God's Book: An Honest Look at the Bible's 7 Toughest Topics

(Paperback)

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Does the Bible condone warfare and slavery

Isn't the New Testament's teaching on sex outdated

Surely there's not a literal heaven and hell

These are just some of the questions that popular Bible teacher Andrew Ollerton asks as he helps us navigate the most challenging topics in the Bible.

God's Book follows the biblical plotline from Genesis to Revelation and reveals how to make sense of difficult passages by considering them in their original setting. When we understand the creation story in its ancient context, we won't need to choose between science or the Bible. When we appreciate that the conquest of Canaan was a unique moment in history, these passages won't justify violence today.

The Bible's 7 toughest topics

Science versus Creation

Slavery and Old Testament laws

Warfare and violence

Suffering

Miracles and exorcisms

Sex

Heaven, hell and judgement

Andrew concludes each chapter with a letter to a young adult, giving practical advice on each topic. God's Book is for anyone who is spiritually curious and wants to make sense of the Bible, and for Christians who want to share their faith more confidently in today's culture.

Reviews

'Andrew's intellect, research and level of insight and understanding is inspiring to see in full force here! Personally I find it hugely helpful when a person so clever, gently walks a dullard like me through some of the most challenging questions and somehow leads me to such wise answers.' * Bear Grylls *
'In God's Book Andrew Ollerton examines some of the toughest questions that arise when we read the Bible, encouraging us to think them though rather than avoid or ignore them. In my life and work I have found that time and time again the Bible stands up to the scrutiny thrown at it. In reading this book you will be encouraged to discover good reasons for trusting the Bible for yourself. You may not agree with everything you read but I recommend engaging with God's Book and considering the Bible afresh.' * Amy Orr-Ewing *
'A surprising number of 21st Century people are rediscovering the value of the Bible and the scriptural story that shaped our world. But that means a lot of modern people are also bumping into ancient texts about creation, warfare, suffering and sexuality. Andrew Ollerton has provided an essential and highly accessible guide to the key concerns and objections many modern readers may have when reading the Bible from Genesis to Revelation. Not only does Andrew provide context for confusing scriptures and help to make sense of difficult passages, he also shows how the entire story of scripture can speak to every generation anew, including our own. It is an excellent read - a book I would recommend to anyone wanting to make sense of scripture.' * Justin Brierley *
'The Bible is so immense and so influential it has shaped even our critiques of the Bible. Andrew Ollerton does an excellent job of exploring the immensity as well as facing the critiques head on. This is a wonderful introduction (or re-introduction) to the modern world's founding document.' * Glen Scivener *
If you're looking for an accessible, wise, and readable book that tackles the Bible's toughest questions, you won't go wrong with Andrew Ollerton's God's Book. Rather than dodging the difficult issues, Andrew welcomes them-and then helps the reader work them through. With wisdom, clarity, and pastoral sensitivity, God's Book invites us to engage the Bible on its own terms, not ours. Simple without being simplistic, intelligent without being intellectual, and wise without being wearisome, Andrew models the kind of thoughtful wrestling with scripture that deepens both faith and understanding.' * Andy Bannister *

Author Bio

Dr Andrew Ollerton is a theologian, pastor and popular communicator. He works with Bible Society and developed The Bible Course, an eight-session guide to the big story of the Bible for small groups. Andrew is married to Charlotte and they have three kids, two fish, a snake and a dog. Follow Andrew on X @AndyOllerton, on Instagram @andyollerton and on Facebook @AndrewOllerton