Treasuring the Psalms

"What if the Psalter's 150 psalms were arranged in a strategic order to tell an epic story? What if these psalms speak of Jesus? What if they also guide us in our worship of God? In Treasuring the Psalms, Ian Vaillancourt offers the church an accessible, theologically rich introduction to reading Psalms as an epic story centered around a Torah-observant king. Many will treasure the Psalms more as a result of this book."

-Andrew T. Abernethy, professor of Old Testament at Wheaton College and author of Savoring Scripture

"This compelling book encourages readers to treasure the Psalms as history, as part of the whole Word of God, as a link to Christ, and as valuable for our very souls. By weaving together personal stories with solid academic study, Vaillancourt inspires as he enlightens with this accessible book. He creates a meaningful reading experience of the Psalms for students, pastors, and interested people alike."

-Beth Stovell, professor of Old Testament at Ambrose University

"Ian Vaillancourt has written a delightful guide to the Psalms. Judiciously anchored in the latest scholarship, enthusiastically christological, and written with a pastoral heart, this warmly recommended book will indeed enable readers to treasure the Psalms and to sing afresh the glories of the Messiah."

-L. Michael Morales, professor of biblical studies at Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary

"Psalms is one of the most beloved books in the Bible, yet many are unsure how the psalms can be applied to the Christian life in a legitimate and faithful way. In this accessible, focused, and winsomely written book, Vaillancourt's theological conviction and expertise shine. The first part, on the structure and shape of Psalms, is particularly compelling since it explains a complex topic so clearly and demonstrates its relevance for interpretation."

-Eric Tully, associate professor of Old Testament and Semitic languages at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School

"Unfortunately, for much of the Christian church today, the book of Psalms is like a 'treasure hidden in a field.' The author of this volume has, however, performed an invaluable service in taking his readers on a 'treasure hunt' to rediscover this buried trove. With academic skill, literary flair, and yet wonderful clarity, Vaillancourt proves himself to be a reliable guide. My advice: sell all you have, buy the book, and join the author as he shows you how to read, pray, and treasure the book of Psalms in all its canonical and christological fullness."

-Jerry Shepherd, emeritus professor of Old Testament, Taylor Seminary

"Treasuring the Psalms provides an excellent entry point for students of the book of Psalms. Vaillancourt introduces helpful ways to approach the book of Psalms as well as providing rich insights that aid in understanding the Psalms. Vaillancourt's work will aid anyone who desires a deeper understanding of this 'little Bible.'"

-Michael Snearly, scholar in residence at Grace Church of Marin in San Anselmo, California

"Ian Vaillancourt's Treasuring the Psalms not only provides a clear and comprehensive introduction to recent Psalms scholarship, it uses the best of that scholarship to show that the Psalter looks forward to the climax of Israel's history—a climax fulfilled in the story of Jesus Christ. Christian readers will resonate strongly with Vaillancourt's rich christological readings of the Psalms, while the applications he draws from them will encourage increasing praise and thankfulness to God."

-Douglas J. Green, senior lecturer in Old Testament and Hebrew exegesis at Queensland Theological College