'The Prodigal God' ..... a book review.
Keller, Timothy. New York, New York. Dutton, Penguin Group. 2008 Subtitle: 'Recovering the Heart of the Christian Faith' ISBN 9780525950790
This is a tremendous book on the Prodigal Sons & God. As the author states early in the book the word prodigal means reckless, extravagant; and the Father's actions in this parable are as reckless and extravagant as his prodigal sons, even more so.
This is my all-time favorite story from scripture, and I believe this book should be kept close at hand with Henry Nouwen's 'The Return of The Prodigal Son.' [ISBN: 0385473079]. Together they remind me of the NIV Application Commentary series where after the text is given, an original meaning is given [Nouwen's] and then there is a section called contemporary significance [Keller]. Both of them together, make this story so much more understandable.
My favorite line by the author is found on p.90 'If we read the narrative in light of the Bible's sweeping theme of exile and homecoming we will undertand that Jesus has given us more than a moving account of individual redemption. He has retold the story of the whole human race, and promised nothing less than hope for the world.' With this thought in mind its no wonder that this parable ranks as one of the most loved stories of scripture. ENJOY.
Later: I just accidentally came across a website that reviews both of the above books I mentioned - together! In case you're interested go to the following website: www.heartsandmindsbooks.com/reviews/the_prodigal_god_keller_and_re/
Keller, Timothy. New York, New York. Dutton, Penguin Group. 2008 Subtitle: 'Recovering the Heart of the Christian Faith' ISBN 9780525950790
This is a tremendous book on the Prodigal Sons & God. As the author states early in the book the word prodigal means reckless, extravagant; and the Father's actions in this parable are as reckless and extravagant as his prodigal sons, even more so.
This is my all-time favorite story from scripture, and I believe this book should be kept close at hand with Henry Nouwen's 'The Return of The Prodigal Son.' [ISBN: 0385473079]. Together they remind me of the NIV Application Commentary series where after the text is given, an original meaning is given [Nouwen's] and then there is a section called contemporary significance [Keller]. Both of them together, make this story so much more understandable.
My favorite line by the author is found on p.90 'If we read the narrative in light of the Bible's sweeping theme of exile and homecoming we will undertand that Jesus has given us more than a moving account of individual redemption. He has retold the story of the whole human race, and promised nothing less than hope for the world.' With this thought in mind its no wonder that this parable ranks as one of the most loved stories of scripture. ENJOY.
Later: I just accidentally came across a website that reviews both of the above books I mentioned - together! In case you're interested go to the following website: www.heartsandmindsbooks.com/reviews/the_prodigal_god_keller_and_re/
(Duplicate Comment On A Post Below In Case You Don't See That One.)
ReplyDeleteHi,
I found your blog via my stat counter which I rarely peruse. Thanks for the link. I've got to run at the moment but will bookmark your place and try to get back to poke around a bit.
Cheers.