Love, faithfulness, and redemption are among the themes of Ruth, Song of Songs, and Esther. This masterful New Beacon Bible Commentary, written by three accomplished scholars, highlights the unique features of each of these three biblical books. Ruth's portrayal of love, devotion, and redemption is set alongside the Song of Song's poetic celebration of God's gift of love between a man and a woman. And rounding out this incredible volume is Esther's story of God, faithful but seemingly hidden, working through human hands to reverse the intentions of evil and deliver his people. As always, this NBBC brings to readers the finest literary, historical, and theological analysis of the text, along with guidance for application and further study. The New Beacon Bible Commentary is an engaging, indispensable reference tool to aid individuals in every walk of life in the study and meditation of God's Word. Written from the Wesleyan theological perspective, it offers insight and perceptive scholarship to help you unlock the deeper truths of Scripture and garner an awareness of the history, culture, and context attributed to each book of study. Readable, relevant, and academically thorough, it offers scholars, pastors, and laity a new standard for understanding and interpreting the Bible in the 21st century. EACH VOLUME FEATURES: Contemporary scholarship from notable experts in the Wesleyan theological tradition Convenient introductory material, including information on authorship, date, history, audience, sociological/ cultural issues, purpose, literary features, theological themes, and hermeneutical issues Clear verse-by-verse explanations, which offer a contemporary, Wesleyan-based understanding derived from the biblical text in its original language Comprehensive annotation divided into three sections, which cover background elements behind the text; verse-by-verse details and meanings found in the text; and significance, relevance, intertextuality, and application from the text Helpful sidebars, which provide deeper insight into theological issues, word meanings, archeological connections, historical relevance, and cultural customs Expanded bibliography for further study of historical elements, additional interpretations, and theological themes
