It can no longer be assumed that most people--or even most Christians--have a basic understanding of the Bible. Many don't know the difference between the Old and New Testament, and even the more well-known biblical figures are often misunderstood. It is getting harder to talk about Jesus accurately and compellingly because listeners have no proper context with which to understand God's story of redemption.

In this basic introduction to faith, D. A. Carson takes seekers, new Christians, and small groups through the big story of Scripture. He helps readers to know what they believe and why they believe it. The companion leader's guide helps evangelistic study groups, small groups, and Sunday school classes make the best use of this book in group settings.

"We live in a time when people quickly reject or accept the Bible without even knowing its contents. Carson does a masterful job of explaining the Scriptures so that a person who has never even opened the Bible can understand it. At the same time, those who grew up under its teaching will find valuable and obvious truths that will lead them to greater worship and appreciation of the God we serve."-Francis Chan, author of Crazy Love

"A unique and important volume in many ways. As a ministry tool, it can be used for evangelism, since it so thoroughly lays out the doctrine of God. And yet it also does what the catechisms of the Reformation churches did: give Christians a grounding in basic biblical beliefs and behavior. By all means, get this book!"-Tim Keller, pastor of Redeemer Presbyterian Church, New York City

"What a wonderful resource! This book is a treasure for those who want to know what the Bible says as well as those of us who have read it, taught it, and lived it for years."-Crawford W. Loritts Jr., speaker, author, radio host, and senior pastor of Fellowship Bible Church, Roswell, GA

"Challenging yet respectful, thought-provoking yet accessible, faithful to the historic Christian faith yet relevant to our ever-changing world."-Randy Newman, staff member, Campus Crusade for Christ; author of Questioning Evangelism and Corner Conversations