The publication of the King James version of the Bible, translated between 1603 and 1611, coincided with an extraordinary flowering of English literature and is universally acknowledged as the greatest influence on English-language literature in history. Now, world-class literary writers introduce the book of the King James Bible in a series of beautifully designed, small-format volumes. The introducers' passionate, provocative, and personal engagements with the spirituality and the language of the text make the Bible come alive as a stunning work of literature and remind us of its overwhelming contemporary relevance.
"The perfect Christmas gift for anyone interested in the historical background behind the birth of Jesus of Nazareth." — Robert J. Hutchinson, author of The Politically Incorrect Guide to the Bible, The Dawn of Christianity, and Searching for Jesus. "Utterly refreshing and encouraging." — Eric Metaxas, New York Times bestselling author of Bonhoeffer: Pastor, Martyr, Prophet, Spy and Martin Luther "The best book I know about the Magi." — Sir Colin John Humphreys, Ph.D., author of The Mystery of the Last Supper Modern biblical scholars tend to dismiss the Christmas story of the “wise men from the East” as pious legend. Matthew’s gospel offers few details, but imaginative Christians filled out the story early on, giving us the three kings guided by a magical star who join the adoring shepherds in every Christmas crèche. For many scholars, then, there is no reason to take the gospel story seriously. But are they right? Are the wise men no more than a poetic fancy? In an astonishing feat of detective work, Dwight Longenecker makes a powerful case that the visit of the Magi to Bethlehem really happened. Piecing together the evidence from biblical studies, history, archeology, and astronomy, he goes further, uncovering where they came from, why they came, and what might have happened to them after eluding the murderous King Herod. In the process, he provides a new and fascinating view of the time and place in which Jesus Christ chose to enter the world. The evidence is clear and compelling. The mysterious Magi from the East were in all likelihood astrologers and counselors from the court of the Nabatean king at Petra, where the Hebrew messianic prophecies were well known. The “star” that inspired their journey was a particular planetary alignment—confirmed by computer models—that in the astrological lore of the time portended the birth of a Jewish king. The visitors whose arrival troubled Herod “and all Jerusalem with him” may not have been the turbaned oriental kings of the Christmas carol, but they were real, and by demonstrating that the wise men were no fairy tale, Mystery of the Magi demands a new level of respect for the historical claims of the gospel.
The Magi also called the Wise Men offered their gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh to the young Jesus. Recorded in the Gospel of Matthew, this is one of the most misunderstood passages in the Bible. Not one theologian or teacher through the ages has discovered the true Biblical meaning, until now. Within these pages you will learn the hidden message of their gifts. You will also be astounded by the Magi’s profound knowledge of Scripture. Their gifts go to the depths of the Mosaic law. Moreover Nicodemus, the chief ruler of the Jews at the time of Christ, and a Pharisee, knew the meaning. His participation in the burial of Jesus was no coincidence, as only one who knew the Scriptures completely could perform the preparation of the Sacrificial Lamb of God. You will not want to miss the discoveries in this book, and you will be greatly blessed by all the details presented that theologians have missed through the ages
Whatever happened to the gifts of the Magi? This book traces them from their point of origin through the thirty-three years of Jesus' life, each ultimately becoming an integral part of the crucifixion. Many Biblical characters are utilized including the Magi, Lazarus, Mary of Bethany, Nicodemus, the Rich Young Ruler, Herod, Archelaus, Martha, Pilate and others. The Bible provides the overall outline and the use of Biblical truth gives validity to the fictional account. Because the plot is supported by Biblical passages and so intricately woven, a reader will almost be convinced the resolution is what really happened to the gifts although it is fiction. Some readers might read this book for its mystery; others out of mere curiosity; some for its poetic symbolic foreshadowing; and others for its Biblical background, but it is my fond hope that all readers will be intrigued enough to study the Bible, for within it they shall discover marvelous stories beyond imagination! And while this story is fiction, those are not!
Mornings with Jesus, an annual 365-day devotional by Guideposts, will inspire you, comfort you, and delight you. Spend 2022 reflecting on daily devotions that show God's unchanging love and faithfulness. In just five minutes a day, Mornings with Jesus 2022 will help you experience a closer relationship with Jesus. It's full of inspiring and lasting motivation and spiritual nourishment that will fill you up with hope and direction. Each entry, like the voice of a trusted friend, offers inspiration, hope, and the peace that comes from walking with Him. In Mornings with Jesus 2022, fourteen women of faith share stories about the ways that Jesus has strengthened their hearts as they walk with Him day by day. Lifting up their voices in heartfelt gratitude, these fourteen writers consider the character and teachings of Jesus and share how He enriches and empowers them each day. This edition of Mornings with Jesus centers around Psalm 31:24: "Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart, all you who hope in the LORD" (NKJV). Each day that you turn to Mornings with Jesus 2022, you'll find: Timely, encouraging scriptures A thoughtful reflection on the words of Jesus A faith step that will both challenge and inspire you as you go about your day Mornings with Jesus 2022 provides you with an all-new daily devotion that will encourage you to embrace Jesus's love, to lay down your worries and find hope, and to focus on Him as Redeemer, Friend, and Faithful One each and every day.
The story of frankincense and myrrh runs in tandem with man's evolution. Their use in so many varied ways has accompanied man and woman through the uncertain and often stormy path of life. Once prized as highly as gold, frankincense and myrrh's use in perfumery suggested an exclusivity as do the celebrated perfumes of today. But they offered much more than mere aesthetic delight. At times they were a life-line to spiritual and physical health and well-being. Over many centuries the use of frankincense and myrrh pervaded a wide range of societies and religions. The caravan trails for this valuable cargo have disappeared but these aromatics continue to be valuable commodities both in the East as well as in the West. Frankincense and Myrrh continue to excite the imagination and are probably the most famous aromatics of all time. Their appeal and magic will never die and this book explains why.
