Words of Delight: A Literary Introduction to the Bible

In this comprehensive introduction to Scripture, Leland Ryken organizes biblical passages into literary genres including narratives, poetry, proverbs, and drama, demonstrating that knowledge of a genre's characteristics enriches one's understanding of individual passages. Ryken offers a volume brimming over with wonderful insights into Old and New Testament books and passages--insights that have escaped most traditional commentators. Those who study, preach, or teach the Scriptures will add this book to the inner circle of reference works they always keep within reach. "We often tend to focus on the doctrinal content of the Bible at the expense of its emotional impact. . . . Ryken emphasizes that the Bible does not appear as a theological outline with proof texts attached but as stories, visions, poems, and letters." -- John F. Brug , author of three volumes in the People's Bible Commentary "Set forth in simple, straightforward, precise . . . language. . . . Teaching and preaching the Bible as God's Word in man's language can become more colorful, insightful, and challenging when done in the light of what Ryken has done here." -- Peter Y. DeJong , former professor of pastoral theology, Calvin Theological Seminary