Making Sense of the Bible

Rediscovering the Power of Scripture Today

By: Adam Hamilton

Narrated by: Sean Runnette

Length: 9 hrs and 12 mins

Publisher's summary

In Making Sense of the Bible, Adam Hamilton invites us into an honest conversation about the Bible. The book begins with foundational questions such as: How and when was the Bible written? Who decided which books made it into the scriptures and why? How literally must we read it? And, is the Bible ever wrong?

From there, Hamilton considers the real questions people frequently ask that continue to divide Christians and denominations alike, including:

• Were Adam and Eve real people?
• Why is God so violent in the Old Testament?
• Why would Paul command women to keep silent in the church?
• Is Jesus the only way to salvation?
• How does God view homosexual people?
• Is the Book of Revelation a guide to the End Times

In approachable and inviting language, Hamilton addresses these often misunderstood biblical themes leading listeners to a deeper appreciation of the Bible so that we might hear God speak through it and find its words to be life-changing and life-giving.

Download the accompanying reference guide.

©2014 Adam Hamilton (P)2014 HarperCollinsPublishers

Worth reading and sharing

Based on Scripture, verses history, and holy inspiration, this book is one of the most well articulated explanations of issues surrounding the texts of the Bible. It is clear that Hamilton values the Bible, while understanding its clear purpose of drawing us closer to God, and bringing new life and purpose to our lives.

Wonderful book

This book has great insight into the Bible. The accompanying maps are great. The narration is very good. I have listened to it multiple times.

Excellent

I’ve only recently heard of Adam Hamilton but I am so glad I did! He makes a great case for how to interpret our ancient Bible and apply its wisdom to our lives in 21st century America. He proposes a middle path that avoids both the literal fundamentalist readings and the overly metaphorical liberal readings, His love for the Bible and God is apparent throughout the book, and he’s not afraid of the tough questions. Highly recommended!

Very sensible reasoning.

Reasonable, sensible explanations on interpreting the bible. It gives food for thought on things I’ve been taught.

This makes sense!

Have you ever shaken your head while reading Scripture and wondered, “What in the world?” Or “Why?” or thought “No Way!” or ?? Listen to this book! Adam Hamilton brings much compassion and wisdom/insight into some of these passages. 5/5

Excellent explanations and research by the author.

Absolutely one of the best Bible resources ever. Hamilton does an excellent job of educating and encouraging the reader to understand the Bible for what it is, not what others say it is. He disagrees with many of our day, without being disagreeable. He lays out his logic in an understandable way, without being offensive to those with whom he contradicts. He presents in such a way that the reader wants to learn more. And isn’t that the point?

Excellent book for the non-biblical scholar

The author does an excellent job of breaking down complex theological positions and framing them back up for the laymen—always using sound logic and reason. Many of the topics he decides to take on are many of the same things I have wrestled with throughout my adult life—how to reconcile them against scripture and my own inner beliefs, etc. I found his take on many of these to be consistent with what I have come to believe.

Most important theological book I have read

And I have read many, including the insightful works of C.S. Lewis. This is a truly modern look at the Bible, the church, and Christianity. I, like many, have at times wondered if Christianity is really reflective of God, given some of its Old Testament violence, harsh penalties, and lack of compassion, which seem contradictory to the teachings of Jesus. I also struggled mightily with reconciling its apparent views toward women, slavery and homosexuality, and its esoteric writings like Revelation. Hamilton does a great service to struggling people of faith like me as he tackles and, to me, very effectively explains these difficulties in a satisfying, logical, compassionate manner. This book may just have saved my faith. Thank you Adam and thank you Lord! I pray it will help many others.

thoughtful, and makes you question old beliefs

this thoughtful book makes me question the belief structures I've grown up with. a challenging, intelligent book. I've grown a lot reading this, and will wrestle with my faith but undoubtedly grow more in faith after reading.

Everything I had Hoped very Enlightening

Found this extremely helpfull and useful in struggles I was having. Made it possible to crystallize thoughts and feelings of my own helped in my faith and understanding. Must be open and willing to think hard if you want to read....