By the time we have read through Exodus we have learned the basic vocabulary of the Gospel - words like blood, redeem, sacrifice, glory, law, tabernacle and passover are all here, part of the great drama in which God saves a people for himself. To study Exodus, therefore, is to come to the heart of the message of redemption, to see God as the Saviour of his people, caring for them and present with them as they journey from Egypt to Canaan, from the house of bondage to the land of promise. Join the journey now!

Although the Bible can seem incomprehensible, the Opening Up the Bible series is designed to provide a basic grounding and introduction to the individual books within it. These simple (but not simplistic) tools will help individuals and small groups understand God’s Word, no matter what background or knowledge they already have.

Each volume takes you section-by-section through the covered book, opening up God's word with wisdom, insight, and practical application. Additionally, the "For Further Study" points at the end of a section provide guidance to other areas of scripture that further illuminate the lesson, and the "To Think About and Discuss" section provides thought-provoking questions that can be used by both individuals and groups to gain understanding and apply the subject matter to life today.

Rev Dr Iain D. Campbell is Pastor of Back Free Church of Scotland on the Isle of Lewis. He trained for the ministry at the University of Glasgow and at the Free Church College, Edinburgh. His PhD is from the University of Edinburgh. He contributes regularly to several theological journals. His wife, Anne, is a teacher, and they have three children.

Ezekiel's ministry took place during a time of important transition in the life of the nation of Israel - a time when the judgement of God would bring catastrophic change to the lives of its people. Balances in power were shifting - the former superpower Egypt was in decline, and Assyria's influence was becoming less significant. Babylon was on the rise, and the seige of Jerusalem by Nebuchadnezzar resulted in 10,000 people taken into captivity, among them the priest-turned-prophet Ezekiel. His prophetic ministry, often accompanied by symbolic actions, lasted over 20 years. The pre-captivity prophecies warned of disaster, but post-captivity prophecies more positively contained promises of hope.

Rather than being a commentary on Ezekiel, this volume on Ezekiel in the Opening Up series provides lessons and principles for today's Christians derived from some of Ezekiel's visions.

Although the Bible can seem incomprehensible, the Opening Up the Bible series is designed to provide a basic grounding and introduction to the individual books within it. These simple (but not simplistic) tools will help individuals and small groups understand God’s Word, no matter what background or knowledge they already have.

Each volume takes you section-by-section through the covered book, opening up God's word with wisdom, insight, and practical application. Additionally, the "For Further Study" points at the end of a section provide guidance to other areas of scripture that further illuminate the lesson, and the "To Think About and Discuss" section provides thought-provoking questions that can be used by both individuals and groups to gain understanding and apply the subject matter to life today.

Peter Jeffery served as a minister for many years in Wales and England before engaging in an itinerant ministry of evangelism and preaching which has taken him to many parts of the world. He has a passion for sharing the gospel in clear terms and with vivid illustrations. He is author of some forty books, many of which are intended for new believers and those who are not yet mature in the Christian faith.

The book of Ezra, tucked away in the Old Testament, is often overlooked, yet it is remarkable for its relevance to the modern world. Ezra the scribe is a warm hearted man who exercised a powerful ministry of spiritual, practical leadership to the Jews who had returned to Israel after the exile in Babylon. Love for God's word is a hallmark of his life, and he stands as a powerful example in establishing reformation and revival in the life of the nation. This easy-to-use guide to the book of Ezra may be used for group or individual study.

Although the Bible can seem incomprehensible, the Opening Up the Bible series is designed to provide a basic grounding and introduction to the individual books within it. These simple (but not simplistic) tools will help individuals and small groups understand God’s Word, no matter what background or knowledge they already have.

Each volume takes you section-by-section through the covered book, opening up God's word with wisdom, insight, and practical application. Additionally, the "For Further Study" points at the end of a section provide guidance to other areas of scripture that further illuminate the lesson, and the "To Think About and Discuss" section provides thought-provoking questions that can be used by both individuals and groups to gain understanding and apply the subject matter to life today.

Peter Williams is a Welshman from the town of Neath in South Wales. He is a graduate of the University of Wales and has degrees in theology and philosophy. He has served churches in England and Wales and has continued a preaching ministry since his retirement in 1997, now exercising oversight at Southbourne Evangelical Church in Bournemouth, England. He is author of several other books also published by Day One, including Opening up 2 Timothy and Opening up Haggai. He and his wife, Brenda, have a son, daughter, and three grandsons.

God overrules for good the activities of those who teach false doctrine. In the days of the apostles, for example, we see these activities being overruled to the production of some of our foundational New Testament documents. Galatians is the prime example. The heresy it combats is, in its essence, widespread, and because of that, the letter is no less necessary now than it was 2,000 years ago. It gives us a very clear answer to that most vital of questions: How, as sinners, can we come to be right with the God against whom we have sinned? Nor does it leave it off before it has answered the related and no less important question: How, having become right with God, are we to progress in our Christian lives?

Although the Bible can seem incomprehensible, the Opening Up the Bible series is designed to provide a basic grounding and introduction to the individual books within it. These simple (but not simplistic) tools will help individuals and small groups understand God’s Word, no matter what background or knowledge they already have.

Each volume takes you section-by-section through the covered book, opening up God's word with wisdom, insight, and practical application. Additionally, the "For Further Study" points at the end of a section provide guidance to other areas of scripture that further illuminate the lesson, and the "To Think About and Discuss" section provides thought-provoking questions that can be used by both individuals and groups to gain understanding and apply the subject matter to life today.

David Campbell was born and raised in Scotland and was converted to Christ as a child. During his bachelor’s degree at Glasgow University he felt a call to the gospel ministry and subsequently spent four years studying at the Free Church of Scotland College in Edinburgh. After being the pastor of the Geneva Road Evangelical Baptist Church in Darlington, England, he began his ministry in Grace Baptist Church, Carlisle, Pennsylvania. He and his wife, Mairi, have two daughters, Megan and Caitriona. David is also author of Day One’s Travel with John Knox.

Genesis is the book of beginnings. But it is also a book about God. "In the beginning God" is the opening freeze-frame of the Bible. If we go back in time before the world sprung into being, we find God. If we ask where the world came from, Genesis answers: God. If we wonder why the universe continues to operate in an orderly, timely, predictable fashion, the answer in Genesis is God. And as we ponder how all this ancient information has been preserved and passed down to us, the answer again is God, who gave this book to Moses and had him write it down for the ages.

Kurt Strassner leads readers through Genesis with clarity and application, showing its vital relevance to our modern world.

Although the Bible can seem incomprehensible, the Opening Up the Bible series is designed to provide a basic grounding and introduction to the individual books within it. These simple (but not simplistic) tools will help individuals and small groups understand God’s Word, no matter what background or knowledge they already have.

Each volume takes you section-by-section through the covered book, opening up God's word with wisdom, insight, and practical application. Additionally, the "For Further Study" points at the end of a section provide guidance to other areas of scripture that further illuminate the lesson, and the "To Think About and Discuss" section provides thought-provoking questions that can be used by both individuals and groups to gain understanding and apply the subject matter to life today.

Kurt Strassner is pastor of Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church in Cincinnati, Ohio. He graduated from the University of Mississippi and attended seminary in Memphis, Tennessee. He is married to Tobey, a homemaker, and together they have three children. Opening up Genesis is his first publication.

What makes the book of Haggai especially interesting is that he is one of the three last prophets of the Old Testament period to receive God's revelation before the coming of Christ. He was a man with a single message for the people of his day, and he preached it with unparalleled persuasive force and power. That message was concentrated on the need to rebuild the temple, which had been neglected for many years. But by the time Haggai appeared on the scene the people had become dispirited and had lost interest in the rebuilding project. But he knew that its restoration was essential as the outward sign of the covenant, and of the Lord's presence with his people. We know hardly anything about Haggai as an individual, but he was surely an inspiring preacher, succeededing in getting the people enthused for the work, and having the temple completed and dedicated in 516 B.C.

Although the Bible can seem incomprehensible, the Opening Up the Bible series is designed to provide a basic grounding and introduction to the individual books within it. These simple (but not simplistic) tools will help individuals and small groups understand God’s Word, no matter what background or knowledge they already have.

Each volume takes you section-by-section through the covered book, opening up God's word with wisdom, insight, and practical application. Additionally, the "For Further Study" points at the end of a section provide guidance to other areas of scripture that further illuminate the lesson, and the "To Think About and Discuss" section provides thought-provoking questions that can be used by both individuals and groups to gain understanding and apply the subject matter to life today.

Peter Williams is a Welshman from the town of Neath in South Wales. He is a graduate of the University of Wales and has degrees in theology and philosophy. He has served churches in England and Wales and has continued a preaching ministry since his retirement in 1997, now exercising oversight at Southbourne Evangelical Church in Bournemouth, England. He is author of several other books also published by Day One, including Opening up 2 Timothy and Opening up Ezra. He and his wife, Brenda, have a son, daughter, and three grandsons.

The letter to the Hebrews is a challenging document for our multi-faith age with its stress on the uniqueness of Jesus Christ in his person and work. In its call to come to Jesus 'outside the camp' it reminds us of the need for sacrifice in the Christian church.

Yet it is full of the assurance of hope in Christ. In its context and in its relevance for today Hebrews brings a special word to all who are in danger of losing heart or choosing the easy way in life. This book comes with a spiritual health warning!

Although the Bible can seem incomprehensible, the Opening Up the Bible series is designed to provide a basic grounding and introduction to the individual books within it. These simple (but not simplistic) tools will help individuals and small groups understand God’s Word, no matter what background or knowledge they already have.

Each volume takes you section-by-section through the covered book, opening up God's word with wisdom, insight, and practical application. Additionally, the "For Further Study" points at the end of a section provide guidance to other areas of scripture that further illuminate the lesson, and the "To Think About and Discuss" section provides thought-provoking questions that can be used by both individuals and groups to gain understanding and apply the subject matter to life today.

Philip Hacking is a retired Anglican minister, vicar of Christ Church Fulwood, Sheffield, for almost thirty years and rector of St Thomas’s Edinburgh for the previous ten years. He is former chairman of the Keswick Convention, of Word Alive (Spring Harvest) and of Reform (action group within the Church of England). He is married to Margaret with two children and five grandchildren. In retirement, he has a wide itinerant preaching ministry and is an occasional author.

The book of Isaiah is a tale of two cities: the Jerusalem Isaiah knew, and the Jerusalem that he saw. We are introduced to both in the opening five chapters. They are like two photographs marked, 'before' and 'after'. But how will the transformation come about? Isaiah's answer is 'Judgment!' And it's coming soon.

The opening of Isaiah's vision is not a pretty sight. The Lord has 20/20 vision, x-ray vision even, when it comes to the sins of his people. While God sees perfectly, Judah's hearing is not good at all. So bad, in fact, that the Lord initially addresses the heavens and the earth, rather than the people, with his analysis of the situation. That can be summed up in one word: rebellion! What follows is a kind of 'state of the nation' address, that says, to put it bluntly, that the nation is in a state. 'They have forsaken the LORD, they have despised the Holy One of Israel' (1:4). And where has it got them? 'Your country lies desolate' (1:7).

Although the Bible can seem incomprehensible, the Opening Up the Bible series is designed to provide a basic grounding and introduction to the individual books within it. These simple (but not simplistic) tools will help individuals and small groups understand God’s Word, no matter what background or knowledge they already have.

Each volume takes you section-by-section through the covered book, opening up God's word with wisdom, insight, and practical application. Additionally, the "For Further Study" points at the end of a section provide guidance to other areas of scripture that further illuminate the lesson, and the "To Think About and Discuss" section provides thought-provoking questions that can be used by both individuals and groups to gain understanding and apply the subject matter to life today.

Andrew Thomson is pastor of Kesgrave Baptist Church in Suffolk. He became a Christian while studying at Oxford, where he also met his wife, Helen. He ran a Christian bookshop in Woking for some years before being called to the ministry. His first pastorate was at Mitchley Hill Evangelical Church in Sanderstead, Surrey, before moving to Kesgrave in 2010. Andrew and Helen are blessed with three children: Esther, Gemma and Joel.

Is there any useless religion around today? Do we see evidence of people merely going through the motions of religion, professing faith in Christ without any evidence of it showing up in their lives? If so, these are indications that we need the epistle of James today. Written by the half-brother of Jesus, this letter helps us attack stale, humdrum, useless religion. Among the many practical issues that James deals with are: suffering, 'the gap' between hearing and doing, controlling the tongue, and resisting the world. Roger Ellsworth's studies in this letter draw out the challenges for us as believers in the 21st century - here are lessons we badly need to hear today.

Although the Bible can seem incomprehensible, the Opening Up the Bible series is designed to provide a basic grounding and introduction to the individual books within it. These simple (but not simplistic) tools will help individuals and small groups understand God’s Word, no matter what background or knowledge they already have.

Each volume takes you section-by-section through the covered book, opening up God's word with wisdom, insight, and practical application. Additionally, the "For Further Study" points at the end of a section provide guidance to other areas of scripture that further illuminate the lesson, and the "To Think About and Discuss" section provides thought-provoking questions that can be used by both individuals and groups to gain understanding and apply the subject matter to life today.

Having served for many years as a pastor, Roger Ellsworth is currently engaged in itinerant ministry. He is also the author of fifty books, many of which have been published by Day One. He and his wife, Sylvia, have two sons and five grand-children.

Why do bad things happen to good people? Why me? Can suffering serve any good purpose? These are real questions that many wrestle with today—and that Job wrestled with thousands of years ago. The Book of Job is a historical biography of Job, 'a blameless and upright man', one justified by faith in the sight of God. As it traces his spiritual journey through tragic bereavement and illness, it helps us find solutions to these and other ‘hot potato’ questions and shows us that sickness and suffering are not always inevitably linked to personal sin.

Although the Bible can seem incomprehensible, the Opening Up the Bible series is designed to provide a basic grounding and introduction to the individual books within it. These simple (but not simplistic) tools will help individuals and small groups understand God’s Word, no matter what background or knowledge they already have.

Each volume takes you section-by-section through the covered book, opening up God's word with wisdom, insight, and practical application. Additionally, the "For Further Study" points at the end of a section provide guidance to other areas of scripture that further illuminate the lesson, and the "To Think About and Discuss" section provides thought-provoking questions that can be used by both individuals and groups to gain understanding and apply the subject matter to life today.

Ian McNaughton was converted when 19 years old after attending his local church for several years, following which he studied theology at the Free Church of Scotland College, Edinburgh, gaining their post-graduate Diploma in Theology and subsequently gaining a Master of Theology degree in Historical Theology from Westminster Theological Seminary, Pennsylvania, USA. He has served as a pastor in FIEC Churches for over thirty years and is now pastor of West Worthing Evangelical Church, West Sussex. He and his wife, Violet, have one adult son, Mark.

Is God responsible for natural disasters? Some would say that he punishes us by sending storms and floods. In Joel's time, Judah was suffering the after-effects of a severe plague of locusts. Joel was in no doubt that God had sent the locusts to chastise the people of Judah for their sinful lifestyles, an indication of the coming 'great and dreadful day of the LORD'. Speaking of the judgement that would fall first on God's own people and then on all the nations of world, Joel called everyone to repent. This book seeks to relate these long-ago events.

Although the Bible can seem incomprehensible, the Opening Up the Bible series is designed to provide a basic grounding and introduction to the individual books within it. These simple (but not simplistic) tools will help individuals and small groups understand God’s Word, no matter what background or knowledge they already have.

Each volume takes you section-by-section through the covered book, opening up God's word with wisdom, insight, and practical application. Additionally, the "For Further Study" points at the end of a section provide guidance to other areas of scripture that further illuminate the lesson, and the "To Think About and Discuss" section provides thought-provoking questions that can be used by both individuals and groups to gain understanding and apply the subject matter to life today.

Michael Bentley worked as a bookshop manager and served in the British army before his call to the ministry. He has a diverse background, which includes freelance religious reporting for national and religious radio and television, being a Religious Education teacher, and holding pastorates in Surrey, South East London, and Berkshire. He is also closely involved with his local community as a member of various committees and councils. His hobbies include singing second bass in the Bracknell Choral Society. Now retired, he still preaches regularly and has a ministry of writing, with some thirteen books in print including Opening Up Amos and Face2face: David. He lives in Bracknell with his wife, Jenny, and has five children and seven grandchildren.

Right at the end of his Gospel, John tells us why he wrote it: that we may 'believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing [we] may have life in his name'. John therefore filled his Gospel with carefully selected evidence to encourage our belief in Jesus. In this detailed yet easy-to-read commentary, Andrew Paterson examines the eyewitness evidence John provided concerning Christ's power and authority, showing us that John wanted this evidence to result not merely in intellectual assent to these truths, but rather in 'life' in Christ's name.

Although the Bible can seem incomprehensible, the Opening Up the Bible series is designed to provide a basic grounding and introduction to the individual books within it. These simple (but not simplistic) tools will help individuals and small groups understand God’s Word, no matter what background or knowledge they already have.

Each volume takes you section-by-section through the covered book, opening up God's word with wisdom, insight, and practical application. Additionally, the "For Further Study" points at the end of a section provide guidance to other areas of scripture that further illuminate the lesson, and the "To Think About and Discuss" section provides thought-provoking questions that can be used by both individuals and groups to gain understanding and apply the subject matter to life today.

For over 20 years Andrew Paterson has headed up the leadership team at Kensington Baptist Church in inner-city Bristol England. A former President of the Fellowship of Independent Evangelical Churches (2001-2004), Andrew has spoken at conferences around the world. He has worked extensively in Christian radio and on the BBC. He is married to Kath and they have 2 children.

Think Jonah, think whale. Or should we? Actually no. The whale, or great fish, merely appears among the list of supporting cast, along with the worm which appears later in the account. Instead, the book is about the character of God. It shows us something of his burning holiness, something of his powerful and detailed ordering of events, and something of his tender mercy.

In this easy-to-read guide, you will learn many things about how God controls nature, governs history, and shows remarkable grace to a city of people who hardly seem likely candidates for his mercy.

Although the Bible can seem incomprehensible, the Opening Up the Bible series is designed to provide a basic grounding and introduction to the individual books within it. These simple (but not simplistic) tools will help individuals and small groups understand God’s Word, no matter what background or knowledge they already have.

Each volume takes you section-by-section through the covered book, opening up God's word with wisdom, insight, and practical application. Additionally, the "For Further Study" points at the end of a section provide guidance to other areas of scripture that further illuminate the lesson, and the "To Think About and Discuss" section provides thought-provoking questions that can be used by both individuals and groups to gain understanding and apply the subject matter to life today.

Paul Mackrell grew up in Hampshire but now lives in West Sussex with his wife, Sue, who comes from Liverpool. They have three daughters, two sons and nine grandchildren.

Who was Joshua? He was the man who succeeded Moses and led the ancient nation of Israel during its conquest of the land of Canaan. The book of Joshua tells us the story of this conquest. But how is such a book relevant for us today in the twenty-first century? In this warm and engaging study, Roger Ellsworth demonstrates the importance of the book of Joshua for today. He shows how the story of Israel in the land of Canaan pictures the life of the Christian in this world, a life of struggle, hardship and conflict. He highlights the truths found in the book of Joshua, which will encourage and comfort Christians in those struggles. Finally, by looking at Joshua, he points us to Christ, our leader and captain.

Although the Bible can seem incomprehensible, the Opening Up the Bible series is designed to provide a basic grounding and introduction to the individual books within it. These simple (but not simplistic) tools will help individuals and small groups understand God’s Word, no matter what background or knowledge they already have.

Each volume takes you section-by-section through the covered book, opening up God's word with wisdom, insight, and practical application. Additionally, the "For Further Study" points at the end of a section provide guidance to other areas of scripture that further illuminate the lesson, and the "To Think About and Discuss" section provides thought-provoking questions that can be used by both individuals and groups to gain understanding and apply the subject matter to life today.

Having served for almost fifty years as a pastor, Roger Ellsworth is now engaged in an itinerant ministry. He has also authored over fifty books. He and his wife, Sylvia, have two sons, Tim and Marty, and five grandchildren

A man slain by a tent peg; a superman dispatching his enemies with the jawbone of a donkey; yet another man carving up a woman. It is all in the book of Judges, and it is all covered by Simon J Robinson who leads us through the book, opening it up and applying it powerfully and relevantly to readers today.

Although the Bible can seem incomprehensible, the Opening Up the Bible series is designed to provide a basic grounding and introduction to the individual books within it. These simple (but not simplistic) tools will help individuals and small groups understand God’s Word, no matter what background or knowledge they already have.

Each volume takes you section-by-section through the covered book, opening up God's word with wisdom, insight, and practical application. Additionally, the "For Further Study" points at the end of a section provide guidance to other areas of scripture that further illuminate the lesson, and the "To Think About and Discuss" section provides thought-provoking questions that can be used by both individuals and groups to gain understanding and apply the subject matter to life today.

Simon Robinson is the former minister of Walton Evangelical Church, Chesterfield, England. He has also written several other books, all published by Day One, including Jesus, the life-changer, Improving your quiet time, Face2face Elijah and Opening up 1 Timothy. He also preaches and teaches in Asia and the United States. He and his wife, Hazel, have two sons.

The Gospel of Luke makes remarkable reading. It introduces us to many people the other Gospels don't mention; it shows the compassion of Jesus in a special way; it is the only Gospel written by a Gentile. Let Gavin Childress guide you through its message in easy stages, and there is plenty to think (and talk) about in the discussion points at the end of each chapter.

Although the Bible can seem incomprehensible, the Opening Up the Bible series is designed to provide a basic grounding and introduction to the individual books within it. These simple (but not simplistic) tools will help individuals and small groups understand God’s Word, no matter what background or knowledge they already have.

Each volume takes you section-by-section through the covered book, opening up God's word with wisdom, insight, and practical application. Additionally, the "For Further Study" points at the end of a section provide guidance to other areas of scripture that further illuminate the lesson, and the "To Think About and Discuss" section provides thought-provoking questions that can be used by both individuals and groups to gain understanding and apply the subject matter to life today.

Gavin Childress has been a pastor at Grace Baptist Church, Tottenham, North London, since 1987. He has always enjoyed introducing people to the Bible and the gospel of God’s saving grace. He and his wife Cathy have five children. Gavin is co-author with Audrey Dooley of Reading your Bible—A starter’s guide, also published by Day One.

It was a depressing time. Priests and people, both of whom who had been enormously blessed by God, were shuffling through their religion, muttering all the while about how burdensome it was. Questioning God's love, dishonouring his name, sighing over his service, breaking his laws and doubting his promises - these were the orders of the day. A wake-up call was needed, and God provided it through Malachi. This man was no cuddly teddy bear. Through a series of candid dialogues, he called his people to see themselves as God saw them and to return to him. His message of sin and return rises from the pages of this short prophecy to challenge and assure us as well.

Although the Bible can seem incomprehensible, the Opening Up the Bible series is designed to provide a basic grounding and introduction to the individual books within it. These simple (but not simplistic) tools will help individuals and small groups understand God’s Word, no matter what background or knowledge they already have.

Each volume takes you section-by-section through the covered book, opening up God's word with wisdom, insight, and practical application. Additionally, the "For Further Study" points at the end of a section provide guidance to other areas of scripture that further illuminate the lesson, and the "To Think About and Discuss" section provides thought-provoking questions that can be used by both individuals and groups to gain understanding and apply the subject matter to life today.

Having served for many years as a pastor, Roger Ellsworth is currently engaged in itinerant ministry. He is also the author of fifty books, many of which have been published by Day One. He and his wife, Sylvia, have two sons and five grand-children.

In Nahum's prophecy, we see the Lord's involvement in history as the ultimate Judge and King of all men. It deals with the difficult subject of God's righteous wrath against sin, which is practically demonstrated in the book of Nahum as his vengeance revealed in Nineveh's overthrow. Yet even in this, the grace and mercy of God in salvation shines through to bring hope to his people. Here is a guide to help the reader gain an understanding of this difficult subject and to see its relevance to the twenty-first century.

Although the Bible can seem incomprehensible, the Opening Up the Bible series is designed to provide a basic grounding and introduction to the individual books within it. These simple (but not simplistic) tools will help individuals and small groups understand God’s Word, no matter what background or knowledge they already have.

Each volume takes you section-by-section through the covered book, opening up God's word with wisdom, insight, and practical application. Additionally, the "For Further Study" points at the end of a section provide guidance to other areas of scripture that further illuminate the lesson, and the "To Think About and Discuss" section provides thought-provoking questions that can be used by both individuals and groups to gain understanding and apply the subject matter to life today.

Clive Anderson is a Christian minister and author of nine books on historical and biblical subjects, including the prophet Nahum and Sennacherib of Assyria. He co authored with Brian Edwards the popular Though the British Museum with the Bible. Clive regularly leads tours of the British Museum and Israel, Egypt, Jordan, Turkey, Italy and Greece. He is married to Amanda and they live in Hampshire, UK.

Most people don’t know the book of Obadiah even exists, let alone what it contains. In fact, you would be hard pushed to find a Christian who could tell you anything about it. You could make a good case for Obadiah being the least among Bible books—it’s certainly the shortest. It isn’t quoted in the New Testament and, to be honest, it isn’t very quotable.

But, as Andrew Thomson demonstrates throughout this practically applied commentary, we can’t dismiss Obadiah as irrelevant. It warns about the approaching ‘day of the LORD’, a day that is relevant to us all. Obadiah wants us to live our lives now in light of that day: to be sobered by it, but also to be spurred on by it.

To Edom that was bad news, but to us it can be good news—the gospel!

Although the Bible can seem incomprehensible, the Opening Up the Bible series is designed to provide a basic grounding and introduction to the individual books within it. These simple (but not simplistic) tools will help individuals and small groups understand God’s Word, no matter what background or knowledge they already have.

Each volume takes you section-by-section through the covered book, opening up God's word with wisdom, insight, and practical application. Additionally, the "For Further Study" points at the end of a section provide guidance to other areas of scripture that further illuminate the lesson, and the "To Think About and Discuss" section provides thought-provoking questions that can be used by both individuals and groups to gain understanding and apply the subject matter to life today.

Andrew Thomson has been pastor of Kesgrave Baptist Church, Suffolk, since 2010. He became a Christian through a university mission while studying at Oxford and ran a Christian bookshop for some years before being called to the ministry. He is the author of the commentaries on 1 and 2 Chronicles and Isaiah in the Opening Up series. He and his wife, Helen, are blessed with three children.

The letter to the Philippians is full of Christ and full of joy. To discover how best to live joyfully with Christ, Philippians gives sound counsel. Roger Ellsworth retains a sense of the majesty of Scripture as he opens up this wonderful letter, yet without in any way dumbing down on its message.

Although the Bible can seem incomprehensible, the Opening Up the Bible series is designed to provide a basic grounding and introduction to the individual books within it. These simple (but not simplistic) tools will help individuals and small groups understand God’s Word, no matter what background or knowledge they already have.

Each volume takes you section-by-section through the covered book, opening up God's word with wisdom, insight, and practical application. Additionally, the "For Further Study" points at the end of a section provide guidance to other areas of scripture that further illuminate the lesson, and the "To Think About and Discuss" section provides thought-provoking questions that can be used by both individuals and groups to gain understanding and apply the subject matter to life today.

Having served for almost fifty years as a pastor, Roger Ellsworth is now engaged in an itinerant ministry. He has also authored over fifty books. He and his wife, Sylvia, have two sons, Tim and Marty, and five grandchildren.

The Book of Proverbs has one central message (how to gain wisdom) and deals with an extensive array of practical topics including vocation, financial stewardship, moral purity, and how to have successful relationships. Here, Jim Newheiser guides the reader through all the main aspects of the teaching of Proverbs while also emphasizing how these great, life-transforming truths are rooted in the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Although the Bible can seem incomprehensible, the Opening Up the Bible series is designed to provide a basic grounding and introduction to the individual books within it. These simple (but not simplistic) tools will help individuals and small groups understand God’s Word, no matter what background or knowledge they already have.

Each volume takes you section-by-section through the covered book, opening up God's word with wisdom, insight, and practical application. Additionally, the "For Further Study" points at the end of a section provide guidance to other areas of scripture that further illuminate the lesson, and the "To Think About and Discuss" section provides thought-provoking questions that can be used by both individuals and groups to gain understanding and apply the subject matter to life today.

For many years Jim Newheiser has found great joy and fulfilment in combining pastoral ministry in his local church with participation in training men for ministry both locally and abroad. A graduate of Westminster Seminary in California, (Doctor of Ministry and Master of Arts) and Baylor University (Bachelor of Business Administration), he is a certified biblical counsellor and a NANC Fellow. He has pastored churches in Texas, Saudi Arabia and California. He has an extensive international ministry, having visited places such as Korea, India, Spain, Qatar and the Philippines. He and his wife, Caroline, have three grown children, David, Mark and Daniel. He resides in Escondido, California. He is author of several other titles also published by Day One.

The Psalms, the longest book in the Bible, has been described as the national hymn-book of the people of Israel in the Old Testament. Full of emotion, expressing the believer's response to various experiences, and full of theology, these psalms give wonderful counsel to us today, both in our day-to-day life and in our worship. Roger Ellsworth competently leads us through the different kinds of psalms, first giving the 'big picture', then 'zooming in' to look at the detail of some of the psalms in closer perspective.

Although the Bible can seem incomprehensible, the Opening Up the Bible series is designed to provide a basic grounding and introduction to the individual books within it. These simple (but not simplistic) tools will help individuals and small groups understand God’s Word, no matter what background or knowledge they already have.

Each volume takes you section-by-section through the covered book, opening up God's word with wisdom, insight, and practical application. Additionally, the "For Further Study" points at the end of a section provide guidance to other areas of scripture that further illuminate the lesson, and the "To Think About and Discuss" section provides thought-provoking questions that can be used by both individuals and groups to gain understanding and apply the subject matter to life today.

Having served for almost fifty years as a pastor, Roger Ellsworth is now engaged in an itinerant ministry. He has also authored over fifty books. He and his wife, Sylvia, have two sons, Tim and Marty, and five grandchildren.

The Book of Ruth tells a true, simple, engaging and well-crafted story. It teaches us about God's sovereign control of history and his transforming kindness to individuals. In this heart-warming study, Jonathan Prime opens up the message of Ruth, applying it practically to our lives in the 21st century.

Although the Bible can seem incomprehensible, the Opening Up the Bible series is designed to provide a basic grounding and introduction to the individual books within it. These simple (but not simplistic) tools will help individuals and small groups understand God’s Word, no matter what background or knowledge they already have.

Each volume takes you section-by-section through the covered book, opening up God's word with wisdom, insight, and practical application. Additionally, the "For Further Study" points at the end of a section provide guidance to other areas of scripture that further illuminate the lesson, and the "To Think About and Discuss" section provides thought-provoking questions that can be used by both individuals and groups to gain understanding and apply the subject matter to life today.

Jonathan Prime was previously a Scottish solicitor. From 1993 to 1996, he was the assistant pastor at Enfield Evangelical Free Church, Enfield, North London, and has been the pastor there since 1996. He shares the leadership of the fellowship with the other elders and has primary responsibility for the preaching and teaching of God’s Word and the pastoral care of the congregation. He and his wife, Sandra, have three children, Amy, Katie and Jenny.

Think of today's church, and the issues that so often have to be faced: establishing a well-functioning eldership, combatting false teaching, upholding the importance of sound doctrine, how we are to live as Christian men and as Christian women, appreciating the grace of God in salvation, and looking forward to the coming again of our Lord Jesus. All these, and many other themes, are carefully and practically worked through in this helpful guide which opens up the message of Titus for us today.

Although the Bible can seem incomprehensible, the Opening Up the Bible series is designed to provide a basic grounding and introduction to the individual books within it. These simple (but not simplistic) tools will help individuals and small groups understand God’s Word, no matter what background or knowledge they already have.

Each volume takes you section-by-section through the covered book, opening up God's word with wisdom, insight, and practical application. Additionally, the "For Further Study" points at the end of a section provide guidance to other areas of scripture that further illuminate the lesson, and the "To Think About and Discuss" section provides thought-provoking questions that can be used by both individuals and groups to gain understanding and apply the subject matter to life today.

David Campbell was born and raised in Scotland and was converted to Christ as a child. During his bachelor’s degree at Glasgow University he felt a call to the gospel ministry and subsequently spent four years studying at the Free Church of Scotland College in Edinburgh. After being the pastor of the Geneva Road Evangelical Baptist Church in Darlington, England, he began his ministry in Grace Baptist Church, Carlisle, Pennsylvania. He and his wife, Mairi, have two daughters, Megan and Caitriona. David is also author of Day One’s Travel with John Knox.

The Jewish people had been called by God to rebuild the temple in Jerusalem after their years of captivity in Babylon. After starting well, they laid the work aside. But then they heard a voice that emphasized the sufficiency of God for his people. That voice, belonging to Zechariah, was never more encouraging and stimulating than when it proclaimed the coming Christ and the glories awaiting those who trust him. Zechariah's prophecy still speaks today with power to those who are deeply discouraged and sorely distressed. Its message of Christ medicates every ill and lifts every heart.

Although the Bible can seem incomprehensible, the Opening Up the Bible series is designed to provide a basic grounding and introduction to the individual books within it. These simple (but not simplistic) tools will help individuals and small groups understand God’s Word, no matter what background or knowledge they already have.

Each volume takes you section-by-section through the covered book, opening up God's word with wisdom, insight, and practical application. Additionally, the "For Further Study" points at the end of a section provide guidance to other areas of scripture that further illuminate the lesson, and the "To Think About and Discuss" section provides thought-provoking questions that can be used by both individuals and groups to gain understanding and apply the subject matter to life today.

Having served for many years as a pastor, Roger Ellsworth is currently engaged in itinerant ministry. He is also the author of fifty books, many of which have been published by Day One. He and his wife, Sylvia, have two sons and five grand-children.

When did you last hear a sermon based on a passage from the prophecy of Zephaniah? This is one of the most neglected books in the whole Bible. It was delivered and written after many years of silence from God. The northern kingdom of Israel, or Ephraim, had already been deported by Assyria, never to return. The prophecy of Zephaniah was to be the last given before Judah, the southern kingdom, was taken away into Babylon for around seventy years of exile. Here is an easy-to-read treatment of the prophecy which draws clear lines of practical application from the situation then to our fast-paced modern life, especially showing how the prophecy points to the only hope of salvation from God's judgement: faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.

Although the Bible can seem incomprehensible, the Opening Up the Bible series is designed to provide a basic grounding and introduction to the individual books within it. These simple (but not simplistic) tools will help individuals and small groups understand God’s Word, no matter what background or knowledge they already have.

Each volume takes you section-by-section through the covered book, opening up God's word with wisdom, insight, and practical application. Additionally, the "For Further Study" points at the end of a section provide guidance to other areas of scripture that further illuminate the lesson, and the "To Think About and Discuss" section provides thought-provoking questions that can be used by both individuals and groups to gain understanding and apply the subject matter to life today.

Michael Bentley worked as a bookshop manager and served in the British army before his call to the ministry. He has a diverse background, which includes freelance religious reporting for national and religious radio and television, being a Religious Education teacher, and holding pastorates in Surrey, South East London, and Berkshire. He is also closely involved with his local community as a member of various committees and councils. His hobbies include singing second bass in the Bracknell Choral Society. Now retired, he still preaches regularly and has a ministry of writing, with some thirteen books in print including Opening Up Amos and Face2face: David. He lives in Bracknell with his wife, Jenny, and has five children and seven grandchildren.

This verse-by-verse commentary on the Pastoral Epistles (1 & 2 Timothy and Titus) thoroughly engages the Greek text with care for the linguistic nuances and theological interpretation. George W. Knight III presents his research and critical analysis in a complete, satisfying manner. His excellent exegesis raises the standard by which future volumes of the New International Greek Testament Commentary are written.

The Apostle Paul was bound by prison chains when he wrote to the church at Philippi. Despite his loss of liberty, and opposition from fellow-workers, the letter radiates joy - joy that Christ was proclaimed, joy in fellowship with the Philippian Christians, and above all joy in Jesus himself. In Message of Philippians, Alec Motyer explores Paul's great themes, so relevant today: Christian unity; the Person of Jesus and what he has achieved for us; the call to live a life worthy of the gospel.

About the Bible Speaks Today (BST) Series:

Edited by J.A. Motyer and the late John R. W. Stott, the Bible Speaks Today commentaries are characterized by what Stott called a "threefold ideal . . . to expound the biblical text with accuracy, to relate it to contemporary life and to be readable." As such, each contributor in this series is both a noted scholar and a working pastor.

The BST series, now complete, covers all sixty-six books of the bible (Old and New Testaments) in fifty-five volumes. If you preach or teach from Scripture, the Bible Speaks Today series will help you apply the timeless biblical message to the everyday experiences of your listeners. And if you study the Bible on your own, these volumes will be a helpful resource focusing on the significance of God's Word for your own life and work.

What does the Letter to the Hebrews have to say to Christians today?

A compelling exhortation to hold true to the faith in the face of adversity. A sermon rife with iconic imagery and Old Testament allusions. A signal work of theology in the New Testament.

Above all, the Letter to the Hebrews proclaims the high priesthood of Jesus Christ. But the book’s textual complexity and long history of interpretation can be overwhelming. In this new Pillar commentary, Sigurd Grindheim illuminates the Letter to the Hebrews, paying careful attention to linguistic features and historical context—all while centering its relevance to modern readers.

Grindheim clearly and comprehensively addresses major issues about the text, including authorship, date, canonicity, formal qualities, and major themes. Following his thorough introduction, he explains each line of the text and its significance for believers today. Grindheim’s commentary offers pastors, students, and scholars the clarity and fresh insights they want in their scriptural study.

Sigurd Grindheim is a professor in the Department of Pedagogy, Religion, and Social Studies at Western Norway University of Applied Sciences.