An Introduction to the Old Testament Historical Books

Rich rewards await readers who dig deep into the historical books of the Old Testament. Incredible events, amazing love stories, larger-than-life personalities, and deep theological themes are just some of the treasures found in Joshua, Judges, Ruth, 1 & 2 Samuel, 1 & 2 Kings, 1 & 2 Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther.

These books tell the story of the nation of Israel and the God who loves her, punishes her, and always brings this recalcitrant people back to Himself. It is really the story of all of us.

David M. Howard Jr. provides an in-depth introduction to the Old Testament historical books, focusing first on the overarching themes of historical narrative in general. He then turns his attention to each book, considering topics like:

• Authorship and date
• Place in the canon
• Historical and cultural context
• Theology of the book
• Special issues pertaining to the book

From the conquest of Canaan to the fall of Jerusalem, from war to peace and back to war, from kings and queens to farmers and housewives—David Howard covers it all in this invaluable introduction to the Old Testament historical books.

• Interpreting the Historical Books: An Exegetical Handbook (Handbooks for Old Testament Exegesis)
• Interpreting the Pentateuch: An Exegetical Handbook (Handbooks for Old Testament Exegesis)
• The Pentateuch as Narrative: A Biblical-Theological Commentary
• Dominion and Dynasty: A Theology of the Hebrew Bible (New Studies in Biblical Theology)
• An Introduction to the Old Testament Poetic Books
• An Introduction to the Old Testament Pentateuch
• An Introduction to the Old Testament Prophetic Books
• 40 Questions About Interpreting the Bible (40 Questions & Answers Series)
• Readings in the History of Christian Theology, Volume 1, Revised Edition: From Its Beginnings to the Eve of the Reformation
• The Old Testament: A Historical, Theological, and Critical Introduction