Understanding Jesus

by Joe Amaral

Understanding Jesus

300 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2011

About the author

Joe Amaral was born in Portugal on the island of St. Miguel, and emigrated with his family to Toronto, Ontario, when he was two years old. A rebel against Christianity, he credits a youth pastor who "loved me unconditionally" with being a major factor in his conversion and subsequent decision to enter the ministry. He attended Eastern Pentecostal Bible College (now a Master's College and Seminary). In November 2002, he first visited Israel, and learned about the culture from his tour guide, a Messianic Jew. Today, along with his father-in-law, he operates a ministry called Operation Outreach, conducting tours of the Holy Land several times a year and teaching on the Jewish roots of the Christian faith. He resides with his wife, Karen, and family in Ontario.

Reviews

[Rev Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

While I don't agree with everything Joe argues for in Understanding Jesus, this is a strong argument for embracing more of the Jewishness of both Jesus and the Christian faith. I love the Jewish feasts, and I see them as beautiful pictures of the life and redemption of Jesus Christ. Joe brings this out chapter after chapter. For Christian who struggle to connect the Old Testament with the New, this book will help you see the whole picture with added clarity.

[Sheri Hathaway · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great book. Amaral discusses all the major Israelite celebrations, the history behind them and the significance of them to Jesus life, death and resurrection, and his second coming. It cleared up many grey areas in my understanding. I own it and I'm keeping in my collection to refer to as needed.