Monday, October 26, 2015

Book Review: Agents of Babylon by David Jeremiah

Daniel is one of the most often misunderstood books of the Bible. The visions Daniel receives and recounts are often bizarre and difficult to grasp. It is also a key piece to understanding and interpretation end times prophecies found in other OT books as well as the NT book of Revelation. To the casual Bible student grasping the fullness of the book of Daniel can be daunting. Even among scholars there is debate.

Dr. Jeremiah's book is an attempt to make the book of Daniel more accessible to the average reader. He combines creative prose, retelling the story, with careful exposition to give its meaning. It is part novel and part commentary and it works. I have been a student of Scripture for years and found this book useful. It isn't overly in-depth, but provides a solid start for understanding Daniel, especially for those who are new students of the Bible.

I received this book free from Tyndale Publishing for review purposes.


Sunday, April 26, 2015

Book Review: "Visits to Heaven and Back: Are They Real?" by Mark Hitchcock

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale Publishers for the purpose of review.

The afterlife is a subject most of the world is interested in. It transcends religion, economics, politics, and ethnicity. People are driven by curiosity in what happens after we die and there are countless books available that feed the hunger. They contain story after story of visits to heaven and hell without sparing details. So many of the details are contradictory from one tale to another. Which ones are accurate and which aren't? Can we know what is true? Where is truth about heaven and the afterlife found? These are all valid questions that have equally valid answers. Unfortunately, most of the stories of visitations to the afterlife do not tell the truth.


Mark Hitchcock fairly examines the "heaven" books, comparing and contrasting their details and ideas about heaven (and hell). In his examination there are numerous discrepancies discovered and must be accounted for. The author doesn't build a case based upon human experience, but takes the reader to the Bible. It does reveal the reality of a world beyond this one we live in and provides some details of what it is like. Mr. Hitchcock uses the Bible as a source book for details on the place called Hell and shares with the reader the warnings about it. 


I will recommend this book to those who are curious as well as those who have jumped headlong into the "heaven" book phenomenon. It is written in a clear manner that is easily understood. The afterlife is a matter of eternity and we should rely solely upon the one book that can give us the truth about Heaven and Hell.


You can read the first chapter by clicking on this LINK.





Monday, February 2, 2015

Book Review: "Stealing From God: Why atheists need God to make their case" by Frank Turek

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale Publishers for the purpose of review.

It wouldn't make sense for anyone to deny the existence of eyes, but then use them to read a list of reasons why they don't exist. The very act would prove their existence. Frank Turek points out the same inconsistency of atheists in their arguments against the existence of God. The arguments atheists hold to disprove God's existence instead speak volumes in proof of His existence. Using the acrostic C.R.I.M.E.S., Turek exposes the inability of atheists to form a case against God without first "stealing" from God.

This type of book can often be difficult to read or follow because of the style and language. The author presents deep thought and logic in a very accessible manner. He has "moved the cookies to the lower shelf" for the benefit of readers like me. Turek writes with humor and a razor sharp wit without sacrificing substance. He never comes across as arrogant or bitter, but seems to write from genuine humility and care. I appreciate that he didn't simply debunk the arguments of atheists or make a case for God, but pressed on in stressing the evidence for the God of the Bible.

I would recommend this to any Christian reader who is wanting to be equipped to provide an answer for their faith. I would also recommend it to any friend or family member who is looking for answers to life's questions. Lastly, I would recommend it to any atheist or skeptic who has a genuine desire to learn truth.

You can read the first chapter using this LINK.


Friday, January 2, 2015

Uncommon Wisdom for an Uncommon Adventure

I received this book free of charge from Tyndale House Publishers for review purposes.

I have admired Tony Dungy as a coach, a commentator, and a person for years. He has always struck me as humble and firm in his faith with a commitment to excellence. Although it is a devotional, this book has only solidified my opinion of him as a man and a Christian. The book is written for married couples in celebration of the marriage commitment as well as for guidance in day-to-day living for husbands and wives. The core practices described are grounded in Scripture and designed to support eight core principles that will enhance a person's marriage. It is clear that marriage is something they have worked hard at and invested a great deal of time in.

The daily readings aren't going to "fix" problems, but will open the door to developing a greater understanding your spouse. This book is practical and challenging as it calls for husbands and wives to "live out" their commitment to one another. It is an encouragement to not give up hope for those who are struggling as well as a refresher for those who are in a good place, but want to fine tune their relationship with their spouse. Marriage is an adventure that is worth it, make the commitment and take the journey. Take this book along for guidance.