Reading the Pentateuch as Christian Scripture

“This is a textbook with a (major) difference: It generates excitement and builds confidence in its readers, even as it gives them vast amounts of information, beautifully presented and in readily comprehensible language. Beldman and Rhodes open windows into the ancient world in all its complexity and lay down clear paths through the almost infinitely varied landscape of modern biblical interpretation. With the skill of the best teachers, they anticipate the myriad questions that thoughtful students pose, and they address them with clarity and directness, not shying away from the most difficult theological conundrums but instead offering guidance for wrestling with them in good faith. A textbook this good could go a long way toward renewing the enthusiasm of those who teach Bible, and indeed raising up a new generation of wise readers and scholars for the church.”

Ellen F. Davis

“This volume is a very readable and quite comprehensive guide to the Pentateuch. These first five books of the Bible are often not well understood, ignored as irrelevant, or reduced to simply prefiguring Jesus. How misguided! Beldman and Rhodes reveal the theological riches of the Pentateuch, which in many ways are foundational to Christian faith and germane to the mission of the people of God in the world today. A wonderful resource!”

M. Daniel Carroll R.

“How I wish I’d had this book when I taught the Pentateuch years ago, and how I envy professors and students who will have the pleasure and benefit of having it as a textbook today! It is such a refreshing contrast to tedious introductions of old, with its interest-sustaining variety, exploring not only the what of the text's content but also how the different genres work and why these books matter theologically for disciples of Christ. The Pentateuch deserves such loving appreciation.”

Christopher J. H. Wright

“This latest addition to Baker Academic's Reading Christian Scripture series is, quite literally, outstanding: It stands out in a crowded market of introductions both to the Bible generally and to the Pentateuch specifically. It does so in a host of ways, including its design and its numerous sidebars, figures, and other helps that make this volume perfect for classroom use. It's also remarkably thorough. Hardly had an issue or question crossed my mind before I found Beldman and Rhodes addressing it. No stone is left unturned here, with the stones in question running from the ancient context right down to our present moment with its manifold concerns. Simply put, there is a great deal of information to be found in this book, but even more wisdom. The greenest of students and the most seasoned of scholars will learn much from this book.”

Brent A. Strawn

“Beldman and Rhodes offer an accessible, theologically rich, visually engaging, and highly relevant resource for students and church leaders. They lay out the Pentateuch's grand design, address its many riddles and challenges, and guide readers toward a renewed understanding of God's revelation in these five books and of how we are to respond. I will use this valuable resource in my courses.”

Chloe T. Sun

“This textbook will jolt readers awake to the riches and depths of the Pentateuch. Beldman and Rhodes are engaging and reliable guides through the Torah's complex terrain. They don't shy away from the hard stuff, but they also help you rediscover familiar passages. What a gift to have this book!”

Matthew Lynch

“This wide-ranging textbook on the Pentateuch is an excellent addition to the Reading Christian Scripture series. Beldman and Rhodes help readers contextualize the Pentateuch within God's larger story of Scripture, exploring the theological, literary, and social nature of the biblical text. Not shying away from the morally challenging dimensions of the Pentateuch, this book draws on the collective wisdom of the global church across history. This is particularly evident in chapters interspersed throughout the biblical survey that address important questions, such as how to read Old Testament narrative and poetry today, what to do with biblical law and ritual texts, and how to navigate violent Old Testament texts today. Even as Christians continue to disagree on these matters, Beldman and Rhodes provide a rich resource for Christian reflection. This textbook also exhibits a notable sensitivity to ethnic and cultural diversity that will serve many different communities in the body of Christ. Though fit for the classroom, this textbook puts the academic study of the Pentateuch in service of hearing the voice of the living God.”

Andrew M. King