Killing
Jesus: A History
By Bill O’Reilly
O’Reilly writes a gripping and detailed historical
account of the trials, scourging and crucifixion of Jesus. The book is well
researched and gives valuable information about Caesar Augustus, Herod the
Great, and Pontius Pilate. It also explains the concerns of the Roman officials
and the Jewish religious authorities in power at that time. Jesus ministry is
touched on briefly and only to explain the outraged response of the religious
authorities. The book describes the last week of Jesus’ life in depth, giving
vivid and brutal details about his treatment from the time of his arrest to the
crucifixion, burial and empty tomb.
The author leaves out much. The birth of Jesus in a
manger is omitted but the book tells of Herod having all babies killed due to
the report that a prophesied king had been born in Bethlehem. He also leaves
out the voice of God “This is my son in
whom I am well pleased”, but not the dove at Jesus Baptism. There is scant
mention of his miracles, his teaching and his resurrection. He notes that women
were treated very well by Jesus and his disciples – something not common at
that time.
Though O’Reilly writes this as a secular history it is a
worthwhile book for Christians to read. In addition it may well give pause to
nonbelievers who want to learn more about Jesus. O’Reilly clearly states the
worldwide impact of Jesus which continues to this day.
God’s
Grace from Ground Zero:
Seeking God’s Heart for the Future of
Our World
By Jim Cymbala
God’s
Grace at Ground Zero
is a powerful book about the impact of the 911 disaster on New York in
particular and on the United States as well. The Brooklyn Tabernacle opened their
church doors to minister to those who walked by covered with soot and in shock.
As time passed four members of the congregation were still missing. This is a
gripping account of two who died and one who lived and how “God longs for us to
place our faith in him, to trust him, no matter what happens.” Cymbala also
says that many people who doubted God’s existence before 911 now are seeking
him. This is a powerful book that can help us make sense of the tragedies and
difficulties in life.
Edge
of Eternity
by Randy Alcorn
Edge
of Eternity is an amazing novel written by Randy Alcorn
in 1998. The story is about a business man, Nick Seagate, whose life is a
wreck. Suddenly he finds himself in another world in which he faces many
torments and trials but also meets and makes friends with fellow travelers as
they attempt to reach the city of Light. There are many twists and turns to the
plot. The writing is full of beautiful and profound words. Early in the book
Nick walks with the Woodsman who tells him about a King. He tells Nick: The
King is the fountain of life…The King is a rose full of beauty but also
thorns…The King is the true vine, the tree of life, the giver of grain…The King
is light…The King is a singer and a song and more. Pg 43 This
is a very special book full of wisdom with word pictures of our journey in life
with the God of the universe.
“I
am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even
after dying.” John 11:25
Blessings, Dottie
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