Philippians, Colossians & Philemon Paperback

I asked the Publisher (technically Aude Pasquier who is Chair of The Good BookStall Board of Reference) for a copy of this book because of knowing the author, Ruth Etchells, a person for whom I have the highest regard because of her in depth Biblical knowledge, and highly prayerful approach to Christian life and reading. Her contribution is an introduction to these three books of the Bible, the books being reproduced in full from the New Jerusalem Bible, with additional headings to guide the reader to the content of the following verses. The introduction sets out the context to the books, something I feel to be particularly important with St Paul's writings, as so many times his words are quoted out of context and therefore lose their intended meaning. Ruth, as usual in her writing, also points out the relevance to us today, and also highlights the prayerful aspects of the writing. Considering the book and its fellow titles in the series, have introductions all written by well known and respected, but very diverse, authors, I decided that at a time when the Church is asking people to return to reading the Bible, this is a welcome series because it does not make heavy demands on a reader in a Society where everyone is “too busy”, but takes a section of the Bible and gives a clear guideline as to what is being read and how to apply it to life. Straightforward enough as a base for confirmation classes or Bible study groups as well as individual study.

Other titles in the series

Genesis with foreword by Stephen Cottrell, £6.99, ISBN 978-0-232-52805-3 Isaiah with foreword by Sheila Cassidy, £7.99, ISBN 978-0-232-52833-6 Ruth and Judith with foreword by Joan Chittister, £5.99, ISBN 978-0-232-52803-9 Psalms with foreword by David Adam, £7.99, ISBN 978-0-232-52804-6 John with foreword by Jean Vanier, £6.99, ISBN 978-0-232-52831-2 Romans with foreword by Christina Rees, £5.99, ISBN 978-0-232-52832-9 Revelation with foreword by Robert Beckford, £5.99, ISBN 978-0-232-52802-2