Book Review: Unfinished by Steven K. Scott

Unfinished is a condensed version of The Jesus Mission by the same author. Steven Scott discusses the four callings Jesus gave to His followers—including those who follow Him today.

 I appreciated a quote on page 18: “What would happen if, instead of inviting people to pray to receive Christ, we invited them to become followers of Jesus Christ?” This is what Jesus did. Granted, Jesus was physically there at the time, but doesn’t He still want us to be His followers?

 The book reads a bit like an outline, with each calling having a series of assignments and actions. I sometimes felt overwhelmed at all the information Scott was cramming into this small book. It might have helped to have an outline or chart presented on the first page, followed by the text of this book so rich in content.

 I received a free review copy of Unfinished from WaterBrook Press.

This is My Latest Bible Study Tool

I got this plan through the Olive Tree Bible app on my Kindle Fire. So far I really like the way it mixes up Bible reading to keep me from getting bogged down. Ten chapters a day (one from each of ten lists) keeps Bible reading balanced. There is no getting bogged down in chapter after chapter of history or neglecting the lesser-taught books of the Bible. I wouldn't try this system without the app to keep me on track, but a more organized person could probably manage it!

Professor Grant Horners Bible Reading System by dwayneforehand

"The World of Jesus" by Dr. William H. Marty

Written by a professor at Moody Bible Institute, this book covers the period between the Old Testament and New Testament. It is for any person who wants to better understand the historical context for the New Testament. While Dr. Marty is a scholar, one need not go to seminary to benefit from this great little book.

Dr. Marty writes as a storyteller because history is, after all, a compilation of stories. Learn about the empires that ruled Israel and Judah: the Persians, the Medes, the Greeks, and the Romans. Learn why the Herods were so feared. Learn to appreciate the courage of the Maccabees.

If you don't know a Pharisee from a Sadducee, or a Maccabee from a Macedonian, this book will give you the big picture of history from Malachi through Acts. I recommend this for everyone from older youths through seasoned Sunday School teachers.        

I received a free review copy of this book from Bethany House publishers.