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The Fisherman
Few New Testament characters are as fascinating as Simon Barjona, the man called Peter-a reluctant disciple who changed the face of Christianity. For more than twenty-five years, author and pastor Larry Huntsperger has spent hundreds of hours studying New Testament documents in preparation for writing this fictional first-person account of the life of this enigmatic disciple.
The result is a novel that faithfully follows Scripture while offering a powerful, fresh narration of the story of one of Christianity's greatest men. In the fast-paced chapters of The Fisherman, readers will relive Peter's initial resistance to the pull he feels toward Jesus and his ministry. They'll walk with Peter alongside Jesus through the events of the Gospels and catch intimate glimpses of the disciples' personalities. They'll even "feel" the dust on the roads as familiar stories are transformed into original, spellbinding accounts from Peter's life.
This fascinating novel will help readers "to see the Master as a man. For, if we cannot see him correctly as man, we have no hope of understanding him correctly as our God."
The result is a novel that faithfully follows Scripture while offering a powerful, fresh narration of the story of one of Christianity's greatest men. In the fast-paced chapters of The Fisherman, readers will relive Peter's initial resistance to the pull he feels toward Jesus and his ministry. They'll walk with Peter alongside Jesus through the events of the Gospels and catch intimate glimpses of the disciples' personalities. They'll even "feel" the dust on the roads as familiar stories are transformed into original, spellbinding accounts from Peter's life.
This fascinating novel will help readers "to see the Master as a man. For, if we cannot see him correctly as man, we have no hope of understanding him correctly as our God."
256 pages, Paperback
First published February 1, 2003
249 people are currently reading
371 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
January 12, 2019
This was a fantastic book to start my new year with - a book of fiction, "narrated" by Peter, "The Rock," about his life with Jesus, from Peter's reluctance to join this man, Jesus, to Peter's life after Jesus's death. The story, though of course I know it backwards and forwards, is touching, entertaining, and personally challenging, as I relate to Peter in many ways.
April 14, 2015
Simon's transition to Peter: A wonderfully crafted portrayal!
A poignant and insightful view of Simon the fisherman's transition from a burly worker on a boat catching food for his family and others, to Peter the Apostle, a man loved by our Master and dedicated to sharing His love to those about him.
This running across account of Simon's life on this earth with our Messiah gives us a broader view of the Jewish mind and frame of reference as it related to anticipating the coming Messiah and the Jews concept of what that would entail.
The reader is carried along inside Simon's thought processes. The reader discovers, with Simon, the PERSON of Jesus of Nazareth. And is carried along inside Simon's perspective of this Nazarene who one day called him to simply "Follow Me." You are carried inside Simon's private thoughts and aspirations, his highs and lows, his greatest height when was transferred to his greatest failure in his denial, "I never knew the man." You walk along the sea shore as Jesus asks Peter three separate times, "Do you love me?"
You witness the thunderous revelation Peter has when he finally realizes that the Messiah's mission is to love man enough to die in his place. Peter finally understood the purpose and message of the risen Savior.
A poignant and insightful view of Simon the fisherman's transition from a burly worker on a boat catching food for his family and others, to Peter the Apostle, a man loved by our Master and dedicated to sharing His love to those about him.
This running across account of Simon's life on this earth with our Messiah gives us a broader view of the Jewish mind and frame of reference as it related to anticipating the coming Messiah and the Jews concept of what that would entail.
The reader is carried along inside Simon's thought processes. The reader discovers, with Simon, the PERSON of Jesus of Nazareth. And is carried along inside Simon's perspective of this Nazarene who one day called him to simply "Follow Me." You are carried inside Simon's private thoughts and aspirations, his highs and lows, his greatest height when was transferred to his greatest failure in his denial, "I never knew the man." You walk along the sea shore as Jesus asks Peter three separate times, "Do you love me?"
You witness the thunderous revelation Peter has when he finally realizes that the Messiah's mission is to love man enough to die in his place. Peter finally understood the purpose and message of the risen Savior.
March 29, 2009
A fictional book written as through Peter's eyes and his time with the Master. I really enjoyed reading this book, and it just reconfirms God's love for us and his forgiveness. Definitely have felt as Peter has, that I have other plans for myself than God does.
April 16, 2013
An excellent book! This is the only novel i have ever read that made me feel like underlining passages, like I would my Bible or study book.... I highly recommend it! In fact, after reading it on my kobo, I bought some in hard-copy, to share or give away...
November 25, 2024
One star for effort. I couldn’t finish this due to the horrible writing style, unfortunately. Nothing against Mr. Huntsperger, but fiction is not his thing. Maybe he should try writing a book from the third person.
September 23, 2012
Story Description:
Revell|February 1, 2003|Trade Paperback|ISBN: 978-0-8007-5844-8
Few New Testament characters are as fascinating as Simon Barjona, the man called Peter – a reluctant disciple who changed the face of Christianity. For more than twenty-five years, author and pastor Larry Huntsperger has spent hundreds of hours studying New Testament documents in preparation for writing this fictional first-person account of the life of this enigmatic disciple.
The result is a novel that faithfully follows Scripture while offering a powerful, fresh narration of the story of one of Christianity’s greatest men. In the fast-paced chapters of The Fisherman, readers will relive Peter’s initial resistance to the pull he feels toward Jesus and his ministry. They’ll walk with Peter alongside Jesus through the events of the Gospels and catch intimate glimpses of the disciples’ personalities. They’ll even “feel” the dust on the roads as familiar stories are transformed into original, spellbinding accounts from Peter’s life.
This fascinating novel will help readers “to see the Master as a man. For, if we cannot see him correctly as a man, we have no hope of understanding him correctly as our God.”
My Review:
The Fisherman was a very moving story narrated in the first-person by Simon whom Jesus renamed Peter, “The Rock.” Peter was a man like so many of us, we each have our own agenda on how Jesus should work in our lives but when He shows us the correct way, we often do the opposite. What happened to “THY WILL be done?”
Mr. Huntsperger managed to pen this novel in such a way that I felt throughout the book that He was talking to me. I can’t believe the level of love that I felt nor the emotions his words invoked in me. I feel I now have a much better understanding of Jesus through the way He talked and in the way Mr. Huntsperger presented the information.
The vivid descriptions and the way in which the material was presented made me feel as though I was there. In my mind’s eye I could clearly see Jesus and the twelve disciples and could feel the sand under my feet and the wind blowing through my hair. The emotions this story invokved in me was real and there were times when I hung my head in shame and others where the tears were dripping down my cheeks.
Mr. Huntsperger is a talented writer with the uncanny ability to place the reader into the pages of the book. The disciples were just ordinary everyday people like you and I and I wonder had we been there then would we have been chosen to be a disciple? The epilogue at the end added that extra umpf and was phenomenal. This book was a real eye-opener and one that I will be reading again and again. Thank you Mr. Huntsperger for penning a novel in lay-man’s terms that we could understand.
Revell|February 1, 2003|Trade Paperback|ISBN: 978-0-8007-5844-8
Few New Testament characters are as fascinating as Simon Barjona, the man called Peter – a reluctant disciple who changed the face of Christianity. For more than twenty-five years, author and pastor Larry Huntsperger has spent hundreds of hours studying New Testament documents in preparation for writing this fictional first-person account of the life of this enigmatic disciple.
The result is a novel that faithfully follows Scripture while offering a powerful, fresh narration of the story of one of Christianity’s greatest men. In the fast-paced chapters of The Fisherman, readers will relive Peter’s initial resistance to the pull he feels toward Jesus and his ministry. They’ll walk with Peter alongside Jesus through the events of the Gospels and catch intimate glimpses of the disciples’ personalities. They’ll even “feel” the dust on the roads as familiar stories are transformed into original, spellbinding accounts from Peter’s life.
This fascinating novel will help readers “to see the Master as a man. For, if we cannot see him correctly as a man, we have no hope of understanding him correctly as our God.”
My Review:
The Fisherman was a very moving story narrated in the first-person by Simon whom Jesus renamed Peter, “The Rock.” Peter was a man like so many of us, we each have our own agenda on how Jesus should work in our lives but when He shows us the correct way, we often do the opposite. What happened to “THY WILL be done?”
Mr. Huntsperger managed to pen this novel in such a way that I felt throughout the book that He was talking to me. I can’t believe the level of love that I felt nor the emotions his words invoked in me. I feel I now have a much better understanding of Jesus through the way He talked and in the way Mr. Huntsperger presented the information.
The vivid descriptions and the way in which the material was presented made me feel as though I was there. In my mind’s eye I could clearly see Jesus and the twelve disciples and could feel the sand under my feet and the wind blowing through my hair. The emotions this story invokved in me was real and there were times when I hung my head in shame and others where the tears were dripping down my cheeks.
Mr. Huntsperger is a talented writer with the uncanny ability to place the reader into the pages of the book. The disciples were just ordinary everyday people like you and I and I wonder had we been there then would we have been chosen to be a disciple? The epilogue at the end added that extra umpf and was phenomenal. This book was a real eye-opener and one that I will be reading again and again. Thank you Mr. Huntsperger for penning a novel in lay-man’s terms that we could understand.
January 15, 2019
What a rush!
My Sunday school teacher mentioned this book in class last week. It's one man's attempt to clothe Simon Peter in the flesh and reveal his short time with Jesus as He walked among men. It is Biblically correct, but fills in details of what it might have been like to walk in Jesus's shadow and learn from Him. It shows how the disciples couldn't possibly have understood what God's plans were, but were probably hoping for what their prophets had foretold in human terms - a warrior-king who would defeat the Romans and return them to the glory of the past. That, of course, was not to be, but what an inspiring read of how it might have have been - the heights of love and glory and the utter despair of agony, cruelty, and death - to be replaced after three days with the revelation that Jesus was indeed God made man to save all.
My Sunday school teacher mentioned this book in class last week. It's one man's attempt to clothe Simon Peter in the flesh and reveal his short time with Jesus as He walked among men. It is Biblically correct, but fills in details of what it might have been like to walk in Jesus's shadow and learn from Him. It shows how the disciples couldn't possibly have understood what God's plans were, but were probably hoping for what their prophets had foretold in human terms - a warrior-king who would defeat the Romans and return them to the glory of the past. That, of course, was not to be, but what an inspiring read of how it might have have been - the heights of love and glory and the utter despair of agony, cruelty, and death - to be replaced after three days with the revelation that Jesus was indeed God made man to save all.
Read
October 12, 2018This is a very powerful and emotional novel as seen through the eyes of Simon Barjona, a man known as Peter, a disciple of Jesus; the Son of God. A beautifully written scripture account of Peter's life as a fisherman when he is called to follow Jesus here on earth.
The author faithfully follows the scriptures from the Holy Bible. Peter was an ordinary man with a family, dreams, and plans for his future until Jesus said 'Follow Me'. Peter watches in amazement as Jesus performs His Miracles. This is a wonderful read that touches your heart and emotions, the events are in historical order. I recommend this book to everyone, a very powerful story!
The author faithfully follows the scriptures from the Holy Bible. Peter was an ordinary man with a family, dreams, and plans for his future until Jesus said 'Follow Me'. Peter watches in amazement as Jesus performs His Miracles. This is a wonderful read that touches your heart and emotions, the events are in historical order. I recommend this book to everyone, a very powerful story!
June 10, 2017
Bar none, the BEST book I have ever read
Done as if Peter himself wrote it about his time with Jesus, his thoughts, actions , reactions and how he eventually came to understand Jesus work and reason for being on this earth.
From the most human perspective that I am certain sure is so close to how the actual disciple Peter acted and thought. So many truths made clear and easier to understand.
I highly recommend it to all believers and to anyone who has ever heard about Jesus Christ in any way.
Outstanding book in every way. Get it, read, and absorb its truths.
Done as if Peter himself wrote it about his time with Jesus, his thoughts, actions , reactions and how he eventually came to understand Jesus work and reason for being on this earth.
From the most human perspective that I am certain sure is so close to how the actual disciple Peter acted and thought. So many truths made clear and easier to understand.
I highly recommend it to all believers and to anyone who has ever heard about Jesus Christ in any way.
Outstanding book in every way. Get it, read, and absorb its truths.
October 31, 2012
It was good, but it lacked... Jewishness, I think. Peter seemed very Western and modern, almost like a visitor to that time. The take-away, for me, was when he described how it was a hurdle to accept the humanness of a real Messiah, while readers might have a similar journey with the deity of Christ.
April 26, 2013
This book is a Christian life book dressed up as a novel. I prefer historical fiction, but since the author disclaims that up front, I can't very well express disappointment. This also explains why Peter thinks like a 20th century American. The author is presenting an almost direct teaching method rather than teaching through inference, as a historical novel might. The chronology is excellent.
October 22, 2018
Refreshingly honest bible telling !
This book surprised me with the human emotions one would have meeting and getting to know Jesus. The author has a great way of expressing true feelings. I enjoyed it very much. I couldn't put it down once I started it ! I read it into the wee hours of the morning. What an awesome read !
This book surprised me with the human emotions one would have meeting and getting to know Jesus. The author has a great way of expressing true feelings. I enjoyed it very much. I couldn't put it down once I started it ! I read it into the wee hours of the morning. What an awesome read !
October 4, 2017
A very interesting novel that weaves a very careful considered story around the life of Jesus. It is a very thought provoking novel that stimulates a lot of thought.
I would certainly recommend reading this.
I would certainly recommend reading this.
October 31, 2018
Follow ME
Everyone alive needs to read this book whether you are a believer or not! Larry has written one of the best books that I have ever read. I
Everyone alive needs to read this book whether you are a believer or not! Larry has written one of the best books that I have ever read. I
August 25, 2018
He was just a man
The story is written on the great apostle Peter, but helps you to imagine him as just a simple man with thoughts and feelings just like us. It is very cleverly written and helps you to understand just how much God Jesus lives us all but individually. A lovely book. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Thank you
The story is written on the great apostle Peter, but helps you to imagine him as just a simple man with thoughts and feelings just like us. It is very cleverly written and helps you to understand just how much God Jesus lives us all but individually. A lovely book. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Thank you
January 13, 2019
Good for Introspection!
Such an introspective book! What a great, simple read to put yourself in the steps of Jesus's earliest disciples. Whether or not you agree with certain timeline points or the portrayal of a first century fisherman's point of view this book opens up a window into being with Jesus and following Him that is timeless.
Such an introspective book! What a great, simple read to put yourself in the steps of Jesus's earliest disciples. Whether or not you agree with certain timeline points or the portrayal of a first century fisherman's point of view this book opens up a window into being with Jesus and following Him that is timeless.
October 28, 2019
A Novel
Yes, it is a novel, but with so much truth. As you follow the main character, Simon, you are drawn into the world of the Master as seen through the eyes of Peter. So many places I have paused to think and pray, to examine and confess. Well worth the time spent in reading and reflecting. Love you Mom
Yes, it is a novel, but with so much truth. As you follow the main character, Simon, you are drawn into the world of the Master as seen through the eyes of Peter. So many places I have paused to think and pray, to examine and confess. Well worth the time spent in reading and reflecting. Love you Mom
July 16, 2020
I loved the way this book humanized Jesus and Peter and immersed me in the friendship that they shared. I was a bit skeptical at first because I don’t always love books of this kind of concept, but I loved the simple, genuine nature of this book. He paints Jesus as human and friend and personalizes and magnifies his love. Definitely will read again.
October 13, 2018
Touched My Heart
I was captivated by the realism of Simon Peter's world. Through the author's eyes, I gained new insights on the Biblical accounts of Simon Peter. I know this story will stay with me for a very long time.
I was captivated by the realism of Simon Peter's world. Through the author's eyes, I gained new insights on the Biblical accounts of Simon Peter. I know this story will stay with me for a very long time.
October 14, 2018
Powerful and Moving
This book touched my heart and gave me a different view of the Savior’s time on earth. What an experience to walk with the Savior and have him call me his friend.
This book touched my heart and gave me a different view of the Savior’s time on earth. What an experience to walk with the Savior and have him call me his friend.
December 3, 2018
Excellent characterizations, crisp and believable settings (I've visited most of the places), fast paced, unforgettable character arc on the fisherman. This was my daily fiction reading for a couple of weeks.
April 11, 2023
Brilliant. Just wonderful!
An excellent, realistic, believable first person account of Simon Peter's experiences with Jesus. He thought he might go into business with Jesus' given His fishing skills. It's that sort of book.
An excellent, realistic, believable first person account of Simon Peter's experiences with Jesus. He thought he might go into business with Jesus' given His fishing skills. It's that sort of book.
August 26, 2017
Awesome o read a fictional book that still explores a biblical person's struggle to follow Christ. This book humanized Peter in a relational way...very good portrayal of Peter.
October 23, 2018
I found the book to be a page turner and I cherish my experience reading it. In all likelihood, I will read it again.
November 6, 2018
Loved this book! Really made me think of what it was like to walk with Jesus before and after His resurrection. Will change the way I think of Gospel writings from now on. Highly recommend.
November 30, 2018
Excellent book
Really makes you think about your own life and faith. I highly recommend this book to everyone. Pass on his story
Really makes you think about your own life and faith. I highly recommend this book to everyone. Pass on his story
February 23, 2019
While historical fiction it males you consider the himanity in the desciples
December 30, 2019
What a beautiful and poignant story of the life and ministry of Jesus through the eyes of Peter! I enjoyed this book immensely.
Read
January 5, 2020I wasn't able to finish this several years ago so I don't remember much about it either way. I think it was pretty good, what I read. :)
March 22, 2020
This book expressed for me in a wonderful way the difference between life in the flesh and life in the Spirit and how a relationship with Jesus really looks like.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews