Book Review: The Serpent and the Serpent Slayer

In The Serpent and the Serpent Slayer, Andrew Naselli shows how the biblical storyline centers upon the conflict between a great snake and a much greater snake crusher. In Chapter 1, the author analyzes Genesis 3 to describe and draw out how the deceitful speech of an evil snake brings about the fall of mankind. Taking the form of a snake, Satan tempts the first human couple to disobey God’s command to not eat the forbidden fruit. Adam and Eve choose to rebel against God resulting in the entire creation being cursed along with a foretelling of the enmity between the woman’s seed and the serpent. Although the serpent may strike the seed’s heel, the seed will be the final victor in crushing the snake. After the fall, the serpent continues to afflict mankind through deception and destruction but God remains in control and preserves those that belong to Him. In Chapter 2, Naselli examines the various ways that the term “serpent” and its variants are used in the Bible. Firstly, there are some instances in which the Bible refers to the serpent in positive ways such as the extensive descriptions of Leviathan in Job and the bronze snake in the wilderness. However, the vast majority of biblical references are resolutely negative by describing the snake’s intentions and actions as being evil, poisonous, and deadly. Moreover, Satan and his minions are referred to as serpents that assail and coerce God’s people through physical afflictions, temptations, and lies. Despite these ceaseless attacks, God is able to deliver His people from the serpent’s advances as He is the sovereign God who reigns over all. In addition, He has given us His Son who defeats Satan through His death and resurrection thereby enabling believers to emerge victorious against the serpent. In Chapter 3, the author surveys numerous biblical references that focus on how Satan propagates his vileness and wickedness through depraved groups of people such as the Pharaoh, wicked leaders, and false prophets. In reviewing these passages, we can appreciate how pervasive and destructive that the ultimate serpent Satan and his offspring are.  The next chapter concentrates on the book of Revelation with its depiction of dragons and beasts that wage war against God and His people. Naselli concludes by exhorting readers to be wary of the serpent’s cunning schemes, actively fight the snake through God’s Spirit and Word, and rely on the great snake slayer Jesus Christ to overcome the serpent.

I recommend this book as the material serves as a critical reminder that the serpent and his offspring are active in our world today. From Genesis 3 to Revelation 20, we can see how Satan has never given up in bringing pain and suffering to the people of God. At the same time, we also see how God preserves His elect and delivers them from the serpent without fail. Furthermore, God fulfills His promise by sending Jesus as the great serpent slayer who won the victory on the cross and will destroy the ancient dragon once and for all when He returns. Christians do not need to fear the serpent and his schemes as the One who indwells us is infinitely stronger than Satan and his followers. Nevertheless, believers ought to be constantly aware and ready to fight the sly, subtle advances of the serpent who always takes advantage of every opportunity to lure us away from God’s paths. When we put our faith in the ultimate serpent crusher, we can rest assured that He will carry us through every snake encounter and emerge victorious over deceitful serpents and devouring dragons.

In compliance with Federal Trade Commission regulations, I was provided a review copy of this book from Crossway.

Book Review: Telling a Better Story

In Telling a Better Story, Josh Chatraw aims to help Christians rethink their strategy in sharing the gospel to non-believers in the post-Christian era of the Western world. The author argues that traditional methods of defending the Christian faith through reason and logic are no longer effective. In the past, Christianity was readily accepted by western civilizations as being generally good and beneficial to society even by agonistics and atheists. On the contrary, Western cultures presently see Christianity as being old-fashioned, intolerant, and oppressive. When believers attempt to awkwardly bring up questions on the meaning of life and faith, they are often met with a range of responses ranging from polite disinterest to outright antagonism. Chatraw suggests that we must dig deeper to connect with the hearts of those we want to reach before we lay out the objective evidence and proofs that classical apologetics employ. The author suggests the use of storytelling as an effective tool to engage the imaginations of our hearers before we attempt to wrestle with their minds. Throughout history, narratives are what capture the imaginations of different peoples of various cultures and civilizations. The author draws on numerous examples such as J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis of how storytelling can be utilized to awaken their audience to the possibility of a better narrative that can help explain their experiences in life. Next, the author outlines three of the most prevalent secular stories in Western culture that Christians commonly encounter. The pessimistic secular story sees the world as being void of any meaning or purpose and religion as being a crutch for those who are weak. On the other hand, the optimistic secular story sees the human race as being capable of achieving its highest good through its own efforts. The last story is the one of pluralistic and moral therapeutic spirituality in which its adherents acknowledge a far-off deity or higher power that oversees the world but humans need to look inside themselves for salvation and freedom. In addition, three micro-stories that are also pervasive in Western culture include consumerism, achievement, and romance. To counter these false stories, Chatraw argues that Christians ought to employ an inside-out apologetics in which we first get to know the stories of the different people we engage before trying to present the story of the gospel. Instead of traditional apologetics built on logic and evidence, inside-out apologetics seeks to affirm what is true in the other party’s story and confront what is false before suggesting how the gospel offers a better story. Furthermore, this type of apologetics is gradual and intentional requiring the establishing of a trusting relationship with unbelievers with gentleness, respect, and love. In the ensuing chapters, Chatraw examines one common cultural narrative we encounter in our everyday interactions with non-believers and suggest how Christianity provides a much more fulfilling alternative. The author emphasizes that these examples are not formulas that readers should follow step-by-step but merely suggestions on how to dialogue with non-believers using the inside-out approach.

I recommend this book to Christians who may feel discouraged, fearful, or helpless trying to evangelize to those around them. Every generation of Christian believers wrestles with the challenges of their day in how to faithfully carry out the Great Commission in a firm but gentle manner. Chatraw points out that the negativity towards Christianity today is similar to the days of the early church where persecution and martyrdom were consequences of following Christ. While we may not experience the same level of hostility, we ought to be ready to defend the gospel in the face of increasing adversity, resentment, and humiliation. Chatraw suggests the use of storytelling to help unbelievers realize the inconsistencies and weaknesses of their own stories in comparison to the great story of the Bible. It is important to note that the author does not discount the power and value of objective evidence, logic, and reason to support our arguments as he uses all of these elements masterfully in the examples discussed in the book. However, we must first gain the attention of our audience by illustrating how the Christian faith is the most persuasive narrative that explains how we perceive our lives and this world. Doing so requires us to not only know what the gospel is but also to be a living apologetic in illustrating in our own lives the transformative  power of the gospel story. Only then can we be convincing in upholding the Christian metanarrative that centers upon the person and work of Jesus Christ as the best story the world has ever known.

In compliance with Federal Trade Commission regulations, I was provided a review copy of this book from Zondervan.

Book Review: Saints & Scoundrels in the Story of Jesus

In Saints & Scoundrels in the Story of Jesus, Nancy Guthrie explores how Jesus touched the lives of different people during and after His earthly ministry. In doing so, Guthrie encourages us to see how our own stories intersect with Jesus’ salvation story. The author selects both individuals such as John the Baptist and groups including the Pharisees and tax collectors as opportunities for us to learn more about both who Jesus is and who we are. Some of the character choices are obvious such as Peter and Judas while others are relatively unexpected like Stephen and Jesus’ biological family. Each chapter is packed with intriguing observations that pick up on minute details readers may gloss over when reading their Bibles. Moreover, Guthrie provides helpful historical information such as the reign of the Herods and the selection process for the high priest in Jesus’ time to provide a different angle in approaching familiar biblical narratives. At the end of the book, the author includes discussion questions for each chapter that help enrich both personal and group study.

I recommend this book to readers in all walks of life as the story of Jesus is precious and invaluable to all people. Guthrie points out that the gospel is not for those who are perfect but for sinners who know they need the One who is completely perfect. Furthermore, in highlighting the stories of those who failed to trust Jesus, the author reminds us that not everyone who meets the Son of God end up putting their faith in Him. Those who count themselves as too unworthy for God’s grace need to hear the stories of Zacchaeus and Paul. On the other hand, those who consider themselves saints through their own efforts ought to examine the stories of Caiaphas and the Pharisees. It is only by the divine will of God that the elect are chosen to inherit eternal life through Jesus Christ by the work of the Holy Spirit. No matter how sinful we are, the blood of Jesus is effectual and sufficient to redeem us from being scoundrels of the world to saints of His kingdom.

In compliance with Federal Trade Commission regulations, I was provided a review copy of this book from Crossway.

Book Review: Cozy, Snowy Cuddles Touch and Feel

In Cozy, Snowy Cuddles Touch and Feel, readers follow a young polar bear cub as it romps along to visit different animals sharing warm cuddles as the winter weather approaches. Each page flip introduces another animal family along with a short two-line rhyming passage. Furthermore, there is an area on the animal’s outer coat that has been designed for touch-and-feel of which each animal is unique such as the leathery texture of the seal’s fur and the smooth consistency of the moose’s hide. The animal characters are drawn with a more cartoonish style to attract younger audiences likely around ages two to five. Even the surroundings such as the snowy terrain and wintery sky are vibrantly illustrated which will most certainly captivate both children and parents.

I would recommend this book as a fun, interactive book to introduce preschoolers to the change between the seasons of fall and winter. The words are relatively simple so those who are just beginning to learn words will understand most of the text without much difficulty. Moreover, children of all ages will enjoy rubbing their fingers on the various coats of each animal. Thus, this book would be an excellent choice as a bedtime story for those wintery nights where warm cuddles and kisses are most cherished.

In compliance with Federal Trade Commission guidelines, I was provided a review copy of this book from BookLook Bloggers.

Book Review: My Great Big God

In My Great Big God, Andy Holmes and Marta Alvarez Miguens team up to introduce young children to God and His attributes through twenty Bible stories. Although the book is not considered a children’s Bible, the chapters progress from creation and ends with a reiteration of the Great Commission to tell others about how great God is. Many of the stories selected are typical but some are interesting choices such as Moses receiving the Ten Commandments from God on Mount Sinai. Of the Christian children books I have read, this one has the most vibrant illustrations with careful attention to detail. For example, in the story about Joseph and his brothers, each individual is uniquely crafted with different clothes and physical attributes. As for the content, what I found most captivating is the author’s ability to summarize the entire story in a small paragraph. Also, the author maintains an appropriate balance of being true to original story while allowing some room for imagination. Furthermore, Holmes applies rhyme and meter in his sentences which makes the reading fun and engaging for both parents and children alike. The reading level would be suitable for ages two to five but younger children would likely enjoy having parents point out the bright pictures and sound out the catchy sentences.

I would gladly recommend this wonderful book to all kids who want to learn about our great God who creates, sustains, and rules over all things. The book is helpful in focusing on how the biblical narrative reveals God to us rather than simply drawing out a moral lesson that we can learn. Moreover, it is imperative for young children to attain a strong grasp of who God is as this has significant implications on how they view the world that they are exploring every day.

In compliance with Federal Trade Commission guidelines, I was provided a review copy of this book from BookLook Bloggers.

Book Review: My Jesus Bible

In My Jesus Bible, young children are invited to follow the story of Jesus from His birth, life, death, and resurrection. Each of the chapters are brightly illustrated with great attention to detail. Moreover, each story remains largely faithful to the biblical text with slight adjustments to tailor the material towards the target audience (ages three to five) such as using the word “helpers” instead of “disciples.” The stories highlight critical points in Jesus’ life such as His temptation in the desert, His baptism by John the Baptist, and His first recorded miracle at Cana. However, there are two weakness that I noticed while reading the book. Firstly, the chapters do not include the specific biblical references pertaining to the respective narrative. Knowing where to find the story can help children draw the connection that the story is found in the Bible and not merely a fictional tale. The second weakness is that the gospel message seems to be somewhat muted as the reason for Jesus’ death on the cross is not made clear. For young readers being introduced to the gospel, it is an opportune time to bring up the concept of sin as children may end up quite confused as to why Jesus had to die in the first place if He was so kind and loving to those around Him.

I would recommend this small book that chronologically retells the story of Jesus in an abbreviated manner while maintaining the integrity of the Scriptural text. The pages contain attractive pictures and the book itself is made of sturdy cardboard material that enables toddlers to turn the pages easily. Moreover, this resource provides a suitable foundation for kids to become familiar with Jesus and His story as they eventually move on to read lengthier children Bibles. As mentioned above, the significant drawback though is that human depravity was not emphasized sufficiently which may impair young children’s initial grasp of the gospel message.

In compliance with Federal Trade Commission guidelines, I was provided a review copy of this book from BookLook Bloggers.

Book Review: God’s Little Lambs Bible Stories

In God’s Little Lambs Bible Stories, Julie Stiegemeyer (author) and Qin Leng (illustrator) collaborate to create a colourful children’s storybook Bible with thirty five stories covering both the Old and New Testaments. Readers may not necessarily agree with all the stories chosen such as the healing of the crippled man and the apostle Paul being shipwrecked on his missionary journey in Acts. However, I would say that the author’s selection is fairly intentional in highlighting critical covenant narratives such as Adam, Noah, Moses, David, and Jesus. Introducing covenant theology to children at a young age allows them to begin grasping the Bible’s storyline and develop a framework for further deepening their understanding of the Bible. Each story is concise yet detailed and attempts to retain the wording of adult Bibles so adults will need to be prepared to explain the meaning of more challenging narratives such as the Last Supper and Jesus’ crucifixion. As for the pictures, each page is filled with bright and eye-catching illustrations with careful attention to details. Each story occupies around four pages and will always end with a short sentence to apply the lesson learned through the story. For the most part, the applications are appropriate and may be helpful to parents looking for a quick reference in teaching their children during nighttime devotions. However, I would encourage parents to keep working with their kids to dig deeper in God’s Word to understand the original meaning and wider applications of each story. It is critical to teach our children as they grow up to plumb the depths of Scripture instead of simply stopping with a moral lesson. However, I do appreciate the author’s motivation to provide an accessible storybook Bible to help whet the appetites of children for God’s Word.

I would recommend this book to children between the ages of four to six as the stories are relatively long and the words may be hard to understand. By this age, many of these stories may be familiar to children as taught in Sunday School or bedside devotions. God’s Little Lambs Bible Stories deepens the impression of these narratives through vivid illustrations and lengthier text that helps children gain a greater knowledge of God’s Word and the Bible’s grand storyline. Most importantly, the focus is squarely on Christ as the New Testament portion consists of sixteen stories on Jesus and encourages little ones to take on the task of spreading the good news of the gospel in the last two stories on the apostles. In summary, this book may not be a typical children’s Bible but would be a great tool to transition kids to begin reading God’s Word for themselves.

In compliance with Federal Trade Commission guidelines, I received a review copy from BookLook Bloggers in exchange for a book review.

Book Review: My Little Prayers

My Little Prayers is a collection of simple prayers compiled for toddlers and preschoolers. The book itself is fairly small in size which makes it suitable for children to carry around and parents to bring along on road trips. The book is divided into eight sections with a different focus such as “My Bedtime” and “My Feelings.”  This arrangement is helpful in that young children can learn that prayer is essential to their daily lives and there is nothing too small to pray for. The prayers consist of a wide variety of different sources including traditional and contemporary authors which makes the book enjoyable for adults too. The illustrations are vivid and colourful allowing children to be engaged with the subject being prayed about. However, one weakness is that some of the prayers are quite lengthy and contain more advanced vocabulary or older English phrases (e.g. “thee”) which may make it challenging for toddlers to understand the meaning and lose interest. Thus, this book is most suitable for adults to read along with their children to offer help and guidance.

I would gladly recommend this book to anyone looking for a prayer book for their young children. I appreciate the publisher’s intent in showing children that prayer is linked to every part of our lives. Adults reading this book would also benefit themselves when reading and explaining the prayers to children.

In compliance with Federal Trade Commission guidelines, I received a review copy from BookLook Bloggers in exchange for a book review.

Book Review: After Acts

In After Acts, Bryan Litfin attempts to reconstruct the life of the apostles and other significant New Testament figures beyond what is recorded in the Bible. After the book of Acts, the Bible contains very little information about what happened to these individuals. Those who wrote some of the New Testament books provide a clearer picture but the details of others such as the disciples Bartholomew and Andrew are scant. Thus, Litfin uses a variety of extra-biblical resources from both within and outside of Christian circles to surmise what could have happened to these believers after Christ’s ascension. Written for readers of all backgrounds, the author compiles the evidence to sort through what is fact and fiction as historical accounts tend to become mythologized and exaggerated over time. The characters chosen in the book include eleven of the disciples (Judas Iscariot is excluded), Mary the mother of Jesus, Mark, Luke, and Paul. Litfin is careful to consider source documents that are relatively reliable and offers a concise summary on each character along with a “report card” on the veracity of a few highlighted points. I appreciate how at the end of each chapter, Litfin deliberately adds a personal touch reminding readers that despite not knowing exactly what happened to each individual, there are some qualities of each that we can learn from to help grow our Christian faith. The book is brisk and light-hearted with some humour included so readers will find the material fairly engaging.

I would gladly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys some light history reading. The author intends to give readers a brief summary of what can be gleaned from historical records to give a more concrete image of these characters we read in the Bible. It is often easy to forget that the Bible records the details of living human beings that actually left a mark in history. It is remarkable that God has chosen to use mere mortals to bring forth the message of the Gospel to the ends of the earth. Let us be reminded that we are also living and breathing characters taking part in God’s story as we join these believers of the New Testament in proclaiming the Good News to the nations.

In compliance with Federal Trade Commission guidelines, I received a review copy from Moody Press in exchange for a book review.

 

Book Review: The Whole Story of the Bible in 16 Verses

In The Whole Story of the Bible in 16 Verses, Chris Bruno takes readers through the storyline of the Bible. From creation to the new creation, Bruno illustrates how God’s will to establish His kingdom on earth has never changed. By highlighting 16 verses in the Bible, the author shows how the biblical storyline builds on this underlying theme and how the story still involves us today. Each chapter begins with the specific verse to be discussed and ends with key terms and a recap of how the story is unfolding each step of the way. Bruno has shown mastery in weaving all sixteen chapters together to form a logical, streamlined perspective of understanding the story of the Bible. His target audience is wide encompassing both new believers and mature Christians so he is careful not to incorporate terminology that would confuse readers. Moreover, his writing style is easy to follow and includes applicable examples and humorous asides.  Using only 127 pages, Bruno has given readers a tantalizing taste of how marvelous and wonderful the biblical narrative is. Indeed, no screenwriter or playwright could possibly write such a beautiful story as the God whose eternal love for His people know no bounds.

I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to read in one sitting what is the story of the Bible. After reading Bruno’s work, I find that I often feel more comfortable teaching Bible stories rather than proclaiming the grand Bible Story itself. Furthermore, this book reminded me that the Bible is a story that has not ended though the canon is closed. Rather, followers of Christ should invite those who are unaware to join in this magnificent story of the King who reigns forever.

In compliance with Federal Trade Commission regulations, I was provided a free review copy of this book from Crossway.