Book Description
The early Christian Church was a chaos of contending beliefs. Some groups of Christians claimed that there was not one God but two or twelve or thirty. Some believed that the world had not been created by God but by a lesser, ignorant deity. Certain sects maintained that Jesus was human but not divine, while others said he was divine but not human. In Lost Christianities, Bart D. Ehrman offers a fascinating look at these early forms of Christianity and shows how they came to be suppressed, reformed, or forgotten. All of these groups insisted that they upheld the teachings of Jesus and his apostles, and they all possessed writings that bore out their claims, books reputedly produced by Jesus's own followers. Modern archaeological work has recovered a number of key texts, and as Ehrman shows, these spectacular discoveries reveal religious diversity that says much about the ways in which history gets written by the winners. Ehrman's discussion ranges from considerations of various "lost scriptures"--including forged gospels supposedly written by Simon Peter, Jesus's closest disciple, and Judas Thomas, Jesus's alleged twin brother--to the disparate beliefs of such groups as the Jewish-Christian Ebionites, the anti-Jewish Marcionites, and various "Gnostic" sects. Ehrman examines in depth the battles that raged between "proto-orthodox Christians"-- those who eventually compiled the canonical books of the New Testament and standardized Christian belief--and the groups they denounced as heretics and ultimately overcame. Scrupulously researched and lucidly written, Lost Christianities is an eye-opening account of politics, power, and the clash of ideas among Christians in the decades before one group came to see its views prevail.
Customer Reviews:
Fascinating view of strange early "Christianities".......2007-10-02
I had no idea that there were such a wide variety of beliefs in early Christianity -- the "winning" group so effectively destroyed all evidence of earlier texts. A great piece of detective work and a very well-written book.
A Revelation.......2007-09-01
This is a great book if you want to read about a war, not a war that was fought with weapons, but one that was fought with the pen. A lot was at stake with each group of Christians thinking they were right and all the other groups were wrong. Even within the confines of the New Testament one can see Paul mentioning "another Gospel" A reader of the New Testament has to wonder what this other Gospel could have been. In the New Testament we can also see that Peter and Paul were at odds with each other on whether Christians should be circumsised or not.
This book shows that there were many other disagreements amongst Christians. Some believed Jesus was a man, some believed he was a spirit. Some wanted to keep the Jewish Law, others flat out rejected the Jewish Law.
Christians even today see God in the Old Testament as wrathful and him as loving in the New Testament. This led one man named Marcion to believe that there was in fact two Gods. He had a huge following up until the 5th century.
Ehrman mentions that these "other Christians" were not small splinter groups. He provides the evidence that we not only have the scriptures that they thought were sacred, but also the Church Fathers' writings which were dedicated to countering these other Christians by calling them heretics.
In the New Testament (Acts) the Christians are portrayed as all united. This could not be any farther from the truth and this book clearly shows this.
Also contains some great photographs.
This book could do with a little less stream of thought, a little more precision.......2007-09-01
The book is a stream of thought project, somewhat. It has more form than that, but instead of going over each of the lost branches of Christianity and clearly setting them out, it mostly wanders over the same thesis again and again.
It has flashes, three pages here, two pages there, of clear, concise and direct information. If you want to understand what a gnostic was -- great, there is a sharp explanation. But if you would like a good explanation of the rest of the baker's dozen of early Christian movements that are gone? No such luck.
Sigh. Wanders too much. On the other hand, once you've read one of this author's books you've pretty much read them all, which is too bad. From the flashes of sharp writing, I'm certain he could have said a lot more and provided a lot more information. Too bad he lacked the discipline to do so.
An Excellent Choice.......2007-08-26
This is the second book by Dr. Ehrman that I have read. It is a nice sequel to my first book that I read of his "Misquoting Jesus." He goes into nice depth of what it was like in the first few centuries of Christianity. Once again, Christians need to take a look at their creeds and consider the need for further light and knowledge from God. I believe in the Bible but I don't believe in false creeds. I dare Christians to find out more about the Bible they know only by their traditions. I dare them to ask God to guide them in their search for Truth.
Shoot Out at the New Testament Corral.......2007-08-19
Because many of the previous reviewers have so thoroughly covered the material presented in Mr. Ehrman's book, we see no need to restate their information. Suffice it to say that Mr. Ehrman is, as usual, thorough to a fault and offers the most difficult material in a completely accessible manner. Some reviewers, in a seeming effort to smear Mr. Ehrman's academic veracity, have accused him of having an opinion. One would hope that he (and every other person that takes the time to write a book) does! After reading many of Mr. Ehrman's books, we have come to the conclusion that his opinion consists of thinking the world might be a more tolerant, if not peaceful, place to live if we could all let go of the thought that our ideas are unassailable truth and the ideas of "others" are not. Mr. Ehrman then presents the reader with an abundant and varied amount of information that may help them to embrace this view. Mr. Ehrman does not make the mistake of telling anyone they must change their mind or adhere to any certain way of thinking, he merely invites the reader to consider the concept that the world we live in might have been constructed along different lines if some historical events had not taken place and others had.
As writers who also have an opinion, our desire would be that everyone who reads the New Testament would also read Lost Christianities or Ehrman's Misquoting Jesus. Yes, this may leave the reader confused as to how they should proceed on their spiritual journey, but a confused and searching mind is far more likely to be open to truth than one that has been bound by doctrine. Yes, the reader may well come to the conclusion that no one "owns" Jesus, his teachings or the right to interpret them. And yes, this also means that we each have the right and responsibility to find out who Jesus is by approaching him on a one to one basis. This may be a frightening concept to those of us who have been taught that we need to be directed or we will go astray. It is freeing to those of us who feel ready for liberation. Those who fear that the wall of their beliefs will crumble if Ehrman pulls out a brick are the ones who feel the need to attack this book. Ehrman's great gift is his knack for offering information without creating doctrine or dogma. He asks questions that invite more questions, and for that we thank him. Quantum Prodigal Son: Revisiting Jesus' Parable of the Prodigal Son from the Perspective of Quantum Mechanics
Book Description
The recent National Geographic special on the Gospel of Judas was a major media event, introducing to tens of millions of viewers one of the most important biblical discoveries of modern times. Now, a leading historian of the early church, Bart Ehrman, offers the first comprehensive account of the newly discovered Gospel of Judas, revealing what this legendary lost gospel contains and why it is so important for our understanding of Christianity. Ehrman, a featured commentator in the National Geographic special, describes how he first saw the Gospel of Judas--surprisingly, in a small room above a pizza parlor in a Swiss town near Lake Geneva--and he recounts the fascinating story of where and how this ancient papyrus document was discovered, how it moved around among antiquities dealers in Egypt, the United States, and Switzerland, and how it came to be restored and translated. More important, Ehrman gives the reader a complete and clear account of what the book teaches and he shows how it relates to other Gospel texts--both those inside the New Testament and those outside of it, most notably, the Gnostic texts of early Christianity. Finally, he describes what we now can say about the historical Judas himself as well as his relationship with Jesus, suggesting that one needs to read between the lines of the early Gospels to see exactly what Judas did and why he did it. The Gospel of Judas presents an entirely new view of Jesus, his disciples, and the man who allegedly betrayed him. It raises many questions and Bart Ehrman provides illuminating and authoritative answers, in a book that will interest anyone curious about the New Testament, the life of Jesus, and the history of Christianity after his death.
Customer Reviews:
Good, but not great: little bits missing.......2007-09-07
First, I like a few other commentators, find Ehrman too "conservative" in his estimation of the development of early Christianity. (I would put at least John, probably Luke and maybe Matthew as second-century products, I believe the Eucharist was purely a co-option by Paul from pagan ritual, and a few other things.)
That said, the highlights of this book are Ehrman's analysis of its place within Gnostic Christianity and, to me, the thrill of discovery, attainment, and repairing of the codex of which it is part.
That also said, without expecting Ehrman to rewrite Kurt Rudolph's Gnosis, I would have liked to seen even more analysis by Ehrman of where exactly in the Gnostic, or at least "Gnosticizing," stream this fits. Does the one mention of Seth show that much of a connection to Sethian Gnosticism? Does Judas as protagonist show any connection to the (Judas) Thomas Christianity of The Gospel of Thomas and other literature?
Perhaps we shall here more on this from some quarter.
Well written but flawed.......2007-08-27
Bart Ehrman can write very good books (Misquoting Jesus) and very bad books (Truth and Fiction in the Da Vinci Code), so it's always a treat reading an Ehrman book and discovering who wrote it. In the case of The Lost Gospel of Judas, it seems to be co-authored. The "good" Ehrman showed up with his excellent writing skills and his attention to detail. But he obviously took long breaks, during which the "bad" Ehrman slipped in and did his damage.
On the positive side, Ehrman demonstrates the breadth and depth of his knowledge of early Christianity. He provides a detailed examination of the life of Judas, from all the available information, and places that information in perspective and in juxtaposition to itself. Chapters 2 to 4 (Judas in our Earliest Gospels, Judas in Later Gospel Traditions, Our Previous Knowledge of Judas) are extraordinary.
Ehrman also looks beyond the specifics of the Gospel and uses it as an opportunity to discuss Gnosticism in general, and Gnostic texts in particular. His discussion is interesting and illuminating, although I wouldn't throw away my Pagels and Meyers books just yet.
That being said, let's look at some of Ehrman's questionable comments:
- he claims that the gospels are from the 1st century (p. 13). That's a theory. There is quite a bit of research to indicate that at least 3 and possible all 4 gospels are 2nd century products, and there are several prominent authorities (e.g., Schonfield, Mack, Ellegard to name a few) who advance this alternate theory.
- he claims that Mary Magdalene "was one of three women who accompanied Jesus..." (p. 13) but that's clearly wrong. Luke 8:1-3 names only three of the women, but clearly states that were "many others."
- he claims that in the Gospel of Mark, Jesus is "silent on the way to the crucifixion, while being nailed to the cross... (p. 35)." Search as you will, the Gospel of Mark, and you'll find no mention of Jesus being nailed to the cross. You will find mention of the nails in the Gospel of John (20:25), but not Mark. No big deal, you think, but in a section of the book where Ehrman criticizes others for conflating the gospels, Ehrman's own coflation is noteworthy.
While these are relatively small matters, one of the continuing serious problems in this book was also reflected in Ehrman's Peter, Paul, and Mary. In both books he claims that the ancient material gives us a window not into history but into the minds of the people who wrote this material. I agree fully. Unfortunately Ehrman does take himself seriously enough to follow through with this hypothesis. He spends very little time telling us what he thinks was going on in the lives of the people who wrote the Gospel of Judas. Instead he focuses on the historical data and discusses its probable historicity, when in fact it is his underlying thesis that the Gospel should be read more for the dynamics of the writers than the historical validity of the principals. We get very little about the dynamics of the writers and their society.
Another problem with the book is Ehrman's conclusion that the Gospel of Judas offered some new perspective on the life of Judas. While it's true that the traditional view of Judas as the betraying, "money-grubbing thief and Christ killer (p. 180)" has been the main view, the idea that Judas was serving the greater need was not first advanced in the newly discovered Gospel.
Finally, I confess to being interested in the contents of a book and having no interest whatsoever in the behavior of the writer. I know some people enjoy these personal touches, but quite frankly if I wanted auto-biographical information about Ehrman or any other author, I would read their auto biography. To my understanding of the Gospel of Judas, does it matter that Ehrman received unexpected phone calls, or that he sat in the back seat of a van, or that the weather was cold and dreary on the day he first saw the Gospel? I think not.
On balance, this is a good book. The writing is well done and there is a wealth of material here for beginning and advanced students.
The first Christian? .......2007-08-08
As Ehrman notes, it's hardly necessary to introduce Judas Iscariot to readers. The many allusions to betrayal or deception: the kiss, the "thirty pieces of silver", the "one among you" reference are scattered throughout our literature, politics and daily circumstances. Even the fratricide of Cain receives less attention. However, a long-lost text providing an alternate view of this man, known to scholars but never seen in its original form, is likely to change all that. Ehrman, who was among the first to study the remants of it after it was found in Eygpt over thirty years ago, here provides an analysis of its contents. In a well-written account, he traces the document's history as known, and what it might mean for Christianity.
Judas, Ehrman notes, is portrayed in various ways in the "Synoptic Gospels", the accounts of Jesus that are the standard fare of Christian teachings. They range from a man driven by greed to an instrument of Satan. "The Gospel of Judas", originally written at about the same time as those stock accounts, depicts somebody else altogether. Not written by Judas, the writer tells the story of a man specially favoured by the teacher. According to the text, Judas was the one among "the Twelve" who actually "got" the message. Instead of "betraying" the teacher, Judas is actually given the task of freeing him from the "man who clothes me". Jesus, then, is but a spirit occupying a human body. Judas thus becomes the first Christian.
The foundation of this shift of role lies in a religious philosophy known as "Gnosticism". Although much debate has raged around the term as well as its tenets, its underlying thesis is that the material world is inherently evil, created by corrupt gods. The god revered by the Jews and transferred to Christianity is a false deity. Ehrman launches into a discussion of Gnostic Christianity, beginning with its complex creation myth with a pantheon of gods. There are ranks and hierarchies of them, some good and some bad, but all residing under a superior Great Invisible Spirit. The point of his presentation is to indicate that a minority of humans enjoy the potential to join with the greatest of these gods. Those are the "knowing" [Greek "gnosis"] of which Jesus is one and who "recruits" Judas to be another. Judas' assignment to "betray" Jesus to the authorities in order to restore him to the spirit realm, sets Judas apart from the other Apostles. They naturally resent this situation, but aren't "knowing" enough to change it. Ehrman reminds us that all the Apostles but Judas abandoned Jesus at the arrival of the arresting officers.
Gnosticism isn't for those seeking simple answers. It required the "knowing" to take a stance in direct contradiction to those accepting the Jewish god as paramount. Jesus does not make demands of his followers. Indeed, it's fundamental to Gnosticism that each individual find the route into the realm of the divine on their own. Over time, that would lead to clashes with those who sought a more hierarchical church system - the "proto-orthodox" who were later vindicated by Constantine. The early "Church Fathers" railed against Gnostic ideas - in fact, it is their writings that preserved the thoughts of the Gnostics in ranting against their ideas. Once in ascendency, the "orthodox" saw to it that Gnostic texts were destroyed. The Gospel of Judas, Ehrman reminds us, was known chiefly by a reference to it in the works of Irenaeus in his polemics against "heresies".
To Ehrman, The Gospel of Judas' importance lies in what it can contribute to our understanding of the early forms of Christianity - "Christianities". He leaves unaddressed the inevitable comparison with the doctrine of the Trinity, an issue that has split the faith numerous times. In fact, beyond describing how the Gnostics viewed their spirit realm, he avoids theological discussion. His aim here is to describe the history and words given in the newly found Gospel and put them in perspective. He does a fine job of that in language that must keep his students enthralled. It is a engrossing account at many levels, and deserves your close attention. [stephen a. haines - Ottawa, Canada]
Fascinating, informative and readable.......2007-06-12
Ehrman begins by relating the story of how the abused codex finally made it into the hands of experts who could preserve the ancient work and his own role in that authentication as well as discussing the gospel itself and its context in the ancient world. What is fascinating for those of us who are interested in Gnosticism is the way this text adds to the current growing understanding of the movement. Ehrman gives the historical context of the gospel and Gnosticism as well as presents some fascinating suggestions as to why Judas might have betrayed Jesus so long ago. This is a highly readable and informative work that I recommend for anyone interested in Gnosticism as well as the historical context of the Christian faith in its early centuries.
Scholarship, Intrigue and Adventure! Oh My!.......2007-06-08
While doing research for our own writing we have read a great many scholarly works, but we have rarely had the opportunity to enjoy material that does such an admirable job of combining impeccable scholarship with intrigue and adventure. In "The Lost Gospel of Judas Iscariot," Bart Ehrman invites the reader to join him in the delicious moment of discovery when he first sees the lost manuscript. He lays out the history of the document like a skilled novelist without sacrificing the scholarship his readers have come to expect. Ehrman further enlightens the reader with a review of early writings that document the steady downward spiral of Judas' reputation from disciple to monster. This is a book that is not to be missed by anyone interested in early Christianity, however, we must agree with several other reviewers who were disappointed by Ehrman's somewhat dismissive handling of Gnostic Christianity.
Ehrman points out that, "Some have argued that Jesus was principally a Jewish rabbi who taught others to love one another. Others have insisted that he was a political revolutionary out to overthrow the Roman Empire. Others have claimed that he urged a social revolution." Ehrman then goes on to establish his own theory, stating, "The most important thing to know about the historical Jesus is that he was a first-century Jew who lived in Palestine. The second most important thing to know is that, like so many other Palestinian Jews of his day, he held views of God, the world, and humans' place in it that were deeply and thoroughly apocalyptic." Rather than rigidly placing Jesus in any one of these categories, we could not help but ask if Jesus might be better served if we understand him as someone who went through many changes during his lifetime. Nothing in the scriptures, or Ehrman's research, precludes the possibility that Jesus could have begun his ministry with an apocalyptic view, and ended it as a Gnostic. This may explain why so many contradictory scenarios are presented in early Christian writings. Unfortunately, Ehrman remains true to his apocalyptic theory and fails to give credibility to the possibility of a Gnostic Jesus who was completely misunderstood by his apocalyptic followers.
There is one clear message that Ehrman threads through each of his very worthwhile books: There never was, and never will be, one Christianity. Ehrman points to the significance of the Gospel of Judas by stating, ". . .this text gives us additional hard evidence that Christianity in the early centuries of the church was remarkably diverse. . . and the boundaries between these Christian groups were not hard and fast." Whether we believe Judas to be betrayer or favored disciple, we cannot help but benefit if we use the material presented to see early Christianity in this light.
Lee & Steven Hager are the authors of Quantum Prodigal Son: Revisiting Jesus' Parable of the Prodigal Son from the Perspective of Quantum Mechanics
Book Description
Losing Stinks!
Even losing a toy or a game feels rotten. But when a friend moves away, a parent leaves home during a divorce, or a loved one dies, sometimes it seems as if the hurt will never go away. So how is it possible that loss can be an important opportunity?
Rabbi Marc Gellman and Monsignor Thomas Hartman -- also known as television and radio's God Squad -- draw on years of counseling experience to suggest universal truths that will help those of any religion to live and grow through losses large and small. With surprising good humor, they show how people have responded with courage and even heroism to the curveballs life has thrown them. They've also selected comforting readings from favorite prose and poetry, offering wise words, healing laughter, or time for quiet reflections.
This heartening book reminds us of the many ways that we can keep hope alive when the going gets rough. With a remarkable balance of common sense and profound insight, two award-winning authors skillfully show how, in a most extraordinary way, our bumps and bruises make us whole.
Customer Reviews:
Spark Great Conversation in Your Home!.......2000-02-22
My 7 and 9 year-old sons love this book. It talks to them about real experiences they have to deal with every day in real life such as losing stuff, games, and confidence. I had thought we would skip the parts that do not apply to our experiences, such as losing a body part or a loved one, but they want to hear it all. We read this book aloud and it generates great family conversation. The boys kept having me renew the library copy I had, so I had to get my own.
Lost and Found: A Kid's Book for Living Through Loss.......2000-01-13
Talks about the good that can counter balance loss in life. It starts with minor loss (things), then pets, friends, (moving, etc.), then death. It says it is good for someone as young as 8 years old, but mine would not listen to the first chapter. Is has a "lecturing" quality to someone less informed. It also makes some good points. Contains black and white illustrations. I would recommend this one to students from the 4th grade up, as well as teachers and parents.
Book Description
Some Christians have piled the status of the mother of Jesus so high that it rivals that of her Son. Others ignore the Virgin Mary entirely. Behind all of the images is a girl who grew up to be the mother of Christ. How did the first Christians view her? What were the commonly understood facts about the Blessed Mother's early life --- before the Annunciation? How did Mary, the mother of Jesus, become the Theotokos? Frederica Mathewes-Green opens up the Virgin Mary's early life, offering a window into her centrality to the Christian Faith in new and sometimes startling ways.
Customer Reviews:
The Lost Gospel of Mary is a welcome addition to Christian spirituality shelves........2007-10-06
Award-winning author Frederica Mathewes-Green presents The Lost Gospel of Mary: The Mother of Jesus in Three Ancient Texts, an examination of the theological and cultural questions as well as the historical background offered by three sacred texts. The first is "The Gospel of Mary", a story of the Virgin Mary's life from her conception to the birth of Jesus, written circa AD 150; the second is the oldest known prayer to Mary, found on papyrus in Egypt and dated to the third century; the third is "The Annunciation Hymn", written by the Syrian poet Romanos circa AD 520 and widely considered a classic of Eastern Christian poetry, still sung in Eastern Orthodox churches throughout the modern world today. Combined, the texts offer a wondrous spiritual viewpoint into the mother of the Lord. Written from the perspective of a devout believer, The Lost Gospel of Mary is a welcome addition to Christian spirituality shelves.
Read this Book.......2007-04-27
Like all of Ms. Mathewes-Green's books, this is a joy to read as well as nourishing food for the soul. If you come from one of the Protestant traditions (as does the author herself) forget everything you think you know about the tradition of Mary. This little gem will introduce you to a beautiful, new world.
Lost No More..........2007-03-31
This is a great introduction to the Eastern Orthodox teaching on the Virgin Mary. It is a pleasant read without boring the reader with academic theological terms and such. I would suggest this book for everyone interested in learning more about the role the Virgin Mary takes in the Eastern Orthodox faith.
Book Description
Public education in America has run into hard times. Even many within the system admit that it is failing. While many factors contribute, Douglas Wilson lays much blame on the idea that education can take place in a moral vacuum. It is not possible for education to be nonreligious, deliberately excluding the basic questions about life. All education builds on the foundation of someone's worldview. Education deals with fundamental questions that require religious answers. Learning to read and write is simply the process of acquiring the tools to ask and answer such questions.
A second reason for the failure of public schools, Wilson feels, is modern teaching methods. He argues for a return to a classical education, firm discipline, and the requirement of hard work.
Often educational reforms create new problems that must be solved down the road. This book presents alternatives that have proved workable in experience.
"Good at diagnosing our educational afflictions, Douglas Wilson is still better at finding remedies. His Logos School provides a model, a practical design, for the restoration in the curriculum of Christian humanism--as contrasted with what Christopher Dawson called secular humanism." --Russell Kirk, D. Litt., editor, The University Bookman
Customer Reviews:
One big ad for Logos School!.......2006-07-05
I appreciate many of the Logos School curriculum materials, along with the overall philosophy of the school. I looked forward to reading founder Douglas Wilson's book.
At the beginning, the book was very interesting, mostly discussing what goals the Logos School has and how the school implements various curriculum to teach its students.
The author continually vaguely slams Christian schools that are basically secular but just add in Bible study/prayer time. I think it's fair to say that most people would not want this type of Christian school, but other than bashing these schools, Mr. Wilson did not give any advice to the reader as to how to identify these schools or help to bring about change.
When I reached the chapter on homeschooling, Mr. Wilson lost all credibility with me. Being an educator at a Christian school, I would assume he is also very familiar with homeschooling, and he in fact claims that he and his wife would choose this option, if "a good Christian school were not available." Reading his book, the reader begins to understand that Logos School is one of the few schools in the nation that might meet this criteria.
He then goes on to say that parents teaching at home in the early years who then place their children "in a Christian school to continue their education" have fundamentally identical education principles as the Christian school. BUT "if a home schooling family maintains that children can be given a complete education in the average home (say, K-12), then frankly there is an important difference in educational philosophy." Boloney. I began to see that the "difference" might have more to do with the funding of Christian schools, not the educational choices among each family.
The logic Mr. Wilson puts forth for this argument is bizarre. He claims that a homeschool mom could be dividing her time "teaching a 12-year-old, a 10-year-old, and an 8-year-old, and she has to teach each one of them history, math, English, science, etc." Hunh? The homeschooling families that I know blend as many of these subjects as possible. The only people that I know who teach each child separately in all of these subjects belong to virtual academies (publically funded schools where the children are taught at home by a parent).
Mr. Wilson claims that parents can more easily teach younger children at home but that it becomes more difficult as children get older. "[I]t is one thing to teach your 5-year-old how to read and quite another to teach Latin to an 11-year-old." Yes, Mr. Wilson, it is. Teaching reading is a far more scary thought, especially considering so many schools do a poor job. Latin's not so tough in comparison.
Additionally Mr. Wilson also claims that homeschooling parents are unable to adequately research claims of various textbooks they use to teach their own children. I beg to differ. Many homeschoolers can and do often refer to original material, just as one is led to assume must be done by Logos School (although there are no claims that Logos School "adequately researches" textbook claims).
Mr. Wilson interjects quotes by homeschooling experts Raymond and Dorothy Moore, and various "unschooling" theories to "prove his point." However, these experts and theories are fundamentally opposite of the whole rigorous classical approach that Mr. Wilson promotes. This would be similar to using quotes from (former California Governor) Jerry Brown to argue a platform of President Bush!
This book was a huge disappointment. I believe Mr. Wilson is capable of so much more, and unfortunately, he left a very bad taste in my mouth. Blech!
Classical Christian Education provides children with integrated view of the world.......2005-12-02
I found this book to be excellent. We have our two children (5 and 7 years old) enrolled in a Classical Christian School in Troy MI. Both are doing wonderfully, and the rigorous approach to all areas of their education is producing great results. Doug Wilson does a great job of inspiring the reader to look into this great alternative to public education (or even watered down "christian" education). Giving your children the Tools of learning is one of the best gifts you can give to them.
An "education" about Classical education.......2005-09-28
Excellent-Insightful and thought-provoking. Makes me proud and excited to have my child enrolled in a classical education school.
Tested and found excellent.......2005-07-29
We started our daughter in kindergarden at a school modeled after this Book. She will start 3rd grade, and Latin, this fall.
We are pleased, from a historical and Christian context, with the outstanding learning and environment she has been recieving.
I would like to point out that 2 reviewers said that they didn't think the book was helpful for homeschooling. They are looking at the wrong book. There is a very good book on how to homeschool in the classical fashion: The Well-Trained Mind. I stumbled onto that book in my search for alternatives to government education, and then found that there was a school locally that followed these techniques. There are 140 schools around the country that follow this model; you can see them at www.accsedu.org
Seeing this stuff work!.......2005-03-07
My wife and I read this book as a prerequisite to getting our son into a private Christian school. While I am no education expert, my wife has a masters degree in the field, and experience in the public school bureaucracy.
We are seeing the approach that Wilson describes have fantastic results. At our son's school, the kids are tested at the end of third grade in the major subjects, and their scores are weighed against public school proficiency levels in each subject. There is not one subject where our 3rd graders are performing lower than a 6th grade (public school) level.
That alone speaks volumes. However, the book repeatedly makes the point that cleansing a public school curriculum from objectionable material and adding "chapel" or a Bible class does not a Christian school make. Our goal is to build an education around a Christian worldview, in hopes that our children can understand the Bible in context (without cherry-picking verses to suit some agenda) AND in application. This way, we don't raise "compartmental Christians," or folks who live one way during the week and another on Sunday.
Wilson also makes great points about what effect being accredited can have on a private school.
Lastly another focus of the overall text is to teach children to THINK. If public schools can graduate students that cannot read, do you really want to trust them with equipping your child with cognitive reasoning skills? Our answer is "no." This book lays a foundation to equip our kids with the ability to reason and think on a high level.
Amazon.com
When graduate student Martha Beck's son Adam was born with Down syndrome, she and her husband left the chilly halls of Harvard for Utah and the warm, accepting embrace of the Mormon community. Determined to assimilate back into her childhood faith after years of atheism, Beck's disenchantment resurfaced when censorship from the church heavily influenced the curriculum at Brigham Young University where she taught part-time. More disturbing was Beck's eventual belief that her father, a virtual celebrity in the Mormon Church, had sexually molested her as a child.
Beck frames her narrative around a conversation with her aged father, dipping in and out of stories of her childhood, marriage, third pregnancy, and teaching. She contrasts her perceptions of the leadership of the institutional church as controlling and patriarchal with stories of the warmth and generosity of her Mormon community. Beck unfolds her search for identity, forgiveness, and a personal faith in competent prose, punctuated with surprising dark humor and glimpses into her anorexia, suicidal obsessions, and alleged abuse. Although she leaves readers with many unanswered questions after the last page is turned, one thing is clear: Beck believes that "no matter how difficult and painful it may be, nothing sounds as good to the soul as the truth." --Cindy Crosby
Book Description
As “Mormon royalty” within the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Martha Beck was raised in a home frequented by the Church’s high elders in an existence framed by the strictest code of conduct. As an adult, she moved to the east coast, outside of her Mormon enclave for the first time in her life. When her son was born with Down syndrome, Martha and her husband left their graduate programs at Harvard to return to Utah, where they knew the supportive Mormon community would embrace them.
But when she was hired to teach at Brigham Young University, Martha was troubled by the way the Church’s elders silenced dissidents and masked truths that contradicted its published beliefs. Most troubling of all, she was forced to face her history of sexual abuse by one of the Church’s most prominent authorities. The New York Times bestseller Leaving the Saints chronicles Martha’s decision to sever her relationship with the faith that had cradled her for so long and to confront and forgive the person who betrayed her so deeply.
Leaving the Saints offers a rare glimpse inside one of the world’s most secretive religions while telling a profoundly moving story of personal courage, survival, and the transformative power of spirituality.
Customer Reviews:
Frustratingly inconsistent.......2007-09-27
For an ex-Mormon living in Utah, parts of this book will ring so true it's eerie, and this will provide a nice insight into Mormon culture for interested outsiders. Other parts, however, the author is clearly making up, though it's unclear whether she is simply lying or if she actually believes some of the things she says and is simply deluded--or delusional (for instance, her completely credulous account of her "near-death experience").
This creates a certain problem of trust for the reader regarding the parts that are not obviously true or false: one is not sure what to believe, and cannot simply take the author's word for it. This applies, unfortunately, to the central claim of the book: that Beck was sexually abused by her father, a prominent Mormon apologist. While sexual abuse certainly occurs in the Mormon church, and its officials undoubtedly downplay or even help to cover it up, it's impossible to know whether her specific claim is true.
For one thing, her "memory" of what happened is so bizarre that one ought to be skeptical. Secondly, though she tries to dismiss it, there is such a phenomenon as unscrupulous therapists implanting suggestions in the minds of already disturbed patients, and it is as plausible to think this was the case for Beck (her mantra prayers of "please...please...please..." eventually answered--really--by a talking ball of light are one example of how disturbed she is) as that her memories are genuine. For one thing, it is odd that these memories would "surface" after decades when she begins seeing a therapist--although the phenomenon of repression is also very real, especially when coupled with post-traumatic stress. And while she claims that there is actual physical evidence of abuse in the form of supposedly otherwise inexplicable scarring, the reader is simply told this repeatedly with no evidence given.
Her portrait of her father as alternately befuddled and obstinate is amusing, though, but again no evidence is given for his abuse, in turn, at the hands of his mother. His war-time experiences certainly could have messed him up, though.
I hate to belittle Beck's story, but she really gives us very little reason to believe her, and some reason to doubt her; and besides, she occasionally seems to belittle it herself, as when she inexplicably drops inappropriate jokes in the middle of the most serious moments of her narrative, one example of how obnoxious her style can be.
On the whole, her conversion from Mormonism to a New Age brand of Buddhism is almost a step backward. The search for a rational critique of Mormonism continues.
Leaving the Saints.......2007-09-24
This was a wonderful book. She faced a tragic situation with compassion, and never lost her sense of humour. The book was both interesting and very shocking. I will definitely be reading more of Martha Beck's books.
Run, Martha, Run........2007-09-17
What does one do when in the midst of toxic religion? Run away from it.
Martha Beck not only runs away *from* something toxic, she runs *to* something healthy---her soul. In fact, a recurring theme in the book is Jesus' exhortation: what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and lose his own soul?
This book warrants a four-and-a-half, but I would give it at least a six if it would help offset the knee-jerk Mormon reactions she has to have gotten.
This book is, and isn't, about Mormonism. It is in that she speaks tellingly of the idiosyncracies and particular lunacies of Mormon theology along with the revisionist history that may have made Cold War Communists blush.
That said, though, toxic religion tends to have similar patterns whether it be pseudo-christian (e.g., Mormons), Buddhist, Muslim, Jewish, Christian or whatever. As I read somewhere recently, a narcissist is a narcissist first and a Jew, Muslim, Christian, Atheist, Agnostic, or whatever secondarily. Since unchecked narcissism is a problem in many religions and denominations, similar narcissistic patterns will emerge regardless of whether a denomination's theology is sound or not. And anyone leaving such toxic religions will, consequently, tend be treated similarly.
I'll look through my book and see what I've underlined. It probably for me were the most helpful and richest parts.
I liked on page 168 where she confronts her Dad, a Mormon apologist (now that's a job for you!--like a one-armed paper hanger) and says to him "You know what really kills me?...It kills me how much of you the Church bought for that little lump of money." Mmmmm...sounds familar to a lot of people, I'm sure. There are people who find themselves nobly sacrificing for a religion or denomination but in actuality are being used.
On page 173, Beck makes a marvelous point to us all. She tells her Dad "It was so ridiculous (Mormonism), all of it. I really wish you'd just laughed." Wait a minute, before you get haughty there are more ridiculous things in our own denominations than we care to admit. For those with more ridiculous things to bear than others, it is essential that one has a sense of humor about it---probably as one is walking ever so deliberately toward the door.
A recurring theme for Beck is found on page 175, which she mentions more than once: "Our task is to turn the anger that is affliction into the anger that is determination to bring about change." I think the writing of this book is her determined contribution to this.
On page 232 she mentions a conversation she had with another young mother who confides in her "I'm praying to God for protection from the servants of God. Could that be right?" How much was the recent judgments in the Catholic clergy sexual abuse sagas throughout America? Wasn't it millions upon millions of dollars? Though this young mother was speaking of the Mormon Church, it just as well could have been a Christian denomination or local church--or any other toxic faith.
Character assassination is a favorite tool of the narcissistically impaired. After describing on page 240 a group of intellectuals who were being persecuted by that particular church she notes that the intellectuals were called "ravening wolves among the flock." After describing the good qualities of wolves, Beck said that she would prefer to be a called a wolf than to be called a "Woman Who Runs with the Sheep."
Beck is an excellent writer. Anyone who can make such a subject interesting enough to write 300 pages about it--I read each chapter ravenously (but then, I'm a wolf too
)-- can write well.
I wish Beck the best as she runs *to* her soul. Read this book and you'll question, rightly so, how much of your soul are you sitting on and how much of it is free.
A Watershed.......2007-09-13
I treasure this book. It's "about" many things, as evidenced by the diverse Tags offered. But for me, it strengthens and illuminates the part of every soul that, against the most virulent opposition, says, "This is the truth; this is who I am." Such courage is the only way to redemption. To Martha Beck, I say "ThankyouThankyouThankyou."
Scary.......2007-07-31
Women will read this and run for the hills...but not the hills of Utah where isolation, imprisonment and slavery is accepted for people of their gender. They will run to get away from an awful mindset that creates something far worse than what so many deem a "cult" if you will. This is not about faith, but about a women who realized that this is a business built on money and power taken from people in exchange for getting special treatment by the church. I interviewed a man a while back who had, with his family left the church. I asked him why he left, and he said that they had fallen on hard financial times and because of that asked to be forgiven for not paying the expected percentage of tithing. The result, he said was that he was ostricised by the church and the women of the church would no longer speak to her. On top of that he said that he was not allowed to advance to any positions of leadership within the church despite showing up when asked and putting in countless hours of effort for goodwill towards fellow churchgoers and functions.
Martha describes the nature of this business with great emotion and it is enough to make one cry to think anyone in this country could be subjected to such treatment. The women are treated like grazing cattle, being used as something to merely reproduce in order to reach higher levels of heaven. The insight into Joseph Smith is minimal but upon further research it is obvious this man did not have any connection to any god whatsoever, going so far as to commit a gaggle of crimes year after year before his untimely demise by a community that got fed up with his nonsense and unpunished crimes.
One of the best books out there on mormonism, but be sure to also check out Inside Mormonismas it will go into the history of lies and crimes that surround Joseph Smith both before and after his founding of this church.
Book Description
Judas Iscariot.
He’s been hated and reviled through the ages as Jesus Christ’s betrayer–the close friend who sells him out for 30 pieces of silver.
But history also records other information about Judas Iscariot. One such reference was written in 180 by an influential Church Father named St. Irenaeus who railed against the Gospel of Judas for depicting the last days of Jesus from the perspective of the disgraced apostle. In its pages, Judas is Christ’s favorite.
It’s a startlingly different story than the one handed down through the ages. Once it was denounced as heresy, the Gospel of Judas faded from sight. It became one of history’s forgotten manuscripts.
Until now.
In this compelling and exhaustively researched account, Herbert Krosney unravels how the Gospel of Judas was found and its meaning painstakingly teased from the ancient Coptic script that had hid its message for centuries. With all the skills of an investigative journalist and master storyteller, Krosney traces the forgotten gospel’s improbable journey across three continents, a trek that would take it through the netherworld of the international antiquities trade, until the crumbling papyrus is finally made to give up its secrets. The race to discover the Gospel of Judas will go down as one of the great detective stories of biblical archaeology.
Customer Reviews:
thought i was getting something that i didnt.......2007-09-22
well, i bought this hoping itd be an english translation. guess i shouldve paid more attention to the description (what little there was). ah well. it was an interesting read about how the lost book was found and the fun it was to translated it. the climax of the book comes when the author gives you the gist of what is actually in the text, supported with a few verses here and there. it was good for what it was, dont get me wrong. i just wanted something else when i bought it
An adventure story.......2007-07-06
If you're looking for something in depth about Judas Iscariot as an historical individual, or about his part in the New Testament drama, or about the specifics of the gospel, you may be disappointed. On the other hand if you're looking for a terrific true mystery and adventure tale, this is it, hands down. It could easily make a good movie a la Hitchcock.
The book is written by a Harvard trained journalist working for the National Geographic Society which apparently helped fund the restoration project. Although the author is not an epigrapher, New Testament historian, papyrologist, or coptologist, his ability to find reliable sources for the background of the manuscript and it's post discovery history are remarkable, and his writing style is very readable. The book reads very much like a novel.
Almost 90 percent of the book covers the clandestine world of illegal trade in archaeological artifacts, in this case a valuable papyrus. The shady characters, exotic venue (Egypt, Switzerland, Greece, Jerusalem, etc.), back street exchanges, swindles, thefts, hints of murder, and the near loss of the gospel make a fine story. The value placed on the manuscript and the cost of preserving it is amazing and would probably have astonished the scribe who created it. Just the shear patience of those working with the fragments is impressive; it took some 4 or 5 years to restore, date, translate and present it. It's a hidden treasure story like the film National Treasure (Widescreen Edition), only this time the pursuit really happened.
The remaining 10 percent of the book discusses the early Christian world and it's luminaries. Gnostic texts and the sects that created them have recently been in the limelight because ofThe Da Vinci Code, The Da Vinci Code (Widescreen Two-Disc Special Edition), so the general public already has some idea as to the various players in this venue and the drama of the canonization of the New Testament as it has come down to us.
Essentially it would appear that the Gnostic communities practiced varieties of a mystery religion sharing much in common with some of the philosophical musings of individuals like the Greek Pythagoras. Some aspects of these religions also appear to have been borrowed from pagan mysteries, like that of Isis and Osiris in Egypt and Demeter and Persephone in Greece and Rome. The more pragmatic version of the life of Jesus that the Roman Catholic Church managed to achieve by integrating some texts and suppressing others, formed a core doctrine that presented a unified, organized and codified edifice with which to face its opposition. Ultimately it won over the bulk of the neophyte Christian community. I think the fact that it was able to do so, despite an absence of any formal way of enforcing its priority, suggests that it somehow met the needs of the average Christian person in ways that the more esoteric doctrines of the Gnostics did not. Quite possibly the grass-roots population required a more down to earth promise as to the life to come. Certainly the Christian movement as it has come down to us has proven remarkably resistant to extinction and has produced several healthy off-shoots over the centuries. This suggests that the more public and pragmatic doctrine was not as fragile under fire as its more clandestine brethren.
The actual Gospel of Judas is a surprisingly sophisticated work. It suggests that the relationship between Jesus and his so-called betrayer was very close and that Judas' work was that of a true believer delivering the sacrifice to the temple officials. Death would free his master from his mortal body to carry out the work of saving mankind. That this is probably not far from the case, at least from the point of view of the Christian community, is suggested by the Eucharist, itself a ceremonial sacrifice. Given that the temple officials and the Romans could have carried out their capture without any assistance, the intervention of Judas assured Jesus that it would not come as a surprise but at a time convenient to him. In short it gave him a little more control. The religious doctrine that the Gospel presents is certainly a more developed concept of the spirit/soul, the afterlife, and the hierarchy of divinity. I tend to agree with the author that this particular codex was something meant for advanced insiders; which may be why it was not found among the Nag Hamady codices. Its very rarity and exclusivity almost confined it to oblivion.
Questions Still Unanswered. Can you help?.......2007-01-14
I've read "The Lost Gospel," "The Gospel of Judas" and "Misquoting Jesus." I've seen the National Geographic special on its Gospel of Judas many times. We are supposed to swallow, without gagging, the story as scripted. Here are my objections and questions that have been whistled over.
Who would you have offered to sell The Gospel of Judas to? A university, a TV network, a private millionaire, or The Vatican?
The Vatican certainly has the money to buy it and keep it hidden away, if they knew it would rock the foundation of Christianity. Why wasn't the Vatican contacted? Or was it? That's been left out of the story.
Or, did the Vatican say, no thanks? The Vatican probably has many complete, authentic copies of The Gospel of Judas and this one was in crumbling condition. Piecing it together would take years and a lot of money. The best pages were sold off.
I live in Nevada and maintain, for over 10 years, a safety deposit box in New York. Every year I get a bill. Who forgets about a manuscript sitting in a bank in Hicksville, Long Island for 10 years? Who paid the yearly bill? Who lets something that cost them $100,000 sit in a hot safety deposit box for 10 years? Didn't this dealer know it would be crumbling, or was he just a fool with lots of loose money lying around and excellent international smuggling contacts?
Why has the fact slipped by that there are pages missing from the manuscript? Who has them? Shouldn't these pages be hunted down for the sake of religious history? The buyers and sellers should come forward. Someone needs to investigate.
Why did Yale University decline to buy the manuscript? Could it have been a call to The Vatican?
The Roman practice of crucifixion was widely practiced. The roads were lined with decaying, wild animal-chewed bodies left hanging on crosses rotting for days. Whippings and scourgings were so common and frequent that it is appalling to even consider that Jesus wanted to die on a cross naked for everyone to see. If you were Judas and asked, would you agree to sacrifice your friend this way?
Anyone to answers to these questions, please contact Victoria at masauu@aol.com.
Which "Gospel of Judas" book to buy?.......2006-08-09
When I first looked to buy a book on the Gospel of Judas, I wasn't sure if I should buy this one, or the one entitled "The Lost Gospel: The Quest for the Gospel of Judas Iscariot". In reading the reviews of the two books, both with the National Geographic Society's backing, it was hinted that these two are companioon books, and that's exactly right: This book--"The Gospel of Judas"--focuses on how the Gospel of Judas was brought "to light", so to speak, from its discovery in Egypt to the restoration and publication of an almost completely disintegrated manuscript a few decades later. The second, much smaller book provides the translation of the gospel, and several essays on its meaning and role in early Christianity.
I gave "The Gospel of Judas" four stars rounding up from 3-1/2 stars. It's a fascinating story, but because there is so much "action" going on, it is sometimes difficult to follow the timeline and who's doing what to whom.
My recommendation is to purchase "The Gospel of Judas" if you're interested in archaeology along the lines of a spine-tingling Indiana Jones story. Read "The Lost Gospel: The Quest for the Gospel of Judas Iscariot" to see the translation of the Coptic document for yourself and understand how modern scholars believe it fits in with early Christian beliefs before the formation of the Orthodox / Catholic canon in the late fourth century.
A new Judas perspective.......2006-08-01
This book provides a new perspective on how Judas acted in alliance with Jesus and not as a conspirator against. In that light, I see Judas as a reluctant 'traitor' whom followed orders from his boss thereby creating a pact that allowed Jesus to smoothly transition to his 'dying for all mankind' deed.
This book is ripe for a movie to be made from. It details how the Judas scrolls were found, what info they contain, how they were stolen and resurfaced several times, hwo many times they were sold to antiguities dealers all over the world--starting with the egyptian peasants that found them and essentially sold them for peanuts, not knowing any better. This book is worth it just for the trail it describes of how the scrolls make to the wetern world.
Customer Reviews:
Is Meditation Christian or New Age?.......2007-01-15
This is a wonderful book in many aspects especially for the fundamental Christian who is fearful that practicing meditation will open him to some "non-Christian practice". The book clearly defines what is Christian meditation and what is not. Christianity did began in the East and meditation is Biblical.
I like what Jim Goll says, that in exploring Christian mystical literature he often felt like an archaeologist who had just unearthed a long-vanished and pricelss artifact. He said that Christian meditative prayer is all but buried in the dust of history, virtually lost among believers today.
I believe the intent of this book is to take the unknown and "spookiness" out of meditation for the Christian so that the empowerment and enlightenment that results from this spiritual discipline might be realized.
Goll is a prolific writer who writes in a clear and concise way. This book is well researched quoting many contemporary authors and leaders as well as honored Christian mystics from history.
I also highly recommend the book, "The Rest of the Gospel", by Dan Stone. For me, this book opened my understanding to the "unseen realm" and by accessing the unseen realm we can live out of a reality in God that's greater than the physical realm in which we live. It gave me the foundation I needed to embrace meditation and contemplative prayer. It's a book that I continually pick up and read from and has probably done more to transform my religious self-limiting thinking. I will never again feel "separated" from the God who lives within.
A Wonderful Book .......2006-11-05
This is one of those books that you read at a very slow pace so that you can absorb everything written. I have learned so much from reading this book. I've learned about other authors, but mainly about pursuing an awesome relationship with God. I highly recommend it to anyone who is trying to develop the art of being in His Presence.
Wonderful!.......2006-07-11
This isn't the kind of book that I can read quickly. It has a lot of new information (to me anyway) and it needs to be digested slowly.
There are such important truths in this book about intimacy with Christ. You don't want to miss this one!
Awesome Book.......2006-03-09
This is one of the most outstanding books I have ever read. James Goll takes you to a place and opportunity. You have to take the step to walk in a way that Practices His Presence or not. I have never found a book that is so needed today to get beyond where we are as believers and really know our Heavenly Father. Wow, I have already given instructions to at least five other people to buy the book immediately. If you are undeceided about buying this book, buy it! If you're not sure the book is going to minister to you, buy it! If you desire to walk differently than you ever have, buy this book.
The book is extremely well written and researched. I have already ordered another copy as someone is coming by this afternoon to pick up the copy I have.
The details and steps described in the book are so clear and so easy to walk down. But many will not take the time to spend time just waiting in the Presence of the one true God.
I won't ever be the same. You won't either.
I have read The Seer, God Encounters and The Lost Art of Intercession all of these are great books. This book is the best. The Lost Art of Practicing His Presence.
Good Work But Misleading Title.......2006-03-06
Let's start on the positive side. Jim Goll's teaching on contemplative prayer shows the best from Catholic, Orthodox, and Protestant traditions. I have practiced quiet forms of prayer for about 20 years. I wish I had someone like Jim Goll 20 years ago to help me through the readings and practices. If you have never read much about contemplative prayer but would like to then this book would be an excellent place to start.
On the negative side, and why I can't give more than 3 stars, is that I found at least two-thirds of this book to be from his earlier book "Wasted On Jesus." The remaining one-third talks about some practical tips on how to take what you receive in contemplative prayer out into your life outside of your "prayer room." There is also a modern paraphrase of the work of Brother Lawrence called "The Practice of the Presence of God."
But when I saw the title "The Lost Art of Practicing His Presence" I thought it would be more about what Brother Lawrence taught about prayer and it really isn't. Jim Goll seems to put the teachings of Madame Jeanne Guyon, Francois Fenelon, and Brother Lawrence all in one bag. Guyon and Fenelon talk about going into a quiet room, removing yourself from external distractions, and learning how to quiet yourself in God's presence. This is all good teaching and necessary in the beginning. But Brother Lawrence seems to teach how to be aware of God's presence with you all during the day no matter what activity your involved in. He does talk about the difficulties in doing this on a regular basis and what to do about it. Now it's only fair to say that Brother Lawrence did not write the book that bears his name. It was released by his abbot (religious superior) in the monastery after his death. But it seems to me that you have two different approaches to the same issue which is experiencing the presence of God in daily life.
So, if you have never read much on contemplative prayer Jim Goll is an excellent teacher. But if you want to learn about Brother Lawrence then read his book and let the man speak for himself.
Customer Reviews:
Serious problems.......2006-10-01
This book is intended for an L.D.S. (Mormon) audience and is organized as something of a dictionary of symbols (loosely defined to include the meaning of names) where readers can look up a symbol and see its meaning. The basic premise is that readers need to be able to understand what items in the Bible and Book of Mormon may have meant to the authors or those texts and to their period readers. Gaskill argues that modern readers do not appreciate the symbolism of these texts and therefore miss out on the deeper meaning of scriptural texts. This is a fine premise, as far as it goes, but Gaskill's book has some serious flaws, both in its concept and its implementation.
The first, and most irritating, flaw is that the book is largely NOT about the symbolism of the texts: instead it is about Gaskill's readings of the text inspired by symbolic meanings. As such, the book is full of countless extended sermonettes on modern doctrinal issues that make only tenuous reference to the symbols in question, such as a passage that addresses the symbolism of aprons but spins out into a diatribe against birth control, surely an issue not high on the list of topics thought about in anitquity). Whatever one may think about the theology espoused, such digressions are not about understanding the texts on their own terms, but rather about trying to score doctrinal points and make the texts "mean" things that in many cases are highly unlikely.
The second problem with the book is the underlying assumption that one can identify *the* meaning of symbols and say what they mean in a dictionary format. Most of the listings specify one meaning, treating symbols as essentially a kind of code to hide a single recoverable meaning from the text. I would argue, however, that this approach encourages a kind of covert literalism and absolutism in reading that does not do the texts justice since symbols provide an interpretive tool that allows them to be fundamentally polyvalent and resistent to superficial equivalences of any sort. By stating this, I am not arguing that one should *not* know about the meanings that Biblical authors may have intended, but rather that one needs to be open to the *range* of meaning available and to the inherently open nature of the texts. Symbols are used not to hide a single recoverable meaning, but instead to open the text up to generate meanings. (This stance, I should note, does run contrary to the essentially fundamentalist interpretive strategies employed by many L.D.S. readers, so many potential readers would disagree with me on this point.)
Next, the book is full of basic errors and speculative readings. As an example of the former, Gaskill states that the name Felix means "deceptive" or "deceitful." With a PhD in Biblical Studies, Gaskill should know better: certainly any first year Latin student would know that Felix simply means "happy" (whence English "felicitious" and "felicitations"). The speculative readings Gaskill employs are odder, for in some cases he simply asserts things that are simple unknowable (e.g., the name Sherem in the Book of Mormon means "pugnosed" and refers to the appearance of the individual in question - which raises the question of where Gaskill got his early Nephite dictionary), or that are based on rather dubious sources (e.g., his analysis of "weasel" as immoral people seems to be based on the Epistle of Barnabus, which specify that weasels are a symbol for women who engage in oral sex). There was scarcely a page I looked at that did not have something that was obviously an error or which stated a speculative conclusion as though it were fact.
In sum, the level of analysis in this book is such that it would get drummed out of an introductory religious studies course. I wonder what sort of review DB engaged in before deciding to publish the book since basic errors slipped through. I realize that this is no worse than some of the books put forth by Zondervan (which plays a role similar to that of DB, but for an evangelical audience), but the book is endorsed and produced in a way that makes it look like it is a popular scholarly account (including a glowing endorsement by J.F. McConkie). As such I think it is fundamentally misleading since the book does not meet even basic scholarly standards.
Absolutely wonderful.....................2004-05-18
After reading/studying this book you will understand the Bible more fully than before. Colors, numbers, names, events, etc. take on a meaning and understanding that highten, enlighten, and underscore the meaning and interpretation of the people, events, miracles, parables, metaphors, similies, and allegories contained in the Bible.
Book Description
The search for happiness can lead people either to emptiness or fulfillment, but this book will enable readers to know true joy by practicing the ancient spiritual disciplines.
Customer Reviews:
Spiritual Disciplines for a Joyous Life.......2007-06-18
Much of what J.P. and Klaus have written here derives from some of Dallas Willard's thought on the spiritual disciplines, but J.P. adds a personal touch that is new for him. J.P.'s openness and candor are refreshing. While this book may yet be challenging for some, if you have read J.P. in the past, I would say this is one of his easier reads. Nevertheless, it is well constructed and enlightening and every bit worth reading.
Loved it! .......2007-05-25
Moreland and Issler combine philosophy and theology to engage people in a meaningful discussion about happiness. In the book they make the case that modern folk have redefined what it means to be happy. Much of the book is geared toward helping Christians in the process of Spiritual formation, a process done when minds are changed. Moreland points out the difficulty in forming new beliefs (changing the mind) especially when folks try to do this in passive unintentional sort of way. He makes the case that while hearing the Word of God is important, that it's only in the doing that the formation of new beliefs actually stick and habits follow. A lot more could be said. I've heard the book compared to Willard's, Renovation of the Heart if that helps. Blessings
Challenging but certainly worth the read.......2007-01-04
It is uncommon these days to see Christians who actually know what they believe and why they believe it. Furthermore, because they do not have any idea about the truths (truth in the old sense not the postmodern sense) that they profess to believe there is often a wholesale disconnect between what they say they believe (Christianity) and how they live their lives. Not knowing the scriptures that help to inform them of God's will for their lives, many Christians profess yet live frighteningly shallow lives spiritually. This book is a cure for that. It forces the Christian reading it to come to grips with the idea that if we profess Jesus as savior, that our lives MUST reflect a creedal, scriptural and God fearing way of life that shows everyone around them that Jesus is number one in their life and that His glory is their aim.
I mentioned in the title that this book is challenging. That is hardly surprising in that it challenges the reader to throw off old habits and to resist the sin nature in us. It also calls us to better uses of our time for the glory of God. As we all grapple with our sin nature, which of us would not struggle with this? Yet despite the times I wanted to throw this book against the wall in frustration (because I often fall so short of what God calls us to) I have found it to be an excellent addition to my library.
Relevant, Biblical, Practical, Personal.......2006-07-31
The Lost Virtue of Happiness contains biblical wisdom applicable to everyday living. As a relationship counselor (marriage/family therapist), it was refreshing to read a book written by credible theologians that I can recommend. All too often am I working with clients that are chasing after life's 'happiness' with unrealistic expections. These expectations impinge on others who cannot meet the criteria, causing frustration and anxiety that lead to broken self and broken relationships. Returning to a biblical definition of happiness, combined with practical spiritual disciplines, the authors lead us back to a healthy relationship with Christ and others.
I especially appreciated the personal testimonies of the authors. They are examples of stories I hear often in my practice. Moreland's experience with depression and anxiety is extremely common and is treated therapeutically by the steps outlined in the book. It behooves the church, especially those in counseling positions, to gain this understanding.
The questions for personal reflection at the end of each chapter make the book perfect for a small group study or for personal edification. I expect that this book will be pulled from my bookshelf often as I share life's hurts and healing with others.
HAPPINESS: The Way it Was Meant to Be.......2006-07-28
JP Moreland and Klaus Issler ransom the contemporary idea of "happiness" from the obsessive, authoritarian grips of pleasure-seeking narcissism, and cleanse it with biblical counsel, Spirit-led wisdom, pastoral insight, and the demonstrable lessons of their own life lived in the fellowship of others. Their thesis is articulated in eight life-empowering chapters, which claims that happiness is best understood and obtained if it means living our life as it is meant to flourish. We are meant to flourish in a life of character and virtue formation that manifests itself in wisdom, kindness and goodness (25).
The life of Jesus Christ and the gospel of the kingdom of God are both the indispensable model and means for obtaining this kind of abundant life. Chapter One and Two both (authored by Moreland) establish this foundational claim. Chapter Three (Issler), Four (Moreland) and Five (Issler) form a unit to give clear instruction and pastoral insight about how to get good at living this kind of life: Namely, form a tender, receptive heart (ch. 3); form a thoughtful mind stayed on God (ch. 4); form a trustful will that risks with God (ch. 5). With the foundation laid in chapters one and two, and the edifice formed in chapters three, four and five, this house of edification is nearly complete. But first, Chapter Six (Issler) and Seven (Moreland) tests a biblical conception of human flourishing in light of the so-called "hiddennes of God" (ch. 6) and in view of experiencing anxiety and depression (ch. 7). These two chapters form a potent unit of instruction and insight, encouraging the reader to embrace the reality of God's hiddenness and to learn not to just "cope" with anxiety and depression but to actually defeat its control over one's ability to flourish. I found these chapters to be liberating, helpful, and truthfully conveyed. Moreland openly shares his experience and defeat of anxiety and depression. This testimony should encourage anyone who is afflicted with such struggle. Lastly, Chapter Eight (Issler) caps the entire discussion of the book with a focus on "cultivating spiritual friendships."
Topically, I would expect Chapters Three, Four and Five to be part of a book on spiritual formation, even though the authors offer a decisively unique perspective on these topics. However, it is Chapters Six and Seven that make the book all the more accessible and authoritative. For these chapters demonstrate that the ideas conveyed in the previous chapters are not only true, but because they are true, they actually work and are livable even in the crucible of life's most desperate circumstances.
Structurally, each chapter faithfully maintains a length of 24 pages. This consistency appropriately informs the reader's attention and forms the reader's expectation. This prudential proportionality of space demonstrates that the authors do not overstate or understate one topic over another. Visually, the text actually appeals to the eyes. The lines have generous spacing and the fonts are crisp. Each page does not feel like it is informationally overloaded. The ideas expressed and the space and words that are used to fulfill that expression are prudentially balanced.
Moreover, instructional helps and end-of-chapter exercises are found throughout the book. These are not superficial or ineffectual, but encourage the reader to give careful attention to what they are reading and to do so while attending to their own life. For example, there is an informative chart on page 26 that offers a succinct contrast between "Contemporary Happiness" (pleasurable satisfaction) and "Classical Happiness" (virtue and well-being). On page 117, Issler captures "Five Enduring Kingdom Themes" (Loving God, Relating, Reigning, Renewing and Resisting) in the form of a circular diagram. And in this same chapter about learning to form a trusting will, Issler provides (p. 125-26) an "Eternal Investment Portfolio" (EIP) to gauge how we are investing our lives now in view of how we will live eternally. Lastly, on 197-8, Issler provides an in-text questionnaire to discern a "Close Friendship Quotient" (CFQ). The end-of-chapter exercises strike a brilliant balance between a summary of the chapter's main content and a creative way to receive and digest the significance of what the authors intend.
The book is wisely and strategically co-authored. Moreland and Issler draw from each other's interrelated contributions and insights on the topic. I would characterize this book as the merging of two streams, each author drawing from and extending their most notable offerings on spiritual formation to date. In addition, their 25-year friendship adds further credence to their credibility, especially when they authoritatively model to the reader what it means to "cultivate spiritual friendships."
The treatment of their topic is not just mere "biblical exposition" with no end in sight, or exposition with no insight. It is a beautifully written account from a first-person perspective that is also informed in the tradition of other's experiences, culminating in existentially relevant words of encouragement and biblical instruction. Scripture is handled in an exegetically honest and hermeneutically informed way. Therefore, it bears honorable likeness, credibility and seriousness to a peer-reviewed but without being stuffy, or taken too
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Lost Scriptures: Books that Did Not Make It into the New Testament
The Orthodox Corruption of Scripture: The Effect of Early Christological Controversies on the Text of the New Testament
Truth and Fiction in The Da Vinci Code: A Historian Reveals What We Really Know about Jesus, Mary Magdalene, and Constantine
The Gospel of Judas
