We place so much emphasis on correctly interpreting the Bible that we have largely lost the ability to read the Bible. We look for truth while overlooking the literary artistry and craftsmanship of the biblical authors. And our failure to pay attention to the literary form of a passage may well lead to a failure to grasp the meaning and truth of that passage.

In this book, Dr. Ryken takes us through the various literary forms used by the biblical authors, not to increase our knowledge about the Bible, but to enable us to read the Bible with renewed appreciation and excitement and to give us ultimately a more profound grasp of its truths.

"I believe that the literary dimension of Scripture needs to be stressed in hermeneutics, sermon preparation, and Bible study in general. Much misunderstanding of Scripture would be eliminated if the literary element of Scripture were taken more seriously. I am enthusiastic about this book."