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The Name Quest: Explore the Names of God to Grow in Faith and Get to Know Him Better
The names of God are like a rainbow--each name expresses part of the spectrum of the character and attributes of God. Along the way, the author tenderly answers tough questions: Which of the Hebrew names of God is His personal name--Yahweh or Jehovah? What does it mean to pray in Jesus' name? How can we relate to the Holy God and the Judge? Why is a God of love called the "Jealous God"? What does it mean to call Jesus the Messiah? "The Name Quest" mentions all the names of God in the Bible while explaining their significance in ordinary language.
- GenresNonfiction
394 pages, Paperback
First published August 1, 2014
22 people are currently reading
536 people want to read
About the author
John Avery
9 books46 followersJohn Avery is the author of The Name Quest – explore the names of God to grow in faith and get to know Him better (Morgan James Publishing, 2015). His latest book, The Questions of Jesus--Questions asked by Jesus, questions people asked Him, released in October 2022. He is a trained teacher with over thirty years experience as a Bible teaching pastor, small group leader, and missionary. He has lived in England, Israel, Africa, and the Caribbean, ministering with Youth With A Mission (YWAM) and local churches. He and his wife, Janet, now make their home in Oregon. John likes to hike, snowshoe, and cross country ski. John writes a regular Bible devotional on www.BibleMaturity.com and maintains a comprehensive resource for all the names of God at www.NamesForGod.net.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
September 16, 2014
While Shakespeare tells us that a rose by any other name would smell as sweet, I doubt people would plant it in their gardens if it was called Blight Delight or Aphid Haven. So names do matter when we understand their meaning. Problems can arise and benefits are lost when names and their meanings are disjointed. In western culture our names are, for the most part, completely lost to their meanings. How different it is for the Nigerian man I met who told me his name and I asked him what it meant and he said, "Joy returns home." Can you imagine the impact on a child when every time their parents call them they hear that they are their joy! I think it is part of the reason why pet names, nicknames and sweet lover names are so common and important to us. Deep inside we know that names do matter.
However, we may not have made this same association with God. We may not even be aware that He has many names. Understanding these names can give us powerful insights into who He really is. We move beyond our preconceived ideas from the term "God" which isn't a name at all, but an impersonal job description. Impersonal job titles evoke prejudiced perspectives. (If in doubt stop a moment and ponder what comes to mind when you think "janitor".) I think this explains the trend of upgrading job titles for lowly jobs.
This is a scholarly book, well researched sprinkled throughout with modern parables and Biblical passages to illustrate its points. It brought deeper understanding of the many names of God and how they help us understand (as much as we are able) this Being who is beyond our understanding yet who desires to be known. I realize how much it has changed my thinking when I wanted to end that last sentence with "the God Who wants to be Known". From a change in perspective can come a change in relationship. It would be an excellent guide for a small study group or a topical Bible study and may also help a believer connect with and worship the great Creator Who inspires Awe, Who is Mighty and Able, Who loves us and saves us, Who .......
However, we may not have made this same association with God. We may not even be aware that He has many names. Understanding these names can give us powerful insights into who He really is. We move beyond our preconceived ideas from the term "God" which isn't a name at all, but an impersonal job description. Impersonal job titles evoke prejudiced perspectives. (If in doubt stop a moment and ponder what comes to mind when you think "janitor".) I think this explains the trend of upgrading job titles for lowly jobs.
This is a scholarly book, well researched sprinkled throughout with modern parables and Biblical passages to illustrate its points. It brought deeper understanding of the many names of God and how they help us understand (as much as we are able) this Being who is beyond our understanding yet who desires to be known. I realize how much it has changed my thinking when I wanted to end that last sentence with "the God Who wants to be Known". From a change in perspective can come a change in relationship. It would be an excellent guide for a small study group or a topical Bible study and may also help a believer connect with and worship the great Creator Who inspires Awe, Who is Mighty and Able, Who loves us and saves us, Who .......
August 6, 2014
This review is in answer to John Avery’s request for reviews on LinkedIn. He graciously sent me a free paperback copy of his book to facilitate its review. Thank you John.
My first impression as I flipped through the book, was the amazing amount of research that went into it! He’s given each researched tidbit or quote of information a number, which leads to the back of the book where the footnotes take up an entire section to themselves. In addition, he’s put together a handy index at the back so that if you want to check out the meaning of one of God’s names without reading the whole book again, you can simply go to that name’s page(s).
I was impressed with how John wove the names of God into a running narrative that flowed smoothly from name to name or from example to example. Examples ranged from experiences on the hiking trails to experiences of the men and women mentioned in the pages of Scripture.
One bit of information/observation mentioned early on in the book about who Melchizedek worshipped is later very clearly contradicted when discussing another name of God later in the book. This may simply have been a missed comparison in the research archives because the remainder of the book sticks with the second iteration of who we know Melchizedek to be honouring when he met Abram.
John does an amazing job of displaying the commonality behind many terms before they were applied to God, and the drastically changed understandings that developed after their application to God. This lends a more human view to the people, places and situations found in Scripture as they learned of God and grew in their faith-walk with Him.
If I had anything of major note to say against the book, it has nothing to do with the content. The layout of the book made it hard to read at times. The use of sidebars to encapsulate lists of names of God beside their expounding paragraphs worked in most instances throughout the book, but every now and then, the strict adherence to where these sidebars were placed left some paragraphs appearing unfinished until I realized their final sentences trailed between two sidebars. Frequently, paragraph sentences were allowed to have just two or three words trail onto the next page or stay behind on the previous page, a situation known as orphaning. While this did allow for the paragraph to otherwise remain intact, it would have been perfectly ok to either break up the paragraph or simply move the one or two lines left on the previous page over to the next page to avoid orphans. However, in light of the overall content of the book and how well it was written, such formatting issues are largely trivial.
This book gets a solid 4 out of 5 stars! I highly recommend it and it would make a great companion to my new book, “A Year in Prayer With Jesus” as you learn about 365 names, titles and attributes of God in the first point, “Hallowed by Thy Name”.
Well done John! This book was a pleasure to read!
My first impression as I flipped through the book, was the amazing amount of research that went into it! He’s given each researched tidbit or quote of information a number, which leads to the back of the book where the footnotes take up an entire section to themselves. In addition, he’s put together a handy index at the back so that if you want to check out the meaning of one of God’s names without reading the whole book again, you can simply go to that name’s page(s).
I was impressed with how John wove the names of God into a running narrative that flowed smoothly from name to name or from example to example. Examples ranged from experiences on the hiking trails to experiences of the men and women mentioned in the pages of Scripture.
One bit of information/observation mentioned early on in the book about who Melchizedek worshipped is later very clearly contradicted when discussing another name of God later in the book. This may simply have been a missed comparison in the research archives because the remainder of the book sticks with the second iteration of who we know Melchizedek to be honouring when he met Abram.
John does an amazing job of displaying the commonality behind many terms before they were applied to God, and the drastically changed understandings that developed after their application to God. This lends a more human view to the people, places and situations found in Scripture as they learned of God and grew in their faith-walk with Him.
If I had anything of major note to say against the book, it has nothing to do with the content. The layout of the book made it hard to read at times. The use of sidebars to encapsulate lists of names of God beside their expounding paragraphs worked in most instances throughout the book, but every now and then, the strict adherence to where these sidebars were placed left some paragraphs appearing unfinished until I realized their final sentences trailed between two sidebars. Frequently, paragraph sentences were allowed to have just two or three words trail onto the next page or stay behind on the previous page, a situation known as orphaning. While this did allow for the paragraph to otherwise remain intact, it would have been perfectly ok to either break up the paragraph or simply move the one or two lines left on the previous page over to the next page to avoid orphans. However, in light of the overall content of the book and how well it was written, such formatting issues are largely trivial.
This book gets a solid 4 out of 5 stars! I highly recommend it and it would make a great companion to my new book, “A Year in Prayer With Jesus” as you learn about 365 names, titles and attributes of God in the first point, “Hallowed by Thy Name”.
Well done John! This book was a pleasure to read!
May 28, 2014
If you want to get to know someone, listen to the names related to him. An illustration would be Mother Teresa, who was called a blessing, self-sacrificial, and obedient to God. These are the kinds of names that are recorded in the Bible as we search for the names attributed to God that describe Him.
Then, as we get to know Him by the names and qualities He possesses, we are given the opportunity to grow into His likeness. Do we need someone who is faithful and true? Let us follow the One who “will never fail or forsake us.” Do we need someone who loves us no matter what? Let us follow the One who gave us the opportunity to love “because he loved us first.” Do we need more justice in our lives? Let us follow the One who embodies righteousness and justice.
In this scholarly, amazingly well –researched book, John Avery opens our eyes to our Creator, our Lover, our First Love, our Righteousness and Justice, our Shelter, our Salvation, our Redeemer, our Deliverer, and so much more. Furthermore, Avery does this as if he were talking to his best friend. This is not a dry, hard-to-read book written only for professors, but a friendly book written for all of us. He uses stories to illustrate points, and points to illustrate stories, all done with creative attention, drawing our interest, pulling on our curiosity as he reveals who God is.
To our amazement, God becomes Someone we would really love to get to know better. Good job, Avery!
The Name Quest is more than the history of the names and attributes given to God. It is an invitation to come alongside Him to live and grow, and fulfill the purposes He has given us.
To Him be the glory forever and ever, Amen.
Then, as we get to know Him by the names and qualities He possesses, we are given the opportunity to grow into His likeness. Do we need someone who is faithful and true? Let us follow the One who “will never fail or forsake us.” Do we need someone who loves us no matter what? Let us follow the One who gave us the opportunity to love “because he loved us first.” Do we need more justice in our lives? Let us follow the One who embodies righteousness and justice.
In this scholarly, amazingly well –researched book, John Avery opens our eyes to our Creator, our Lover, our First Love, our Righteousness and Justice, our Shelter, our Salvation, our Redeemer, our Deliverer, and so much more. Furthermore, Avery does this as if he were talking to his best friend. This is not a dry, hard-to-read book written only for professors, but a friendly book written for all of us. He uses stories to illustrate points, and points to illustrate stories, all done with creative attention, drawing our interest, pulling on our curiosity as he reveals who God is.
To our amazement, God becomes Someone we would really love to get to know better. Good job, Avery!
The Name Quest is more than the history of the names and attributes given to God. It is an invitation to come alongside Him to live and grow, and fulfill the purposes He has given us.
To Him be the glory forever and ever, Amen.
November 7, 2014
Very impressive book on getting to know God better through His Word. The author goes to the Hebrew and Greek and explains how you can better know God through the original languages. I have never heard of the author before, and I am totally unaware of the publisher. Therefore my reading was more of a critical analysis to see if I could find anything that was questionable to believe. And I couldn't. Everything I read appeared to be scripturally sound to the same way that I believe. I have put this in my to-read again list, so I can spend more time with it. I recommend this book to anyone who is serious about knowing God better.
September 17, 2014
I have gone through two Bible studies on the names and titles of God, so quite a bit of the material was familiar to me. However, this book was more extensive than the studies I've experienced, so I learned the meanings of additional names and titles I hadn't studied before. The book was organized differently, which also gave me a different perspective.
August 20, 2014
Explore the names of God to Grow in Faith and Get to Know Him Better
This book is not a mere list of names and information about them that is dry, merely facts, or boring. Instead it is organized by character trait for each chapter and it is interesting.
Mr. Avery made this book interesting by seamlessly weaving personal (and sometimes humorous) story tidbits in between the scriptures, quotes, names, biblical background and etymological knowledge included. He also has a knack of gleaning moral life lessons about God from ordinary and extraordinary modern American life events.
I found the information to be very thorough when unpacking each particular quality of God’s character. Everything was thoroughly footnoted as well, with well over 1300 footnotes included.
At the end of chapter one the author mentions, “experiential knowledge” seemingly implying that is what is coming next in the book. I suppose it depends on what your definition is of “experiential”, but to me it is not something that can be guaranteed since we cannot make God show up or perform at our will. I did, however, find myself very much thinking about God as I read this book. And God does value that!
As a book reviewer I found it daunting to treat this book as a read-straight-through book, especially considering its length (379 pages). Instead I recommend to any readers that you treat this book more like a restaurant menu and pick and choose as needed based on whatever you need God to be for you or whatever you are curious about. Find whatever that is in the table of contents or the convenient index in the back.
One thing I would have liked to seen expanded upon was the treatment of the names of the Holy Spirit. Even though they were included and talked about and even though the number of names used exclusively to apply to Him compared to the total number of names or titles of God in the Bible is much smaller, considering the importance of the Holy Spirit in our lives and His co-equality in the trinity, I think there should have been more there.
Overall I enjoyed the book and thought it was thorough, well-written and interesting. I think it could help you get to know God better, too, depending on how you treat it. (Read it as I recommended and intentionally think about God while doing so expecting Him to show up.) Recommended to any Christian wanting to get to know God better through His names.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the author himself. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
This book is not a mere list of names and information about them that is dry, merely facts, or boring. Instead it is organized by character trait for each chapter and it is interesting.
Mr. Avery made this book interesting by seamlessly weaving personal (and sometimes humorous) story tidbits in between the scriptures, quotes, names, biblical background and etymological knowledge included. He also has a knack of gleaning moral life lessons about God from ordinary and extraordinary modern American life events.
I found the information to be very thorough when unpacking each particular quality of God’s character. Everything was thoroughly footnoted as well, with well over 1300 footnotes included.
At the end of chapter one the author mentions, “experiential knowledge” seemingly implying that is what is coming next in the book. I suppose it depends on what your definition is of “experiential”, but to me it is not something that can be guaranteed since we cannot make God show up or perform at our will. I did, however, find myself very much thinking about God as I read this book. And God does value that!
As a book reviewer I found it daunting to treat this book as a read-straight-through book, especially considering its length (379 pages). Instead I recommend to any readers that you treat this book more like a restaurant menu and pick and choose as needed based on whatever you need God to be for you or whatever you are curious about. Find whatever that is in the table of contents or the convenient index in the back.
One thing I would have liked to seen expanded upon was the treatment of the names of the Holy Spirit. Even though they were included and talked about and even though the number of names used exclusively to apply to Him compared to the total number of names or titles of God in the Bible is much smaller, considering the importance of the Holy Spirit in our lives and His co-equality in the trinity, I think there should have been more there.
Overall I enjoyed the book and thought it was thorough, well-written and interesting. I think it could help you get to know God better, too, depending on how you treat it. (Read it as I recommended and intentionally think about God while doing so expecting Him to show up.) Recommended to any Christian wanting to get to know God better through His names.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the author himself. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
October 31, 2014
Manna for the Wilderness
Anyone who has been in the Faith for several decades has normally read the Bible with a variety of schemes and methods, and often come to the end of every one. In illness, grief and exhaustion we may well be tempted to give up entirely, finding even once-fruitful habits both stale and simply too demanding. This admirable volume, finely written and researched and beautifully produced, may prove refreshing to many weary believers. It can well be read at one sitting, but I think that, unless one’s tongue is hanging out for something more like a fifteen-course Chinese banquet than a six-course Western dinner, it will be best assimilated in the very small helpings to which the structure naturally lends itself. The chapters are short, nor do any of them need to be read to the end at one go. In that respect this is closer to a reference work than a continuous argument. Even a mouthful will nourish for the next stage of the journey.
This said, no-one should suppose that this work is not solid and coherent: it is grounded in careful word-study with which I as a biblical philologist can find no fault, and under the top layer of detail, including useful personal asides, there is a basic unity. But the word-study, which is a term that I believe often causes the eyes of the average believer to glaze over, is quite digestible for those who know no Biblical languages and may have found it pretentious when speakers/writers parade their little learning of that sort. There is no I-know-more-Hebrew-and-Greek-than-you-so-listen-to-me nonsense here. In short, I like both the flavour and the substance in this case, and believe that for many readers it might prove a real refresher to Christian faith and living. It passes with flying colours my test of a good book, that is whether I expect to return to it. I do expect to return to it often, and to find more in it each time.
Anyone who has been in the Faith for several decades has normally read the Bible with a variety of schemes and methods, and often come to the end of every one. In illness, grief and exhaustion we may well be tempted to give up entirely, finding even once-fruitful habits both stale and simply too demanding. This admirable volume, finely written and researched and beautifully produced, may prove refreshing to many weary believers. It can well be read at one sitting, but I think that, unless one’s tongue is hanging out for something more like a fifteen-course Chinese banquet than a six-course Western dinner, it will be best assimilated in the very small helpings to which the structure naturally lends itself. The chapters are short, nor do any of them need to be read to the end at one go. In that respect this is closer to a reference work than a continuous argument. Even a mouthful will nourish for the next stage of the journey.
This said, no-one should suppose that this work is not solid and coherent: it is grounded in careful word-study with which I as a biblical philologist can find no fault, and under the top layer of detail, including useful personal asides, there is a basic unity. But the word-study, which is a term that I believe often causes the eyes of the average believer to glaze over, is quite digestible for those who know no Biblical languages and may have found it pretentious when speakers/writers parade their little learning of that sort. There is no I-know-more-Hebrew-and-Greek-than-you-so-listen-to-me nonsense here. In short, I like both the flavour and the substance in this case, and believe that for many readers it might prove a real refresher to Christian faith and living. It passes with flying colours my test of a good book, that is whether I expect to return to it. I do expect to return to it often, and to find more in it each time.
October 14, 2014
The Name Quest Explore the Names of God to Grow in Faith and Get to Know Him Better by John Avery is an exceptional book and source to help us know God and His character better and in doing so we grow in our personal relationship with God. This book not only talks about the known names of God like Yahweh or Jehovah but also names or character like judge, shepherd and Heavenly Father and Lord. With each name John Avery takes us through why God is called this and how it shows a part of who God is which helps us to relate to God in a new and important way.
One of my favorite ones is Good Shepherd. It says in the book “ The picture of a shepherd with his sheep illustrates the relationship between God and His people because it highlights God’s care for us all.” Later it says “The title “shepherd” encapsulates nine interrelated roles that parallel the ways in which God cares for us.” pg 207. This is such a comforting way to think about God that He is our protector and caregiver because He is our Good Shepherd. This is one example but this book is well worth the read because it leads us through all the meanings and how they help us to understand, relate and know God and his love for us better.
Even if you think you know all about God I believe, like it was for me, that when you read this book you will grow in your faith and knowledge of God, which is fantastic but even more important you will know, understand and have a more personal loving relationship with God. It is a great, enlightening book that I would encourage all to read.
If you would like more info about the book you can go to:
www.NamesForGod.net
I received a copy of this book from Morgan James Publishing through bookcrash.com in exchange for my review and honest opinion.
May 7, 2018
Have you ever wondered or researched of the many names associated with God? John Avery gives the answers inside The Name Quest and much depth into the meaning of different names people use to praise God.
Mr. Avery includes approximately five hundred biblical names and titles from twenty-one bibles and religious books explaining their meaning and translation from either the English, Hebrew, Greek, or Aramaic languages. There are twenty-four chapters and an Epilogue with stories connected with the bible book chapter and verse origin of each individual name or title to highlight the faith of followers and praise given to God from believers of Jesus Christ.
The Name Quest aids in learning new ways to praise God while growing in His Word and understanding who He is. This book is recommended as a great addition to any bible study whether in an individual or group setting in the home or church and excellent as a gifting opportunity.
I received this book free from Book Crash reviewer program in exchange for an honest opinion in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission Guidelines.
Mr. Avery includes approximately five hundred biblical names and titles from twenty-one bibles and religious books explaining their meaning and translation from either the English, Hebrew, Greek, or Aramaic languages. There are twenty-four chapters and an Epilogue with stories connected with the bible book chapter and verse origin of each individual name or title to highlight the faith of followers and praise given to God from believers of Jesus Christ.
The Name Quest aids in learning new ways to praise God while growing in His Word and understanding who He is. This book is recommended as a great addition to any bible study whether in an individual or group setting in the home or church and excellent as a gifting opportunity.
I received this book free from Book Crash reviewer program in exchange for an honest opinion in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission Guidelines.
October 9, 2020
Good book with wonderful examples. Uses own life experience. Took me quite some time to get through, but worth it. Learning takes time.
I was in a class that Mr. Avery taught and was very impressed by his knowledge and humility. Purchased a copy for my pastor.
I was in a class that Mr. Avery taught and was very impressed by his knowledge and humility. Purchased a copy for my pastor.
March 6, 2018
A great resource book for Bible study. It's not a quick read, it instead invites me to slow down and ponder a new thought or relish a long understood attribute of God.
April 26, 2015
What’s in a name?
Have you ever stopped and meditated on the names of God? Yahweh shalom. Wonderful Counselor. Bread of Life. LORD of hosts. Righteous Judge. Just what exactly do these names mean- and more importantly, what do they tell us about who God is?
In The Name Quest, pastor and author John Avery takes readers on a fascinating journey through the names of God, using profound word studies and wonderful scriptural insight that give a deeper understanding of God’s character and His word.
Full of wonderful analogies and anecdotes, this exhaustive resource is anything but dry. Rather, it inspires readers to take a deeper look at the love, grace, and righteousness of God revealed through His names- and how our understanding of who He is can transform our lives and our relationship with Him.
As the author puts it-
“This book is about God’s names. More importantly, it’s about God branding His character into our lives- the character to which His names point. As we spend time getting to know God, we grow more like Him. Understanding His names helps us understand His nature.”
Based on sound Biblical doctrine, the book also addresses issues such as sin, punishment, and hell -all the while offering readers hope through the message of salvation. Avery explores scripture from Old Testament to New, including the book of Revelation, with nuggets of insight that will leave you wanting more.
Powerful and Spirit-filled, The Name Quest is sure to recharge your spiritual batteries and help you to grow in your faith. Christians will be empowered and encouraged as Avery examines the completeness of Christ’s victory over the enemy, examining our task as believers to “drive back satan’s defeated gang and free his captives.” For those who are struggling with guilt, anxiety, or depression, this book will overwhelm you with the healing love of God and remove any doubts about His will to make you whole again.
This book is one of the most encouraging, faith-building books I’ve read in quite a while. Not only is it well studied and put together, Avery writes in a down-to-earth and conversational way that makes reading this book a pleasure. A fantastic resource for deep scriptural study, I cannot recommend this book highly enough!
Rating: 5 stars
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Check out this review on my blog: EpicBookQuest.com
June 9, 2016
SOME QUOTES/NOTES WHILE READING:
"Jesus' humiliating death blended deep love and strong justice. The two sides of glory, the friendly and the fierce, from which God shielded Moses, are visible together in the crucifixion. God so loved us that he gave his only begotten son to stand in the raging fire of judgment to receive our penalty for sin. Now we need not perish in the presence of his glory. Instead, we can fully relate to him forever."
The text is easy to read, but so dense with information that it takes me forever to finish a chapter!
"Sin [is] a 'crime against love. The sinner does not so much break God's law as he breaks God's heart." Wow! Powerful!
"Like Father, Like Child" was an excellent chapter!
This section on soul thirst is gold! Avery uses such great wording...not so much clichès but natural word illustrations that remind me of sunlight breaking through clouds. So many "aha" moments.
This is a beautifully written book. Avery's words are poetic and his metaphors blow my mind.
This book is so well written. I'm embarrassed that it's taking me this long to finish reading it. So much to take in...
REVIEW:
This book was a slow burner for me, but oh the pleasure it was in reading it! Each chapter was a meditation, delving deeper into the nature of God. Avery peels back the layers of history and linguistics to help his readers get to the core. He uses his on life experiences as illustrations to help get a fuller grasp on the concepts explored. This was a very intellectual and academic read, but did it leave me in the dust? Hardly. This layman (laywoman?) never felt like the material was going over her head! Best of all the book really was like a quest. It doubles as a "spiritual living" book because he didn't just feed you the educational stuff, he turned it around to how it applies to our daily walk. Never felt preached at, or condescended to. Very easy to grasp...the only thing is it took me long to finish and even longer to finally review it. Highly recommend.
I WON THIS BOOK THROUGH GOODREADS FIRST READS GIVEAWAY.
"Jesus' humiliating death blended deep love and strong justice. The two sides of glory, the friendly and the fierce, from which God shielded Moses, are visible together in the crucifixion. God so loved us that he gave his only begotten son to stand in the raging fire of judgment to receive our penalty for sin. Now we need not perish in the presence of his glory. Instead, we can fully relate to him forever."
The text is easy to read, but so dense with information that it takes me forever to finish a chapter!
"Sin [is] a 'crime against love. The sinner does not so much break God's law as he breaks God's heart." Wow! Powerful!
"Like Father, Like Child" was an excellent chapter!
This section on soul thirst is gold! Avery uses such great wording...not so much clichès but natural word illustrations that remind me of sunlight breaking through clouds. So many "aha" moments.
This is a beautifully written book. Avery's words are poetic and his metaphors blow my mind.
This book is so well written. I'm embarrassed that it's taking me this long to finish reading it. So much to take in...
REVIEW:
This book was a slow burner for me, but oh the pleasure it was in reading it! Each chapter was a meditation, delving deeper into the nature of God. Avery peels back the layers of history and linguistics to help his readers get to the core. He uses his on life experiences as illustrations to help get a fuller grasp on the concepts explored. This was a very intellectual and academic read, but did it leave me in the dust? Hardly. This layman (laywoman?) never felt like the material was going over her head! Best of all the book really was like a quest. It doubles as a "spiritual living" book because he didn't just feed you the educational stuff, he turned it around to how it applies to our daily walk. Never felt preached at, or condescended to. Very easy to grasp...the only thing is it took me long to finish and even longer to finally review it. Highly recommend.
I WON THIS BOOK THROUGH GOODREADS FIRST READS GIVEAWAY.
February 2, 2015
This is a large paperback book exploring the names of God. With such a simple explanation, you would expect a basic book. But instead, the author brings the reader on an in-depth study of every name and title given to God throughout the Bible. I was impressed by the depth and value of this book. The author uses great care and detail and relies heavily on his knowledge of Hebrew to help the reader glimpse the greatness of God through His names and titles throughout the Bible.
To be honest, it took me some time to gain motivation to read this book since it is so large, and initially appeared quite intense what with all the Hebrew words in the margins. However, as I began reading this book, I was drawn into the interesting chapters without much effort. I still admit it is a long book, but that isn't a bad thing!
Secondly, the author does include many personal illustrations from his life which can be bad or good, depending on the reader. These stories and examples helped me get into the book, yet at the same time distracted me from remembering the point of each chapter. Nevertheless, I believe these examples will help most readers gain the point of each chapter.
Lastly, I would have preferred more organization to the book. I found it hard to understand the structure the author had in mind when publishing the book.
Again, I emphasize that this is an incredibly in-depth book! As the title in whole insinuates, The Name Quest: Explore the Names of God to Grow in Faith and Get to Know Him Better
goes further to draw readers to a deeper relationship with their Saviour! The author is evidently a passionate student of God's word who leaves no detail unmentioned.
I recommend The Name Quest, but encourage you to be motivated to read it, because it isn't the casual reading style of book. It is great for the devoted, studious reader.
The publisher has provided me with a complimentary copy of The Name Quest through BookCrash.com
April 6, 2015
With The Name Quest, the author has given us a delightful book to help carry us into a deeper relationship with the Almighty. It’s not another familiar list of names of and about God. John Avery’s solid understanding of scripture, insightful applications, and playful use of language make this a study most readers will want to go to again and again.
He challenges us to reflect on the character of God that underlies the names of God. Right away, we see five benefits of knowing the God behind the names. Sidebars give us quick accessibility to various names. Run your finger down the page and you’ll see: for example, God my Rock, Rock of my strength, and Rock of my salvation. For each, the Hebrew word(s) and scripture references connect the reader with context and author comments adjoining.
Read this book as a devotional, for private study, for teaching, or even for a book club. You’ll find such things as:
• Why we use the expression “in His Name”;
• The power to heal and work miracles rests in the Name;
• There is refuge in His Name;
• The implications of Moses’ question of the Almighty: “Suppose … they ask, ‘What is His Name?’ Then what shall I tell them?”
• Why there is so much obscurity surrounding the Name;
• Why God changed some people’s names to reflect the change in their relationship with Him;
• The truths bound up in the names of God;
• The fact that humans waited 235 years to call upon the Lord;
• The Christian message “cannot be swallowed without careful chewing.”
There’s something for nearly any level of study. John Avery gives us the arcane—e.g., the seven things God cannot do—but he backs it all up with more than 1,300 end notes. The Name Quest is a captivating read, giving us knowledge of the Most High while enhancing our relationship.
He challenges us to reflect on the character of God that underlies the names of God. Right away, we see five benefits of knowing the God behind the names. Sidebars give us quick accessibility to various names. Run your finger down the page and you’ll see: for example, God my Rock, Rock of my strength, and Rock of my salvation. For each, the Hebrew word(s) and scripture references connect the reader with context and author comments adjoining.
Read this book as a devotional, for private study, for teaching, or even for a book club. You’ll find such things as:
• Why we use the expression “in His Name”;
• The power to heal and work miracles rests in the Name;
• There is refuge in His Name;
• The implications of Moses’ question of the Almighty: “Suppose … they ask, ‘What is His Name?’ Then what shall I tell them?”
• Why there is so much obscurity surrounding the Name;
• Why God changed some people’s names to reflect the change in their relationship with Him;
• The truths bound up in the names of God;
• The fact that humans waited 235 years to call upon the Lord;
• The Christian message “cannot be swallowed without careful chewing.”
There’s something for nearly any level of study. John Avery gives us the arcane—e.g., the seven things God cannot do—but he backs it all up with more than 1,300 end notes. The Name Quest is a captivating read, giving us knowledge of the Most High while enhancing our relationship.
March 9, 2016
I won this book, "The Name Quest:" through a Goodreads First Reads Giveaway and I'm so pleased that I did.
This book contains the author, John Avery's 15 years, of research, exploring, studying and writing about the many names of God. I don't think that most of us think about the description after His name; at least I didn't. The book is well written and reads like a novel; different from the Bible, as it has many footnotes and sidebars referencing over 500 biblical phrases describing God; God the Redeemer, God the Comforter, God the Savior, etc. and also in the Greek and Hebrew languages. He wants us to have a close, loving, personal relationship with Him so that we may look up to Him as a Father and receive his concern and caring for us. He wants us to accept Him as our Savior and spend eternity with Him.
There is a lot more that I could write, but I want to get back to reading and finishing the book!! I keep going back and rereading, trying to remember various phrases, incidents, etc. This was a well-written book that is very informative, interesting and thought-provoking. I think everyone should read it that wants to strengthen and deepen his/her relationship with God. I attended bible studies over the years, but I got far more out of this book! I intend to keep it as a reference book after I convince some people to read it!!
November 24, 2014
***teaches why God's names are important & what they say about His character***
John Avery, Bible teaching pastor, researcher and small group leader compares the names of God to a rainbow in The Name Quest. There he writes that each of God's names represent an aspect of His multifaceted personality in the same way a rainbow reflects a "kaleidoscope of complementary colors."
As each rotation of the kaleidoscope displays a new pattern, each chapter in "The Name Quest" demonstrates a unique and "fresh combination of names" that reveal different aspects of God's nature. For example: knowing God as Shepherd, Savior, Lord, Protector and Caretaker to name a few.
Even though there are only "two true names of God strictly speaking—Yahweh and Jesus," notes Avery, God's other names are more like descriptive "titles" since each name describes a different facet or quality of God's nature, attribute or action.
Why would Avery believe God's "kaleidoscope" of names important enough to write an entire book about when he could have devised a simple list of God's names? Full Review: http://www.examiner.com/list/the-name...
John Avery, Bible teaching pastor, researcher and small group leader compares the names of God to a rainbow in The Name Quest. There he writes that each of God's names represent an aspect of His multifaceted personality in the same way a rainbow reflects a "kaleidoscope of complementary colors."
As each rotation of the kaleidoscope displays a new pattern, each chapter in "The Name Quest" demonstrates a unique and "fresh combination of names" that reveal different aspects of God's nature. For example: knowing God as Shepherd, Savior, Lord, Protector and Caretaker to name a few.
Even though there are only "two true names of God strictly speaking—Yahweh and Jesus," notes Avery, God's other names are more like descriptive "titles" since each name describes a different facet or quality of God's nature, attribute or action.
Why would Avery believe God's "kaleidoscope" of names important enough to write an entire book about when he could have devised a simple list of God's names? Full Review: http://www.examiner.com/list/the-name...
March 30, 2015
I received this book as part of the Goodreads First Reads Program for the purpose of a fair review.
Overview: Mr. Avery has spent years in the field of Theology. His particular field of interest is in the names and titles of God. Let’s see what his studies have to offer.
Likes: Anyone who is willing to discuss, and try to improve relationships with, God has made a pretty good path in life.
Dislikes: When I went for this book, I thought it would be one Bible version, and English titles of God. Mr. Avery’s path, however, used the ‘original languages’ and several versions of the Bible. As such, I didn’t find this book easy to use for those who don’t have time to study this deeply. I believe God has made it so that anyone, who will, can have a relationship with Him, without learning a couple new languages.
Conclusion: This book seems to have been written for other pastors. I hope you find some use out of it.
Overview: Mr. Avery has spent years in the field of Theology. His particular field of interest is in the names and titles of God. Let’s see what his studies have to offer.
Likes: Anyone who is willing to discuss, and try to improve relationships with, God has made a pretty good path in life.
Dislikes: When I went for this book, I thought it would be one Bible version, and English titles of God. Mr. Avery’s path, however, used the ‘original languages’ and several versions of the Bible. As such, I didn’t find this book easy to use for those who don’t have time to study this deeply. I believe God has made it so that anyone, who will, can have a relationship with Him, without learning a couple new languages.
Conclusion: This book seems to have been written for other pastors. I hope you find some use out of it.
December 23, 2014
The Name Quest is an excellent study book and reference book. I found it intriguing as well as enlightening. Avery offers an in depth study of the names of God with a lot of background and history to go with it. It is not the kind of book you'd sit down and read while drinking tea. It is a great reference book, and would be good for a Bible study group to study together.
I do highly recommend this book, it is well worth the money. You'll be pleased that this one is in your library, especially if you study the Bible deeply. Hats off to John Avery.
5 of 5 stars
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
John Avery has more than 30 years experience teaching the Bible as a pastor, small group leader, and as a missionary. He and his wife live in Oregon. He writes a regular Bible devotional at www.BibleMaturity.com and maintains a website for the names of God at www.NamesForGod.net
I do highly recommend this book, it is well worth the money. You'll be pleased that this one is in your library, especially if you study the Bible deeply. Hats off to John Avery.
5 of 5 stars
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
John Avery has more than 30 years experience teaching the Bible as a pastor, small group leader, and as a missionary. He and his wife live in Oregon. He writes a regular Bible devotional at www.BibleMaturity.com and maintains a website for the names of God at www.NamesForGod.net
February 29, 2016
I really liked this book, so much that I shared it with my mother who also loved it and recently told me she has no plans to return it.
The book does a very good job of not just listing and describing each name, but looking at the history of names including their original Jewish or Hebrew origins. The book is very well researched and has a lot of detail.
That said the book is not some dry boring text book. There are a lot of examples of the names usage and a well written narrative that intersperses with the descriptions and details. It is a very interesting read on many different levels.
Disclaimer: I received this book as part of the Goodreads First Reads program.
The book does a very good job of not just listing and describing each name, but looking at the history of names including their original Jewish or Hebrew origins. The book is very well researched and has a lot of detail.
That said the book is not some dry boring text book. There are a lot of examples of the names usage and a well written narrative that intersperses with the descriptions and details. It is a very interesting read on many different levels.
Disclaimer: I received this book as part of the Goodreads First Reads program.
November 8, 2014
I received this book from Goodreads First Reads.
We need more books like these around! This is an excellent book to read and to keep next to your bed. I thoroughly enjoyed it. I loved that it didn't just guide you towards a stronger faith and love with God, but it explored important chapters of the Bible to get to know Him better in a very unique way that not many other spiritual books can do. Many books tend be to be dry, bland, boring, below average, and eventually abandoned when they attempt to reach these kind of topics, but this book was very interesting, well-written, and captured me in on every page. I highly recommend this book!
We need more books like these around! This is an excellent book to read and to keep next to your bed. I thoroughly enjoyed it. I loved that it didn't just guide you towards a stronger faith and love with God, but it explored important chapters of the Bible to get to know Him better in a very unique way that not many other spiritual books can do. Many books tend be to be dry, bland, boring, below average, and eventually abandoned when they attempt to reach these kind of topics, but this book was very interesting, well-written, and captured me in on every page. I highly recommend this book!
July 29, 2015
Published: 07/10/2014
Author: John Avery
Reccomended for: fans of Christian Books
I won this book for free through the Goodreads First Wins Competitions.
This book came at just the right time. I passed this book onto my brother-in-laws father who is Christian and was going into hospital for an operation. Reading this gave him great help getting through it all, it was on the top of the pile of books to read in hospital while it he was recovering. It is also been passed on to various other members of the family. It is a really great book and one that if you are going through a bad time and need that little bit of faith it is a good book to read and feel closer to God.
Author: John Avery
Reccomended for: fans of Christian Books
I won this book for free through the Goodreads First Wins Competitions.
This book came at just the right time. I passed this book onto my brother-in-laws father who is Christian and was going into hospital for an operation. Reading this gave him great help getting through it all, it was on the top of the pile of books to read in hospital while it he was recovering. It is also been passed on to various other members of the family. It is a really great book and one that if you are going through a bad time and need that little bit of faith it is a good book to read and feel closer to God.
October 21, 2014
An illuminating immersion into knowing God more fully. Brings a deeper connection and spiritual understanding of who God is and who we are in Him. Well written and notated to make it easier to understand.
October 28, 2014
I really enjoyed the in-depth and insightful exploration into the many names, as well as character of God. I would definitely recommend the book. It was very interesting and led to interesting bible studies.
April 8, 2015
There are many names for God in different countries and lands. This book is a unique look into God and faith.
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