a little book about a big story: god’s grand plan from creation to new creation

Author Graeme Rutherford suggests that while many people in the churches have collected various bits and pieces of information about the Bible over their lifetimes - stories, personalities, histories, teachings, psalms - they often lack a cohesive way of putting it all together in a meaningful way. He points out that many Christians are unaware or do not understand that the Bible has an overarching storyline that connects these disparate elements into a unified whole.

In his book, A Little Book about a Big Story, Rutherford introduces the concept of a ’clothesline’ to help readers make sense of the entire biblical narrative. This metaphorical clothesline serves as a framework upon which the various elements of the Bible can be hung, allowing readers to see how each piece fits into the larger picture. By providing this structural approach, Rutherford argues that individuals can better appreciate the Bible’s unified message and its relevance to contemporary life.

The clothesline approach is not just about organisation; it is about enabling a deeper understanding and engagement with the biblical text. Rutherford contends that without recognising the Bible’s overarching narrative, it is challenging for Christians to grasp its full significance and apply its teachings effectively in their lives. By viewing the Bible as a continuous story, readers can better understand the progression of its themes, the development of its characters, and the unfolding of its divine message.

Rutherford’s book aims to bridge the gap between fragmented biblical knowledge and holistic understanding. He believes that seeing the Bible as a cohesive story can transform the way Christians interact with the text, leading to a more profound appreciation of its teachings and greater insight into God’s will. This approach helps believers navigate the complexities of modern life with a clearer sense of purpose and direction, rooted in the comprehensive narrative of Scripture.

A Little Book about a Big Story serves as a guide for those seeking to deepen their biblical literacy and spiritual understanding. By offering a practical and accessible way to organise and interpret the Bible, Rutherford provides a valuable tool for individuals and church communities alike. His work encourages readers to move beyond isolated Bible study and embrace a holistic view of the Scriptures, ultimately enriching their faith and enhancing their ability to live out God’s will in a complex world.