Book Review : God’s Unfolding Purpose
It always surprises me when I re-read a book many years later and discover that it doesn’t say what I think it says! Does anyone else have this experience?
Nevertheless God’s unfolding purpose : a guide to the study of the Bible by Suzanne de Dietrich (Westminster Press, 1957) presents a good overview of the Bible. It is not a long book (287 pages) so is not an in depth exploratory of the Bible but rather provides an outline of the main themes. From Genesis through to Revelation we see God had a purpose to have a people for his own, a people of faith not of works and not of law. Initially this was to be the Israelites but now it is the church. The book looks at the exodus, settling in the promised land, the exile and the return to their homeland as the major events of the Old Testament. The significance of these events in terms of God’s purpose is explained. Moving onto the New Testament the incarnation, the birth and continuance of the church become the major themes, ending with the final triumph in Revelation.
The book is well set out with every chapter begins with a summary and it moves along in a logical manner. The book contains many Biblical references so it can be used for a more extensive study.
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2 thoughts on “Book Review : God’s Unfolding Purpose”
Yes I have that feeling often when rereading religious texts. I believe that it comes from the change of view that we have upon them as we grow in the Lord. After gaining more knowledge and understanding we can look at something old, and see new things because of this.
Next question for you, would this be a good book for a beginner in faith. My wife and I have tried to find things for her to read to become more familiar with the bible, God and it’s concepts. She has only come to faith for a short time, but is desperately wanting to learn. My concepts that I talk about are far beyind her grasp. I am not a great teacher, and make great jumps in reasoning based on past knowledge and always lose her. So I am looking for help with this. Any other book suggestions would be helpful too.
I actually don’t think it would be a good book for a new believer. It is a bit academic in places. Also it is very old and I suspect it is out of print.
I have been trying to think of something to recommend. Years ago I went to a “Walk thru the Old Testament” seminar which was an excellent overview. I think there was some printed material produced but I haven’t read it myself.