PREFACE TO THE BOOK


1. THE PURPOSE

This book is designed to be used in Bible Study Classes in churches, in
communities, in academies, in colleges. The author has endeavored to
furnish a text book of outlines and questions that shall unfold the
general contents of the Word of God. Its primary aim is to impart a
swift and comprehensive acquaintanceship with the material of the books
of the Bible.

2. THE CHARACTER OF THE WORK

It is not an exhaustive study. From its aim it could not be such. Some
of the sixty-six books are passed over in brief space, and some (chiefly
in the prophecies and epistles) are omitted altogether. It is a surface
study. The title so suggests. It does not enter into the deeper things.
It simply aims to lay bare the surface facts. It is expressly designed
to serve as a foundation for later detailed searching of the Word. It is
flexible. The teacher can add or subtract as time or local conditions
demand, and is earnestly exhorted so to do. One book may be omitted and
another added at the teacher's discretion. A part of the questions may
be omitted, or additional ones inserted. The outlines may be enlarged or
diminished or changed to suit the needs of the class according to the
teacher's personal judgment.

3. REQUISITES FOR STUDY