The Visual Word: Illustrated Outlines of the New Testament Books by Patrick Schreiner is a real delight. First, the book is absolutely beautiful. Moody Publishers pulled out all the stops on this project by producing an extra-large book, suitable for a coffee table that is graced with vivid colors and top-quality binding and pages. In addition to the quality design, Anthony M. Benedetto provides stunning illustrations throughout the book to help readers cement key truths and principles found in the biblical text.

Dr. Schreiner reveals his purpose in the introduction and provides the necessary background for The Visual Word. Schreiner says, “I believe one of the most important things to do when reading the Bible is to read it contextually." This book helps readers see the big picture and enables them to put the biblical pieces together in an objective fashion; one that does justice to the biblical text.

Schreiner’s second purpose concerns the visual nature of learning. Most students are helped considerably by linking key truths to an image of some kind. The Visual Word makes good use of this by teaming up with Anthony Benedetto.

Each New Testament book is introduced with a key statement and a general overview of the book. Next, a one-page image is employed that gives readers a quick visual summary of the book. The remainder of the chapter is devoted to unpacking the units of thought, each of which is supported by one of Benedetto’s beautiful images.

It would be impossible to give this book too much praise. It is suitable for beginning Bible students and veteran preachers, teachers, and theologians. Even after teaching the Bible for 30 years, I will be turning to The Visual Word each time I begin a new expository study in a New Testament book.