Collection X/065 - Believers Church Bible Commentary Editorial Council Records

Willard Swartley served at AMBS from 1978 to 2004. In addition to teaching, he served as dean from 1979 to 1981 and 1995 to 2000, as director of summer school, and as director of the Institute of Mennonite Studies. His long list of published works testifies to his strong scholarship as well as his interests--New Testament studies, particularly the gospel of Mark, and peace and nonviolence. He has served as New Testament editor for the Believers Church Bible Commentary series, and as co-editor of the Study of Peace and Scripture series. He continues writing both scholarly books and materials to encourage use of Scripture in devotional life. His most recent publications are the volume on John in the Believers Church Bible Commentary series and a companion book, Living Gift: John’s Jesus in Meditation and Poetry, Art and Song; and Health, Healing and the Church's Mission: Biblical Perspectives and Moral Priorities.

The Believers Church Bible Commentary Series is a cooperative publishing project undertaken by Brethern in Christ Church, Brethern Church, Church of the Brethern, Mennonite Brethern Church, and Mennonite Church / Mennonite Church USA.  The series offers lay readers interpretations and study guides for the scriptures.  Quoting the Believers Church Bible Commentary Series Web site:  "The series is based on the conviction that God is still speaking to all who will listen, and that the Holy Spirit makes the Word a living and authoritative guide for all who want to know and do God's will."

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"Critical issues are not avoided, but neither are they moved into the foreground as debates among scholars. The series aids in the interpretive process, but it does not attempt to supersede the authority of the Word and Spirit as discerned in the gathered church."

The editorial council set the goals and tone of the series, recruited writers, and  shepherded them through the writing process.