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Book Review: "Begin" by Ken Ham and Bodie Hodge
by Robert Driskell A wonderful introductory book for those who desire to understand the overarching biblical picture. It is a perfect resource for the new Christian, or anyone desiring an overview of the Bible. The authors begin the book by telling the reader why the book is necessary. They say that, in history past, most everyone knew what the Bible said, whether or not they chose to trust in its teachings or not. However, in our present culture, many have no idea what is contained within the pages of the most sacred of books. Even those who have read some of the Bible do not know what to make of it. They lack an understanding of how the Bible fits together as a unit. Many think that the Old Testament and the New Testament have nothing to do with each another. This book helps dissolve that misunderstanding by giving the reader a clear overview and explanation of the entire record of the Bible. Presenting select portions of Scripture, and commentary to link the portions together into a cohesive unit, Ham and Hodge do seekers and new believers a great service with this offering. The book presents Genesis, chapters 1-11, to show creation, the fall, and God's promise of redemption. The Ten Commandments, the Gospel of John, the Book of Romans, and the book of Revelation follow, giving a well-rounded and solid knowledge of the main message of Scripture. The writers have a gift for taking complex and confusing concepts and making them understandable and memorable. I have been studying the Bible for a couple of decades now and I still gleaned some truths from this work that I had not seen clearly. The authors ask plenty of thought-provoking questions and leave plenty of room to jot down answers and thoughts the reader may have as he or she reads. As one would expect from a book by Ken Ham, the issue of creation is center stage and is foundational to a correct understanding of the rest of the Bible. Personally, I wholeheartedly agree with the authors on this point, although I am aware, as are the authors, that there are sincere Christians who do not hold to a young earth view of creation. It still makes the most sense to me. The book wraps up by presenting several helpful essays dealing with the most frequently used arguments against biblical truth. Always the evangelists, Ham and Hodge present the Gospel for anyone wishing to respond to the truth presented in the preceding portion of the book. I rate this book very high due to the clarity with which it presents the material. I am also impressed with the amount of Scripture, and the choice of Scripture, dealt with in the book. Seeking to introduce people to Jesus Christ and to help them become "transformed by the renewing of their mind." Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com |