102 Fascinating Bible Studies on the New Testament is exactly what the title says. Written by Dr. William H. Marty, recently retired from Moody Bible Institute, each study includes an introductory article and then multiple questions where the reader engages with scripture. What makes this study different is that instead of being straight through the New Testament or even a specific book of the Bible, it takes a chronological-topical approach. For example, when studying the birth of Christ the study questions engage with all of the birth narratives. For various topical studies, several passages are used to study the topic instead of just one passage. I had mixed feelings about this approach. I liked how Dr. Marty pulled numerous passages together demonstrating how scripture works together and exposing readers to a variety of passages. However, there were times when moving from passage to passage and pulling out a specific verse was troubling as the reader was unable to study the verse in context.
102 Fascinating Bible Studies on the New Testament would be a good study for newer believers and could be used as an individual or group study. Dr. Marty does make it clear in the study that he does not believe in baptismal regeneration. I also found his discussion of immigrants in his study on Philemon off-putting and a stretch. Beyond those sections the study is straightforward. This study is a good follow-up to the previously published 102 Fascinating Bible Studies. I hope there will be a 102 Fascinating Bible Studies on the Old Testament as well.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received the book 102 Fascinating Bible Studies on the New Testament via NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
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