Biblical Foundations of Spirituality

Biblical Foundations of Spirituality invites readers to “touch a finger to the flame” of the Bible by offering guidance on what, how, and why to read Scripture as a source of spiritual nourishment. The second edition builds on Barbara Bowe’s acclaimed book with two new chapters by Laurie Brink and John R. Barker introducing key theological concepts and exploring how biblical spirituality was first experienced and expressed in early Christian communities.

The book begins by exploring the many meanings of the word “spirituality,” then leads readers through the Bible—from Genesis to Revelation—to develop a biblically based spirituality that can serve as a compass in the challenges of life. Updated to reference the latest scholarship, this book helps make the Bible more accessible and shows how it can be relevant to life today. The book stresses the spiritual dimension of biblical figures’ search for God and shows how their insights about God—from successes to dead ends—can reflect our contemporary searching and struggles. Biblical Foundations of Spirituality reveals the spiritual wisdom of the Bible, connecting it with everyday life and spirituality.

With a chronology, reflection questions, a glossary, and updated notes and bibliography, as well as two new chapters, the second edition of Biblical Foundations of Spirituality is ideal for classroom, parish, or individual reading.

Barbara E. Bowe, RSCJ, was professor of biblical studies at the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago where she taught courses in New Testament and early Christianity and directed the Biblical Spirituality Program.

Laurie Brink, OP, is associate professor of New Testament Studies at Catholic Theological Union and an associate editor for The Bible Today. She has published numerous articles on Scripture, and her most recent book focuses on the role of soldiers in Luke-Acts.

John R. Barker, OFM, is assistant professor of Old Testament Studies at Catholic Theological Union and the Old Testament book reviewer for The Bible Today. He is a regular contributor to pastoral publications such as Emmanuel Magazine, The Bible Today, and Weekday Homily Helps.