Exalting Jesus in 1&2 Samuel

Exalting Jesus in 1 & 2 Samuel is part of the Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary series. This series affirms that the Bible is a Christ-centered book, containing a unified story of redemptive history of which Jesus is the hero. It’s presented as sermons, divided into chapters that conclude with a “Reflect & Discuss” section, making this series ideal for small group study, personal devotion, and even sermon preparation. It’s not academic but rather presents an easy-reading, practical and friendly commentary. 

Published November 1st 2016

 by Holman Reference

Available for Purchase:

AMAZON  BARNES & NOBLE  CHRISTIANBOOK

LIFEWAY

My Thoughts:

This is a well written study of 1 & 2 Samuel.  It digs deep into a Christ-Centers concept which is that the Bible is a Christ-Centered book.  

I will describe the book a little.  

It's 381 pages long and measures 8.25 X 5.5 X .875 (inches).  I include this to let you know that it's a perfect size to hold in your hand to read.  I will say that this book was not what I expected, but was pleased none the less.  The major characters that are discussed is Hannah, Samuel, Saul and David.  I have to admit it opened my eyes to Hannah's plight and the fact that a nation was praying for a savior while Hannah, in her bareness, was praying for a child.  This was a concept that just hadn't occurred to me.  It next goes into Samuel as a point of leadership and choosing Saul even though he was rebellious against the God. It weaves it's way to David, the second King of Israel, the king God choose and one after his own heart.  This book has 24 different sections with a set of reflect and discuss section at the end of each.  I used this as a weekly study, a section a week with reflection at the end of the week. 

While this is a great book it is more designed for a person in a leadership role such as a pastor or the leader of a small study group which it was designed for. I would definitely recommend it for anyone in one of these roles.  For me it was a little too difficult to use as a individual study.  It is well written and brings out many important issues and gave me a different perception on these written characters and events.  

I received this book from B&H Publishing.  I was not required to post a positive review.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.  

Chronological Study Bible

Explore God's Word in Historical Order

Release Date May 3, 2016

by Thomas Nelson

 

The Chronological Study Bible presents the text of the New King James Version in chronological order - the order in which the events actually happened - with notes, articles, and full-color graphics that connect the reader to the history and culture of Bible times. It is the only NKJV study Bible arranged in chronological order.

Features include:

• The entire New King James Bible with translators' notes, arranged in chronological order for absorbing and effective Bible study

• Full-color illustrations of places, artifacts, and cultural phenomena that give you a dramatic, "you are there" experience
• Fascinating articles that connect the Bible text to world history and culture
• Daily Life Notes that explain how people lived in Bible times
• Epoch Introductions and Historical Overviews that provide vivid chronological context
• Transition Comments that set the stage and prepare you for the biblical text that follows
• "Time Capsules" of world history that accompany the Bible text
• Time Panels and Charts that show the flow of Bible history
• In-text and full-page color maps of the biblical world
• A handy scripture finder index that provides rapid access to any passage
• Topical Index Scripture Index, Concordance, and Glossary to facilitate study
• Dynamic One-Year and Two-Year daily reading plans—allow you to read through the Bible chronologically in one or two years.
• Eight pages of full-color maps
• Blank lined pages for personal notes
• Presentation page
• Ribbon marker
• 9-point text size
• 9.75" x 6.75" x 1.75"

 My Thoughts:

Wow, what a wonderful study bible. 

I had never seen a bible arranged chronological so for me this was a fascinating find. 

The cover is both soft, pliable and beautiful. 

It's written in easy to understand language. 
I opened the bible and began reading through the New Testament.  I was amazed at the amount of information it contained. It is listed as Epoch Eight which is The Coming of the Messiah.  It lists the dates as being 37 B.C.-A.D. 30, gives the archeology of the past, peoples and groups, the biblical literature and introductions to Jesus Christ.  As it begins there is section listed as Transition which gives a prehistory of Jesus, also included is a time capsule which bears witness to a time frame.  Also given are time charts and panels which give the reader a visual as to exactly what was taking place.  Beautiful in-text maps which shows Jesus' travels.  For me each of these inclusions helped to put everything I was reading in better perspective.  At the end of the book/bible there's a section that includes cultural and historical topics which answered questions and brought topics to light I had never considered.  Of course there's a glossary and concordance, plus index of scripture passages.  At the very back included is either a one or two year daily reading plan,  
For me this is a wonderful addition to my Bible study program.  It will enhance my understanding of events and God's message.  It would be difficult to use this in church, but in my opinion could be used if necessary.  I find myself picking this Bible up after church to for a further understanding of the message.  
This is a Bible I would recommend to everyone. It will help in understanding exactly how everything unfolded in not only the prophesy but also the coming of Jesus, his ministry, his death and resurrection.  
**I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers  book review program.  I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.