Lies, Sex and Politicians

Lies, Sex and Politicians connects what for many people would seem like two very different worlds: the world of the Old Testament and the world of contemporary experience. Using examples as varied as celebrity magazines, reality TV shows, gutter-press journalism and soap operas, the author demonstrates how new methods of approach to the texts can open up surprising possibilities for reflection. From his own experience as a teacher, communicator and priest he shows how the text can be related to ordinary life in a way that makes it a real resource for Christian discipleship. The book will serve as a refreshing introduction to those who find the Old Testament strange and inaccessible, as well as providing fresh insight to those whose job it might be to interpret these texts for others. Written in a lively and contemporary style, and with suggestions for further reflection at the end of each chapter, Lies, Sex and Politicians will prove useful both for group study and private enjoyment, and help to recapture the Old Testament for contemporary Christian faith. John Holdsworth is Archdeacon of St Davids in Pembrokeshire. Formerly he was Principal of St Michael's Theological College in Cardiff, and still teaches in Cardiff University. 'This is the Old Testament at its most talkative and fascinating. If only all clergy taught their congregations this way With deft illustrations and brilliant contemporary parallels John Holdsworth lets the old stories breath again. The culture of today and the world of the Old Testament may seem miles apart; read this book and think again.' John Pritchard, Bishop of Oxford 'John Holdsworth has the ability to expound the Old Testament's relevance to our world in an accessible, readable, and insightful way. His communication skills enable the reader to make the connections between the two very different worlds of the Old Testament and our contemporary society because he is up to date on the latest research on the Old Testament and aware of the culture of our day - the world of reality TV shows, ritual celebrations, and memorials. Here is a book that will challenge the reader to make those connections. This is theology at its best - seeing events in our world and relating them to God.' Barry Morgan, Archbishop of Wales