The Complete Idiot's Guide to the Bible, Third Edition

The Complete Idiot's Guide to the Bible, Third Edition
Average customer rating:

A Walk In the Garden of Knowledge

The Complete Idiots Guide to the Bible

NOT Just For Idiots

Disppointed Expectations

Excellent resource

The Complete Idiot's Guide to the Bible, Third Edition
Jr., James Stuart Bell , and Stan Campbell
Manufacturer: Alpha
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Criticism & Interpretation | Reference | Christianity | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 1592573894
Release Date: 2005-08-02

Amazon.com

At first glance, The Complete Idiot's Guide to the Bible seems irreverent at best, but as the saying goes, "Judge not ... a book by its cover." This little addition to the Complete Idiot's series tackles one of the most intimidating and misrepresented subjects of the past 2,000 years and succeeds in producing a competent and thorough guide to the world's all-time bestseller.

Jim Bell and Stan Campbell's success is largely due to their humorous and conversational writing style, as well as candid snapshots of what's actually in the Bible. Their treatment of the Old Testament in particular is both an intriguing and hilarious ride through the drama of biblical history. With chapter headings like "Abraham: the not-so-accidental tourist" and "Tell-a-Vision Personalities (Isaiah Through Malachi)," the authors provide a memorable picture of the goings-on in the first 39 books of the Bible. The Abraham chapter includes, among other noteworthy (and entertaining) facts, how Israel became the Hebrew "Promised Land," the origin of the phrase "fire and brimstone," and some of the less illustrious deeds of the so-called "man of faith".

In addition to the movie-traileresque treatment of biblical content, the Idiot's Guide is supplemented with an extensive index, advice on buying a Bible, and a day-by-day plan for reading the Bible in a year. Whether you need a quick overview or are considering some in-depth study but don't know how to begin, The Complete Idiot's Guide to the Bible is a momentum-building first step. --Benjamin Gebhardt

Book Description

“Campbell and Bell have done a masterful job of introducing readers to the Bible.”
—James T. Dyet, author of over 30 bible study courses

This revised edition continues to walk both experienced Bible readers and those seeking it out for the first time through a chronological, story-by-story and person-by-person experience. Complete with maps of journeys and explanations of the acts and epistles, this book includes:

• The journeys of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, and Moses, and the law from Joshua, Judges, Ruth, Samuel, and Kings, including David and Goliath, Gideon and Samson, and King Solomon
• The captives, the women, the poets, the prophets, and more through the Old Testament
• The story of Jesus as told in the four Gospels
• The acts of the Apostles as they spread the word of the new church; the letters from Paul, Peter, James, John, and Jude on a variety of topics; and John's apocalyptic Revelation
• The Apocrypha including Maccabees 1 and 2 along with other books included for other practices
• An all new reference glossary featuring names and places with descriptions and cross-references to their discussion in the Bible

Download Description

You're no idiot, of course. You know what the Book of Genesis is, or at least that it is about Adam, Eve, and an apple. But when it comes to sitting down and understanding the full significance of the Bible, you feel as helpless as Noah without an Ark. Don't try swimming for shore just yet! The Complete Idiot's Guide to the Bible offers accessible summaries and interpretations of everything you'll find in the Bible, from "In the beginning" to the last "Amen." You'll learn all about patriarchs and matriarchs, kings and kingdoms, prophets and losses, and the good news of Jesus Christ.

Customer Reviews:

A Walk In the Garden of Knowledge.......2007-09-13

Enjoyed the book. It was purchased for my husband and now is in the possession of our daughter who is thrilled with it.

The Complete Idiots Guide to the Bible.......2007-07-08

I have not had a lot of timeto review...but I like what if have read!Where is my last order...my check has still not cleared the bank. Thanks!

NOT Just For Idiots.......2007-05-19

Sex, love, adultery, scandal, betrayal, murder, cannibalism, and more! The Bible gots it all!! This handy little guide will help you to understand the Bible if this is your first time through or help you to a deeper understanding of the Bible if it's your 50th. I have been a Christian for 32 years and have studied the Bible for even longer and I found out some things I either overlooked, forgot or just missed out on. I highly recommend this to anyone who is serious about reading the Bible. I found myself looking up scripture after scripture to make sure they were right and guess what they are!

Disppointed Expectations.......2007-04-13

I am a Christian who does quite a bit of Bible reading. The bible I mainly use has lots of interpretation remarks. I also have several other study guides.
I thought purchasing this particular book would have a very simplified explanation for some of the harder books of the Bible. Indeed it does, but at times I found some of the "the humor" to border on disrespect of this great book--meaning the Bible.
I would recommend it for people who are beginning their study of the Bible, or for someone who just wants an overview.
Perhaps it was my own mistake in purchasing this book,believing that I didn't have enough knowledge and/or resources already.

Excellent resource.......2006-07-03

Am preparing for an exam on the Old Testament. This was one of the recommended references. It is an excellent resource; easy to read and understand. The authors do not go into different theologys but present the work in a clear, concise, entertaining, and fascinating way. Although I am the one taking the exam, my spouse is enjoying the book as much as I am. Highly recommend!

The Complete Idiot's Guide(R) to the Book of Revelation

Average customer rating:

The Book of Revelation
Enjoyable to read and Informative
"Except for 'Dragons, Grasshoppers & Frogs!', this is as simple as it gets!"
A funny and delightful way to learn about Revelation
Presents many end-world views

The Complete Idiot's Guide(R) to the Book of Revelation
James S. Bell , and Stan Campbell
Manufacturer: Alpha
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0028642384

Customer Reviews:

The Book of Revelation.......2007-03-26

The complete Idiot's Guide to the Book of Revelation helps our understanding of the symbolism inherent in Revelations. While we cannot be sure of exactly what is meant, the Guide is easy to read and comprehend. And the Book of Revelations itself promises a blessing to all who read it.

Enjoyable to read and Informative.......2006-11-10

This is a great book on Revelation. It doesn't tell you what to believe. It gives you lots of history, lots of great details to help you understand better. My husband is using it to teach his teenage Sunday School class about Revelation and they are liking it. It is very user friendly.

"Except for 'Dragons, Grasshoppers & Frogs!', this is as simple as it gets!".......2005-11-20

I cannot understand why anyone (with the pretribulational perspective) would not like this book. It is entertaining, well designed, and fun to read. Bell quotes many scholars, and presents the information in an anything but boring manner.

Differing views are presented fairly, and historical tidbits are welcome insertions. So are the present-day applications.

Revelation doesn't get much simpler than this, except "Dragons, Grasshoppers & Frogs!" which is for new Christians and teens.

Both books deliver the goods, and would be excellent resources for those teaching this most wonderful last book of the Bible.

A funny and delightful way to learn about Revelation.......2005-08-17

This book was a fun and delightful way to learn about the Book of Revelations in the Bible, yet at the same time it was very informative. If this book is going to be used in a study group for the book of Revelations, however, please be aware that the first 15 chapters cover the book chronologically from chapter 1 to up to the end of Revelations, but then has several additional chapters that cover such things as other views (preterist, historical, and the like). Therefore, a study group should leave time for covering these chapters as well, either while reading through revelations or at the end.

Presents many end-world views.......2002-04-22

I was reading the Left Behind books and began to think to myself "surely, this can't be the only explanation for the Book of Revelation". I mean, I'm a Christian, but I wanted a little bit of perspective and maybe some other theories. This book gives me just that and explains many of the other theories scholars think Revelation might mean. A great study tool for anyone wanting to find out more.

Complete Idiot's Guide to the Gnostic Gospels (The Complete Idiot's Guide)

Average customer rating:

Excellent survey of the Gnostic texts
Good for understanding
The Irony Is Many Of The Gnostic Works Were Not Written For A Wide Audience
Informative Overview of Gnosticism

Complete Idiot's Guide to the Gnostic Gospels (The Complete Idiot's Guide)
J. Michael Matkin
Manufacturer: Alpha
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 1592573886

Book Description

The birth of the Christian Church—and what it means for modern religion and philosophy.

This engaging guide presents an accessible overview of the birth of the Christian church, using the historical works found at the famous Nag Hammadi site in Egypt. With chapters discussing each of the major and minor documents found at Nag Hammadi, this volume also includes an overview of Gnosticism and the major players, revealing not only what the texts say, but also what they mean.
-Renewed interest in Gnosticism and the Gnostic gospels is driven by interest in the Nag Hammadi documents, The DaVinci Code, the Matrix movies, the Kabbalah, renewed interest in the divine feminine ideal, and the fact that many who've left the Church are looking for new answers in the early church
-Author is a scholar and expert who's studied with some of the top people in the field

Customer Reviews:

Excellent survey of the Gnostic texts .......2007-04-09

In addition to details on individual Nag Hammadi texts as well as some other Gnostic texts, Matkin presents keys players within early Chistianity on the orthodox and on the gnostic side. He also discusses those early times, later gnostic movements, and modern interests in gnosticism.

The book is nicely chunked: twenty chapters each divided into sections and subsections that makes it easy to finish one piece, put the book down, and return to it later so as not to be overwhelmed by all the complex mythologies of the Gnostics.

Matkin steers a middle road, neither a proponent of Gnosticism nor eager to dismiss it. While acknowledging Elaine Pagel's contribution to making the early Gnostics accessible, he doesn't refrain from criticizing her. While open to what made the Gnostics tick, he presents critics. For example, he he includes the comment of Frederica Mathewes-Green, an Eastern Orthodox writer, that Gnostic schemes to directly experience God were "so wacky".

The one real problem I face after reading this book is that it leaves me with no excuse not to read the Nag Hammadi texts again themselves ( The Nag Hammadi Library ) which, without Matkin's guidance, may overwhelm me, as they did the first time I read them. Even the second time I read them (in 2005), I can see now I missed a lot due to less preparation. I am rereading Matkin's summary of each Nag Hammadi text as I read the texts themselves. Along with other background reading in Gnosticism, Matkin has prepared me for what I hope to be a really inspiring reading of the Nag Hammadi Library. So I am grateful to Matkin for his efforts and delivery.

Good for understanding.......2006-03-18

If you are looking for a great book to understand the who what when where and why about these gospels, this is a good book for you. If you're needing a Cliffsnotes version of what goes on in the books and what they could be alluding to, this is NOT the book for you. But, I found the research good, intelligent and at times, humorous. This is a great read if you are curious about the gnostic gospels and want to know more, in a general sense, about what the gnostics were all about.

The Irony Is Many Of The Gnostic Works Were Not Written For A Wide Audience.......2005-11-19

I like to make up my own mind about things, and I knew early on in my life I'd one day read the so-called "Gnostic Gospels". What fanned the fires of my curiosity were all the occasions as I was growing up when my teachers in religious school would tell us there was "nothing of any value" in those books, and that was why the Church excluded them from its canon. So, naturally, I gravitated toward this pseudo-forbidden reading list.

The Gnostic Gospels tell stories that are at once familiar to those modern individuals who have some background in the books included in the Bible, but there is also a lot that represents challenges to the supposed accepted version of Biblical events. After poking around over the years in the subject of the Gnostic writings, I found little of deep interest there and moved on to other areas. When I happened across this Idiot's Guide to the topic, I pounced on it and found it to be a fine overview that could teach almost anyone about these writings that date to some of the earliest decades of Christianity.

Are the Gnostic Gospels valid? If the question is "are they authentic?" then the answer would be yes. They are writings from antiquity. They contain many of the same figures from Sunday School classes and offer plenty of good-natured parables and anecdotes, histories and grains of hard-won wisdom. They, do, however, at times offer claims that stand in direct contradiction to much of what is taught as ecclesiastical truth in nearly all present-day branches of the Christian faith. Who is right? Who knows. Is that even really important?

I found this Guide to be colloquial, authored by contributors with solid knowledge of the field, and it informed me about probably all I need to know regarding this subject, whether or not I ever again go on to read the actual Gnostic works.

Informative Overview of Gnosticism.......2005-10-01

If you are interested in Gnosticism you are probably not an idiot; with that said, idiots (and the rest of us) will find this book to be a detailed overview of the origins, texts, and views of the present-day and old-world Gnostics. As with all Idiot's Guides, the information in this book is very well presented for readers of any age or background. The author's wording makes the text easy to read and, most importantly, easy to comprehend.

J. Michael Matkin, the author, does not just give a one sided view of Gnosticism. Rather he provides distinct differences in viewpoints along with research to help the reader make his or her own decision.

This book is an admirable accomplishment. Many existing books on Gnosticism use an almost "Shakespearean" tone that leaves much interpretation to the reader. This is highly recommended for those readers who don't want to have to stop and contemplate each sentence.

Chapters:
(1) Why Read the Gnostic Gospels? - The Gnostics deserve a hearing. In this chapter, reasons why we should take the time to examine the Gnostic teachings.
(2) Are You in the Know? - A fast and furious overview of the general Gnostic beliefs. The Gnostic fascination with the cause of pain, suffering, and evil in the world. A look at what they thought would solve it all.
(3) Fighting for the Right - What we know about the Gnostics primarily comes from the writings of their enemies. An introduction to the principal orthodox Christian writers of the second and third centuries.
(4) The Gnostic Lineup - Who where the Gnostic teachers? A brief biography of Simon the Magician, Basilides, Valentinus, and Marcion.
(5) Death and Resurrection - Gnosticism receded after the third century, but continued to exist in many forms. Throughout Western history there have been occasional revivals of Gnostic thought. The discovery of new Gnostic writings, especially the groundbreaking find at Nag Hammadi.
(6) The Gospel of Thomas - An introduction to the most famous and infamous of the Gnostic Gospels. Meet the Apostle Thomas and his missionary whirlwind tour through Syria, Persia, and India. The big question: is it really Gnostic?
(7) The Gospel of Mary - A look at the only gospel named for a woman. Who was Mary of Magdala?
(8) The Gospel of the Egyptians - The first of many speculative histories written by the Gnostics. This one is a preparation for baptism.
(9) The Gospel of Truth - This one may have been written by Valentinus himself. We'll see a master Gnostic teacher in action.
(10) The Gospel of Philip - More of a collection of quotations than a narrative. It gives us a Gnostic reimagining of the process of intimidation.
(11) The Revelations of the Apostles - Experiences of the Divine were very important to the Gnostics. These texts are all revelations supposedly received by certain apostles.
(12) Acts and Letters - A hodge-podge of texts supposedly written by or about certain apostles. Also, the strange discovery of another version of the Gospel of Mark.
(13) The Beginning of the End - A series of Gnostic myths about how we got here and where we are going.
(14) The Divine Feminine - Gnostic writings demonstrate an esteem for the feminine side of the Divine. These texts all demonstrate the female void in Gnostic spirituality.
(15) The Sethite Literature - Books starting a little-known character from the Hebrew Bible. Seth the son of Adam becomes the father of an immortal race of people. Gnostics saw themselves as members of that race.
(16) The Soul's Journey - Texts regarding the individual spiritual journey. A focus on ethical teaching, and a speculative take on resurrection.
(17) Prayers, Liturgies, and Initiations - Gnostics at prayer. Worship life in a Gnostic community, evidenced by this group of texts.
(18) Speaking to the Church - Gnostics remained within the larger Christian community for some time. How did they cope? A selection of works showing the many ways that Gnostics persuaded or sparred with their fellow Christians.
(19) Gnu Gnostics - Where are we at today? The revival of interest in the Gnostics and their writings. Its impact on pop culture and on the church.
(20) New Stories, Old Stories - the Gnostic Gospels continue to fascinate us and provoke us to question. A look at some of the speculative literature, including Dan Brown's "The DaVinci Code," based on the new Gnostic discoveries.

The Complete Idiot's Guide to the Last Days (Complete Idiot's Guide to)

Average customer rating:

I've recommended this book for our church library.
The end draws nigh
Read it with an Open Mind
One of the Best Books ever to be written on Bible prophecy!
Prejudice against the pre-trib rapture

The Complete Idiot's Guide to the Last Days (Complete Idiot's Guide to)
Richard H. Perry
Manufacturer: Alpha
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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End Time Delusions

ASIN: 1592575617

Book Description

Get ready for Judgment Day.

For centuries, humans have dreaded—and anticipated-- the end of the world. These fears— fueled by natural disasters, famines, world wars, and the writings of people like Nostradamus and Jeane Dixon—have left us with more questions than answers. In The Complete Idiot's Guide® to the Last Days, Richard H. Perry goes to the definitive source on the subject: the Bible itself.
• While the book is as exciting as an action/adventure novel, the author's primary source is the Bible, and he guides his readers to an understanding of the Last Days by using related Scripture
• Covers Bible basics and the Signs of the Times
• Includes timelines of every stage leading up to the Last Days and after

Customer Reviews:

I've recommended this book for our church library........2007-09-27

If you want to know an uptodate understanding of the end times scenario, this is the book to buy. Richard Perry is easy to understand, and easy to read. I, too, was raised being taught the Pre-Trib, secret rapture belief and held to this teaching for over fifty years. I was a strong believer in this teaching until I retired and had more time to study what God's word actually says, and came to realize, the secret rapture can be found no where in the scriptures. It is simply not there.

Because of the persecutions befalling them from the Roman government and the Jewish leaders, the Thessalonians of the early church were upset because they thought Christ had returned for His people, and they had been left behind. Read what Paul the apostle said to them:

2 Thessalonians 2:1-4
"Now, brethren, concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our gathering together to Him, we ask you, not to be soon shaken in mind or troubled, either by spirit or by word or by letter, as if from us, as though the day of Christ had come. Let no one deceive you by any means; for that Day will not come unless the falling away comes first, and the man of sin is revealed, the son of perdition, who opposes and exalts himself above all that is called God or that is worshiped, so that he sits as God in the temple of God, showing himself that he is God. Do you not remember that when I was still with you I told you these things?"

Paul was telling these people that Christ would not come for the believers until there is first a falling of the Church into apostasy, and we see that son of perdition, the antichrist claiming to be God. Don't let anyone tell you Christ can come at any moment before these things happen. This secret rapture belief, which has been preached for some 177 years, is an invention of Satan himself. When you have the chance, do a little research and read about John Nelson Darby, the father of dispensationalism, and Edward Erving, which Mr. Perry discusses in this book.

One reviewer wrote the truth when he said:: "The author is so bias against the pre-trib rapture".

You will not be disappointed in this book if you are searching for the truth. This is a book you will want in your library. I highly recommend it. There are many who hold to the pre-trib secret rapture belief, and, many great men of God in the past have preached this belief. The many, however are not always in the right. I give this book five stars.

The end draws nigh.......2007-08-12

This is an excellent book for anyone interested in the last days according to biblical prophesy. Though God says that no one will be able to tell when the end comes, he will give us signs to know when the end is near. This book does a terrific job of breaking down Revelations and explaining the signs and warnings that will bring us to the end times. This book has me wanting to know more, more than just what happens in the end, but more about both the love and the wrath of God.

Read it with an Open Mind.......2007-07-19

If you are a person who only likes to read books whose authors agree with your view, and you are a pre-trib rapture believer, this book isn't for you. But if you are a person with an open mind, or you are already post-trib in your beliefs, this book offers a great presentation of the post-trib position. The author presents the material in a format that is easy to understand, even for someone new to the area of Bible prophecy. The author also avoids the emotional hoop-la that characterizes a lot of prophecy books. He also avoids the name calling and put-downs that tend to characterize prophecy presentations.

This has become the new book I give to someone who really wants to understand prophecy. The book leads the reader through the various Bible passages using only the literal interpretation of each one. By the end of the book, the author has built a strong case for believing in a single second coming of Christ after the tribulation and before the outpouring of the wrath of God.

It is unfortunate that the book is in the "Idiot" series, as I've heard comments that "only an idiot would read this book." Personally, I feel that only a person who wants to know the truth will read this book. If you are such a person, this is the one book you most want to own.

One of the Best Books ever to be written on Bible prophecy!.......2007-06-27

If you are wanting to read a book that will give you a complete overview of the Bible's last days prophecies, yet also provide meaty, deep detail to answer the tougher questions, this is your book! I have been studying prophecy seriously for about 6-7 years now and have yet to find an author that can simplify the weight of material about the end times like Richard Perry. He has a deductive reasoning to his methods and while he seems to have a lot figured out, he also remains humble in his attitude. He is always urging people, in this book and his others and his website, to search the scriptures to see if what he is writing is true.

I used to be a "pre-trib" person but for years tried to figure out where the scriptures teach such a doctrine. (For the life of me, I still can't see how God's people, whom I don't doubt love the Lord, can believe this from scripture.) Then, I stumbled upon the pre-wrath theory which answered a lot of my questions and got me back to the Bible and not the "doctrines of men". Yet, I am on a journey for truth and have recently seen God revealing more to me as I search and I have come to understand there is just ONE resurrection (rapture) of God's people....not TWO as both pre-wrath and pre-trib teach. Also, the end so clearly will take place at the last trumpet and the opening of the 6th seal....ONE Day of the LORD! Once I let go of Revelation being completely chronological, my eyes were opened to this truth.

While I don't like labels because it can divide people, I urge people to re-consider the validity from scripture for the post-trib resurrection of the saints of God. Throw aside the labels but take another look! God's people will still not suffer God's direct wrath on the Day of the Lord, yet many will undergo persecution during the Great Tribulation. While this author doesn't push a bunch of doctrine or labels, he certainly comes down on a post trib view, yet does so by a thorough handling of the Word of God. His style is unique, "out of the box" in that he isn't easily persuaded by what the "experts" say, and filled with knowledge and humble wisdom. I urge you, as the time may be short, to take another look at scripture with this filter of understanding.

I believe this book will be an excellent resource for the non-believer searching out of curiousity for what the Bible says about "the end", the young Christian just learning AND the mature Christian/Messianic Jew looking for a fresh insight. The only thing I didn't like was that many of the Bible references were left out and it has made it tougher to use as a study guide....HOWEVER, it was done this way to follow the "idiot's approach" to learning so as not to complicate the writing style. In order to check out ALL the verses, I highly recommend his book on the Last Days Mystery (also on Amazon) which details the most important verses mentioned in the Idiot's Guide. Together, they are powerful.

Prejudice against the pre-trib rapture .......2007-06-19

The author is so bias against the pre-trib rapture, I wouldn't trust his view on any end-time subject.

Complete Idiot's Guide to Biblical Mysteries

Average customer rating:

A biblical mysteries idiot no more
Interesting at times, but a little disappointing, too.
Excellent, Informative!
Unmasking the Mysteries of the Bible
Incredibly interesting!

Complete Idiot's Guide to Biblical Mysteries
Donald Ryan
Manufacturer: Alpha
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 002863831X

Book Description

Readers interested in the Bible, and Biblical stories. Viewers of the Discovery, and History Channel's and Unsolved Mysteries.

Download Description

Readers interested in the Bible, and Biblical stories. Viewers of the Discovery, and History Channel's and Unsolved Mysteries.

Customer Reviews:

A biblical mysteries idiot no more.......2004-03-21

Donald P. Ryan's primer on biblical mysteries provides a broad starting point for those wanting to further investigate the "mysteries" as well as those who just find themselves attracted by the Bible's fascinating stories. In keeping with the "Complete Idiot's" tradition, Ryan's book ensures that even the biggest idiot among us will have no problem tracing the history of the world's most influential book. It appeals to the archeologist in all of us and addresses some of the biggest questions still lingering after thousands of years, including Noah's Ark and the Great Flood, the Dead Sea Scrolls, the Shroud of Turin, the Ark of the Covenant, and of course, the Bible itself!

The material unfolds in a general chronological order, beginning with the Bible's origins. Part I deals with the actual writing and structure of the book. The Old Testament or Torah's stories follow in Part II, which covers the Creation (and its controversy), Genesis, and Noah and the whereabouts of his famous ark. Part III relates the Jewish enslavement and the Exodus, and Part IV is a history of Jerusalem, including insight into the current Israel-Palestine conflict. Jesus is the subject of Part V. In Part VI, Ryan examines "Lost Books and Sacred Artifacts," and the last section is devoted to the supernatural, i.e. angels, demons, and the Apocalypse.

You can see that there is much to cover, and of all the Bible's mysteries, Ryan manages to hit most of the hot topics. As this guide is an introduction, you won't get the finer details, but Ryan does a fair job of presenting a variety of viewpoints and theories, from the common to the absurd. He tries to legitimize differing opinions insomuch that each is respected, and such unbiased approach is much appreciated. Overall, this is a handy starting point that is as fun to read as it is informative.

Interesting at times, but a little disappointing, too........2002-03-10

I'm a bit surprised that all the reviews up until now have given this book 5 stars! I bought the book expecting information on such topics as the possible locations of artificats such as Noah's Ark, the Ark of the Covenant, or on such controversial things as the Shroud of Turin. While these things were discussed (not in a whole lot of detail), at least half of the entire book was nothing more than an overview of the contents of the Bible!

I suppose that someone who is not familiar with the Bible would find this a good introduction, but anyone who has spent any time at all reading and/or studying the Bible will probably be bored and/or disappointed. The lack of depth is one reason; another reason for disappointment is that the book is written from a somewhat skeptical stance (albeit a benevolent one). Certainly the book was intended to appeal to a general audience, and I understand that. My only point is that someone who really understands the Bible is likely to be turned off.

The other thing that surprised me was the author's surprising lack of understanding when it comes to simple Biblical facts, not to mention the deeper truths of the Bible. For instance, at one point he says that James, one of the 12 apostles/disciples, was Jesus' brother. He confuses this James with the author of the book by the same name, the Pastor of the church of Jerusalem. The books of Matthew and Mark both clearly state that James the Apostle was the son of Alphaeus. (There was a second apostle/disciple by the same name, he was the brother of John, the son of Zebedee).

In another place, the author says that the early Christians celebrated the Sabbath on Sunday, instead of Friday, as the Jews had. Assuming he was talking about the weekly sabbath (the Jews celebrated other "special sabbaths," too), this was Saturday, not Friday.

And finally, while this is a common error, he also says that Jesus was executed on Friday. While this error is propogated by those who celebrate "Good Friday," it simply isn't so. Christ died no later than Thursday, probably Wednesday.

So, in summary, this book probably isn't worth the expense. If you're wanting either a book on Biblcal archaeology or a Biblical study guide there are certainly better (and more accurate) choices available.

Excellent, Informative!.......2001-06-18

Keeping it brief, this is a great book with tons of interesting facts about mysteries that are in the Bible. Explanations of miracles, detailed history surrounding them. I learned an intense amount of information in this book. You don't have to be a scholar, as it was written simply. The authors did an excellent job.

Unmasking the Mysteries of the Bible.......2000-07-06

Dr. Donald P. Ryan does it again with this, his second book in "The Complete Idiot's Guide" series (see "The Complete Idiot's Guide to Lost Civilizations"). Laid out in the typical format for this series, Dr. Ryan examines the most well-known biblical mysteries in a manner that is neither judgmental nor opinionated, leaving the reader to form his or her own opinion about the facts presented. Personally, I've always been challenged with understanding the meaning of the various stories in the Bible and was quite pleased to find that Dr. Ryan presents his information in a thorough, clear and concise manner. Covering the Bible from Genesis through Revelation, from lost books to sacred artifacts, Dr. Ryan educates and informs the reader in an entertaining manner with the most fascinating tidbits of information. I most highly recommend this book for both the casually interested reader as well as one who is quite familiar with biblical history. Reading this latest book of Dr. Ryan's has left me with a desire to learn yet more about this, the most published book on Earth, the Bible.

Incredibly interesting!.......2000-05-12

Anyone with an interest in the Bible will probably enjoy this book. I certainly did! The book presents the Bible as a vitally important and influential library of texts loaded with mystery and controversy. Some of the topics I personally found of interest were the search for Noah's Ark and the Ark of the Covenant, the story of the Dead Sea Scrolls and other controversial documents, and the interesting exposé of the Bible code phenomenon. The author takes on the more touchy subjects without being condescending or judgmental and I thoroughly appreciated the range of views presented including scientific and religious perspectives. Ryan's background as an archaeologist is clear through much of the book as he regularly incorporates archaeological evidence in the chapters.

Before I read this book, my Bible knowledge was sketchy at best and now afterwards, I can say that my knowledge and interest in the Bible, archaeology and ancient documents has increased dramatically. I very highly recommend this very well written and often provocative book!

Complete Idiot's Guide to the World of the Bible (The Complete Idiot's Guide)
Average customer rating:

The science and the facts behind the Story

Filled in a lot of blanks!

Good but just...

Complete Idiot's Guide to the World of the Bible (The Complete Idiot's Guide)
Donald Ryan
Manufacturer: Alpha
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Catholic | Specific Types | Bibles | Christianity | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
General | Reference | Christianity | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
General | Bible Study | Reference | Christianity | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
General | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
General | Bible & Other Sacred Texts | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:

The Complete Idiot's Guide to the Bible, Third Edition

Complete Idiot's Guide to Biblical Mysteries

The Complete Idiot's Guide to Jesus

Complete Idiot's Guide to the Life of Christ

The Complete Idiot's Guide to World Religions, 3rd Edition (The Complete Idiot's Guide)

ASIN: 0028644476
Release Date: 2003-04-01

Book Description

A comprehensive guide to the land, people, religions, history, and archaeology of the Holy Land.

The book will cover both Old and New Testaments and detail what life was like in the days of Jesus and the Roman world of Paul.

With the current problems in the Middle East and the increased focus on what's happening there, the Holy Land and the world of the Bible are front and center in the consciousness of readers.

Customer Reviews:

The science and the facts behind the Story .......2007-09-25

Rare is the book that can both make the Bible and the facts behind the biblical stories so well illustrated and interesting. Dr Ryan achieves both and is to be commended on the archaeological facts which show a deep, knowledgeable and interesting scholarly approach he takes in presenting the true, known facts.

Any person who loves history, archeology or the bible would love this work.

Everything except the title gets a solid 5 stars. Well done work.

Filled in a lot of blanks!.......2003-05-14

The power of the Bible is such that sometimes one forgets that the stories therein take place in a real world full of interesting living people like the Egyptians, Canaanites, Moabites, Assyrians, Romans, etc. and of course the Israelites. This book sheds a lot of light on the various places and peoples of Bible times and how archaeologists and other scholars have attempted to further our knowledge. As can be expected, there are often disagreements amongst the experts, and the author usually takes a refreshingly neutral stance in presenting different viewpoints. I especially appreciated the historical background information on the likes of the Babylonians, Persians, etc. and the parts dealing with daily life amongst the Israelites were interesting and informative. (And I never knew the Philistines were so sophisticated!) I highly recommend this book as a very good introduction to the Biblical world!

Good but just..........2003-05-04

This was an o.k. read. I was expecting more. The last chapter about Israel and tips on visiting is gold. Buy used.

The Complete Idiot's Guide(R) to Bible Study for Teens

Average customer rating:

Good book..
Everyone should have a Bill Grimbol to look to

The Complete Idiot's Guide(R) to Bible Study for Teens
William R. Grimbol
Manufacturer: Alpha
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Religions | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

General | Religion & Spirituality | Teens | Subjects | Books
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Complete Idiot's Guide to Spirituality for Teens
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Teen Study Bible, Revised

ASIN: 0028642740

Customer Reviews:

Good book.........2002-10-01

The Old Testament overview in this guide was really dry. The New Testament overview however was VERY GOOD. Get it anyway but skip The Old Testament.

Everyone should have a Bill Grimbol to look to.......2002-03-12

Bill Grimbol has such an amazing way with teens (his Idiot's Guide to Spirituality for Teens is phenomenal -- can't recommend it enough). His Bible Study book not only helps kids to see the stories in the Bible for their beautiful and true meanings, but also speaks to teens in a way that's respectful and never condescending. He is truly a gifted pastor and any teen (or adult!) could learn something valuable from this tome. Buy it!

The Complete Idiot's Guide to Teaching the Bible (Complete Idiot's Guide To...)

Average customer rating:

Excellent
As helpful as anything...
Not very good...

The Complete Idiot's Guide to Teaching the Bible (Complete Idiot's Guide To...)
W. Terry Whalin
Manufacturer: Alpha
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
Similar Items:

The Complete Idiot's Guide to the Bible, Third Edition
Teaching the Bible to Adults and Youth

ASIN: 159257064X
Release Date: 2003-09-02

Book Description

A unique reference for Bible-study leaders, Sunday School teachers, and others!

Readers will learn how to teach lessons for students at all levels using methods including thematic, devotional, topical, summary, character study, word study, background, book overviews, chapter, and verse-by-verse.

€ This title continues to be a top seller
€ Great reviews
€ 86% of the US population is Christian
€ Expert author known in both secular and Christian book markets
€ Also by the author, Alpha Teach Yourself the Bible in 24 Hours is a great seller € The Bible remains the top-selling book of all time

Customer Reviews:

Excellent.......2006-06-22

This book will assist people with various bible teaching appoaches or tastes; like focusing only on a single verse, or a whole chapter, or a specific topic, or a bible person, etc.

As helpful as anything..........2004-11-13

This book was very complete -- and would allow a reader to teach and write Bible studies, teachings -- perhaps even an entire book with authority if guidelines were followed. Very thorough!

Not very good..........2004-03-06

I could only get to chapter five here. I always hate doing this to my own brethren but this book is poorly written.

Average customer rating:

The Complete Idiot's Guide to the Bible
James S. Bell Jr.
Manufacturer: Alpha
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B000O8UWAG

Average customer rating:

The Complete Idiot's Guide To The Bible
James S.; Campbell, Stan Bell
Manufacturer: Alpha
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B000O8R6WI

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