Unlocking the Bible Story (Unlocking the Bible Series)

Rating:
Summary: An excellent, uncompromising roadmap to becoming a Christian
Review: A friend recommended Pastor Colin Smith to me. I live in Chicago, so I went to his church in Arlington Heights to see a sermon. He is simply amazing. Intelligent and articulate (with a heavy Scottish brogue that is a hoot to listen to), he is one of the few Pastors around that does not twist the concept of God around to suit what he thinks his congregation needs. He deciphers the Bible in a non-condescending, accessible and, most importantly, loving way.

I am new to Bible study, but I think that there are things to be learned here by even the most seasoned Bible reader. For example, the origin of animal sacrifices in the Old Testament, while upsetting and sad to me, has a divine purpose.

The bottom line is that the way to Christ is through the Word, and this series is an excellent navigation tool for new believers.

Pastor Colin's sermons can also be heard at unlockingthebible.org. Listening to this man makes me want to become a better Christian. Enjoy!

Rating:
Summary: Recommended for new and younger Christians
Review: Author Colin Smith takes a very high level overview of the Bible story in his book Unlock the Bible in 30 Days. The book provides a view of the Bible as a consistent story with mountain peak highs followed by low valleys. Throughout the book part of the focus is on pointing out a single thread flowing through the Bible. That single thread is a plan of redemption. The book is divided into three parts with part 1 covering the Old Testament, part 2 covering the New Testament, and part 3 dealing with living in the Spirit.

For most people who have been Christians for a long time this is too general a view of the Bible and will provide nothing they don't already know. However, for young Christians or a class for new Christians Unlock the Bible in 30 Days is a recommended read that ties the various Bible stories into a consistent theme.

Rating:
Summary: Good but...
Review: Not really interested in reading the other 3 books. There's some really good insight in this flash overview and a few dry spots. Not for the very new believer.

Rating:
Summary: Great, thought provoking study
Review: We did this as a group study at my work and we thought it was great! A quick, easy read that lead to some great discussion. I would recommend it to new and young followers of Chirst Jesus, too. A little light on the Old Testament, it still does a fine job of showing how Christ is through all of The Bible and should be in your life, too!!

Rating:
Summary: Great, thought provoking study
Review: We did this as a group study at my work and we thought it was great! A quick, easy read that lead to some great discussion. I would recommend it to new and young followers of Chirst Jesus, too. A little light on the Old Testament, it still does a fine job of showing how Christ is through all of The Bible and should be in your life, too!!