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
