How Long to Read Before There Was a Bible

How Long Does it Take to Read Before There Was a Bible?

It takes the average reader 4 hours and 30 minutes to read Before There Was a Bible by Lee Martin McDonald

Assuming a reading speed of 250 words per minute. Learn more

Description

How did authority function before the bible as we know it emerged? Lee Martin McDonald examines the authorities that existed from the Church's beginning: the appeal to the texts containing the words of Jesus, and that would become the New Testament, the not yet finalized Hebrew Scriptures (referred to mostly in Greek) and the apostolic leadership of the churches. McDonald traces several sacred core traditions that broadly identified the essence of Christianity before there was a bible summarized in early creeds, hymns and spiritual songs, baptismal and Eucharistic affirmations, and in lectionaries and catalogues from the fourth century and following. McDonald shows how those traditions were included in the early Christian writings later recognized as the New Testament. He also shows how Christians were never fully agreed on the scope of their Old Testament canon (Hebrew scriptures) and that it took centuries before there was universal acceptance of all of the books now included in the Christian bible. Further, McDonald shows that whilst writings such as the canonical gospels were read as authoritative texts likely from their beginning, they were not yet called or cited as scripture. What was cited in an authoritative manner were the words of Jesus in those texts, alongside the multiple affirmations and creeds that were circulated in the early Church and formed its key authorities and core sacred traditions.

How long is Before There Was a Bible?

Before There Was a Bible by Lee Martin McDonald is 265 pages long, and a total of 67,575 words.

This makes it 89% the length of the average book. It also has 83% more words than the average book.

How Long Does it Take to Read Before There Was a Bible Aloud?

The average oral reading speed is 183 words per minute. This means it takes 6 hours and 9 minutes to read Before There Was a Bible aloud.

What Reading Level is Before There Was a Bible?

Before There Was a Bible is suitable for students ages 12 and up.

Note that there may be other factors that effect this rating besides length that are not factored in on this page. This may include things like complex language or sensitive topics not suitable for students of certain ages.

When deciding what to show young students always use your best judgement and consult a professional.

Where Can I Buy Before There Was a Bible?

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