Includes indexes.

Includes bibliographical references and indexes.

Introduction: the need to interpret -- The basic tool: a good translation -- The Epistles: learning to think contextually -- The Epistles: the hermeneutical questions -- The Old Testament narratives: their proper use -- Acts: the question of historical precedent -- The Gospels: one story, many dimensions -- The parables: do you get the point? -- The law(s): covenant stipulations for Israel -- The prophets: enforcing the covenant in Israel -- The Psalms: Israel's prayers and ours -- Wisdom: then and now -- Revelation: images of judgment and hope.