Tag Archives: Thomas Nelson

May 4 2010

Bible Maps and Charts – Book Review

Nelson’s Complete Book of Maps and Charts Third Edition which includes full color reproducible maps and charts from the Old and New Testaments is an invaluable study tool that brings scripture to life.  Each of the 66 books of the Bible are dynamically expounded upon with rich detail.  This is like an Old and New Testament Survey all in one. Each chapter of the books of the Bible are given and introduction followed by the author, date, theme, and outline of the book.  Each chapter is jam-packed with biblical knowledge that is sure to enhance the development of study habits and lesson/sermon preparation.  Pastors, ministers, professors, small group leaders, Sunday school teachers, and individual Bible students will greatly benefit from the insightful knowledge and user-friendly structure of this book.  All maps and chart’s are also available for free download with the purchase of this book.  Use the charts and maps in your sermon/teaching illustrations.  This book is a visual overview of the whole Bible at your fingertips!

I would highly recommend this book.  It took me some time to read the whole thing, but it was completely worth it.  Very seldom do I give a book five stars, but after reading it how can I not.  After receiving it, I thought to myself…”this will just be another book on my shelves that collects dust”, however I use it on a regular basis.  It still sets on a shelf from time to time, but it has the privilege of being placed next to my favorite Bibles and sermon preparation tools.  I am still intrigued at how in each chapter that discusses every book of the Bible they present a clear presentation of how they each point back to Christ.  I love that aspect about this book, it always points back to Christ.  I can’t say enough good stuff about this book, but like I said before I highly recommend it, five-star, get yours today.

Apr 27 2009

The Noticer by Andy Andrews

Click for Product

Click for Product

The Noticer by Andy Andrews is the story of a wise old white haired man named Jones, no Mr., just Jones, who sacrificed his time and energy to impact and change the lives of those he encountered on a daily basis.  His wonderful ability to notice things beyond normal perception  made him a very well known, and loved man of the Orange Beach, Alabama area.  You could always recognize Jones wearing the same old clothes, and carrying the same brown briefcase.  With just the clothes on his back, and the briefcase in his hands he was able to influence the lives of many, including some who were living in poverty, experiencing a failing marriage, old age, lost dreams, and a failing love. 

“It’s time to stop letting your history control your destiny” - Jones

“Sometimes, all a person needs is a little perspective.” – Jones

I have to say out of all the books that I have ever reviewed this is by far the best.  I have never given a book five stars until now. This heartwarming story is sure to capture your attention, and relate to you in many ways. I was amazed at many of the principals within this book that have the capabilities of impacting so many lives. Personally, the principal that stuck out the most to me was the way people communicate love. The simple analogy of a dog, cat, bird, and gold fish will forever be imprinted into my philosophy of marriage and love.  Then there were the defining moments between mistakes, and choices that will forever change the way you look at results and consequences. I was inspired and motivated with each turn of the page.  You have to buy this book like yesterday, apply today, and pass it on tomorrow. Don’t let this book pass you by.  I would also encourage you to be apart of the Noticer Project.

Apr 6 2009

Christianity Today – Faith and Pop Culture

I was extremely excited to get the book Christianity Today – Faith and Pop Culture, but unfortunately I felt a bit let down.  The content and articles written by Christianity Today writers are rich in detail, and very informative, however I feel they would lack the ability to capture the interest of a teenage or elder audience.  I do however think that it would serve as a great resource for a young adult / college small group study.  The book is primarily about finding balance and spiritual encouragement in the entertainment world, while at the same time learning what Scripture has to say about it.  Questions such as:  Is TV watching just harmless fun? Should we indulge in hours upon hours of “mindless” entertainment?  Should we only watch clean, uplifting friendly shows? Is the solution simply to take a sledgehammer to the TV screen and then toss it out in next week’s recycling bin?  (pg. 55 of Faith and Pop Culture)

I am pleased to say that the book does cover a wide variety of entertainment topics from art, books, sports, television, violence, and so on. It also contains everything you would need for an effective small group such as: openers, activities, discussion forums, and even an in-depth Biblical study of each topic.  I guess when I really think about it, the book really isn’t designed for individual study, but more for a group setting and that is probably why I felt left hanging after I finished.  Overall, if you are looking to do a study on entertainment I wouldn’t recommend this book for a Jr. High class, but I would highly recommend it for a group study with members being in the 18-35 year old range.

Another aspect to keep in mind while reading my review is that I am not easily caught up in society’s form of entertainment, unlike the majority of those who might read this book.  I don’t find pleasure in watching TV, looking at art, or being addicted to a sporting event.  I would much rather watch a nice Christian documentary or listen to one of my favorite radio preachers.  I just thought you should be aware of that.  In closing I would recommend you read multiple reviews before forming a decision on purchasing this book.

Mar 23 2009

Word of Promise – Next Generation New Testament

I originally decided to get the Word of Promise – Next Generation New Testament to have something that I could just listen to in the background as I went through my day, however I soon realized that it could be used in many different aspects from personal Spiritual growth, to Bible studies / small groups, and to ministry in general.  I have never been a big fan of audio Bibles, but this one along with the all-star cast really bring the Word of God to life, especially in the minds of teenagers.  Unfortunately, because of the format of these MP3 CDs they do not play on all CD players.  There has been times that I would like to have listened to them in my vehicle, but was unable to because of the incompatibility with my old-school CD player.  Thomas Nelson does offer the CD unabridged version which comes on 20 CDs for just a little over the MP3 CD price. I should also mention that the Word of Promise – Next Generation New Testament is tailored for teenagers in mind.  Some adults might find these audio CDs to be a little on the youthful side.  I personally am not the biggest fan of this translation, but I do feel that students will be able to comprehend the New Testament in great ways because of it.  I would recommend the Word of Promise (NKJV) for those who prefer a little more traditional translation / adult narration.  Over all this would be a great asset to add to your collection or to give to the teenager in your family / youth group.

>>>Click Here to Get Your Copy Today

Jan 30 2009

The Perfect Gift

Thomas Nelson Hardback

Thomas Nelson Hardback

I recently received a copy of the book “The Word of Promise The Gift of Psalms”, and it has been a true blessing.  It contains 50 of the best loved psalms along with thought provoking devotions written by Lori Jones.  This is a quality hardback covered book with beautiful decorative paper which also comes with 3 accompany CDs to listen to while you work or travel.  These CDs contain narratives by Michael York, Gary Sinise, Malcolm McDowell, Jason Alexander, Stacy Keach, and many other great actors, as well as music and sound effects that really intrigue the imagination.  Each of these 50 devotions is bound to take you deeper in your faith, and give you greater love for the scripture which continues to pour out wisdom for over 2,000 years.  As you read this book, inspiration will flow from the pages and capture your heart to continually challenge yourself to not settle for the measly spiritual conditions in which we too often find ourselves satisfied with.  This devotional was creatively compiled to enhance the whole Bible reading experience.  Not only would this book be an excellent asset to your shelves or nightstand, but also the perfect gift for that loved one in your life seeking to go deeper in their faith.  Get and give “The Gift of Psalms” today that will inspire beyond tomorrow.