It is because we believe the Bible is God's Word to his people that we have worked together to create this volume. All the contributors affirm the complete veracity and total authority of the Bible. Since this is the case, we believe it is important that the Bible be studied and applied properly. All of us, like the readers of this volume, face the challenge of what it means to hear and obey God's Word, to learn it, and to put it into practice. In order to interpret the Bible correctly we recognize the need to understand historical background material, cultural issues and contexts, ancient languages, hermeneutical practices, and the theological significance of the biblical text. This book is intended to be an introductory textbook for beginning students in college and seminary, but it can also serve as an update for ministers and Bible teachers as well. - Preface.