I’ve been challenging myself to read things outside of my sermon prep this last year. Sometimes I need to shut my brain off from sermon mode. I have really enjoyed some great books over this last year that have rejuvenated some of my creative flow inside my heart. Every once in a while you come across a book that just blows you away. I wanted to pass this along to you all in case you are looking for a great read.
It’s called ‘The Lost Letters of Pergamum’ Stories from the New Testament World. Here is a brief description to wet your appetite:
Transported two thousand years into the past, readers are introduced to Antipas, a Roman civic leader who has encountered the writings of the biblical author Luke. Luke’s history sparks Antipas’s interest, and they begin corresponding. As Antipas tells Luke of his reactions to the writing and of his meetings with local Christians, it becomes evident that he is changing his mind about them and Jesus. Finally, a gladiatorial contest in Pergamum forces difficult decisions on the local Christians and on Antipas.
The book gives you a glimpse into what life would have been like in the Roman Empire. So much of the New Testament was written during the time of Roman power and influence. A story like this brings the scripture alive. It is not meant to replace the scripture (no book could ever do that) but it does help you to look at things from another angle. The more I read scripture the more I realize just how amazing God’s word really is. Sometimes I feel like I am holding a diamond as I read God’s word; just when you think you have it figured out you turn the diamond only to find another dimension into the heart of God. The pursuit is endless and a total blast. God is so amazing.
Here is the link from Amazon.com. If you happen to read it I would love to hear your thoughts on this book.