General Reference Books

How the Bible Came to Be: Barton, John (Louisville: Westminster John Knox. 1998); This book explains the process of the development of the Bible. Has a helpful glossary of important terms. A useful resource for personal or group studies.
The Story of Christianity: Collins, Michael, and Matthew A. Price (Toronto: Oxford University Press. 1999); A full-colour reference book that traces the development of the Christian church from its roots in ancient Judaism to modern times. Beautiful photographs, art, illuminating sidebars, and clearly written text make this a useful reference tool and enjoyable read.
Living in the Time of Jesus of Nazareth: Connolly, Peter (Israel: Steimatzky Ltd. 1995); This book reconstructs life in Judea and Galilee at the time of Christ. In addition to the political history of the period, Connolly includes sidebars focusing on topics such as architecture, geography, the military, household life, childhood games, and education.
The Encyclopedia of Christianity: Fahlbusch, Erwin et al. (Grand Rapids: W.B. Eerdman. 1998); This is an excellent reference book, providing important historical information as well as current information. Only volume 1 (A-D) is available at present. A good addition to any church library.
The Bible Through the Ages: Huber, Robert V. (Pleasantville: Reader's Digest Association, Inc.. 1996); A great introduction to the development of the Bible, beginning with the ancient stories first shared from parent to child. Explores how these stories and others were later recorded, copied by hand in the Middle Ages, and finally printed in large quantities after the printing press was invented.
The Illustrated Guide to the Bible: Porter, J.R. (Toronto: Elan Press. 1995); A beautifully designed and thorough guide to the Bible. Topics include the evolution of the Bible, history, archaeology, Moses, the promised land, prophets -- through to the life of Christ and the beginnings of the early church. The sidebars are as useful as the chapters themselves, offering insights into such topics as early temples, Moab, music, and the social background of the parables. Wonderful illustrations and photographs.
After Jesus: The Triumph of Christianity: Visalli, Gail (ed.) (Pleasantville: Reader's Digest Association, Inc.. 1992); While the title of this volume might make some United Church readers uncomfortable, they would probably find the contents useful and fascinating. The book explores the 600 years after Jesus' crucifixion, including daily life in this period, early persecution, travel, the Roman Empire, and early Christian music, and art.
Jesus and His Times: Ward, Kaari (ed.) (Pleasantville: Reader's Digest Association, Inc.. 1990); This full-colour reference book is a useful guide to the daily life of people at the time of Christ. Village life, education, trade, travel, religious conflict, war, and the economy are all explored. Editorial consultants include United Church professor, Gerald Sheppard.

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