Story by Steven James
Revell / 2012
About the book:
Stories are an integral part of the human condition, the way we have passed on history and information and inspiration for millenia. Using the power of imagery and the drama of narrative, bestselling author and professional storyteller Steven James leads readers through a journey into the greatest story ever told. From creation to Christ's birth, from his first miracle to eternity and everything in between, readers will see familiar scenes from the Bible like they never have before. These stories, retold as only Steven James can, will wake readers spiritually, re-inspire their faith journey, and jolt them into action.
Now repackaged, this well-received book is poised for renewed impact in the lives of believers.
My rating:
My thoughts:
Story by Steven James was an okay read. I didn't particularly care for a lot of things in the book - especially how many times it made it seem like God said something, that isn't in the Bible, so how are we to know if He actually said it? That is one of my pet-peeves with books, it is like putting words in God's mouth and that isn't right.
A few examples:
Also, with that second quote, doesn't it make it seem like the Gospel was plan B? That God didn't know Adam and Eve were going to sin. When the fall and Jesus dying on the Cross and resurrecting from the dead was in God's plan from the beginning.
There were a few chapters in this book I really liked, but, while I did learn a few things from Story, overall there was just too much in this book that I didn't like/agree with - so I don't recommend this book. Steven James is still one of my favorite authors, though, just with fiction books instead.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for my review. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*
Story by Steven James was an okay read. I didn't particularly care for a lot of things in the book - especially how many times it made it seem like God said something, that isn't in the Bible, so how are we to know if He actually said it? That is one of my pet-peeves with books, it is like putting words in God's mouth and that isn't right.
A few examples:
"Thanks," said Jesus. He took my hand and led me onto the dance floor. Everyone nodded and stepped to the side to let the young rabbi dance with the bride.
"I love weddings," he whispered to me.
And we began to dance. - Page 91
"Okay," said the Creator. "Then I'll tell a new story. One that includes a detour through an empty tomb." - Page 81
Also, with that second quote, doesn't it make it seem like the Gospel was plan B? That God didn't know Adam and Eve were going to sin. When the fall and Jesus dying on the Cross and resurrecting from the dead was in God's plan from the beginning.
There were a few chapters in this book I really liked, but, while I did learn a few things from Story, overall there was just too much in this book that I didn't like/agree with - so I don't recommend this book. Steven James is still one of my favorite authors, though, just with fiction books instead.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for my review. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*
“Available August 2012 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”
I just wanted to say that I completely agree with you on the whole "putting words in God's mouth" thing. A lot of people really enjoy and learn a bunch from devotionals written as if God was saying everything personally, but it always drives me nuts. It's funny to find someone of the same mind :)
ReplyDeleteThank you for this comment, Rebekah! It is nice to find another person who feels the same way about that. :)
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