Tell It Slant

Tell It Slant examines Jesus's parables and prayers as recorded in biblical texts. Peterson unpacks these teachings through detailed analysis and pastoral insights gained from decades of ministry experience. The book connects Jesus's method of indirect communication through stories to Emily Dickinson's poetic advice to "tell all the truth but tell it slant." Peterson explores how Jesus used everyday metaphors and narrative to convey profound spiritual truths to his listeners. Peterson's work bridges ancient biblical wisdom with contemporary application, focusing on how Jesus's teaching style remains relevant for modern spiritual formation. Through examination of specific parables and prayers, the book demonstrates patterns in Jesus's pedagogical approach. The text considers larger themes of truth-telling, spiritual maturity, and the transformative power of narrative in faith development. Peterson's analysis suggests that indirect communication through story and metaphor can reach hearts and minds in ways that direct instruction cannot.

Readers describe Tell It Slant as a practical guide for understanding Jesus's conversational style and indirect communication methods. Many pastors and ministry leaders report using it to improve their preaching and teaching approach. Readers highlight: - In-depth analysis of Jesus's parables and conversations - Applications for modern pastoral work - Clear writing style with real-world examples - Balance of scholarly insight and accessibility Common criticisms: - Some sections feel repetitive - Slower pacing in middle chapters - Limited focus on practical implementation - Writing occasionally wanders from main points Ratings across platforms: Goodreads: 4.2/5 (321 ratings) Amazon: 4.6/5 (89 ratings) Notable reader comment: "Peterson shows how Jesus avoided direct answers to create deeper understanding. This changed how I approach difficult pastoral conversations." - Goodreads reviewer Critical note: "The book makes good points but could have been shorter. The middle section particularly drags." - Amazon reviewer

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🔹 "Tell It Slant" takes its title from an Emily Dickinson poem that begins "Tell all the truth but tell it slant," reflecting Peterson's approach to indirect communication in Jesus's parables. 🔹 Eugene Peterson wrote this book as part of his five-volume series on spiritual theology, completing it after retiring from a 29-year career as founding pastor of Christ Our King Presbyterian Church. 🔹 The book specifically examines Jesus's indirect methods of teaching, including His use of personal conversations, parables, and prayers from the Gospel of Luke. 🔹 Peterson translated the entire Bible into contemporary American English in "The Message," which has sold more than 20 million copies worldwide, drawing from the same philosophy of accessible spiritual communication that he explores in "Tell It Slant." 🔹 While writing this book, Peterson drew heavily from his experience teaching biblical languages at New York Theological Seminary and his doctorate work in Semitic languages at Johns Hopkins University.