This is a rather interesting little book. However it is somewhat let down by taking a crucial subject and writing about it in such a dull way. But I recommend perseverance. What is Contextual Bible Study? explains a way of reading the Bible that makes it much more real and accessible to people. It involves reading in groups in a non-judgemental way with a facilitator and seeing how the Bible speaks into the context in which we are in. All in all, there isn’t much to object to and it may well give you a real spiritual shot in the arm.

Oh, but the style of the thing. Perhaps the deadness is due to the fact that the author lists five other co-authors and a large cast of contributors. It has the ring of a rather uninspiring training manual. But please don’t let that put you off. I have the feeling that if used wisely, this book may help your Bible study become a great source of joy and insight.