Accessible Books
These are the accessible publications (suitable for people without formal theological education) that the Centre has produced.
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God of Violence Yesterday, God of Love Today?
Do you find the violence in the Old Testament a problem? Does it get in the way of reading the Bible, of faith, itself? Whilst acknowledging that there are no easy answers, in God of Violence Yesterday, God of Love Today? Helen Paynter faces the predicament head-on and demonstrates a fresh, accessible approach to something that concerns many of us. For those wanting to gain confidence in the Bible and the God it portrays, this new significant book is a must-read.
The Bible Doesn’t Tell Me So: Why you don’t have to submit to domestic abuse and coercive control.
This book is addressed directly to women experiencing domestic abuse, and to those who seek to support them, including pastoral leaders, friends and support organisations. It debunks the myths – perpetuated by some abusers and, unwittingly, by many churches – which prevent women from getting out of harm’s way. It helps them realise that the Bible does not belong to their abuser but is a text of liberation. Written with careful attention to pastoral issues, it closely examines and clearly explains the relevant scriptural texts.
The Strange World of Eljah and Elisha.
The narratives of Elijah and Elisha, spanning the centre of 1 and 2 Kings, are vivid, entertaining—and remarkably strange. Things happen that not only raise questions about the prophets, but also about the nature of God.
In this fascinating study we explore the literary devices of carnivalization and mirroring—and begin to discover a world in which things are not what they seem, and the stories offer some profound insights into the ways of the world and of our God.