A Lens of Love: Reading the Bible in Its World for Our World

Understanding context of the early writers of the Bible, frees my mind and soul to experience and learn and love and act in my day-to-day life as I hope God would have me love and act.Dr. Walton’s wide-ranging quotes to introduce each chapter resonate with the wisdom and love for other and self I seek. After ordering this book for a young woman entering seminary next year, which I kept and read myself!, I ordered four more, two for my adult children, a good friend, and one for her.

Religion, government, political parties, business, clubs, academies – in fact all institutions can become tools for good or evil—for moral action or protection of the status quo. In a world dominated by electronic echo chambers, “A Lens of Love” occupies important space in contemporary discourse – social, political, economic, ethical, and religious.With surgical precision and clear writing, it not only builds a compelling narrative, it is a call to action. By connecting us instantly to a world of some two thousand years ago, we not only see the major moral issues of our time through a new “lens,” we see ourselves.Walton challenges us to reject the misappropriation of the Scriptures for individual or political gain. Instead, he lays out a framework through which we can build a common humanity. He does not simplify things, offer up simple prescriptions, or seek to reassure us with formulaic talking points. He does illuminate the pathways where questions should be asked, and answers can be sought. And he does provide a moral compass to support and encourage us on our individual journeys.After reading this book, I bought one for each of the Millennials in our extended family. I think it would be especially valuable for them in seeking to understand and shape an increasingly complex world, and (as described by the author) to use their “moral imagination” to see “what is possible in our world regarding love and justice.”

This is an excellent book. Our Sunday adult class just finished reading a chapter per week. Dr. Walton has an excellent scholarly background but communicates in plain language. His message is about how to read the Bible. "A lens of love recalibrates our focus back to the teachings of the gospel. Jesus' ministry was one of love and compassion."

I heard this author on NPR and knew I needed to read his book. It was a fantastic read. Easy to get through and lots of wonderful theological concepts. Definitely a book to recommend.

Must read for serious students of the Bible.If you are old school or very conservative, prepare to have your beliefs about The Book challenged. Leave your biases at the door and read to learn rather than to criticize. You may not agree with everything (I didn't) but if you learn to read every book of the bible through the lens of Jesus -- The Lens of Love -- you will have done well!

I used the book for Church Bible Study. The entire class learned so much!

This book was a great read and worth the price!

I am a Christian intimidated by the bible in terms of interpretation and mindful reading. I found Lens of Love to be Wonderfully guiding toward confidence in my Bible knowledge.