Dwelling with Philippians: A Conversation with Scripture through Image and Word - Softcover

Halstead, Elizabeth Steele; Detterman, Paul; Borger, Joyce; Witvliet, John D.

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0802866182 ISBN 13: 9780802866189

Publisher: Eerdmans, 2010

Synopsis

This rich, inviting volume illumines Paul’s letter to the Philippians through evocative juxtapositions of visual images, poetry, and other worship-related arts with theological reflections, prayers, and more. The book’s multidimensional approach creates abundant space for unhurried contemplation, whether in individual reflection or group study. It invites readers to dwell with Philippians — to slow down, to explore the texture and palette of Paul’s message in a deliberately measured way, to be drawn into the mystery, beauty, and life-changing power of this joyful biblical letter.

About this title

About the Author:

Elizabeth Steele Halstead is resource development specialist for visual arts at the Calvin Institute of Christian Worship, Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Paul Detterman is executive director of Presbyterians for Renewal, a church musician, and an ordained minister.

Joyce Borger is worship and music editor of Faith Alive Christian Resources and editor of the quarterly journal Reformed Worship.

John D. Witvliet is director of the Calvin Institute of Christian Worship and teaches theology, worship, music, and congregational studies at Calvin College and Calvin Theological Seminary. His books include Worship Seeking Understanding: Windows into Chr

Review:

Dorothy C. Bass
"In this beautiful book, a vast communion of artists, theologians, historians, poets, and worshipers surrounds one letter from the Apostle Paul. Rich selections from the work of these witnesses provide varied opportunities for both newcomers and lifelong Bible readers to envision and encounter God's Word in fresh ways. When received with attention and pondered in prayer, the resources gathered here can expand imagination, deepen discernment, and encourage faithful living."

Eugene H. Peterson
"American Christians are in too much of a hurry. We miss out on most of what is right in front of us. When this 'most' is in the Bible, our faith and obedience and prayer are impoverished. This 'conversation' with Philippians slows us down to a stroll so we can take it all in — God's word not as instruction but as companion. All of us need this."

Richard Mouw
"This wonderful commentary makes Philippians come alive in new ways. The combination of rich visual experience with creative written commentary has made me a more engaged biblical 'dweller'!"

Jeremy Begbie
"This beautifully produced book, through its skillful interweaving of images and texts, allows the Apostle Paul to speak in fresh and unexpected ways. A striking and original initiative."

William Dyrness
"Not much in our frazzled life encourages us to slow down and savor God's presence in Scripture. The images, prayers, and reflections in this beautiful book work this miracle. Dwelling with Philippians is slow food for the spirit! Keep it beside you, pray with it, give it to your friends, your family — and especially to your pastor!"

Library Journal (STARRED review)
"The illustrations are glorious, a truly evocative comment on the ancient text, and should appeal to many artists both within and without congregations."

Bible Today
"This is a remarkably beautiful book. Weaving together traditional and contemporary art, lyrics of hymns, poetry, and selections of commentary, it offers the reader a contemplative experience of Paul's letter to the Philippians. . . . This would make a great gift for a friend — or for yourself."

Religious Studies Review
"Deserves a broad readership as a biblical and liturgical resource for teachers and pastors, a textbook for course such as Pauline literature, Philippians, hermeneutics, and worship arts, as well as personal or collective Bible study."

Interpretation
"A beautiful book both in the abundance of artwork included (almost 150 prints and paintings) and also in the diversity of the cultures and centuries represented in the text."

Spirituality & Practice
"This book on Paul's letter to the Philippians sets next to the interpretations stunning visual images from paintings along with poetry, prayers, and worship-related materials."

About this edition

• Publisher: Eerdmans
• Publication date: 2010
• ISBN 10: 0802866182
• ISBN 13: 9780802866189
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 312