30 Old Testament Passages with Deeper Meaning: The Surprising Significance of Seemingly Ordinary Verses

by Michael Williams

Overview

Feed your curiosity of the Bible by exploring the deeper meaning behind familiar Old Testament passages.

Below the surface of every seemingly ordinary Bible verse lies a deeper meaning just waiting to be discovered. And these hidden insights aren't just reserved for scholars, academics, or pastors. Anyone who knows where to look can uncover the surprisingly significant messages that the biblical authors intended for us to hear.

In 30 Old Testament Passages with Deeper Meaning, Michael Williams seeks to lead believers to a deeper comprehension and appreciation of biblical truth. In each easy-to-read chapter, Williams focuses on one Old Testament verse or passage, and:

• Examines its cultural, historical, linguistic, and/or theological context.
• Explains how it is enhanced by the added context and perspective.
• Provides questions to facilitate further reflection, study, and discussion.

Helping to bridge the gap between the academy and the church, this broadly accessible and edifying book will help everyday Christians get more out of their Bible. Plus, the insightful questions at the end of each chapter make this an ideal small group, Bible study, or expository preaching resource.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780310144328
Publisher:	Zondervan
Publication date:	05/02/2023
Pages:	256
Sales rank:	1,056,192
Product dimensions:	8.30(w) x 5.50(h) x 0.90(d)

About the Author

Michael Williams (Ph D, University of Pennsylvania) is Emeritus Senior Professor of Old Testament Studies at Calvin Theological Seminary, a member of the NIV Committee on Bible Translation and the Chairman of the NIr V Committee. He is the author of Deception in Genesis, The Prophet and His Message, Basics of Ancient Ugaritic, The Biblical Hebrew Companion for Bible Software Users, How to Read the Bible through the Jesus Lens, Hidden Prophets of the Bible and is editor and contributor of Mishneh Todah. His passion is to provide curious believers with knowledge of the Old Testament and its culture so that they may grow in their comprehension and appreciation of redemptive history and be adequately prepared to promote and defend the faith through word and action. Michael resides in Florida with his wife, Dawn.

Editorial Reviews

'I thoroughly enjoyed reading Old Testament Passages with Deeper Meaning. Michael Williams brings out the 'hidden depths' of thirty Old Testament passages by careful attention to context and the details of the passage. He is not discovering some secret meaning, but rather brings out the surprising dimensions of the passage he is so skillfully reading. Written in an accessible and winsome style, I recommend this book for all lovers of the Bible.'

Tremper Longman III

'Michael Williams masters technical Old Testament scholarship and makes it accessible to the ordinary layperson. He understands how Old Testament passages point to Christ and apply to believers today. His deeper meanings are neither allegorical nor idiosyncratic but highlight what the original authors intended with the words they chose. He reinforces his interpretations with memorable puns himself. This book could be used in the classroom or for devotions but will enjoyably inform many other readers as well. Countless thanks to Williams for these valuable insights!'

Craig L. Blomberg

'My good friend and brother in Christ, and Associate Editor of the NIV Study Bible has produced a most interesting book, which I enthusiastically endorse. His approach sheds further light on the meaning of the Scripture passages he considers. In his approach he employs comparative literature, inclusios; commentaries' Hebrew grammar, syntax, and lexicography; etymologies; paranomasia; archaeology; ancient Near Eastern texts and contexts; and other literary and textual features. Much of the material in this book could be subsumed under the general rubric of Bible backgrounds. The author's goal is not to surface a meaning different from traditional understandings but a deeper meaning, thus what I call enhancing the meaning. It is my great pleasure to highly recommend this work of careful scholarship. The treatment of these selected passages is balanced, thorough and well reasoned. The author provides examples of how to enhance the semantic range of the texts he discusses. My heartfelt appreciation and congratulations go to Michael Williams.'

Kenneth L. Barker

'Michael Williams writes a gem of a book showing how 'ordinary' Old Testament moments have more to teach us than we might suspect. He shines a light on thirty passages, taking a closer look at their contexts. Historical insights joined with close attention to the details of the text bring these passages to life in new ways. 30 Old Testament Passages is as engaging as it is accessible. I highly recommend it.'

Jeannine K. Brown

'What does the Church and our World need more than ever? I would propose that the Church needs deeper discipleship from understanding the Bible and living in light of God's Word. Michael Williams is a gifted Bible scholar and teacher who has a passion for all believers to understand the faithfulness of God through all generations by seeing how even one verse in Scripture can help a person see the bigger picture of God's grace. Through short, but penetrating studies of 30 Old Testament texts, we are given a tour of the Old Testament to see the wider frame for understanding the scope of God's care for us. Beyond personal edification, the material is already set up through key questions at the end of each chapter to be the basis for preaching and teaching series as well as for small group studies. While original languages are referenced, Michael Williams with clarity and compassion makes sure that all readers gain confidence in trusting that the God who makes His promises known has kept those promises through all generations. Enjoy this journey!'

President of Calvin Theological Seminary Jul Medenblik

'I love finding new treasures in Scripture, further enhancing seemingly familiar and ordinary verses. By uncovering some of the word plays and allusions original readers would notice, Michael Williams shares some of these gems with us, reinvigorating our time in Scripture with the sparkle of God's glory.'

author of The Sexual Reformation and Recovering fr Aimee Byrd

'An illuminating exploration of 30 remarkable Old Testament texts by a master teacher. Each chapter provides an entry point into not only a single verse's meaning, but to larger dimensions of the worldview and culture reflected in the Hebrew scriptures. The book is accessible to all, and will also inspire teachers who seek to translate insights from advanced theological study for wide audiences.'

Calvin Institute of Christian Worship John D. Witvliet

'Michael Williams is a highly perceptive reader of the Bible and his insights into it are sharp and penetrating. But he wears his rich learning lightly and writes so clearly so that we can readily absorb his fine teaching. This book is a gift.'

Author of Under the Wings of God Cornelius Plantinga