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"Although the scope of the book allows but a limited selection of witnesses, they are fairly chosen, and allowed to speak their own minds. Comparative hermeneutical insights are drawn from the interpretations observed. In effect, the cases provide models for understandings which will keep future interpreters from abusing the text and allow them to 'listen carefully within the text, learn helpfully from behind the text, and live freely from in front of the text.' Given the proliferation of books on these issues, and some of the thorny questions raised by them. Christians who wish to deal earnestly and honestly with the relevant biblical texts will surely be helped by this book to understand the nature of the debate and to discern more adequately the way in which God addresses us today. I heartily recommend this good study for church and seminary use alike."—Robert P. Meye, Dean of the Fuller Theological Seminary School of Theology. "Among the numerous merits of the book, some of those which stand out are: the readable style, the clear organization and presentation of the material, the ample documentation of each position presented, the perceptive diagnosis of factors which have contributed to develop certain views, the excellent synthesis of and interaction with the various views presented. The clarity of the presentation and organization makes this book ideal for didactical use in a classroom or in a study group."—Samuele Bacchiocchi, Professor of Religion, Andrews University. "Swartley's interpretive perspective reflects informed scholarship and . . . develops a rather full range of interpretive principles through four masterful case studies. The book will provide an excellent pedagogical aid for teaching exegesis and hermeneutics. It should also be a most useful, practical point of reference for bringing a fresh perspective and a renewed sense of responsibility into the current discussions of the interplay of biblical authority and biblical interpretation. The book utilizes the lessons gained in hermeneutical perspective from the cases on slavery. Sabbath, and war to illumine the urgent discussion on women's place in church leadership. I want my students, colleagues, and friends in the church representing the whole spectrum on biblical interpretation to read it." —David M. Scholer, Dean of the Seminary and Professor of New Testament, Northern Baptist Theological Seminary. "This book consists of four case issues in biblical interpretation: slavery. Sabbath, war, and women. In a highly readable style the author shows how opposite sides of each issue can be supported through the use of biblical texts. Through each chapter and issue, the reader is confronted with the question of how cultural setting and traditional teaching determine biblical understanding. This is an excellent resource for those who assume they accept the whole Bible and follow its teaching on these issues. Highly recommended."—Emma Richards, copastor, Lombard (111.) Mennonite Church. "This book admirably demonstrates the importance of hermeneutical issues by grounding them concretely in four practical areas of biblical interpretation. Willard Swartley convincing!}' demonstrates the need for interpretation as a consciously critical and self-critical process, showing that it is not at all obvious how we are to understand the variety of biblical material which relates to these four issues of slavery. Sabbath, war, and women. In particular he underlines the part played by an interpreter's own selfidentity and his or her own social content. This book contributes positively to the ongoing hermeneutical discussion."—Dr. Anthony C. Thiselton, Senior Lecturer in Biblical Studies, University of Sheffield. England "The questions raised are not only questions of how individual scholars interpret the Bible, the methods they follow, but also about the basis of the authority of the Bible itsel