Books

In the Fullness of Time: A Historian Looks at Christmas, Easter, and the Early Church

Average customer rating:

A Christian history teacher's review
Surprisingly historical
A Must read.
Interesting, non-biased work by a scholar of ancient history
Food for Thought

In the Fullness of Time: A Historian Looks at Christmas, Easter, and the Early Church
Paul L. Maier
Manufacturer: Kregel Publications
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Ancient | History | Subjects | Books

General | Christianity | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books

General | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books

Look Inside History Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books

Look Inside Religion & Spirituality Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books
Similar Items:

Pontius Pilate: A Novel
Eusebius: The Church History
Flames of Rome, The: A Novel
A Skeleton in God's Closet
More Than a Skeleton: It Was One Man Against the World

ASIN: 0825433290

Book Description

This engaging and beautifully written narrative sheds a brilliant new light on the life of Jesus and the courageous men and women who carried His message throughout a hostile empire. Full-color photos and illustrations.

Customer Reviews:

A Christian history teacher's review.......2007-05-14

Paul Maier is a truly gifted lecturer. I've had the pleasure of watching two of his videos and if I lived anywhere near Western Michigan University, I'd sneak into the back of his classroom (he is a member of the history faculty there) on a regular basis - he has a gift for making the First Century A.D. accessible.

"In the Fullness of Time" continues this tradition. Maier has basically consolidated 3 other books into one larger volume (with a few changes) and he discusses the first Christmas, the first Easter and the ministries of the early Apostles, especially Paul and Peter.

Maier does a great job of bringing actual documentation that supports the stories of Christmas, Easter and the Book of Acts. He includes the works of Roman and Jewish historians, explains Roman and Jewish religious and political practices and deals with alternate theories that have been proposed. While this could be dry reading, Maier makes it lively and this volume reads more like a novel than a textbook.

So, who is this book for? If you are a well-read Christian who has looked into many of the facts that back the New Testament as it is written on your own, you won't find much new ground covered in this book. The internet has lots of this information scattered about. However, you are unlikely to find sources as concise and as well-written as this one. Plus, if you are interested in further research, it is well-documented with tons of footnotes.

If you are a new Christian or are newly interested in the history behind Christianity, this is a powerful introduction.

I give this one a grade of "A"

Surprisingly historical .......2006-07-30

Maybe it's because I enjoy reading historical literature... or maybe I am facinated by the notion the Gospel accounts are historical in nature. Paul Maier has done a wonderful job combining backround historical context, archeological artifacts, and a clear logical approach into a credible and refreshing look at what is was like to: experience the first Christmas, the first Easter, and what it was like for the early Christians after the resurrection. This is surprisingly enjoyable read.

A Must read........2005-05-20

Pail Maier, a expert in ancient history, has written a great book. from my understanding is that, this book was three different books now put into one. If you are a new Christian, you need this book. If you read this book as a new believer, you will have a better grasp of the background of the NT in reading this book, than going to a expositional preaching church for two years. It will lay a great foundation for your walk with the living Christ. If you a long time believer, and have not read this book, you should, for it will open your eyes, to the NT. Dr. Maier goes into the Christmas story, Easter Sunday and the early church. Great book.

Interesting, non-biased work by a scholar of ancient history.......2002-03-14

When I saw Paul Maier interviewed in a documentary on the life of Jesus, I searched for titles by this author, and when this book was listed, I immediately ordered it. I wasn't dissappointed.

Maier is a professor of ancient history at Western Michigan, and brings credibility and scholarship to a subject that is frequently approached with bias, often from polar perspectives. Professor Maier is one of the leading scholars on the writings of first century Jewish historian Josephus, and this book includes appropriate and informative references to this ancient source. As a student of history and an attorney, I found the book stimulating and thought provoking. However, the book most certainly does not read like a history text, and is interesting to both the historian and the person simply looking for some information on the historical context of the birth of Christ, his crucification and the biblical account of his resurrection. The book also examines the early church and the spread of Christianity. Anyone with an interest in these topics should read this work.

I very much recommend this book, and look forward to reading other works by Paul Maier.

Food for Thought.......2001-06-09

This is a tremendous book which provides insightful analysis based upon hard facts. If nothing else, this book will get you thinking about the practical reality of the foundations of the Biblical message. The book provides a means of evaluating various Biblical stories from a unique perspective. While true belief does not require a foundation of historical fact ( from this world, anyways ! ), I found it comforting that many of the people, places, and events described in the Bible certainly could have existed as told. One of the more interesting themes is why God chose that particular time and place of human history to bring about the completion of the Old Testament Scriptures !

Average customer rating:

the greatest salesman in the world
Great book
LOOK UNDER RELIGION - AWESOME MANDINO
This book has really made a difference
Greatest Salesman

The Greatest Salesman in the World
Og Mandino
Manufacturer: Frederick Fell Publishers
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Self-Help | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

Contemporary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

General | Foreign Languages | Reference | Subjects | Books

Look Inside Health Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books

Look Inside Reference Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books
Similar Items:

The Greatest Salesman in the World: Part II The End of the Story
The Greatest Secret in the World
A Better Way to Live: Og Mandino's Own Personal Story of Success Featuring 17 Rules to Live By
The Greatest Miracle in the World
The Magic of Thinking Big

ASIN: 0883910330

Amazon.com

The Greatest Salesman in the World is a tiny book, and it is a treasure. First published in 1968, Og Mandino's classic remains an invaluable guide to a philosophy of salesmanship. Mandino's clear, simple writing style supports his purpose: to make the principles of sales known to a wide audience. A parable set in the time just prior to Christianity, The Greatest Salesman in the World weaves mythology with spirituality into a much needed message of inspiration in this culture of self-promotion. Mandino believes that to be a good salesperson, you must believe in yourself and the work you are doing. It is a simple but profound spiritual philosophy about how to succeed in the world's marketplace, easily understood and easy to take to heart. --Jodie Buller

Book Description

This tale, set in biblical times, follows the journey of Hafid, who rises from his position as a lowly camel boy to become the greatest salesman in the world by heeding the wisdom set forth in the Ten Ancient Scrolls of Success. But don't let the title fool you! You can apply the vision of the scrolls to any area of your life, and you will see a positive and remarkable difference.

Customer Reviews:

the greatest salesman in the world.......2007-05-18

This was truely and excellent book. Most sales people know thebasics, but this book outlines the underlining principles behind the "real profession", this isn't a book for many, only the few who understand it learn from it

Great book.......2007-05-14

This book is a great tale of hope and self esteem. The purchase and quickness of receiving the book was an added benefit.

LOOK UNDER RELIGION - AWESOME MANDINO.......2007-05-13

There are only so superlatives to describe the writings of Og Mandino. I have included 2 quotes below from his books. The first is similar to something I read by W. Clement Stone 35 years ago. Paraphrasing Stone, in every adversity, seek out the positive and focus your mind on that positive rather than the adversity.

I went around for months repeating in my mind, "find the best in every negative". 35 years later, I can say it still works.

Og Mandino quotes:

"Search for the seed of good in every adversity. Master that principle and you will own a precious shield that will guard you well through all the darkest valleys you must traverse. Stars may be seen from the bottom of a deep well, when they cannot be discerned from the mountaintop. So will you learn things in adversity that you would never have discovered without trouble. There is always a seed of good. Find it and prosper."

"Let your actions always speak for you, but be forever on guard against the terrible traps of false pride and conceit that can halt your progress. The next time you are tempted to boast, just place your fist in a full pail of water, and when you remove it, the hole remaining will give you a correct measure of your importance."

Incidentally, if you go to Barnes & Noble looking for any of his books, you will find them in the "Religion" section.

This book has really made a difference.......2007-05-07

Everyone should read this book at least once. It will address your most hidden fears and give you a confidence and will power that will change your life. If you believe, that is.

Greatest Salesman.......2007-05-06

This book is unusual. It teaches you about sales in a easy parable format. I recommend it.

Average customer rating:

God's perfect design finally told
The Crippled Lamb by Max Lucado
Excellent story for children of all ages
What I think of The Crippled Lamb (Board Book edition)
Wonderful book for disabled children and those who know and love them

The Crippled Lamb
Max Lucado
Manufacturer: Thomas Nelson
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Picture Books | Ages 4-8 | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

General | Ages 4-8 | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

Look Inside Children's Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books

Look Inside Religion & Spirituality Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books

All Deals | Blowout Books | Stores | Books

Children's Books | Blowout Books | Stores | Books
Similar Items:

The Tale of Three Trees: A Traditional Folktale
You Are Special
Snowmen Pop-Up Book
Who Is Coming to Our House? (Board Book)
You Are Mine

ASIN: 0849910056

Product Description

Crippled Lamb Book

Customer Reviews:

God's perfect design finally told.......2007-05-12

Being the mother of a physically challenged son, I absolutely love this story. Although it brings tears to my eyes everytime I read it, the story never fails to fill my heart with hope and renewal. There is a God who sees the Big Picture and who knows how all the "Joshua's" in the world are needed to help carry out His perfect plan. It is a reamarkable story that teaches us all not to pray for perfection, but for purpose.

The Crippled Lamb by Max Lucado.......2007-04-19

Max Lucado, along with, Jenna, Andrea, & Sara Lucado, create a story many children can relate to. In The Crippled Lamb, Joshua - a lamb - is different than the other sheep. He has no parents, and he is crippled. His only friend is an old cow named Abigail. She often reminds him that God has a special place for those like him. When the shepherds come gather the sheep to walk to the next valley, Joshua must stay behind. The others laugh and say mean things to him. Josh and Abigail are both in for a surprise later that night, when they are awakened by a woman and a child lying in the stables with them. Josh lies next to the baby (Jesus) to keep him warm. He soon learns that even though he may not fit in with the rest of the sheep, God did have a special place for him. Illustrated by Liz Bonham.

What I Liked: Most everything. This is a sweet book. It almost made my ten year old daughter cry. She thought it was sad how the others treated Josh. (Much like the way kids treat one another)

What I Disliked: Near the end of the story, the author implies that animals can pray to God. Again, I am there to teach my children differently. It's an easy fix when reading with your children. (It is so important that you know what your children are reading).

Overall Review: Very Good.

Age Appeal: 4-8

Excellent story for children of all ages.......2007-01-29

I had heard this story read at a church function and so enjoyed it that I wanted to purchase a copy for each of my childrens families. It is such a heart warming story that no matter what you may feel is wrong with you, the Lord loves us all equally.

What I think of The Crippled Lamb (Board Book edition).......2007-01-10

Hi, I'm StoryMaker. The Lucados' The Crippled Lamb stars a young lamb with spots named Joshua. Joshua was born different from the other sheep. One of his legs just didn't work right, and he had to limp everywhere instead of running and jumping like his fellow sheep. His best friend - an old cow named Abagail - said that God has a special place for those who feel left out. It's hard for Josh to beleive sometimes, even though he always wants to. One day, the other sheep are going to a greener, grassier land, but Joshua can't. However, Josh soon discovers why he has a bad leg. I have no idea why it says Ages 1-5 on the Proof of Purchase. This story is charming and sweet for all ages young and old. The paintings aren't exactly perfect, but they are still splendid in their way. I especially like the final illustration and sentence. It is just a good book. I reccomend it. Signed, StoryMaker. "Gotta trust the kid's review!"

Wonderful book for disabled children and those who know and love them.......2006-07-08

I have always loved the story of The Crippled Lamb by Max Lucado, even before I became a mother to a child much like "little Joshua". How I love to read this book with my son and confirm the hope which exists for his purpose in life.

Adoration Quilts: Applique Nativity Projects (That Patchwork Place)

Average customer rating:

A top pick for holiday decorators handy with the needle.
Beautiful Applique at a Great Value!
Nativity Designs & Journal Put the Spirit Back into Christmas

Adoration Quilts: Applique Nativity Projects (That Patchwork Place)
Rachel W. N. Brown
Manufacturer: Martingale and Company
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Applique | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books

General | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books

Quilts & Quilting | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books

Seasonal | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books

Look Inside Home & Garden Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books
Similar Items:

Picture Your World in Applique: Creating Unique Images with Fabric
Beautifully Embellished Landscapes: 125 Tips & Techniques to Create Stunning Quilts
Quilt Your Favorite Photos: Shoot It, Sketch It, Stitch It
Applique the Basics and Beyond: The Complete Guide to Successful Machine and Hand Techniques with Dozens of Designs to Mix and Match
Quilters Edge

ASIN: 1564776700

Book Description

Stitch your way back to the origins of Christmas with inspiring designs based on the story of the Nativity. A beautiful quilt depicts familiar Nativity scenes and provides block patterns for coordinating projects.

• Appliqué a manger scene, the angel Gabriel, and the three Wise Men, plus animals, stars, and shepherds

• Choose from the main quilt, a mantel quilt, a tree skirt, a table runner, and more

• Learn more about the Nativity with traditions and legends from around the world

Customer Reviews:

A top pick for holiday decorators handy with the needle........2006-11-05

Rachel W.N. Brown's ADORATION QUILTS: APPLIQUE NATIVITY PROJECTS uses Christmas and the story of the Nativity as a theme, offering projects which blend Nativity themes into quilts. Table settings, fireplace mantle decorations, and more. A top pick for holiday decorators handy with the needle.

Beautiful Applique at a Great Value!.......2006-09-01

This is a book that is jam packed with beautiful applique quilt patterns based on nativity themes. It includes instructions for a lovely tree skirt and other decorative quilt projects. I've seen patterns like these offered block of the month style at $7 to $12 per block ... Here you have many usable, detailed designs and configurations all for the price of one book. If you shy away from detailed applique, this book probably isn't for you. However, if you are a quilter looking for projects that focus on the spiritual meaning of Christmas, and enjoy McKenna Ryan or Mount Redoubt style applique designs, you will enjoy making the projects in this book.

Nativity Designs & Journal Put the Spirit Back into Christmas .......2006-07-29

Rachel Brown's book, Adoration Quilts: Applique Nativity Projects, is much more than a how to book for Christmas quilts. While the illustrations and directions in this book clearly teach the reader how to construct attractive Christmas quilts, there is a story here. Ms. Brown takes you on a Biblical and personal journey with each quilt block. She puts the spiritual element back into Christmas by sharing her family traditions. After reading the role each block plays in telling the story of Jesus's birth, I felt better prepared to tell the story,creating my own nativity quilt.

I recommend this book to people who like quilting , applique work ,and Christmas stories.

The Brick Testament: The Story of Christmas (Brick Testament)

Average customer rating:

The Good News
Not a childrens' portrayal of the Christmas story ...
too graphic for kids
Loved it!!!!!!!!
Please re-evaluate your purpose here !!!

The Brick Testament: The Story of Christmas (Brick Testament)
Brendan Powell Smith
Manufacturer: Quirk Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Ages 4-8 | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

General | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books

Look Inside Children's Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books

Look Inside Religion & Spirituality Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books
Similar Items:

The Brick Testament: The Ten Commandments (Brick Testament)
The Brick Testament: Stories from the Book of Genesis
The Unofficial LEGO Builder's Guide
Getting Started with LEGO Trains
Ultimate Lego Book

ASIN: 1594740127

Book Description

With The Brick Testament: Stories from the Book of Genesis, Brendan Smith reimagined ten classic Bible stories using nothing but LEGO bricks -- and the results were praised by everyone from People and Entertainment Weekly to the Archdiocese of Cincinnati (they've recommended the book to their entire congregation!). Publishers Weekly called it "hilarious" and wrote, "One rejoices that the franchise possibilities could extend for many years."
We couldn't agree more. Just in time for the holidays, Quirk Books is proud to present the best-known Bible story of all time: The Story of Christmas. Using verses from the New Testament and a series of elaborate LEGO dioramas, Smith illustrates the birth of Jesus Christ -- from his arrival in the manger to the wrath of King Herod and the famous visit from the three wise men. It's the perfect stocking stuffer for anyone who celebrates Christmas!

Customer Reviews:

The Good News.......2007-02-13

I'm sorry, but I must disagree with the reviewer below (Joshua C. Ternes "Good Guy")...this is not a waste of talent - it is a full embracing of talent. Not only is this book exceptionally well-photographed, it speaks the wonderful truth of the Bible. It is indeed not for children, any more than ANY visual re-telling of the Gospel would be, because the gospel has tragic events in it. But this book is an excellent tool for spreading the word. One can easily purchase a book for the purpose of handing it to someone who doesn't completely know the Gospel, and it will ensure that they read it.

For those that are not believers, they tend to not WANT to hear anything about the gospel (for numerous reasons), and this humorous - attractive - telling of the gospel breaks that barrier nicely.

I challenge the other Reviewer for Biblical basis against that.
I ask Joshua C. Ternes what he has done that has spread the good news so far?

Not a childrens' portrayal of the Christmas story ..........2007-02-06

Do not assume, just because Legos are involved, that this is a book to share with young children. The Holy Ghost is a frightening character, circumcision is accomplished with a knife the size of the infant Jesus, and the illustration of Herod's order to slaughter all male infants less than two years of age is complete with decapitated infants in the background! Both frightening and disappointing!

too graphic for kids.......2007-01-12

I bought this for my 8 year old son for Christmas and ended up returning it before I gave it to him. Luckily I looked through it before I wrapped it. I was a little too graphic with the blood and killing of babies and all. Might be OK for teenagers, they like that stuff. It was hard to see the cute little minifigs getting tortured.

Loved it!!!!!!!!.......2007-01-10

Purchased for my husband for Christmas. (He works with lego robotics) My kids keep taking off with it and he hasn't even had a chance to read it yet.
Really cool book.

Please re-evaluate your purpose here !!!.......2006-05-04

I'm saddened that someone with such talent would use it for such a misguided purpose. This could have been an amazing project, but due to the lack of respect to God's word, I view it a complete failure. Although you can't get to heaven through works alone, you can condemn yourself by corrupting the youth. I would hope that you ask for forgiveness and salvation, crown the King, and rewrite this amazing project to glorify him. It would be more than worth it! You are amazingly talented, just temporarily lost!

Shepherds Abiding (The Mitford Years #8)

Average customer rating:

Winding down
Enjoyable and uplifting story
Shepherds Abiding (The Midford Years)
Shepherds Abiding
Superior - spiritual theme expressed through characters.

Shepherds Abiding (The Mitford Years #8)
Jan Karon
Manufacturer: Viking Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Contemporary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

Domestic Life | Women's Fiction | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

General | Fiction | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:

In This Mountain (The Mitford Years #7)
Light from Heaven (The Mitford Years #9)
A Common Life (The Mitford Years #6)
A New Song (The Mitford Years #5)
Out to Canaan (The Mitford Years #4)

ASIN: 0670031208
Release Date: 2003-10-20

Book Description

Since he was a boy growing up in Mississippi, Father Tim has lived what he calls "the life of the mind." Except for cooking and gardening and washing his dog, he never learned to savor the work of his hands. And then he finds a derelict nativity scene-twenty figures, including a flock of sheep, that have suffered the indignities of time and neglect.

Could he give the small company new life? Restore the camel's ear, repaint every piece, replace a missing nose on a wise man? "You can't teach an old dog new tricks!" he reminds himself. It's when he imagines the excitement in Cynthia's eyes that he steps up to the plate-and begins a small journey of faith that touches everyone around him.

The eighth novel in the bestselling Mitford Years series is a meditation on the best of all presents-the gift of one's heart. Lovingly written and beautifully illustrated, it seeks to restore the true Christmas spirit and give everyone a seat at Mitford's holiday table.

"This Mitford story presented itself to me, quite unexpectedly, and asked to be told. I hope readers will find it a perfect refuge from the holiday frenzy." -Jan Karon

Download Description

"""This Mitford story presented itself to me, quite unexpectedly, and asked to be told. I hope readers will find it a perfect refuge from the holiday frenzy."" -Jan Karon Since he was a boy growing up in Missisippi, Father Tim has lived what he calls "the life of the mind." Except for cooking and gardening and washing his dog, he never learned to savor the work of his hands. And then he finds a derelict nativity scene-twenty figures, including a flock of sheep, that have suffered the indignities of time and neglect. Could he give the small company new life? Restore the camel's ear, repaint every piece, replace a missing nose on a wise man? "You can't teach an old dog new tricks!" he reminds himself. It's when he imagines the excitement in Cynthia's eyes that he steps up to the plate-and begins a small journey of faith that touches everyone around him. The eighth novel in the bestselling Mitford Years series is a meditation on the best of all presents-the gift of one's heart. Lovingly written and beautifully illustrated, it seeks to restore the true Christmas spirit and give everyone a seat at Mitford's holiday table."

Customer Reviews:

Winding down.......2007-06-10

This comparatively short installment in the nine-volume Mitford saga deals with one Christmas season in the little North Carolina town. By itself it would not be worthwhile; one has to have read the preceding seven books in the series for this to mean anything at all.

There is a certain O Henry "Gift of the Magi" sense to the plot. Father Tim labors in secret over an elaborate Christmas gift for his wife, while she works secretly over something for him. Creaky Billy makes a "Santy" for his mentally fading wife. Townspeople plan a party for the closing of their favorite eatery. In brief, not all that much of significance is taking place here. Somehow one senses that the writer is winding down the series toward the inevitable. After all, this can't go on forever.

There are the usual prayers for this and that--prayers on virtually every page, as if they, per se, were action. And with the proper stacking of the cards, all prayers are answered. I knew they would be: I read the previous seven books, and that's how it works every time.

The unfortunate thing about the Mitford books is that they tend to go downhill or be repetitive after the first three or four. For the reader who just can't get enough of the characters, this is fine. But I like to see a little more change.

Enjoyable and uplifting story.......2007-03-19

This was easy reading and enjoyable, but there really wasn't a story plot. Would have liked to know who made the manger.

Shepherds Abiding (The Midford Years).......2007-01-30

As with all Karon's books in the Midford Series, this one does not let you down. You will contine to want to read more about the characters and find out what becomes of each one.

Shepherds Abiding.......2007-01-14

Shepherds Abiding by Jan Karon was a wonderful and perfect story for the Christmas holidays! It reminds the reader of the true meaning of Christmas in a very warm and human manner.

Superior - spiritual theme expressed through characters........2007-01-10

Through Father Timothy, Cynthia, Dooley, Barnabas and each resident of Mitford, Jan Karon brings the reader into the soul of an idealic, yet realistic small town of "yesteryear." There is real-to-life heartbreaking situations, heart warming moments, lovely and loving humor, and most importantly, Jan Karon shows us, in Father Timothy, childlike innocence in a "60-something" truly gentle man; and through all the other characters, this innocence - lack of egoic self-indentification - shines from the depth of each. The Bible quotations are intertwined simply, not the least bit preachy, and provide a wonderful foundation to the theme. This is one of nine books in the Mitford Series. I highly recommend the entire series; it is my fervent hope that many of the characters will be further explored as "off-shoots" of this Mitford series and in his/her own right be the focus of a book.

The Virginal Conception and Bodily Resurrection of Jesus

Average customer rating:

second time
For a clearer understanding of Christian faith.

The Virginal Conception and Bodily Resurrection of Jesus
Raymond E. Brown
Manufacturer: Paulist Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books

Look Inside Religion & Spirituality Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books
Similar Items:

A Risen Christ in Eastertime: Essays on the Gospel Narratives of the Resurrection
Birth of the Messiah
An Introduction to New Testament Christology
Death of the Messiah, Volume 1
A Crucified Christ in Holy Week: Essays on the Four Gospel Passion Narratives

ASIN: 0809117681

Book Description

Recent study of the Gospels has produced some surprising challenges to the historicity of the stories surrounding Jesus' birth and resurrection. There is skepticism about the star of Bethlehem, the magi, and the census, skepticism about the angels at the tomb and the manner and time of Jesus' appearances. What then about the more fundamental issues that touch on Christian faith? Was Jesus conceived without a human father? Did he rise bodily from the dead?

In this book a noted Catholic scholar surveys the biblical evidence pertinent to those two questions and evaluates it clearly and honestly - and briefly enough to meet the needs of the interested reader. His forthright use of biblical criticism may offend some; the carefulness of his conclusions may offend others; but the book offers real help to those who prefer objective discussion to predetermined answers.

Customer Reviews:

second time.......2007-05-16

that was the second time I ordered books from amazon.
the itens I ordered, arrived in brazil right on the schedulled time, well packaged, no damages noted; both of them are new.
along with "the virginal conception..." I ordered "the birth of the messiah", I'm a theology student, and the theme of the books are of great concern to my studies.

For a clearer understanding of Christian faith........2007-04-11

Whatever the reader's convictions this book is an opportunity to reflect on two very sensitive topics for Christian faith. The author tackles them carefully and yet constructively. The book was authorized by those who are in charge of maintaining Roman Catholic tradition and yet it opens interesting perspectives to the reader who is not necessarily always satisfied with ready-made and non-negotiable formulations of what one should believe.
As usual, two well known questions are raised here about the Scriptures. There is what they say and there is what some people try to make them say in order to justify their point more forcefully.
There is also the nature of the language of the Scriptures : is it literal or symbolic, or a mixture of both ?
Regarding, the virginal conception:
At the beginning there is a problem of translation. In this case a « young woman » in Hebrew was changed into a « virgin » in Greek. In itself, this could be enough to drop the matter altogether, but one should not go too fast. It is indeed interesting to consider that this error may have been inspired in order to reveal a fundamental message. This message is linked to the fact that if Man needs to be saved, it seems obvious that, for that purpose, he will need the help of someone greater than him, namely the help of God ; whether God acts directly or through a Saviour.
And what the text actually means when it says that the Saviour was conceived in the womb of a « virgin » is clearly that man is not at the origin of his own salvation, because the Saviour was not born from the action of a man. This is a simple and elegant message in symbolic language, but it is also highly significant.
The real difficulty arises when one continues to speak of virginity after the birth of Jesus. Such a statement lacks any reference in the gospels, has no useful implications and tends to have a reverse effect on the credibility of the virginal conception, especially if one is not allowed to separate the two notions of virginity before and after the birth of Jesus.
Regarding, the bodily resurrection of Jesus:
Here, we are faced with two contradictory and yet simultaneous messages conveyed by the litteral/symbolic language of the gospels.
The first is that the person who appeared for a certain period of time to a certain number of people is actually Jesus of Nazareth who had been previously crucified. He himself tries to convey this genuinely crucial message, by showing, for example, the scars of his wounds.
The second is that this risen Christ is significantly different from the crucified Jesus. He appears and disappears at will, he is not affected by the presence of walls, nor conditioned by space or time. His closest friends or disciples do not recognize him when he joins them. And when eventually they recognize him, it is no longer as Jesus, but as the Lord.
Definitely, something has changed in him, and Raymond E brown tells us that there are two options which are of importance to each one of us inasmuch as we are, at a certain point in time, going to follow Jesus through this same mysterious resurrection process. The first option is that our body will be completely destroyed and that something altogether new will appear within the framework of a new creation. The second option is that of a transformation. And the virtue of this second option is that our body being part of the person that will live forever after being transformed, retains a genuine value that it would not deserve if it were intended to be permanently discarded.
Raymond E Brown tells us that this second option is the one suggested in the Scriptures by the fact that Jesus did not abandon his body to corruption, but rose bodily from the dead. And as we are going to do the same when our time comes, this has a major impact on the way we should respect and treat our own body.

Average customer rating:

An honest book. A-
Not worth reading
Must be worth reading
Warning to Catholics: heresies defended in this book
A journey in every sense of the word!

In Search of the Birth of Jesus
Paul William Roberts
Manufacturer: Riverhead Hardcover
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Architecture | Professional & Technical | Subjects | Books

General | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books

Look Inside Art Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books

Look Inside Religion & Spirituality Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books
ASIN: 1573220124

Amazon.com

Quick, what do tennis star Andre Agassi and renowned conductor Zubin Mehta have in common? They are both Zoroastrians. What, exactly, does that mean? Well, according to Paul William Roberts, the influential marks of Zoroastrianism are still visible in Judaism, Christianity and Islam, despite the Roman Catholic church's assiduous efforts to erase them over the centuries. In Search of the Birth of Jesus is a book of such stunning complexity and marvelous wit that to call it a travel book is to slight its profundity; to call it an exhaustively researched theological history is to deny the rollicking good read that it is. Roberts re-traces the steps of the Magi according to a tip in Marco Polo's Travels, and the self-styled "good Christian" then commences dismantling every common notion of the Nativity story with an iconoclastic aplomb.

Customer Reviews:

An honest book. A-.......2005-01-08

This book is about the greatest schism of history and how this schism turned to a chasm and ultimately one side was eliminated. It is about the an ideology that originated in a single historical event and perpetuated by the citizens of two super powers, Byzantines and Persians, thus creating a historical rift that became the cause for wars between two super powers. It is about the dead sea scrolls and how the defeated and destroyed left a word for us to hear and at the end it is only their words that remain. It is history, it is life and it must be known. The evidence is all here. The only unknown: which side would Jesus choose if he were alive today? Roberts believes the scrolls, thus he sees the answer to this question there.

Not worth reading.......2003-11-06

I will keep this short. In his book, Mr Robert clearly states that Catholics may find some of the material disturbing, yet at the same time indicates that he will do his best to present the information in an un-biased manner, as much as is possible. Clearly, this man has an "axe to grind" with not only the Catholic Church but with Christianity in general (see previous works, including, Empire of the Soul). I bought the book believing it would be an interesting travel narrative, with some insights into Zoroastrianism, a religion I knew very little about, but was quite curious of. Instead, I was given a book with some travel information and a whole bunch of quite biased, anti-Catholicism.
Save a tree, do not read the book.

Must be worth reading.......2002-12-17

Goodness me! After reading the 'Warning to Catholics" review, I am convinced that this must be an excellent book, and will buy it forthwith. It's no wonder that Roberts doesn't explain why the Cathars "got what they deserved" - as they quite clearly didn't. Who, in the history of humanity, ever deserved being tortured and murdered down to the last woman and child by the inquisitors?

Any book that stirs the ire of these rabid fundamentalists must contain an uncomfortable grain of truth - I look forward to a good read.

Warning to Catholics: heresies defended in this book.......2002-10-05

The temptation to separate the
Christ of history from the Christ of Faith has been
with us ever since Our Saviour's Ascension.
There is nothing new about it. This book is another attempt.
Along the way the author elicits sympathy for heretics such
as the Cathars (who denied Christ's divinity,
and preached that all matter is evil), but fails to tell us why
they got what they deserved. So,
I suggest you read Hilaire Belloc's
to give you the true story. It has the added benefit
of containing the most sober analysis of Islam you
may ever read.

Dr. Roberts uses non-canonical gospels and
other rejected writings in his work extensively.
My question: why are non-accepted sources
trusted and worth study, while canonical writings
are viewed with suspicion? One of Dr. Roberts' main objectives
is to gainsay The New Testament, while trying to
discover the "real" truth. Thus the non-canonical gospels are irresistible.
But there is nothing new here insofar as ALL the early Church fathers were well acquainted with these texts. And these men (more than a millennium closer to
Christ than we are) rejected them precisely because they considered them unreliable.

On the plus side, I commend the author in his quest to
elucidate the main objective; he sure did his share of work.
For this I gave him five points to start.
What could have been a 100-page book though was
stretched to three times that length because he
included all the unnecessary trivialities of the trip
(remove one point there), a chronicle tainted by every
profane explicative imaginable.
This kind of expression doesn't fit the serious nature
of the subject. For that I dock him another point.

At the end he reveals his true colors,
by his belief that Christ's message
was inspired (divinely? He doesn't say)
but that ALL organized religion is for the birds,
a form of purist thinking I come across
quite often, usually from people attracted to non-conformism. They want
to be informed by religious views because they
know the falsehood of materialism, but
they want to reshape it to fit their own viewpoint,
and extricate themselves from the exigencies
of practicing a faith -- believing the origins were pure,
but that everything got corrupted along the way.
This reveals an ignorance of Matthew 16, where Jesus
gives the first pope (and by implication all subsequent ones) St. Peter
the authority whereby "whatsoever [Peter] shalt bind on
earth shall be bound also in heaven." Likewise the second half
of this verse ("and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall
be loosed also in heaven," a clear instigation of the Catholic tradition
of indulgences) eludes the author's grasp as well, when he
derisively refers to them as "coupons to heaven."

The seditious nature of this book needs
to be analyzed by someone with greater scholarly
credentials than I have. Belloc's apologetic works, and
Philip Jenkins' Gospels: How the Search For Jesus Lost its Way>
are good places to start.

A journey in every sense of the word!.......2002-07-19

I highly recommend this book!! This is one of those (too rare) books that is entertaining, informative, and thought-provoking, all at the same time. While I certainly don't agree with many of the author's opinions, he has done his research well and he raises a lot of good points. And the one issue that he is right on target about is the influence that Zoroastrianism has had on Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. In this case he isn't simply expressing his own opinion, this is something that most serious scholars would readily acknowledge.

This book leaves one with a lot to think about, and I suspect that most people will want to follow-up with further research. While the author does include most of his references in the book, it is too often done in a haphazard and disorderly fashion. But for the most part the information is there, and fortunately the internet makes it very easy to do additional research at your own pace.

The Day Christ Was Born and the Day Christ Died

Average customer rating:

The Day Christ was Born/The Day Christ Died
I was there
A truly humanistic perspective of our Savior's last days.
Both books combined into one hardback will be hard to beat

The Day Christ Was Born and the Day Christ Died
Jim Bishop
Manufacturer: Galahad Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books

General | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books

Look Inside Biographies | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books

Look Inside Religion & Spirituality Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books

Christianity | Religion & Spirituality | Bargain Books | Stores | Books

Day Lincoln Was Shot
Day Kennedy Was Shot
The Day Christ Died
The Day Christ was Born/The Day Christ Died (2 Books-in-One Edition)
Life of Christ

ASIN: 0883658305

Customer Reviews:

The Day Christ was Born/The Day Christ Died.......2001-12-22

Jim Bishop has given new, rich meaning to Christmas and Easter with these two wonderfully vivid accounts of Jesus' birth and death. His research and beautiful writing style has helped these stories come alive for me in a very memorable way. I enjoy reading these books every Advent and Lenten season to prepare for the joy of Christmas, the pain of Good Friday and the amazing joy of Easter.

I was there.......2000-03-09

In reading Jim Bishops' book and referring to the maps included in the front and back as I read, I found that I was there. I was transported 2000 years back to the most infamous day in history and watched the events of the last 24 hours of Christs' life unfold.

I have given away dozens of copies of this book over the years since I discovered it and have never had anyone not come back to thank me. I reccommend this book to ANYONE who will read it regardless of their beliefs. In it's own way, it has sometimes had a much more profound effect upon those that choose to read it than that of the bible itself. If I were told I could no longer read the bible but could choose one book to take it's place, Jim Bishops' book would be the only choice I could make. It contains within it the complete story and reason for His coming and His murder.

I take time to read it every Easter season and have not yet failed to experience again the awesome chills and overwhelming emotions I felt the first time I read it. It is the most incredible single work to come from the 20th century.

A truly humanistic perspective of our Savior's last days........1999-03-21

The Day Christ Died is a detailed - intensely dramatic story of the times, thoughts and prespectives(which have been thoroughly researched)of the Savior, His Disciples, religion, govenment and the world in general during last hours of Christ's days on earth as God in the Flesh. It has given me deeper strength in my faith through understanding what He endured because of his love for us sinners. A God in the flesh with all the pain and emotions of man, but still a diety. A must read!

Both books combined into one hardback will be hard to beat.......1998-01-05

A priest first recommended "The day Christ died" to me in about 1989. He said I would be pleased with the book, and I was. I followed up with the other Jim Bishop book "The day Christ was born" and was equally satisfied. Both books were paperbacks I checked out from the Churches library and I have wanted to own the hardback myself for many years, and have finally found them. I'll buy them and re-read them again over the years. Terrific entertainment that makes you feel as if you were actually there. Also great books for volunteer teachers of religious education programs to make classes interesting.

Christian Astrology, Book 3: An Easie And Plaine Method Teaching How to Judge upon Nativities

Average customer rating:

A Masterful Lilly
a must have book
Classical Astrology Text Book

Christian Astrology, Book 3: An Easie And Plaine Method Teaching How to Judge upon Nativities
William Lilly
Manufacturer: Astrology Classics
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | New Age | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books

General | Occult | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books

Look Inside Religion & Spirituality Books | Trip | Specialty Stores | Books
Similar Items:

Christian Astrology, Books 1 and 2
Horary Astrology Rediscovered
The Fixed Stars And Constellations in Astrology
Tetrabiblos
Classical Astrology for Modern Living: From Ptolemy to Psychology & Back Again

ASIN: 1933303034

Book Description

In 1647, William Lilly, renowned throughout England, sat down to write his famous book on astrology. He was ill, but he had foreseen that. He decided that rather than struggle with clients while sick, he would give himself a year to study, reflect, and write. But before he was quite finished with his book, plague swept through London, killing two of his servants, and forcing Lilly and family to flee to the countryside.

This is Book Three, An Easie and plaine Method Teaching How to judge upon Nativities, the conclusion of his great work, Christian Astrology.

In this astounding book, Lilly gives not only his own hard-won knowledge of natal astrology, but also what he gleaned from close study of the greatest astrologers in history, as found in his own astrological library, one of the largest of its day. In this book you may learn:

• How to determine the Hyleg, or Apheta, the Prorogator of Life.
• How to determine intelligence, stature, shape and complexion of the native.
• If the native will be rich, and, if so, whether by fair means or foul.
• The illnesses he may suffer, if he may die a violent death.
• Of Marriage: The number and kinds of spouses, where they may come from, if there will be children or not, and if so, an idea of their number.
• The kind of career best suited to the native, and much more.

In the section on Directions and Forecasting, Lilly gives comprehensive interpretations for Primary Directions, Solar Returns and Profections. The book concludes with a priceless analysis of the Nativity of an English Merchant, including more than twenty years of forecasts, up to the time that Lilly judged to be the end of the man's natural life.

For the first time, unique to this edition: Spelling and verbs modernized. Glossary of obscure terms, including Latin words and phrases. Calculations in modern format. All 24 solar returns and all 12 profection charts in standard wheel format. Fixed star positions updated to 1 January 2005. Modern symbols for aspects (including minor aspects) used throughout. Primaries untangled, as much as possible.

Available separately: Christian Astrology, (books 1 & 2): An Introduction to Astrology, The Resolution of All Manner of Questions, by William Lilly.

Customer Reviews:

A Masterful Lilly.......2007-01-20

A Masterful Lilly

For any astrologer or scholar who wants a copy of William Lilly's classic text, this is the only edition to consider. David Roell of Astrology Classics has completely re-set the text in a modern font in this beautiful edition. A number of Lilly's original pages, tables and page headings as well as all of the original horoscopes have been reproduced to give the reader the flavor of Lilly's elaborate 1647 publication. The editor has taken great pains to meticulously follow the original Lilly text while artfully updating the language and formatting to produce an extremely attractive and readable volume.

This edition has a number of extras that place it at the top of the available Lilly texts. Along with Lilly's original charts, all the horoscopes are calculated and printed in modern format with explanations of necessary date and time adjustments. There are helpful margin notes, a glossary of terms, an updated fixed star list, and a re-ordered index, plus the editor's preface and invaluable explanatory notes. My only regret is that such a superior edition of Lilly isn't available in a gold embossed durable hardback to match the skilled editing within. Individual pages of this edition can be previewed here: [...]

This is the second of a set of two volumes which cover Lilly's entire original text. Be sure to check out the matching first volume and the comprehensive review by Christopher Warnock. As Amazon advises, buy both volumes together. There will never be a better Lilly for your library.

a must have book .......2007-01-12

for those who seek a deeper understanding in ancient astrology, this is a book one should have under his hands. an enciclopedia of knowledge, and tips, saves hundreds of hours of searching the net. It will take a long time until I will " absorb" the whole book, but I never start analysing a map without it.

Classical Astrology Text Book.......2007-01-04

In the past 15 years Modern Astrologers have been researching and uncovering the History of their craft. Christian Astrology, book 3: Nativities by William Lilly was published in 1647. This edition has been meticulously researched and published by David Roell of The Astrology Center of America. I particularly like the Glossary of Terms in Appendix 4 which defines many of the more difficult terms in Lilly's text. Lilly's presentation of Natal Astrology is detailed with references to ancient practices as well as practices of the 17th century. This information is helpful in understanding the origin of the basic principles of astrological techniques. Specific examples of astrological aspects reflect the more fated atmosphere of the time. I find that a comprehensive study of Lilly's text in concert with modern astrological practices enriches the appreciation of our astrological traditions. Lilly's text requires the committment of a serious student but is well worth the effort.

Books:

Books