A Primer on Biblical Literacy

by Cory Marsh

What is Biblical Literacy? Suprisingly, not much has been published addressing this topic, Filling the void, this highly accessible introduction to the subject answers why Christians need to be biblically literate, what biblical literacy is, and how it is achieved. Though interpretive challenges face every reader of Scripture, they need not keep believers from gaining awareness of and proficiency in the Bible's clear teaching. Guided by the principle that the Bible can-and should-be understood, A Primer on Biblical Literacy, is a handy tool that will help readers achieve biblical literacy, and
grow in their understanding of, and reverence for, God's Word.

Genres: Theology, Biblical Studies

154 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 2, 2022

Reviews

[Jeffrey Reynolds · Rating 5 out of 5]

What does it mean to be Biblically Literate? Should it be considered a rarity when there are "bumper sticker" Scriptures taken out of context or those who identify as Christians can't name most of the Ten Commandments or the four Gospels?

A Primer on Biblical Literacy by Cory Marsh is an excellent little book dealing with the subject of Biblical literacy (as you probably suspected by the title). I called it a little book - it composes of three chapters, and doesn't reach the triple digits in page length when the appendices start.

The first chapter focuses on the need for Biblical Literacy by reminding us of Jim Jones, David Koresh, and Marshall Applewhite, showing extreme examples on what happens when people don't know the Bible and challenge those who teach something contrary to Scripture. The second chapter defines Biblical Literacy as developing an awareness of God through Scripture and a proficiency in understanding the meaning of the Biblical text. The final and longest chapter is an introduction to hermeneutics (Biblical interpretation).

The appendices includes the Chicago Statement on Biblical Inerrancy. One of my classes my first semester at Bible College was "Doctrine of Scripture and God," and the professor (Dr. David Nicholas) was off for a week to take part in signing this document. This is the first time I had the privilege of reading it.

I highly recommend this book. I found it an encouragement to get to know the Word of God - and thus, the God of the Word - better.

[Peter Vik · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dr. Marsh gives a concise and compelling introduction to the why and how of biblical literacy. This book is an excellent starting place for any Christian wanting to get serious about studying the Bible, and a much-needed encouragement to any who do not see the need. For an introductory work, some of the terms could be challenging for those with little background in Christianity and no college education. For this reason, I would like to see an edition that includes a glossary. But overall, this is a fantastic little book. I will find it very helpful in both my pastoral and academic ministries.

[Leah Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very easy digestible book! Would recommend if you’re starting out reading or studying the Bible.