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Cover of The Layperson’s Library

The Layperson’s Library

Essential Bible Study Tools for the Man and Woman in the Pew

  • Publisher: Wipf and Stock
  • Published: 2020

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Publisher's Description

In the spirit of Cyril Barber's classic work from the 1970s, The Minister's Library, and the author's 2017 book, The Pastor's Library, Robert Yost provides the same expert guidance now for a lay audience. Finally, laypersons who desire to study the Bible have an invaluable resource for the acquisition of research tools as well as general Christian reading. From general reference works such as Bible atlases and concordances, commentaries, devotional works, and theological studies to Christian biography and fiction, this book is a trustworthy guide through the multiplicity of books that just seem to keep rolling off the presses. Overwhelmed by the proliferation of Christian books on the shelves? This handy guide is the book for you!


Endorsements (11)

Foreword

(wrote the foreword)

Jeff Winter

“There are so many books about the Bible and theology out there, how is a person supposed to figure out what to include in their personal library? Buying and reading a book involves time and money so you don’t want to make a bad decision. That is what makes Robert Yost’s Layperson’s Library so helpful. I find it amazing that Yost not only evaluates commentaries, but so many other resources that are helpful to Bible readers. I recommend this guide to everyone who wants to build a library to assist them in understanding of the faith.”

Tremper Longman III

“The Layperson’s Library is a friendly guided tour around a wise Christian teacher’s study, as he picks volumes off the shelf and explains why they are useful. It introduces key books needed for personal development and ministry, and it offers the serendipity of encountering the unexpected gem. Robert Yost’s knowledge, humor, and love of reading shine through, and make this book the ideal companion for the pilgrim who wants to read and grow.”

John W. Taylor

“This book is so much more than a collection of reference material. It is a treasure trove of wisdom that will be a game changer for students of the Bible. The Layperson’s Library should be a fundamental addition to the library of every church, pastor, teacher, or Bible student.”

George Gasperson

“Robert Yost’s excellent resource, The Layperson’s Library, is an outstanding follow-up to his earlier similar volume for pastors. As a personal compiler of bibliographies on Bible and theology for many years, I can highly recommend both of these works to students of Scripture. Yost very successfully accomplishes his stated purpose in this latest volume of assisting ‘laypersons in making wise choices in purchasing books for the study of the Bible.’ Every serious student of the Bible should own this book.”

Robert B. Shelley

“Robert Yost has put together a well-organized collection of biblical and theological resources for the layperson. The collection provides an excellent survey and guide to help navigate the complex landscape of the literature available. This is an essential book for someone just beginning or looking to expand their own library and resources.”

Ryan A. Brandt

“Time and money are limited, but it would appear that the production of books is not. With so many Bible resources and commentaries on the market, where should a layperson begin to get quality information? I can think of no better starting point than Robert Yost’s welcome and timely volume.”

Matthew Akers

“Dr. Robert Yost, or ‘Dr. Bob’ as he is affectionately known in the congregation I pastor, is generous in offering his gifts of teaching and study to the service of the local church. Teaching Bible studies to laypeople in multiple denominations has given him a unique understanding of the Bible study needs of the laity. I commend this work to laity seeking to go deeper in their study of Scripture and theology, as well as pastors seeking for their congregations to go deeper in their own personal study. Thank you for offering this labor of love for the edification of all believers in the body of Christ.”

David T. Averill

“If you are looking for just the right source to help you in your theological studies or for help in preparing a Sunday school lesson, you will be well-served to consult Dr. Robert Yost’s new book, The Layperson’s Library. I strongly recommend his judgments and annotations on every book. This book is immensely helpful to interested laymen as well as clergy.”

Sharon Williamson

“It is an honor to endorse Dr. Yost’s book, The Layperson’s Library, for it will prove to be a valuable asset to the English-speaking church as a handy reference for Bible study. Having served as a colleague in ministry and academics with Dr. Yost for many years, I am glad that this book will share his wealth of wisdom into biblical resources with the entire Christian community. It should become the first book pulled from the shelf to aid every worker ‘to handle accurately the word of truth’ (2 Tim 2:15).”

Stephen Stout

“If you’re looking for that trustworthy and reader-friendly Bible study resource, check out Yost’s wide-ranging recommendations. You’ll find both newer and older books to guide your desire to know God more and live in light of his word. Not only information about commentaries, Bible handbooks, and works on many Christian doctrines, but also suggestions on prayer, daily devotions, biographies, and Christian fiction. Search through titles representing a wide variety of interests and needs.”

Klaus Issler

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