How to Understand and Apply the New Testament

                             Written by Andrew David Naselli with Foreword by D.A. Carson

     If you've read any of my prior posts on the books I'm reading, you will know that these are the thoughts I have on what these books mean to me and what I am taking away from them. It is my belief that no matter what we read, watch or listen; we take something away.
    When I first opened this book, I wondered what I was getting myself into. It looked at first glance like one of my nightmares about high school English classes. In fact, this book does mention how  a school uses it for a course taken during the seminary students first semester. Rather than allow that first impression to dissuade me from reading, I plunged in head first. Excited and determined to see what I could take away from the adventure in learning before me.
Being a layperson, one would wonder why I am reading books that would be most helpful for those who are called to preaching. My reason being, if I can inform myself on how to better read and understand the Bible and the message it delivers, than I myself will be a better, more capable Christian. As Christians, as Followers of Christ, we are instructed to go and make disciples, we can do that with a limited knowledge, but how much more so when we ourselves better understand.
 This book for me, has been another gateway to that better understanding. I will be honest in that there are many references to the Greek language within the pages. I am not nor do I believe that I ever be a Greek scholar, however, when one has a better understanding of the nuances of the language and translations windows are opened. When one has a better understanding of the differences in grammar, analyzing data is easier.
 As I made my way through the different chapters on the various types of context and theologies I found his writing to be precise as far as my limited knowledge could ascertain, but easily understood. I even appreciated the challenge or seeking out the definitions to words that I didn't know.  There are points that brought about questions, but I also see that as gateways to a better understanding. If in reading, one comes across the author's thoughts, beliefs, comments that are different than your own, or are something totally foreign to the reader, is that not just another door to more understanding?
 This book repeatedly reminds the reader of the importance of accuracy and not in misinterpreting or removing verses from context to make it say what you wish. This book makes reference to how the New Testament references the Old. This book, is yet another explanation of how Christ is found not just in the New Testament but through-out the entire Bible.
 For me, this book answered questions, it brought out questions, it fed and yet it created a greater fire that seeks to be fed with understanding. More importantly, it stated, the most important way to understand the Bible, is to read the Bible, over and over and over again. To memorize not just verses, but entire books.
 Nightmares about high school English aside, I enjoyed this book and found it well worth reading.