Abstract
Simon Taylor’s book How to Read the Bible (without switching off your Brain) is an unapologetically faith-based Christian evangelical introduction to the Bible. Taylor describes reading the Bible as an adventure and his book as ‘an invitation, a tool kit and a guide’ (p. xii). Quite a short book, it is intended for the ordinary layperson who may or may not have any prior knowledge of the Bible. Each chapter is presented in short, easy-to-read sections with clear headings, culminating in a few suggestions for practical application or experimentation and a short list of books for further reading.
Beginning with a basic framework for reading the Bible, the early chapters present a succinct, though generalized, discussion of canon, genre and the authority of Scripture for Christians. This includes a brief reference to the Synoptic problem in the Gospels and a study of the Biblical foundations for prayer. The latter half of the book is more specific, discussing creation and the difficult questions of money, sex, and violence as a set of case studies for using one’s brain in reading the Bible. These chapters are intentionally intellectual, challenging conceptions of ‘truth’ in contemporary Western culture and arguing for the significance of context.
Throughout the book, Taylor demonstrates the importance of engaging critically with the Bible and emphasizes a narrative approach to the Bible. By extending the Biblical narrative to the life of contemporary Christians, Taylor challenges readers to engage regularly with the Bible in order to grow and mature in faith. Taylor’s passionate conviction that the Bible is the foundation of faith is clearly expressed throughout. In my view, this book will primarily appeal to those with some prior interest in the Bible and/or Christianity and may alienate readers who do not have a Christian affiliation. There are a few weaknesses in the almost patronizing oversimplification of some areas, but this is offset by Taylor’s handling of difficult issues in relevant and thought-provoking ways. Taylor’s framework for Bible-reading is one of the highlights of the book, well designed and appropriate for any reader. I would recommend it, and the book, for those willing to think critically and ask questions about the Bible. Switch on your brain and enjoy the adventure.