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A Family Guide to the Bible Review by Krystin Corneilson

By Christin Ditchfield
Crossway
1300 Crescent Street
Wheaton, IL 60187
630-682-4300
https://www.crossway.org/

A Family Guide to the Bible is unlike any reference book I have ever seen. It was fresh, engaging, and inspiring from the moment I cracked it open. As a homeschool mom, I am always looking for creative ways to help my kids study the Bible and experience the wonder of God. This book offers clear facets of Bible study, from its history to its authority to its Message. There are book-by-book insights from the Old and New Testaments. Then there are chapters on how to study the Bible, where to find popular stories and Scripture, and maps of Biblical importance. There is even a chapter in the back of the book to help the reader find more information if so desired.

The language used is easy to understand, not patronizing, and thorough. It definitely creates a thirst for God's Word. One of my favorite features is the way each book of the Bible is outlined. Bullet points present the book's name, author, audience, setting, story, and message, and then a key verse or passage is set apart. Once the stage is set, there are bullet points directing the reader to other parts of the Bible for more info, words to know, a "did you know" item, and then, to wrap up, a "think about it" entry. It's terrific!

"How to Study the Bible" is my other favorite chapter. It walks the reader through choosing a Bible translation, explains how to use a concordance and other reference books, and provides study tips for families, individuals, and small groups. It is not a long chapter, but is filled with powerful, potentially life-changing information.

Pros: The author of this book explained of the Bible, "Flip open the pages of the Bible; it can be a thrilling experience." So is this wonderful reference book for families. My 12-year old daughter has begun to do some Bible lessons on her own, and this will be an important tool for her. Our family devotions will also benefit from having this quick-reference guide.

Cons: None! Honestly, I liked this book so much that I went to the publisher's website and was delighted to see other books like this one. So, ultimately, this book has sparked my interest in even more of their books. Plus, the website offers a free .pdf file of the book when purchased there.

Ultimately, I'd say that any Christian family would benefit from this book. It might also be good for non-believing families who have questions about the Christian faith. They will be able to find answers for themselves, easily and thoroughly, in God's Word.

Product review by Krystin Corneilson, The Old Schoolhouse® Magazine, LLC, November 2009

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