Jonathan Pennington

First sentence: If you have ever made a road trip down the center of Tennessee on Interstate 24 toward Chattanooga, you probably recall seeing sign after sign encouraging you to "See Ruby Falls."

Jonathan Pennington uses a metaphorical framework--a road trip with three friends, Ingrid, Tom, and Taylor--to present to readers three different (but complementary) ways to read the Holy Bible. Ingrid represents "Informational Reading;" Tom represents "Theological Reading;" and finally Taylor represents "Transformational Reading." Each chapter of the book features--to stay on theme--a "You Are Here" organizational system. Each chapter (that really feels like a section with chapters) features mini-chapters (sub-chapters) and asides ('side trips').

I liked this one okay. I had never really thought about their being three different/separate ways to read Scripture. I think on paper the mechanics of it make sense. I think in real life there's less distinction and a more natural flow. (Like when you try to over-think something you know how to do--say walking--and break it down right foot, left foot, right foot, left foot. Sometimes the more you think, or over-think, about how your body is doing something--the less natural, flow-y, it is.) That being said, I can't find flaws with the practical mechanics of what is being presented.

I personally felt the metaphor of a road trip was a little superfluous. It wasn't a deal breaker by any means. But I don't know that it added anything to make up three fictional characters, name them, and have them "teach" us how to read the Bible. But then again, maybe other readers will relate more to Ingrid, Tom, and Taylor.… (mer)