Finding the Love of Jesus from Genesis to Revelation

by Elyse M. Fitzpatrick

In this sweeping overview of the Bible, Elyse Fitzpatrick reveals how each section--the Law, history, poetry, epistles--points to God's eternal love for you and the good news of redemption through Christ. You'll find yourself drawn to the Bible like never before as you begin to see Jesus on every page.

Genres: Christian, Faith, Nonfiction, Christianity, Christian Living, Theology, Love

157 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 2018

About the author

Author of 20+ books on the Christian life and the gospel's impact on everyday living, Elyse is a frequent speaker at women's conferences nationally and internationally.

Elyse's ministry is summed up in these simple words: No fluff, No bricks, just the good news of a crucified and risen Christ.

In 1971 she married her sweetheart Phil and together they raised three children and are enjoying six really adorable grandchildren.

Together they attend Valley Center Community Church in the hills of the North County of San Diego where Phil is an elder.

Reviews

[Susan · Rating 2 out of 5]

"Reading this book made me want to read my Bible," said a recommendation touting "Finding the Love of Jesus from Genesis to Revelation." That was enough for me to request it to review (thanks, Bethany House!). I'm currently on a two-year plan to read through the Bible. I've done several one-year plans, and I always bog down in the Old Testament (although, true to my nature, I always soldier through). All my life I've read the Bible, mostly out of obligation. I know I should love reading it and should want to for its own sake, and I do strive for that. Maybe this book could help.

I have to admit that the book didn't start strongly for me. I felt like I'd encountered a bit of bait-and-switch. It opened with this dedication: "To every woman who has ever wondered whether the Son could ever love her or would want to be near her ... because, after all, she isn't a man." O--kay. Seems an odd beginning for a book about discovering Jesus in the Bible, but on we go. Author Elyse Fitzpatrick then writes in her acknowledgement that she's so grateful that she was never taught that "theology wasn't for women." She's thankful that her husband never told her that she shouldn't study and learn and love the Lord "because I was 'just a girl'." First chapter opens with how much Jesus loves women. He "loves our womanness." There's a mention of menstrual blood. On and on and on and on and if I hadn't agreed to review this one, I'd have given up.

The author begins the first chapter by talking about the Emmaus Road story in the Bible. She mentions that Jesus was walking along with Cleopas and his wife. This stopped me because I thought I remembered hearing a sermon at church about this story. The pastor had said that we don't know who the two were who accompanied Jesus on the road. But here the author asserts that they are Cleopas and his wife, and further, that the wife is Jesus' aunt. I did some online searching, and while some authors and scholars infer that these are the two on the road with Jesus, I don't see much Biblical support for that assumption. It seems a bit of a stretch to just assume that this is correct, and moreover to use it as an example of Jesus loving women.

After reading this far, I began thinking about Jesus and women. Maybe I'm just blessed with simple faith or naivete, but I've never struggled with thinking Jesus *didn't* love women. I've never felt lesser as a woman (or as a girl). Is this really so unusual? All these current marches by women, etc. etc. etc. -- it just seems like a battle I see no need for. Even as a young child, I saw girls (including myself) as every bit as smart as (often smarter than) boys. I'm just not sure where all this insecurity on the part of women is coming from. As I said, maybe I'm unusual in feeling this way. Regardless, I'm very grateful that I feel secure in God's love for women. It must feel really bad to doubt that, and I say that sincerely.

Regarding this book, I'm sorry for any man who might pick it up to read. It seems like bad PR on the book's part that it's heavily geared toward women, yet this is alluded to nowhere on the front or back covers.

The rest of the book consists of chapters detailing the various books of the Bible (prophets, songs and sayings, gospels, etc), along with methods of looking for Jesus in each type of book. This was fine, but sadly there wasn't as much meat as I was looking for. Perhaps it's because I've been in church and Bible studies all my life, but the suggestions here were all things that seemed simplistic or were familiar to me already. Fitzpatrick tells us to recognize Old Testament mentions of the "angel of the Lord" as examples of the preincarnate Christ. She writes about looking for examples of Jesus in books of prophecy. Good points, but again -- is this anything new?

Many suggestions in the book seemed to me to be more the author's interpretations than as hard-and-fast truth. For instance, she cautions us several times to view Biblical stories as inducements to worship Jesus, rather than as examples for us to follow. She suggests that we look at the Jonah story as a picture of the Gospels rather than as an example or "morality tale." Couldn't it be both?

Are you getting the idea that this book wasn't a winner for me? Sadly, it's true.

[Schuyler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Elyse spends the majority of the rest of the book demonstrating how to take on a Christ-centered mindset in reading the Old Testament. Because she's writing to women, she explores some biblical accounts about women, including Esther and Deborah. But she also goes into men, including Job and Moses. At the end of each chapter, she offers questions which encourage readers to respond to the chapter and to dig into Scripture for themselves. While I couldn't do them in the initial read-through, I'd really like to come back to them. This book is a great choice to jumpstart morning devotions, to study with a group, or even to gift someone who likes studying the Scriptures. Its primary focus is to point us all to what Christ did and how he loves his people.

I read the Bible once a year for a while using a couple of different plans for daily devotions. Two years ago I felt in the need of breaking the routine, and have spent the time since in various study methods, study books, and BSF. But I'm starting to feel the hunger to return again, and reading Elyse's book gave me something fresh to hunt for when I start up a plan again. I want to look for Jesus and his love as I read through it. I'm so glad I read Finding the Love of Jesus From Genesis to Revelation, and I would definitely recommend it to love and know Jesus more.

I received this book from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Kendra Fletcher · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m a fan of Elyse Fitzpatrick’s writing because without fail, she highlights Jesus Christ, front and center.

Here, she beautifully points to the gospel over and over throughout her discussion of scripture. She makes me want to read the Bible. She reminds the reader that there isn’t anything more important than seeing the story of redemption woven from Genesis to Revelation.

I was encouraged to approach my Bible reading with the overarching view that God is for me, and that He loves me. Sometimes I miss that when I’m reading the law or David’s discouragement or Lamentations. But Jesus is there, too, and if you need a solid reminder, Finding the Love of Jesus may be it.

[Joan · Rating 2 out of 5]

Fitzpatrick looks at the story of Jesus and the two disciples on the way to Emmaus and concludes, “All of Moses' writings, the Psalms, and the Prophets were actually about him, his suffering, his glorification.” (Loc 1654/2159) She is quite clear that the Old Testament does not merely contain references to or truths about Jesus. She writes that Jesus was saying that “everything he read,” that is, the Old Testament, was about himself. (Loc 260/2159) Fitzpatrick also reminds readers that Jesus loves women, loves to instruct them.

That really piqued my interest because there are some Old Testament passages that troubled me as a woman. There are OT passages that value women much below men. An example is Lev. 27:4 where the value for a man's vow is 50 shekels while a woman's is 30. Fitzpatrick had emphasized Jesus' love and honor for women so I was interested to see how these kinds of passage would be interpreted.

But I was disappointed. Fitzpatrick picks the typical examples of Abraham, Hagar, Ruth, Esther, etc., that show gospel qualities. She doesn't choose a story like the unnamed woman in Judges 19 who died because of being abused by a mob, thanks to a Levite.

Fitzpatrick went from assuring readers that ALL the Old Testament was about Jesus to picking out stories and passages that can be related to Jesus and His work. Rereading Luke 24:27 it seems to me that Jesus explained all the parts of the Old Testament that were about Himself, not ever claiming that the entire Old Testament was about Himself.

Fitzpatrick brings up an interesting concept about finding Messianic fulfillment meaning in all Bible passages. She notes that reading the Old Testament this way means “we often have to hold two sometimes very different meanings in mind at the same time.” (Loc 1304/2159) She is clear that we do not ignore the original intent of the passage yet see Jesus in it too. In this way, the Proverbs 31 woman becomes a description of the bride of Christ. (Loc 1171/2159)

I have mixed feelings about this study. I think Fitzpatrick makes way too many assumptions, like that Clopas' wife was Jesus' aunt. This is based on John 19:25 where Fitzpatrick concludes that the sister of Jesus' mother is the same as Clopas' wife. There was no punctuation in the original Greek but modern translators insert a comma, making them separate people. Fitzpatrick argues that Clopas and his wife were the two disciples on the way to Emmaus. We just don't know that.

I would think this study would be best done in a group setting so these issues could be discussed and not just taken at face value. There are questions included for discussion or personal reflection.

I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.

[Annette · Rating 2 out of 5]

I have mixed feelings about this book. There are things I like about it. There are things I dislike about it. In the “My Thoughts” section, I will address these.
Summary:
From the synopsis on the back cover of the book, Finding The Love Of Jesus has been written to encourage Bible reading: a passionate and positive attitude about Bible reading.
The book has been written to an audience of women. Often in the Introduction, references are made to how much, “Jesus loves women.”
Finding The Love of Jesus is shown though: “the Books of Moses,” “Israel’s Stories,” “His Songs and Sayings,” the “Prophets,” “His Law,” and concludes “in the Gospel.”
My Thoughts:
1. I didn’t know this book was explicitly directed towards an audience of women until I read the dedication page and the intro. However, I’m okay with this. I understand why some women do not feel theology is for them and that it is a masculine field of study. Although, I did not grow up this way. My parents both read the Bible and were active in Bible studies. I remember when my dad brought home a large hardcover edition of Josephus, published by Kregel, 1981 edition. Dad was almost giddy about this book. Dad loved deep study of the Bible. He spent hours during the week studying for the Sunday Bible lesson he delivered to a couples class. He loved rich discussion about the Bible. He was unafraid to tackle hard questions. So this is the atmosphere I grew up in. Later, a wonderful female professor of Old and New Testament studies in college continued to develop my love of Bible reading and study. There are women who have been deeply hurt by men, and this is a reason why they shy away from theology (especially when taught by men.) This is a good reason for Fitzpatrick to write a book with an intended audience of women.
I do feel Bethany House Publishers should have made the intended audience of the book clearer in the back cover synopsis and other publicity platforms about the book.
2. A story in Luke 24 of the two people walking on the road to Emmaus, Fitzpatrick teaches the pair was a married couple. In the Luke account, the name is spelled Cleopas. In John 19:25, the name Clopas is used to refer to, “Mary the wife of Clopas.” Cleopas is the Greek form of the name. Clopas is the Aramaic form of the name. In tradition, it is believed Cleopas was Joseph’s brother (the wife of Mary the mother of Jesus). I’ve read this account plus the notes on this account in the ESV, CSB, and NIV. The NIV Faithlife Study Bible states these were two different men. “Probably a different person from Clopas, mentioned in Jn 19:25.” From page 1709. The CSB Study Bible states Cleopas was, “possibly the husband of one of the female disciples who watched Jesus die on the cross (see Jn. 19:25.) From page 1659. The ESV Crossway Study Bible does not even comment on this idea of who Cleopas really is. The Bible scholars who wrote the explanatory notes for the three Bibles do not know with certainty the person of Cleopas. Now, what threw me for a loop is the conjecture the two people on the road to Emmaus was the married couple, Cleopas and Mary. Fitzpatrick explains in brief on page 16, “Wouldn’t it make sense then to conclude that after the crucifixion, when all their hope was gone, when they were completely dishearted and bewildered, that they would decide to return home together to try and rebuild their lives after Friday’s tragic events? On page 153 in the notes section for this book, Fitzpatrick further tries to clarify her view.
For a new Christian or a Christian who does not know Scripture, it is misleading to throw into a theology book a conjecture. Every human has their own ideas and even struggles in regards to the Bible. What is important to believe for a Christian: God’s Word is Truth.
3. On page 29, “…we need to read the Bible the way it was meant to be read-as one big love story.” I don’t quite know what to do with this comment. It sounds pretty. I do believe God has shown through Scripture His sweeping plan to redeem mankind from Sin. I believe God is love. I believe He is merciful and gracious. It is difficult to read some of the Old Testament stories with a mindset on love. For example: Judges chapter 4, the story of Jael driving a tent peg into Sisera’s temple.
4. At the end of the chapters is a section titled, “Open Heart, Open Hand.” In this location are questions for individual or group study. I’m glad nonfiction Christian books contain this section.
5. Several sections I loved in the book, especially the last chapters on the Gospel. (Included is the Gospel message in the Appendix.)
In this chapter and the next, I’m going to help you see precious truths that will enable you to understand not only what you’re reading but also how you should respond to it. As we have already learned, the Bible isn’t primarily a collection of stories about heroes we should emulate. It’s about the one Hero who draws us to love and worship him. Page 119.
This chapter ties in all the previous chapters, plus gives the two fold purposes. These purposes are “what God expects of us” and “what God has done for us.” Fitzpatrick shows in this chapter what the OT Law said and what the Gospel fulfills. This is numero important: to understand how the NT completes the OT-Christ Jesus and His work on the cross and the resurrection.
I am glad to have read this book even though I gave it an okay rating. It’s good, because it is a challenge to read and review a book I may not agree with. It’s good, because it pushed me to study a bit in order to make this review clear.
This book was purchased by me.

[Angela · Rating 2 out of 5]

So, I have a couple issues with this book.
First, I love the concept. I was so excited to read a book about this topic. And I usually love this author's books. I really wanted to love this. And I think if I hadn't read the first 3 chapters and just dove in with 'Jesus in the book of Moses' I would have a different review.
So my issues: 1) The author makes the astounding hypothesis that a woman, the aunt of Jesus, was 1 of the 2 disciples he appears to after his resurrection on the road to Emmaus. It doesn't bother me that it might have been a woman. It's the fact that - although the author says we have no concrete evidence for this - she refers to these 2 disciples for the next 3 chapters as Cleopas and Mary. She talks about Aunt Mary being astounded at what Jesus says. But we just don't know! I felt like she was forcing an issue to fit in with a point.
Which brings me to 2) there is a huge emphasis on women through all this book. Again, I'm not upset that the Bible has female heroes, characters, etc. God loves women and that's evident in how the Bible addresses them and it is important to recognize that. But I feel the publisher should have put that somewhere in the description. That this would not only be a book about Jesus throughout the Bible but how Jesus relates to/cares about women throughout the Bible.
And that's where the disciple 'Mary' comes in. It really felt like the author was trying to read her into the text to make a larger point, even if there is no evidence or reason to have 1 of the disciples a woman. The disciples aren't the amazing thing; the fact that Jesus had just risen and was teaching his followers the gospel should be center!
I had hoped it would be a good resource for new Christians to see the thread of the Gospel from Genesis to Revelation but the focus in the first 3 chapters seemed off; more an emphasis on how God loves women, we can learn, we can contribute to God's kingdom. And slightly stretching the biblical accounts to prove it.

[Becky · Rating 3 out of 5]

First sentence: Jesus loves women. He has loved us since the beginning, even from before the words "in the beginning..." were written.

I have conflicting thoughts on Elyse Fitzpatrick's newest book, Finding the Love of Jesus From Genesis to Revelation. I do.

On one hand, it's a book about reading the Bible. It's a book on a mission to get people excited about reading the Bible. It's a book that seeks to clarify what the Bible is all about: JESUS. It's a book that wants believers to understand the Bible and really grasp the glory of God. So how could I not appreciate that?

But.

On the other hand it's a book for women. Part of me totally and completely gets why there are devotionals for men and devotionals for women. Why there are certain subjects where it makes complete logical sense for books to be targeted just for men or just for women.

But I find myself having strong feelings that reading the Bible is not one such subject. Theology should be for everyone--for men, for women, for young and old. If something is TRUE like good theology is true, then it doesn't need to have a label "for women" or "for men" applied to it.

Bibles, bible commentaries, good and hearty theologies shouldn't have to be segregated into being "for men," or "for women." They just shouldn't. If theology is good and sound and TRUE and substantive, it shouldn't matter if it was written by a man or a woman.

Women shouldn't only read books by women. Men shouldn't only read books by men. Women can learn from men. Men can learn from women. The truth is it doesn't matter the sex or gender of the author-preacher-teacher. What matters is if they are being led by the Holy Spirit. The same spirit leads all believers.

Along the same lines, it also shouldn't matter if a book is new or old. Books should be judged by their contents: not their covers, not their authors.

But. Back to the book in hand. This book wants women to feel the love of God and to see that love of God expressed fully in Christ. This expression is not limited to the four gospels. Christ Jesus is to be seen Genesis to Revelation. There is not a book of the Bible where Christ is not to be found. The whole book is about HIM. Four chapters of the book focus on seeing Jesus in the Old Testament. Jesus is to be found in the law; Jesus is to be found in 'the gospel.' I can't argue the necessity for this even if I feel it is a felt need for both men and women.

It is written in an easygoing appealing style. It is not intimidating. It is not dry. It is engaging.

I agree with the premise that the Bible is all about Christ. I agree that every book of the Bible has something to say about Christ. But believing this to be true does not mean that every single verse in every single book of the Bible points to Christ. Or at least every single verse points equally. For example, it is easy to see Christ in Isaiah 53, it is a lot more difficult to see him in Genesis 5. Yet each generation in the begats was one step closer to the promised Seed. Each generation could cling to the hope that one day the Savior would be born.

[Rachel · Rating 3 out of 5]

I like Elyse. But this was a little hard for me to get into. I think in a different season in the past this would have been good for me. I feel it is perfect for those who haven't yet started digging into the word and are eager to uncover treasures on their own. I'm glad I read some of it though, and can pass as a resource to younger believers as a guide to Bible study.

[Rebekah · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book... But didn't love it. My main takeaway: when you read the Bible, look for Jesus! He is the main subject of God's Word and we can find Him from Genesis to Revelation.

There were a few things about this book that I didn't care for...

The author insists that one of the disciples on the road to Emmaus was Jesus' aunt Mary. I don't mind if that's what she believes, but she states it as a FACT. I'm just not convinced based on the small amount of information given about those two disciples. (She also claims the other disciple is Jesus' uncle Cleopas.)

Early on in the book, the author really tries to drive home the point that Jesus loves women. Unfortunately, I think she tried a little too hard... It started to sound like Jesus was OBSESSED with women. Obviously, I know that wasn't the goal. But I think she could have gotten the point across without killing it in the process.

The Bible version used throughout the book was the ESV - a watered down version of Scripture (in my opinion).

Lastly, the author tries so hard to help the reader see Christ among the pages of Scripture that she (almost) fails to admit that Scripture can teach us other lessons as well.

Maybe I am being too harsh. It WAS an enjoyable read... Those are just the issues I had with it. I probably won't read the whole book again but I may reference it in the future.

[Julie D. · Rating 2 out of 5]

I really like that the author emphasizes that it's all about Jesus - in fact, the beginning chapter is named just that. This book is written for women and emphasizes how much He loves us, however, I have never doubted Jesus' love for me or other women - or men for that matter. I have never felt "less than" as a woman in the church or as part of the family of God. I do think there are probably women who do, but from this aspect of the book, I couldn't relate.

I was very concerned right off the bat because she states that the two people that Jesus meets on the road to Emmaus are Jesus' uncle, Cleopas, and his wife, Mary In all my years of study and listening to other pastors, it has been emphasized that we don't really know exactly who was on the road with Jesus. She categorically states this as fact and this bothered me. In her reach to show how much Jesus loves women, she places Jesus' aunt, Mary, on the road as someone Jesus first chooses to show himself to after his resurrection.

On the bright side, I do like that she emphasizes how important it is to read the Bible. I do agree that so much of the Bible points to Jesus. I also agree that Jesus loves women. I liked the questions at the end of each chapter, too, because it encouraged more study.

However, there are some misleading statements (like the one about Cleopas and Mary) and some concerning ideas like using Scripture as worship but not necessarily as a moral tale, To me, it's a book about both as God wants us to worship Him, but He also wants us to have moral laws to live by. The other thing that concerned me was that we are interpreters of the Bible just by opening it and reading it.

I think this book could have been really great if she had just stuck to Biblical fact. I would have to think a new Christian woman would read this and be mis-lead. I wish I could give this book a better review but I can't. I give it 2 out of 5 stars.

*This book was provided to me for my honest review by Bethany House Publishers

[Ben · Rating 3 out of 5]

There is quite a bit in this book about seeing Jesus in the Old Testament, and it is so good! It is a wonderful textbook and teaching tool presenting the reality that we can see the truth of the Gospel and the revelation of Jesus Christ on every page of Scripture.

It is a great reminder, and learning experience, to read through this book. Thank you, Elyse, for your wisdom and writing and passion for this book! 

The place where I think I picked this book up by accident is that it is seemingly written very intentionally to an audience of women. This confused me when I first began reading because when I read the abstract I didn't catch that it was a book written by a woman for women--I simply thought it was helping Bible readers see Jesus through all of Scripture! Again, it sort of is that. 

I really enjoyed certain parts of the book, but it seemed as if some of the insertions speaking directly to women were out of place like there were two books combined into one. My one main critique of the book is that it felt as if I were reading two different books at the same time. I didn't connect specifically with the portions written to women, but I connected very well with the portions about finding the love of Jesus in the Old and New Testaments! 

I would like to recommend this book to a wider audience than just women, but I wouldn't be able to without the caveat that the target audience of the author appears to be specifically women, though the content is applicable for both men and women.

[Jasmine · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was really disappointed in this book. I randomly picked it up at lifeway because it seemed interesting from the description. It started off ok, but as I got through it, it seemed more of a commentary than anything. The author summarized a lot of things into short, sectioned paragraphs, and it seems like she kind of was writing summaries just because. I didn’t particularly enjoy it and some of the things she mentioned I felt were not necessarily accurate or she wrote them as fact, like we’re supposed to take her word for it. Despite what the cover says, this book didn’t want to make me read my bible. I wouldn’t recommend this book. I’m actually surprised it’s gotten such good reviews.

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

I

Finding the Love of Jesus from Genesis to Revelation by [Fitzpatrick, Elyse]I was given this book by Bethany Books in exchange for my honest review.

I enjoy reading the Bible and this book helped to increase that joy by looking for God's Love throughout it. The author, Elyse Fitzpatrick was able to reveal God's plan through his love in the Scripture. There are chapters with questions at the end of each to help the reader open their eyes, and hearts, even more.

I recommend this book to anyone who desires to feel even more joy and love of God. It is a wonderful book

[Becky · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this sweeping overview of the Bible, Elyse Fitzpatrick reveals how each section--the Law, history, poetry, epistles--points to God's eternal love for you and the good news of redemption through Christ. You'll find yourself drawn to the Bible like never before as you begin to see Jesus on every page.

[Theron John · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a book for women on how to study the Bible. Whether you are a woman who sees herself as a beginner in studying the Bible or as someone looking to bolster their own study of the Bible, this book can be a tool to aid you in your study.

See full review at: http://www.entrustedbygod.org/2018/07...

(3.5 out 5 stars)

[Kaitlyn S. · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a book I thoroughly enjoyed! I enjoyed the way this author approached studying the Bible, searching scripture to find Christ throughout every portion of the Bible. I wish it had been more in depth, and there were a couple things I didn't totally agree with, but they were minor issues. I would highly recommend this, with the advice to chew the meat and spit out the bones =)

[Cassie Plantage]

I’m not adding a rating because I skimmed the last half of the book. I think this book would be really helpful for someone who has little experience reading the Bible OR has never been taught the concept of Jesus being the central theme throughout it.
I thought this would be more in-depth, so it’s not a book problem but an expectation problem. I just wasn’t the audience for this book, but I appreciate the content (though I think the author takes some liberties with her translations).

[Doreen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am a big fan of Elyse Fitzpatrick’s books. However, this one was a little odd. It felt like it was two different books that put together served to muddy the waters. I’ll address the two “books” separately.
The dedication reads, “To every woman who has ever wondered whether the Son could love her or would want to be near her…because, after all, she isn’t a man.” I thought, “What a weird dedication.” Then twice in the acknowledgments, she again made comments about theology and women. It felt odd because nothing in the title or the description lead me to believe this was a book about how Jesus feels about women or women studying the Bible. The introduction talked about Jesus’ costly love for women. I read that and finally understood what the author was getting at in her earlier comments and decided that must be the focus of the book. However, just as soon as that became clear, it felt like the book shifted in chapter one to its second focus which is the real meat of the book…that every part of the Bible is about Jesus. Women are still addressed specifically in some of the comments but the content really applies to everyone.
This second focus is the real strength of the book. Fitzpatrick points out that we often read the Bible thinking that it’s about us. We read a story about a Bible hero and try to see what we can emulate. Or we read a Psalm thinking it’s about us and how we feel or how we should pray or sing. Fitzpatrick urges us to look at the Bible in a different way. “The Psalms are not primarily about us (though we find our hearts resonating with them all the time). They are about Jesus and how he fulfills every one of his people’s cries: cries for help, strength, wisdom, faithfulness, thanksgiving, trust, deliverance, joy, and relationship” (location 1098).
Throughout the chapters, Fitzpatrick gives different questions to ask or things to look for in different types of books in the Bible (Books of Moses, Israel’s Stories, His Songs & Sayings, the Prophets, the Law, and the Gospel). She then walks through several of those stories to show what that looks like. I found this to be really helpful. Not only did I learn more about these stories but it taught me how I can use these same principles as I’m reading other parts of the Bible.
I get that this book is supposed to teach women how to study the Bible in a way that stays true to what the Biblical authors intended. I wish that that had been made clear in the title or somewhere on the cover and in the description. I’m afraid that some will read the opening pages and be confused like I was, or worse turned off, and will put the book down and miss the riches in the main body.
Thank you to Bethany House for providing me with an e-copy of this book. I was not required to leave a positive review. All opinions are my own.

[Debbie · Rating 3 out of 5]

In the first third of this book, the author talked about who was on the road to Emmaus with Jesus and what she was going to talk about in the rest of the book. I got impatient waiting for the actual study to begin, then I was disappointed with how brief the study was. Anyway, the author feels that the Jews of Jesus' time did not know how to properly interpret the Old Testament and that, after his resurrection, Jesus had to teach his disciples to see him in the Old Testament. So she is trying to teach us what she felt Jesus taught them.

She went through some stories and verses in Genesis, Ruth, Esther, Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Isaiah, Daniel, and some other places to show us how to look for Jesus. We are to look for appearances of Jesus (like as the Angel of the Lord), prophecy about Jesus, types of Jesus (where a person's life had some similarities to Jesus and what he went through), and echoes of the gospel. She then taught that the law is any verse where we are commanded to do something while the gospel is any verse where God does the work. She feels that people only look for the places where we are supposed to do something and miss that this is in response to something God has done.

I do believe that we encounter and learn about God in the Bible, not just learn about events that happened or how we should live. I would agree that you can find Jesus all throughout the Old Testament. But the author repeatedly stated that ALL of the stories (while true events) are actually about Jesus (not the Trinity, but Jesus). That meant that some of her examples were a bit of a stretch. And some things she said left me saying, "Uh, where did she get that?" However, if you're surprised to learn that Eve received a prophecy about Jesus or that God personally led the Israelites in the Exodus, then this book might provide new insights for you.

I received an ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.

[Jessie Young · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ever wonder what the point of reading the Bible is? It's just a history book. What does it mean for me today? I can't understand it. Do any of these thoughts go through your head when someone mentions the Bible? This book is here to help you; to answer your questions and help you see how the Bible connects within itself and also connects and is very relevant to us today. The author begins by explaining why the Bible is important and what it is ultimately about. It's not about me. It's about God. It is God's love story! Then she goes on to introduce and explain 4 categories to use while reading the Bible to help you see Jesus in stories about Moses or Abraham or any other place in the Bible, because Jesus is all over the Bible. He isn't just in the Gospels (New Testament) when he walked the Earth. The Bible comes alive when you can see how Jesus is in it all; even before he was born to Mary. Ms. Fitzpatrick then uses these 4 categories to show the reader how the love of Jesus is found in the Books of Moses, in Israel's stories, in his songs & sayings, in his prophets, in his law, and in the gospels. She writes clearly so the reader can follow and understand. Her writing is broken up into easy to understand chunks. I would recommend reading the book slowly so you can fully digest everything she is saying. Then open your Bible so you can practice what you've learned for yourself.

This book is geared more towards women but is helpful for everyone. It can be used by new Christians or those who have been saved for years. There's something for every stage. The author is passionate about what she writes and wants the reader to see the joy of reading their Bible. I found the book extremely applicable and helpful for my own Bible reading. I write the 4 categories in my journal so I can have them handy when I'm reading. I would recommend this book!

I received a copy of this book from Bethany Publishers in exchange for my honest opinion. All opinions stated here are my own.

[Audra Watts · Rating 3 out of 5]

https://audrasbookblabbing.wordpress....

Cleanliness: Very Clean (Topics to consider: religion and sexism.)

One thing I almost always skip over in a book is the dedication page, but this one caught my eye. "To every woman who has ever wondered whether the Son could love her or would want to be near her... because, after all, she isn't a man." Umm.. what? This dedication didn't seem to belong in a book about reading your bible. I was pretty confused, but shrugged it off and began.

Then came the acknowledgements... "I'm thankful for my dear husband who never once told me that I shouldn't study and learn and love the Lord because I was 'just a girl.'" Wait, what? Is this a thing? Maybe it's just me, but I've never felt that a woman was inferior to a man when studying her bible (or anytime for that matter).

I read a couple other reviews to see if I was the only one confused, and I found someone who basically summed up my feelings. (Check out Susan Braun's review on Goodreads. Her ideas of the book are very similar to mine.) She said, "I felt like I'd encountered a bit of bait-and-switch." That was exactly how I felt!  It's like someone put a different cover on a book about women and the bible.

The one thing that originally made me want to read Finding the Love of Jesus from Genesis to Revelation was the quote from a reviewer on the front cover. It said, "Reading this book made me want to read my Bible." I wrongly assumed that this would happen for me too.

If this book was renamed Finding the Love of Jesus for Women, it would be better marketed. I had believed that this book would be non-gender-specific because nothing anywhere on it said it was only for women; but that was not the case.

This wasn't a bad book, but it was not what it claimed to be. If you have hardly read the Bible or are insecure as a Christian woman, then I think this book would be for you.

~I was sent a free copy of this book from Bethany House for an honest review~

[Natalie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perfect pre-read/companion to my goal of reading straight through the Bible this year and strengthened my awareness of how the ENTIRE Bible is about Jesus. Definitely recommend.

[Jeanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Seeing Jesus in the Old Testament (Law) and the New Testament (Gospel), will change how you read the bible.

Do you have trouble reading the bible? Understanding how it relevant to your life now? I know from first hand experience that I came to the bible for all the wrong reasons. Some of those reasons are as follows.

To live morally.
To understand how I fit in.
How is the bible relevant to me.
What is God's will for my life.

What I failed to do and the text directs you to is Jesus. What Jesus did. Why he did what he did. The plan of salvation and why is it important. The importance of the law and how the gospel saves. It is important to note and Elyse Fitzpatrick teaches is that law and gospel do not pit against each other. They work together for us know Jesus, not a Jesus made in our own image.

The text helps us to discover Jesus in the life the Moses, Ruth, and David and how it is all brought together in the New Testament. When reading the bible correctly, we are motivated to read more, to obey the word, and to share the good news. This is not a spoon fed text but a text to encourage you. To be excited about the word of God. To believe what I great salvation I have in Jesus.

What I appreciated the most is how to distinguish between the law and the gospel. It is very easy to be unbalanced with the two and reading the bible in this mindset is brings us to the feet of Jesus.

Highly recommend.

A Special Thank You to Bethany House Publishing and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review

[Amanda · Rating 3 out of 5]

When I finished this book, my impression was that it would be a good book for someone who is new to Bible study or is a new believer. Also noted is that this book is heavily geared towards women. That being said, Elyse seems to take some liberties that are stated like facts in her first chapter as she talks about the Emmas road when Jesus walks with 2 of His disciples after His resurrection. Elyse states that these 2 disciples are Jesus' Aunt Mary and Uncle Cleopas. While a Cleopas is mentioned, the other disciple isn't mentioned. She could of been more clear in saying that this was her assumption, but instead she stated it like a fact.

She does do a great job walking readers through the Scriptures and pointing out how Christ is the focus such as the pre-incarnate references to Christ in the Old Testament. Each chapter does have some discussion questions at the end that will help you study through the concepts she is presenting. So while there are some things that I didn't like in the book, it is a good resource that will add some more useful tools to your study time as you read God's Word.

***I received this complimentary book from Bethany House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

In Finding the Love of Jesus from Genesis to Revelation, Elyse Fitzpatrick showed me that I could find glimpses of Jesus throughout the entire Old Testament narrative. I appreciated Fiztpatrick's reminder that we're not reading the Bible for what we get out of it. The Bible is all about Jesus. We have to let Him be the focus. 

Fitzpatrick shows you how to see Jesus throughout the different writing styles in the Bible - the Books of Moses, in Israel's stories, in Songs and Sayings, in the Prophets, in the Law, and in the Gospel. I appreciated the time Fitzpatrick took to show you how to read the story searching for Jesus. As well as her reminders of how what we read influences how we live our lives. 

This book was a precious reminder to me that we have to read the Bible to see what it tells us about God and who He is. Fitzpatrick says "The gospel is the fuel that's meant to empower our diligence throughout our entire life, even through times of terrible suffering." The gospel should be our fuel for everything in life. 

I received a copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. This review is my own, honest opinion.

[Just Commonly · Rating 2 out of 5]

"How long has it been since you felt a passion on excitement about spending time in the Word?" (21)

Finding the Love of Jesus, from Genesis to Revelation has a title that interests, excite and even encourage. This new devotional-esque Bible Study by Elyse Fitzpatrick has all the hallmark of a great personal and group study. I think it is a great idea with a premise that says more than it delivered. Not that it isn't good. I'm particularly fond of the question area titled "Open Bible, Open Heart." However, I think because the author focuses much of trying to write to her target audience of females, there's a certain level of assertiveness that doesn't always bode well for me. Despite that, I do think there are some great points and does encourage me to read the Bible more to see her point.


Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a positive review, and have not been compensated for this. This is my honest opinion.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review

The title of Chapter 2 is really a summary of what this book is about - Seeing What's Right Before You. Everything we need to know about God, His Son and His promises is right before us – revealed in Holy Scripture. We just need to know where to look and take the time to explore His Word in a new way.

If you enjoy reading Bible studies, take a break from the norm and study your Bible directly, instead. Use this book as a guide. You’ll be “finding the Love of Jesus” from Genesis to Revelation and falling in love with our Savior deeper than ever before.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

As one who has struggled understanding the Love of God for me personally, this book really hit home for me! I loved the way Elyse draws our attention to God and His plan of redemption because of His great love for us- especially women!- throughout the sections of Scripture. Each chapter helped me understand how to see Him and His love, and the questions after each one were so helpful to begin the process of doing it on my own! I highly recommend this book for anyone who wants to grow more in love with Jesus and His Word of love to us!

[Erin · Rating 4 out of 5]

An eye-opening read from relating to Jewish “believers” missing the Messiah right before them to ensuring that we read the whole of scripture the way it was intended, the author weaves a beautiful journey for anyone wanting to know Jesus and the Gospel as one complete narrative. At times it read like a textbook, but I do not say that in a negative connotation. It had the depth of a textbook, historical perspective, and options for further study at the end of each chapter. All in all, gave me a lot to think about in how I interpret, apply, and receive scripture.

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Easy to read and apply the points. Great for studying the bible.