The Old Testament and Christian Spirituality

Spirituality is a major concern in the modern world, although its meaning is not easy to pin down. In Scripture, it concerns human life lived out in relationship with God. In this book Michael Thompson explores aspects of Old Testament spirituality. He considers the spiritual life through what the Hebrew Bible says about creation and covenant, deliverance and judgment, worship, living in community, inhabiting an ever-changing world, with questions about suffering, yet also with ethical concerns, and a future in God's possible ongoing care. Each chapter concludes with a section exploring the ongoing relevance of Old Testament spirituality for Christians today.This book is a journey through the Old Testament. Just enough historical background is given to aid the reader to see a God who loves, has purposes for his people on earth, and forgives. We journey through the experience of individuals and a people. We see the summons to live life under God. That is spirituality. This is a profound and deeply inspired book about spirituality (life). Reading it changed how I see the Old Testament. Read it--it could change yours.--David Hall, Spiritual Director and Leader of Whaley Hall Retreat CentreIn the church, the Old Testament is sometimes dismissed as pre-Christian or even sub-Christian. In several publications, Michael Thompson has sought to demonstrate its value for Christian believers today. Here he tackles a topic that lies at the heart of Christian devotion and practice, namely the reality of the spiritual dimension, and helpfully explores the potential importance of a number of major Old Testament themes for Christian spirituality. A rewarding treatment of a challenging subject.--Adrian Curtis, Honorary Research Fellow, Religions and Theology, The University of ManchesterMichael E. W. Thompson is a Methodist minister who, in retirement, has served as part-time tutor in Old Testament with East Midlands Ministry Training Course in England. He is author of Where Is the God of Justice? The Old Testament and Suffering (Pickwick, 2011), and Greatly to Be Praised: The Old Testament and Worship (Pickwick, 2016).