"No interpreter of the creation narratives can avoid interacting with this book." —Derek W. H. Thomas Christians have long discussed and debated the first three chapters of the Bible. How we interpret this crucial section of Scripture has massive implications for how we understand the rest of God’s Word and even history itself. In this important volume, biblical scholar Vern Poythress combines careful exegesis with theological acumen to illuminate the significance of Genesis 1–3. In doing so, he demonstrates the sound interpretive principles that lead to true understanding of the biblical text, while also exploring complex topics such as the nature of time, the proper role of science, interpretive literalism, and more. Includes a foreword by well-known theologian and biblical scholar D. A. CarsonSets forth 15 hermeneutical principles aimed at helping readers better understand Genesis 1–3Emphasizes foundational interpretive principles rather than verse-by-verse commentary