I have heard several people say that they felt great conflict in their religious lives and that learning about the bible from Dr. Ralph turned them around. Dr. Ralph helped them come to terms with the misinformation or mis-interpretation they've been suffering from. Dr. Ralph's views are not her own. This approach to scripture is not something new. In fact, it is the contextualist approach to scripture that the Catholic Church teaches and has been teaching for years.

An excellent read for recovering ex-athiests like myself. If your an athiest or agnostic who is considering Christanity, I highly recommend it and Rescuing the Bible from Fundamentalism by John Shelby Spong. Addresses all the important questions about the Bible in a calm, rational, erudite, and non-condescending manner. A must read for Christian apologists as well.

Ms. Ralph gives an excellent exposition of the genres in the Bible. Her discussions lead to a deeper understanding about what the Bible is trying to teach about the relationship between God and Man. It is a text type book so that it is at times a hard read. It is not for casual reading, you'll fall asleep while reading it if you are looking for a light read. However, if you are after the knowledge, it is a very worthwhile effort.

I have been a discussion leader in Lay Bible Study and discussion groups for 5 years. This book is one of the best I have ever read on helping people come to an understanding of the intent of the author's of Biblical writings. The Author Dr Ralph, has a gift for putting her thoughts down in clear and concice manner. I have recommended it to each member of my classes this spring. I think it is a must have and study for anyone studying the Bible.

If you read the Left Behind series (and even if you don't) read this book. I do have to correct what was written in the synopsis on this site: "Margaret Nutting Ralph attempts to correct what she claims are misinterpretations and misreadings of Scriptures that deal with the end of the world". NO, it's not what SHE claims are misinterpretations. Please remember that she is teaching a contextualist way to read scripture. This is not something she invented. This is what the Catholic Church teaches. If you pick up a copy of the study edition of the New American Bible, you will find the same viewpoint. You'll also find it in the JErome Biblical Commentary. Also if you read the books by Raymond Brown.

The prophets did not see the future, they spoke about their own times. Later saints stressed Jesus' significance by using Old Testament sources.

Margaret Nutting Ralph's book explains the meaning and backgrounds of Isaiah, Proverbs and the Psalms. She also answers often asked, but rarely answered, questions that worry most readers of the Bible.

In a clear and easy to read style this book comments on passages, conventions and the context of these Old Testament books. For example, ever thought the Psalms repetitive? Margaret covers the Psalms' poetical form, purpose and use.

This book is suitable for high school to adult. The chapters stand-alone and so you can easily dip into this book. Each chapter ends with review questions and interesting discussion points -- ideal for class and lessons, bible study groups or individual reading.

I liked how the book could be read for basics, or more subtle philosophical insights. Everyone can get more out of readings in church, their bible and religion by reading this book.