Wisdom for Faithful Reading by John H. Walton seeks to introduce readers into basics of interpretation specifically related to reading the Old Testament.
The book is written not so much around chapters as topically around three parts: General Principles, Genre Guidelines, and A Way Forward. These have more than 30 principles scattered throughout that guide readers in how to think about the Old Testament as they read it.
It is important to note that part of Walton’s quest here is to redirect people from some poor readings of scripture. For example, the principle that “Prophecy is not Prediction” helps direct people away from hearing “prophecy” and automatically thinking we should find whatever is in that section on today’s headlines (163ff). Instead, prophecy is words that inform people in their context about what or how to act (see, for example, 167).
Each section has a slew of examples demonstrating Walton’s points, making the book not just useful as a guide but even as a Bible study. How can we read the text better? Try re-reading some of these passages in light of better principles for understanding and find out.
Walton’s views are, I believe, largely correct, though that doesn’t mean they’ll be uncontentious. His view of creation being largely about order rather than material creation continues to draw controversy (93ff). This, despite it being fairly well grounded in the text itself. A helpful set of FAQs at the back even address things like if one’s pastor is making a “misstep” and clarifying between a misreading of Scripture and something theologically dangerous.
Wisdom for Faithful Reading is a great introductory text to learning about how to interpret scripture. I recommend it highly for readers looking to go beyond the base level reading of the text.
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J.W. Wartick - Reconstructing Faith 
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