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Preaching and Teaching Difficult Texts of the New Testament is the latest addition to the Cairn faculty library. Written by Dr. Bryan Murawski, associate professor in the School of Divinity, this book was released on August 5. See also Dr. Murawski’s previously published Preaching Difficult Texts of the Old Testament.
Who Is the Primary Audience for This Book?
This book is intended for pastors and other teachers of the Bible. It offers a succinct approach to helping them communicate difficult texts to laypeople and focuses on topics that may not have been addressed in seminary or are often unfamiliar to those without formal theological training. Dr. Murawski cites 2 Timothy 3:16—“All scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness”—as one of the key motivations for writing the book.
What Can Readers Expect?
Each chapter covers a topic or passage that has challenged the church. While some chapters explore well-known New Testament stories, others address more difficult or obscure passages. These include verses that may confuse readers or be easily overlooked, such as greetings and other seemingly insignificant lines. The book also covers “explosive” texts related to gender, sexuality, and other controversial issues in our society, as well as passages with varied interpretations or uncertain origins.
Can Someone Who Hasn’t Gone to Seminary Read This Book?
Absolutely! Dr. Murawski wrote this book for those who have attended seminary and still have questions and for those who have never been to seminary at all. The book is comprehensive without feeling like a textbook, and while it’s primarily designed to equip pastors and Bible teachers with preaching and teaching strategies, it can also be used in personal application. Dr. Murawski writes in a clear, approachable way that laypeople can not only understand but enjoy as he uses these challenging texts to point readers to the gospel.
Where Can This Book Be Purchased?
This book is available for purchase through the publisher (Hendrickson) and other major retailers, including Amazon and Christianbook.