What Every Christian Needs to Know About the Jewishness of Jesus by Rabbi Evan Moffic

What Every Christian Needs to Know About the Jewishness of Jesus by Rabbi Evan Moffic ISBN-13: 9781426791581 Paperback: 224 pages Publisher: Abingdon Press Released: Feb. 2, 2016

Source: ebook review copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
Walking through Jesus' life from birth to death, Rabbi Evan Moffic provides Christians with a new way to look at familiar teachings and practices that are rooted in the Jewish faith. Moffic gives fresh insight on how Jesus' contemporaries understood him, explores how Jesus' Jewishness shaped him, offers a new perspective on the Lord's Prayer, and provides renewed appreciation for Jesus' miracles.


My Review:
What Every Christian Needs to Know About the Jewishness of Jesus looks at Rabbinic Judaism and Jewish legends to better understand Jesus' teachings in their Jewish context. The author compared and contrasted Jesus' teachings and teaching methods to other rabbis of that time period.

He also covered topics like rabbis, discipleship, circumcision, Jewish ritual immersion, bat kol (divine voice), fasting, the Shema, the Lord's Prayer, and how 1st century Jews viewed miracles, resurrection, and the messiah. He also drew parallels between Jesus' life and Old Testament events involving Joseph, Moses, and others.

The author is a Reform Judaism rabbi who has clearly spent a lot of time talking with Christians. I appreciate his efforts to educate Christians (and Jews), and he was respectful about Christian beliefs. While he brought insights into things of Jewish significance, he understandably (due to the variation in beliefs among Christians) didn't always understand my Christian viewpoint on things.

I've read some excellent books by Christian authors that cover the same topics and provide deeper insights for Christian faith, so I'd probably recommend them before this one. But this book did provide some good information and was interesting.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.

The Word Of Promise New Testament Audio Bible

The Word Of Promise New Testament Audio Bible, NKJV ISBN-13: 9780718081669 Audio CD: 20 CDs Publisher: Thomas Nelson Publishers

Source: Review copy from the publisher.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
This multi-voiced, scripted dramatization of the New King James Version (NKJV) features a star-studded cast of actors, an original music score, and incredible feature film quality sound effects. This world-class production creates a dramatic audio theater experience that makes you feel like you're really there with Jesus and His disciples.

Cast Includes: Jim Caviezel ("The Passion of The Christ, Deja vu") - Jesus Academy Award winner Richard Dreyfuss ("Mr. Holland's Opus, The Goodbye Girl") - Quotes from Moses Academy Award winner Marisa Tomei ("My Cousin Vinny, What Women Want") - Mary Magdalene Golden Globe winner Stacy Keach ("Prison Break, Hemingway") - Paul Academy Award and Golden Globe winner Louis Gossett, Jr. ("An Officer and a Gentleman, Roots") - John Kimberly Williams-Paisley ("According to Jim, Father of the Bride") - Mary, Mother of Jesus And many others


My Review:
The Word Of Promise: New Testament is a 20 CD set, dramatized, NKJV audio Bible covering the New Testament. Each audio CD was longer than an hour, but I'm not certain how long the complete set was. I love listening to audio Bibles and listen to them daily, so I was excited to add a new one to my library.

Overall, the voice cast did an excellent job of reading the verses in a dynamic way that helped me to stay focused on their words. My only problem was with the "Jesus voice." Most of the time his voice quavered like Jesus was on the verge of breaking into tears. The rest of the time it was a gentle, monotone voice. I had a hard time staying focused on Jesus' words if he spoke for longer than a few minutes.

The track editing was well done as it flowed well and sounded like one long take. The background soundtrack sounded similar to a movie soundtrack. The voices were supported with quiet music and added sound effects (like a door opening and closing). Occasionally the music would crescendo dramatically to emphasize a dramatic moment.

This set was in a large plastic case. There were two CDs per "spindle," and the top set of CDs overlapped a bottom set. Basically, you have to remove three CDs to get to the fourth. I had trouble removing the CDs, too, so this was not a convenient arrangement for me. I've already moved them to a better case. Overall, if you like the NKJV of the Bible, this is a good choice of audio Bible.


If you've listened to this audio Bible, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of them in the comments.

40 by 40 edited by Hershel Shanks

40 by 40 edited by Hershel Shanks ISBN-13: 9780979635779 Paperback: 632 pages Publisher: Biblical Archaeology Society Released: Dec. 30, 2015

Source: ebook review copy from the publisher through NetGalley. I'm not certain if this was only for Volume One or if it was both volumes in one ebook.

Book Description, Modified from Amazon:
From the founding families of the Bible through the early Christian period and almost everything in between: The Exodus. Jerusalem Archaeology. Solomon's Temple. The Dead Sea Scrolls, the world of Jesus and more. This special collection of 40 articles celebrates the 40th Anniversary of Biblical Archaeology Review (BAR).

Exploring the breadth of Biblical history, these easy-to-read-and understand articles are written by the world s leading Biblical archaeologists and scholars, illustrated with glorious color pictures of artifacts and excavations, and include new commentary by BAR editor Hershel Shanks.


My Review:
40 by 40 is a collection of articles that were originally published in Biblical Archaeology Review. These articles were organized by time period, starting with the Exodus and ending after Acts. There were 43 main articles with numerous sub-articles. They contained many full-color photographs, diagrams, and maps of the places studied and things found.

For those not familiar with the magazine, it's written so the average person can follow what's being discussed without watering down the actual technical content. Enough information is provided that readers can follow the debates about a layer or object (dating, what it is, etc.) and form their own opinions. The general attitude of the contributors is that the Bible is not a historical book but contains historical memories. But you can believe the Bible is historically accurate (like I do) and still enjoy these articles.

Some articles focused on controversial issues while others described interesting finds or gave insights into a trade. There were articles about the meaning of the word translated "Red" in "Red Sea," the Hazor excavation, tombs of certain periods and lack of tombs in certain periods, an altar on Mount Ebal, an Edomite shrine, the Sea People, iron working, bronze working, fish and fishing techniques of the lake of Galilee, crucifixion, excavations in Jerusalem (a large public building, the Pool of Siloam, a gate under the Golden Gate, tombs, the Burnt House, etc.), and more.

Overall, I'd recommend this book to those who have enjoyed BAR articles in the past or who are interested in a high level of archaeological detail.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.

Jesus: Experiencing His Touch by Kay Arthur & David Arthur

Jesus: Experiencing His Touch A Study of Mark 1-6 by Kay Arthur & David Arthur ISBN-13: 9781601428066 Paperback: 96 pages Publisher: WaterBrook Press Released: Dec. 15, 2015

Source: Review copy from the publisher.

Book Description from Back Cover:
The first six chapters of Mark’s gospel overflow with stories of people drawing near to Jesus, longing to experience firsthand the touch of the Savior. Over and over, Jesus responded with compassion, interacting on a personal level with individuals who had been cast aside by society, their circumstances deemed beyond hope.

As you delve into their stories in this powerful study—the first in a three-part study of the gospel of Mark—you’ll discover for yourself the difference it makes when you engage with Jesus personally and experience His touch in your life.


My Review:
Jesus: Experiencing His Touch is a no homework, 6-week-long Bible study of Mark 1-6. It's designed for small groups to do together once a week in a 40 minute period. The authors let Scripture speak for itself and were careful to keep the studied verses in context.

The study had people read several verses (which were included in the book), mark/highlight certain words, then answer several questions about what was just read. Insight boxes were included with background information that helped make a verse or point more understandable. The questions were helpful in focusing attention on all of the points that needed to be looked at. In case you missed a point, the "wrap up" section at the end of each week's lesson summarized what was learned that week.

I enjoyed this well-written study, and I'd recommend it.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.

Women in Black History by Tricia Williams Jackson

Women in Black History by Tricia Williams Jackson ISBN-13: 9780800726522 Paperback: 176 pages Publisher: Revell Released: Jan. 5, 2016

Source: ebook review copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
Within the pages of American history are the stories of remarkable African American women who have defied the odds, taken a stand for justice, and made incredible strides despite opposition from the culture around them. Now young readers can discover their exciting true stories in this eye-opening collection.

From well-known figures like Sojourner Truth, Harriet Tubman, and Rosa Parks to women rarely found in any history book, "Women in Black History" explores the lives of writers, athletes, singers, activists, and educators who have made an indelible mark on our country and our culture. Perfect for kids, but also for adults who like to read about important figures and unsung heroes.


My Review:
Women in Black History is a collection of 14 biographies of American women who made an impact on our history. It's targeted at children, and the author explained words like "debut" and "suffrage" when she used them. Adults will also enjoy this book.

The biographies covered a period from 1753 to 1994. Some of these women were slaves and others free, but they were honored for their work as poets, singers, writers, in sports, for anti-slavery activities, and their efforts for civil rights, woman's suffrage, and equal education.

Each biography was about 12 pages long. It started with a scene from the woman's life, then the author told about their life. She briefly mentioned how each woman's Christian faith affected their actions. At the end of each biography, the author included three reading comprehension questions, then she invited the reader to imagine something relating to the story and to get creative with a related activity. There was a sketch or photograph of each woman in the back.

I can see this book being used in homeschooling. I'd recommend it to anyone interested in short biographies of inspiring women.

The women covered were: Phillis Wheatley, Sojourner Truth, Harriet Tubman, Mary Ann Shadd Cary, Frances Ellen Watkins Harper, Anna Julia Cooper, Mary McLeod Bethune, Marian Anderson, Mahalia Jackson, Rosa Parks, Fannie Lou Hamer, Althea Gibson, Coretta Scott King, and Wilma Rudolph.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.

Philippians by Sue Edwards

Philippians by Sue Edwards ISBN-13: 9780825443992 Paperback: 80 pages Publisher: Kregel Publications Released: Nov. 27, 2015

Source: Review copy from the publisher.

Book Description, Modified from Publisher's:
Philipians: Discovering Joy Through Relationship studies Paul's letter for a model of deep, authentic community and healthy relationships between believers. Although Paul was under house arrest, he was able to draw joy from his relationships.

Paul's letter highlights the skills that strengthen authentic connections--skills like trust, humility, healthy self-sacrifice, a generous spirit, and more. It also sheds light on how to overcome toxic connection-killers like envy, comparison, and critical attitudes. By the end of this study, readers will have a thorough sense of the content of this ancient letter and of its relevance for today.


My Review:
Philippians is an eight lesson, inductive Bible study on Philippians. This study can be done by yourself but the questions often assume you're a part of a small group. This book contains the participant study questions. You can download the leader's guide and view the lesson videos online for free at discovertogetherseries.com.

This book mainly contained a series of questions with blank areas for your answers. They were primarily reading comprehension questions ("what did he say about this in verse 2?"), but some questions also have you look up related verses or talk about similar circumstances in your life. In the margins, there were quotes relating to the study and some "dig deeper" exercises that require a little more time to complete.

The free, online videos contain the author's main commentary on the verses. These short videos (7-13 minutes long) help bring together the information in the study and contain the author's main application points. Overall, I'd recommend this study.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.

(Un)Qualified by Steven Furtick

(Un)Qualified by Steven Furtick ISBN-13: 9781601424594 Hardcover: 224 pages Publisher: Multnomah Books Released: March 1, 2016

Source: Review copy from the publisher.

Book Description, Modified from Back Cover:
Many of us wrestle with the gap between our weaknesses and our dreams, between who we are and who God says we are meant to be. But God has a way of using our weaknesses for good. In fact, God loves unqualified people.

Who you think you are is not as important as who God says you are. In (Un)qualified, Pastor Steven Furtick helps you peel back the assumptions you've made about yourself and see yourself as God sees you. God can't bless who you pretend to be, but he longs to bless who you really are--a flawed and broken person. True peace and confidence will come not from worldly perfection but from acceptance: God's acceptance of you, your acceptance of yourself, and your acceptance of God's process of change. God is in the business of using broken people to do big things.


My Review:
(Un)Qualified is for those who feel like they need to fix their weaknesses before they can be acceptable to God. The author talked about God's name being "I AM" and how it matters how we fill in our "third words" ("I am ____"). Maybe the weaknesses we're most concerned with aren't the ones God's working on, and God uses people who are willing to depend on Him. He talked about not comparing ourselves with others, setting the correct goals, and many other topics.

He referred to Jacob from the Bible, his own life, and others to illustrate his insights. It's written in a casual tone with mild humor, and it felt like an "I'm in the trenches with you" pep talk. He made many good points. Overall, I'd recommend this book to those who feel trapped by their weaknesses.

Here are some quotes (from an ARC, so they may not perfectly match the final copy): From page 53: "The belief that God is more interested in our perfection than our relationship with him is the birthplace of insecurity." From page 124: "...our relationship with God will continue for eternity. That should tell us something: we shouldn't lose sight of what is eternal in our efforts to improve what is temporary."

From page 121: "God knows certain things will suck the life out of us. They will hurt us. They will hurt people around us. They will hurt our relationship with him. So he calls them sin, and he enables us to stop doing them."


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.

Ruth by Daniel I. Block

Ruth by Daniel I. Block ISBN-13: 9780310282983 Hardcover: 208 pages Publisher: Zondervan Released: Dec. 15, 2015

Source: ebook review copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

Book Description, Modified from NetGalley:
The Zondervan Exegetical Commentary on the Old Testament serves pastors and teachers by providing them with a careful analysis and interpretation of the biblical text, rooted in a study of the Hebrew text of the Old Testament and intended to track the flow of the argument in each book and passage.

A visual “thought flow” of the passage will enable the reader to grasp quickly and accurately the main idea of the text, its development, and supporting ideas. For readability, the graphical display will be done in the commentator's own English translation of the passage. The author also identifies and discusses the main thrust of each passage and shows how it contributes to the development of the whole composition. Whenever a Hebrew construction affects the interpretation of the text, it will be discussed and explained. The author will also provide a theological and applicational discussion of the main thrust of the passage.


My Review:
Ruth is an in-depth examination of the text of Ruth along with a discussion of what the reader was probably intended to understand from it. For example, why was the book of Ruth included and placed where it is in the various cannons?

The author started by discussing the various possibilities of who wrote the book and when. He then examined the Hebrew text for overall sentence structures (A B C C B A patterns and such) as well as Hebrew words and sentence constructions that have significance but which don't translate well into English.

You don't have to know Hebrew to understand this analysis, but you'll probably get more out of it if you do. I know only a little Hebrew, but I still found the discussion very interesting. Some parts of the discussion really made me think, and others helped to clear up my thinking about conflicting opinions I've heard. For example, I always felt that "feet" literally meant "feet" in this story, and the author's analysis confirmed that this was true.

The author also gave some application points. These Zondervan Exegetical Commentaries tend to get more in-depth than most laymen (like me) need, but I've always learned new and interesting things from them. I'd recommend this commentary to teachers, students, pastors, and anyone who wants an in-depth look at Ruth.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.

Rose Then And Now Bible Map Atlas by Paul H. Wright, Ph.D.

Rose Then And Now Bible Map Atlas by Paul H. Wright, Ph.D. ISBN-13: 9781596366206 ebook: 272 pages Publisher: Rose Publishing Released: March 19, 2013

Source: ebook review copy from the publisher.

Book Description, Modified from Amazon:
The Best "Then and Now" Bible Atlas Ever, with 120 stunning detailed Bible maps and including overlays showing modern-day cities and countries in red. This atlas focuses on people - not regions - and how the geography affected their lives and decisions. For example: Know how David's clever understanding of geography and politics led to his marriage with Ahinoam of Jezreel. Find out why Moses and the Children of Israel took the long southern trek from Egypt to the Promised Land, rather than the direct route.

Dr. Paul H. Wright is President of Jerusalem University College (the Institute of Holy Land Studies). Over the years Dr. Wright has led thousands of university students and adults on field studies throughout Israel, the Palestinian territories, Jordan, Egypt and the Sinai.


My Review:
Rose Then And Now Bible Map Atlas provided geographical, archaeological, and cultural background insights into the Biblical narrative. The Atlas started off with typical information about rainfall, temperatures, and such. Then the author focused on various people in the Bible, from Abraham to John. He talked about other people who were also active at that time, so he covered most of the Bible and the inter-testament period in this way.

For each chapter, the author retold the person's story based on the biblical information. He also provided insights on how geography, politics, and cultural pressures may have played a role in their decisions. He added fictional dialogue to illustrate his proposed scenario. I didn't always accept the motives that the author proposed, but the suggested political pressures did prompt me to think about the narratives in a new way. The information on how the land contours and features affected events was interesting.

The maps showed the locations of major events and movements. In the .pdf ebook version, the "overlay" of modern territory lines is simply given as second map. The labeling on the map was easily readable on my computer screen but might not be so easy on smaller screens.

There were many excellent photographs of the locations described in the text. These photographs showed what the landscape looks like and often illustrated the significant features that the author described in the text. I really enjoyed the photos and geography insights.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.