Every person needs to know the core Bible stories - those stories that have cultural, historical, or literary significance-that lie at the foundation of Western civilisation. Whether watching political candidates quote from Jesus or tracking court cases on how the stories of Adam and Eve should be taught in the schools, we are surrounded by the legacy of the Bible in our contemporary world. Professor Tim Beal argues that without knowing these core stories, we cannot fully participate in the popular, political, and especially spiritual worlds that surround us. Beal has selected the Bible stories that have shaped history and our world and provides the key information we need to understand their significance and meaning. Whether atheist or believer, readers will benefit from this entry-level course into the heart of the most influential book ever written.