easy to understand synopsis of each book of the bible. It tells the story of the Gospel in a simple way so that a child could understand. It also had a "Read through the Bible" plan in the Appendix, as well as resources for deeper study to continue your Discipleship in the Word. I do highly reccomend this book for Pre-teens, Tweens, Teenagers, and adult new Christians who are unfamiliar with God's Word.
October 18, 2014
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway. No offense to most authors who do these giveaways, but the books are usually not very good. That's why you don't see them rated on this page. I hate to be mean to other authors.
However, I was pleasantly surprised by this one. Mr. Whitehead gives a good view of each book of the Bible. I've read the Bible several times and still find books that confuse me. (Ecclesiastes, for instance) It was nice to see some meaning put to these particular books of the Bible.
I would recommend this for not only beginning Bible readers, but anyone who finds themselves confused when they read the Bible. Mr. Whitehead's book will help you makes sense and order out of what you're reading.
However, I was pleasantly surprised by this one. Mr. Whitehead gives a good view of each book of the Bible. I've read the Bible several times and still find books that confuse me. (Ecclesiastes, for instance) It was nice to see some meaning put to these particular books of the Bible.
I would recommend this for not only beginning Bible readers, but anyone who finds themselves confused when they read the Bible. Mr. Whitehead's book will help you makes sense and order out of what you're reading.
December 29, 2014
Aims to encourage people to read the bible, and explains how you should read the Scriptures.
Over complicates things.
It explains some of the major themes in the Bible, and loosely tries to link them. The author claims that this exists in making sense of the bible.
Abraham and his family are given a chapter where their purpose and actions are linked to the overall theme of the Bible. Similarly the Gospels are explained and linked to the Bible.
Overall I found the book very simplistic. It would not be a reference I would give a new Christian, and wouldn't use it in a study group. I could see the only audience being Christians after a very basic overview of the Scriptures.
Over complicates things.
It explains some of the major themes in the Bible, and loosely tries to link them. The author claims that this exists in making sense of the bible.
Abraham and his family are given a chapter where their purpose and actions are linked to the overall theme of the Bible. Similarly the Gospels are explained and linked to the Bible.
Overall I found the book very simplistic. It would not be a reference I would give a new Christian, and wouldn't use it in a study group. I could see the only audience being Christians after a very basic overview of the Scriptures.
December 20, 2015
I expected more from this book. It is mixed up, jumps from old to new testament and does not lead the reader to many connections. This seems to be a series of sermons or teachings on various parts of the Bible. I received a review copy of this book from Goodreads.
August 27, 2015
Basic
This was a basic outline of the bible. The things of interest that I took to heart was that I am supposed to read the bible to reveal Jesus Christ and not just for head knowledge which I sometimes do.
This was a basic outline of the bible. The things of interest that I took to heart was that I am supposed to read the bible to reveal Jesus Christ and not just for head knowledge which I sometimes do.
August 26, 2014
People who have never read the Bible, or who only have cursory knowledge of it will benefit most from this book.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews