Book Review: Ruth & Esther by NavPress

Ruth & Esther: A Double-Edged Bible Study by NavPress

There are two kinds of Bible studies that I create, and I am always interested in seeing how other studies present information and what they have to say. I have written topical studies about hope and forgiveness, that are narrative. I’ve also written studies that are more of a discussion guide, like those about the four gospels.

NavPress has had their Double-Edged series out for a while, this one in particular has been out since 2005. There is no author specifically mentioned. Ruth was one of the ladies highlighted in Hope, so I thought it would be neat to see what another group had to say about her.

The study structure is based on reading then responding to questions, considering what this means for your life, then connecting with a small group for accountability on those lessons learned. The final parts are connections to the Bible more broadly and an invitation to memorize a verse. It also includes notes on historical context or words that are of particular significance in that session.

Not Good Stuff

From the cover and the small sales blurb about the book, I wasn’t aware that I was picking up a book that is geared toward women, or perhaps even younger women or young believers. The cover is pretty generic, and my expectation was that it would be for adult study. However, the text referenced makeup and even “getting the attention of men”. I was turned off by several of these references and even found it inappropriate in one case.

The first lesson for each of the books was to read the whole story. I can appreciate starting that way, but the rest of the Ruth sessions were focused on a few verses or a longer passage and not always in order of the book (chapter 2 portion came after chapter 4). The Esther sessions did not have a specific passage, but referenced “review the book” instead. The questions at times mixed the study portion and life application or wider biblical context; it wasn’t delineated well the text study versus the other portions. The memory verse portion was an invitation to memorize any verse which stood out; it seems like a missed opportunity.

Good Stuff

The history portions were very well done, with scripture reference and footnotes. The inclusion of maps and charts to organize the information helps put the material in greater context. The questions were thought-provoking. The sessions would likely offer much for a small group to discuss.

Final Thoughts 1/5 Stars

I found the book to lack direction or consistency to help drive me forward to continue (though I did, just with weeks between). With the additional portions about women that were inappropriate, this is not a book that I would recommend to anyone.