A topical textbook of the Bible is one of the chief requisites of all Christian workers. The pulpit ministry of preachers and the classwork of teachers is largely, if not overwhelmingly, topical. Through all homilies, discussions and expositions of Scripture the topical idea prevails. In our conversations on religious subjects we are in the habit of discussing topically. It is because, whether we are subjective or objective in our research and thinking in Christian truth, we are inescapably topical.
A topic in the Bible sense is a subject treated or worked out within the Scripture itself. References of relative importance are gathered together to throw sufficient light on the subject so as to present a rounded view of the teaching. Whenever a subject is found in the Bible that has a chain of illuminating passages concerning it we call it a topic. For example look up the topics on Prayer, Faith, Conversion, Priesthood or Prophecy and you will see what a wealth of convenient truth is gathered into so limited a space. It is like a Christian's armory. Better yet, it is an ever ready friend coming to refresh or assist us according to circumstance or need.
This compact volume contains hundreds of important topics. They relate to all the great doctrines of the faith, the major facts of Christian practice, the weighty matters of the law, and intriguing problems of Biblical symbolism, typology, ritual, prophecy, history, ecclesiology and eschatology. With remarkable simplicity and efficiency it renders available, in concise form, a wealth of material which Christian workers need. How pleasant it is to have at hand so ready a helper in getting a good grip on Bible subjects.
Many a busy preacher has found this a volume of rich treasure in suggestive themes and practical outlines. Whenever a particular subject becomes illusive and it is necessary to prime the mental pump how deep a pleasure it is to be able to turn to this handy volume, with all its wealth of suggestiveness, and find oneself started on a train of thought in systematic order that often leads to the desired message.
Not only preachers but teachers and lay workers who are called upon to address Christian groups or deliver a devotional address find themselves in need of an inspirational and informational resource. How many an anxious hour is spent by conscientious individuals who have a task like this to do. Where shall one find a subject and the things to be said about it? Here again this valuable book supplies a rich reserve so that no man or woman needing help may lack at all.
Then frequently in the home various Biblical subjects engage the family interest. A question is asked that no one can answer. Some common Christian subject is brought up which leads into a measure of confusion for want of fuller light and there is need for a positive interpretation. How many parents and their families have turned the pages of The New Topical Textbook and found with a satisfying readiness the treatment of the subject they desired?
Evangelists, pastors, Bible teachers, Sunday School and Young. People's workers, as well as thousands of families sing the praises of so useful a book. It is the traveling companion of many a wayfarer and the desk companion of many a Bible student.
In producing this new and more modern edition of The Topical Textbook the publishers feel grateful that the service rendered by foregoing editions has been so effective and genuine. They now hope that the new edition will find as ready a place in the equipment of present day Christians as in that of those which have gone before.