THE NEW INTERPRETER'S STUDY BIBLE: New Revised Standard Version with the Apocrypha. Walter J. Harrelson, General Editor. Abingdon Press, 2003. 2298 pp. (Library of Congress # to be determined).REF BS191.5 A1

The leader of one of several St. Philip's Bible study groups was searching for information on the formation of the biblical canon. Many of this teacher's questions are addressed in this newly acquired study Bible. It lists various books of the Apocrypha which have been included in the following diverse Canons of Scripture: The Jewish Canon, The Protestant O.T. Canon, The Roman Catholic O. T. Canon, The Orthodox O.T. Canon and The Anglican Apocrypha (part of which is used in the Episcopal lectionary cycle at St. Philip's).

Sixty-two scholars from many denominations, and prestigious seminaries and universities, have contributed to this study Bible. The Study Bible contains the NRSV of the Scriptures, commentary on the text, excursuses on nearly 100 important topics, and 19 maps of the biblical world, covering several centuries. This is a very valuable "Reference Only" resource for teachers, members of Bible study classes at St. Philip's and the entire parish.

Walter J. Harrelson, Vanderbilt University, and formerly professor of O.T. at the University of Chicago, is general editor. Bruce M. Metzger, Princeton Theological Seminary, says: "Of the current editions of Study Bibles, in my opinion the most helpful for pastors, teachers, and all students of the Scriptures has now been issued by Abingdon Press." (Jacket). Leander E. Keck, Yale Divinity School, comments on the value of this work: "All users, whether they already 'know their Bible' or are just now getting acquainted with it, will find their understanding of Scripture enriched." (Jacket)