Author: J. Stephen Lang
Located in: Seminole, FL
Submitted: August 30, 2007
Tell us a little about yourself. I'm a full-time author, have published 40 books (2 more on the way), have an MA in communications, BA in religion, write the Bible IQ column for every issue of Today's Christian magazine.
What was your motivation behind this project? I did an article on biblical literacy for a major magazine and discovered something rather shocking: not only are most non-churchgoers very ignorant about the Bible, but so are many regular churchgoers. I decided to do a 'Square One' book on the Bible, with the most basic and essential information as possible, even explaining what 'chapter and verse' means, why Bibles have footnotes, how to begin reading the Bible, how to pick a translation, etc.
What do you hope folks will gain from this project? I had several types of reader in mind: 1) the new Christian, 2) the seeker, 3) the Christian who needs a 'refresher' course in the basics of the Bible. All 3 groups will get the 'boot camp' course in studying the Bible, including a brief introduction to all its books, a glossary of important biblical terms, chapters on how to use the Bible in decision-making, prayer, etc. When you finished the book, you won't be an expert, but you will know The Basics, enough to set you on the right path for a lifetime enjoyment of the Book.
How were you personally impacted by working on this project? Going 'back to basics' is a great thing for any author, since it helps us realize what is really essential in matters of faith. Too often we 'religious professionals' get too involved in scholarly matters like what date certain books of the Bible were written, that sort of thing. The truth is, we ought to all concentrate on the key messages of the Bible, not the side issues. C. S. Lewis wrote a classic titled Mere Christianity. I like to think that I have written Mere Bible.
Who are your influences, sources of inspiration or favorite authors / artists? My years as a religious book editor gave me insights into thinking like a scholar while writing like a layman, and I write for the lay audience. My favorite authors are those who sound like an intelligent friend, not like a professor or minister.
Anything else you'd like readers / listeners to know: I would be extremely pleased if this became THE book that churches and Bible study groups use to help train new Christians and to introduce seekers to the essentials of the Bible.
