The Bible Out of the Pew
An Empowering Guide for the Spiritual But Not Religious
Imprint: Resource Publications
Are you curious about the Bible, but don't know where to begin? Are you spiritual but not religious and so are looking for an introduction to the Bible that is user-friendly and that is not going to cram religion down your throat?
The Bible Out of the Pew: An Empowering Guide for the Spiritual But Not Religious provides just such an introduction designed for you, the spiritual but not religious, while also being respectful of Christianity. In forty-five short chapters tailored for a general readership, The Bible Out of the Pew offers an introduction that covers everything from Adam to Zion. Along the way, the book reflects biblical messages through the sharing of inspiring stories about everyone from Harriet Tubman to Nobel-laureate Nadia Murad, and even adds a dash of humor.
While the Christian reader will also find much of value in The Bible Out of the Pew, for those who are spiritual but not religious, this introduction is perfect. The book is also ideal for undergraduate courses on the Bible and book clubs.
Join me as I explore the Bible for forty-five days in a way that is welcoming to all!
David von Schlichten is associate professor of Religious Studies at Seton Hill University in Greensburg, PA, where he is also the coordinator of the Gender and Women’s Studies Program. He is the author of Words Fitly Spoken: Biblical Guidance for More Powerful Preaching (2008).
“The Bible Out of the Pew brings together the best of David von Schlichten’s considerable skills—the knowledge of a scholar, the wisdom of a pastor, and the conversational style of a novelist. These have woven together a text that is deceptively easy to read and profoundly stirring to ponder.”
—Fran Leap, Seton Hill University
“This thought-provoking volume, specifically addressed to the ‘spiritual but not religious,’ fosters appreciation of the Bible as a work of literature that prompts lively reflection on themes of enduring value and importance. Readers are likely to find that the Bible is much more complex, more diverse and self-critical in its witness, and far more interesting than they might have imagined!”
—Frances Taylor Gench, Union Presbyterian Seminary
“David von Schlichten offers a witty and wonderfully accessible introduction to the Bible that many, regardless of their religious affiliation or non-affiliation, will find enjoyable and enlightening. His dual roles as professor and pastor allow him to imbue this volume with wonderful insights into the Bible as well as a sensitivity to the everyday questions and concerns of those who encounter it.”
—Catherine Petrany, Saint Vincent College
“David von Schlichten brings humor, kindness, and good sense, along with a thorough understanding of theology and the Bible, to The Bible Out of the Pew. Yes, it's useful for an introductory ‘Bible as Literature’ class, and yes, it's instructive for those who haven't studied the Good Book and are curious. But it's also thought-provoking to longtime Christians who want a deeper, less biased look at Scripture. Von Schlichten is funny and humble in addition to being quite learned, making the book a pleasure to read. It's easy to follow, with short chapters clearly laid out for the attention-challenged among us. Highly recommended.”
—Lee McClain, Seton Hill University