Jesus, The Middle Eastern Storyteller (Ancient Context, Ancient Faith)

Jesus, The Middle Eastern Storyteller (Ancient Context, Ancient Faith)

Storytellers made history, and Jesus was the greatest of them all. But how can modern readers know what he actually meant in such iconic parables as the Prodigal Son and the Good Samaritan? Jesus, the Middle Eastern Storyteller combines the readability of a popular novel and the authority of scholarship to uncover the hidden meaning of references too often misinterpreted or left shrouded in mystery. The first volume in the Ancient Context, Ancient Faith series drives to the heart of readers? desire to know the culture behind the Scriptures. Colorful maps, photos, and illustrations enhance the context of the times that shaped Jesus? vivid communication of core truths. This expert guide is an invaluable resource for study groups, teachers, leaders, and inquiring Christians who want to dig deeper and enrich their spiritual life.ReviewJesus lived in a different culture, in a different time. Having studied and lived in that culture, Gary Burge offers insights into Jesus' storytelling that would otherwise be missed by the normal reader of the Gospels. Cultural insights from 2000 years and Burge's own experiences in the Middle East are interwoven in his explanations of Jesus' parables in order to bring the black and white words on the page to full color photographs. As you hear Jesus' stories afresh, they will inspire you to apply them anew to your own life. I highly recommend this book for all Christians who want to step back into time and re-live the experience of hearing Jesus tell his parables. --Matt WilliamsReading the Bible well means entering the ancient world of the text and hearing its message as it was original heard. Like a sure-footed and experienced guide, Gary Burge leads readers on a fascinating journey back in time to the world of Jesus and his contemporaries. Equipped with the historical, cultural and social insights gained from Ancient Contexts, Ancient Faith, you will never read your Bible quite the same again. --Mark Strauss, Bethel Seminary, San Diego, CA --Mark Strauss, Bethel SeminaryReviewReading the Bible well means entering the ancient world of the text and hearing its message as it was original heard. Like a sure-footed and experienced guide, Gary Burge leads readers on a fascinating journey back in time to the world of Jesus and his contemporaries. Equipped with the historical, cultural and social insights gained from Ancient Contexts, Ancient Faith, you will never read your Bible quite the same again.In this well illustrated book, Gary Burge ably presents Jesus as a master story teller. In the process, Burge follows in his master's footsteps. Parables of Jesus relating to honor/shame, hospitality, excuses, compassion, forgiveness and finding the lost are interpreted clearly for all readers. The author's own relevant experiences in the contemporary Middle East effectively conclude many chapters. I heartily recommend this book to all readers who seek a deeper understanding of Jesus as a powerful story teller. --Kenneth E. Bailey, author ofJesus Through Middle Eastern Eyes: Cultural Studies in the GospelsReviewThese books make me want to read The Book -- so provocative and inspiring and shocking and intelligent -- they're a lot like Jesus. I'd recommend them to anyone... --Rob BellReviewThese books make me want to read The Book -- so provocative and inspiring and shocking and intelligent -- they're a lot like Jesus. I'd recommend them to anyone...From the PublisherThe parables of Jesus come alive as never before when Gary M. Burge uncovers the culture that gives them their deepest meaning. His expert, illustrated guide shows in everyday terms how the customs, literature and values of the ancient world can inform and grow your faith in today's digital age. This, the second book in the Ancient Context, Ancient Faith series is a must read.From the Back CoverStorytellers made history, and Jesus was the greatest of them all. But how can modern reade