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Moments 'til Midnight: The Final Thoughts of a Wandering Pilgrim
"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith."
In the biblical letter of 2 Timothy, the apostle Paul reflected on his passing life. It was but a vapor. He was a pilgrim, passing through this life and into the next. Moments 'til Midnight creatively peels back the curtain of Paul's final hours. Author Brent Crowe imaginatively retells the last twelve hours of Paul's life, from the perspective of the apostle himself. Along the way, readers will be encouraged to live with purpose, to redeem the time, and to embrace the awesome reality that they too are on a sacred journey.
With no more letters to write, no more churches to plant, no more sermons to preach, and no more missionary journeys to embark upon, Paul awaited his death sentence. What were his final reflections on life? How did he view the race he had run? How should you view the race set before you?
In the biblical letter of 2 Timothy, the apostle Paul reflected on his passing life. It was but a vapor. He was a pilgrim, passing through this life and into the next. Moments 'til Midnight creatively peels back the curtain of Paul's final hours. Author Brent Crowe imaginatively retells the last twelve hours of Paul's life, from the perspective of the apostle himself. Along the way, readers will be encouraged to live with purpose, to redeem the time, and to embrace the awesome reality that they too are on a sacred journey.
With no more letters to write, no more churches to plant, no more sermons to preach, and no more missionary journeys to embark upon, Paul awaited his death sentence. What were his final reflections on life? How did he view the race he had run? How should you view the race set before you?
240 pages, Paperback
Published September 1, 2018
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
December 29, 2018
The book is set into chapters based on each hour after Paul finds out there will be an execution. The author imagines what might be going on in the mind of Paul as each hour ticks by. He even paints a picture for the reader of what it was like in the jail with the loss of light as the hours go by and the cold stones.
Although the author is dealing with what Paul might be reflecting on, the author also puts in modern examples to make a point to the reader. He talks about finding one’s purpose and gives ways one can do that to find God’s purpose for each one of us and how we can know when we find it. He talks about how we can see if we’re representing the name of Jesus in whatever you do. Crowe also focuses on developing the heavenly mindset.
This is a very introspective book that makes you think deeply about your own place in the world and if you’re doing enough to fulfill your purpose and if you’re living God’s perfect will for your life. I was expecting it to be more of a historical fiction feel, but this has more of a Christian non-fiction/self-help feel and would be a great edition in any library for people looking to dig deeper.
I received this book from BH Publishing and Lifeway in return for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Although the author is dealing with what Paul might be reflecting on, the author also puts in modern examples to make a point to the reader. He talks about finding one’s purpose and gives ways one can do that to find God’s purpose for each one of us and how we can know when we find it. He talks about how we can see if we’re representing the name of Jesus in whatever you do. Crowe also focuses on developing the heavenly mindset.
This is a very introspective book that makes you think deeply about your own place in the world and if you’re doing enough to fulfill your purpose and if you’re living God’s perfect will for your life. I was expecting it to be more of a historical fiction feel, but this has more of a Christian non-fiction/self-help feel and would be a great edition in any library for people looking to dig deeper.
I received this book from BH Publishing and Lifeway in return for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 9, 2018
First, I have to say the advertising blurb (above) is misleading. Saying this is a retelling of the last hours of Paul's life leads you (or at least led me) to expect a narrative in first person. That is not what this book is all about. If you are looking for a narrative work you will be disappointed.
The content of the book, however, is not disappointing. Written specifically for young people, but also applicable for adults - particularly those new to a walk of faith - the author takes us on an exploration of some of the most significant themes of Paul's writings. These themes are what author Crowe believes that Paul must have been reflecting on in his final moments of life.
The writing style is somewhat light and very easy to read. The author applies a conversational tone rather than an academic tone to the work. There is a good balance of comparison and contrast. For example, the author talks about potential and why it is important and then he goes on to talk about purpose and why that is more significant than potential. I appreciate Crowe's ability to say, here is something you should know, but also know that it isn't the main thing you need to know.
People who have been journeying with Christ for many seasons of life might not find anything particularly new or compelling about this book, but it is very well suited for its target audience.
I received a free digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
The content of the book, however, is not disappointing. Written specifically for young people, but also applicable for adults - particularly those new to a walk of faith - the author takes us on an exploration of some of the most significant themes of Paul's writings. These themes are what author Crowe believes that Paul must have been reflecting on in his final moments of life.
The writing style is somewhat light and very easy to read. The author applies a conversational tone rather than an academic tone to the work. There is a good balance of comparison and contrast. For example, the author talks about potential and why it is important and then he goes on to talk about purpose and why that is more significant than potential. I appreciate Crowe's ability to say, here is something you should know, but also know that it isn't the main thing you need to know.
People who have been journeying with Christ for many seasons of life might not find anything particularly new or compelling about this book, but it is very well suited for its target audience.
I received a free digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
January 17, 2019
In the biblical letter of 2 Timothy, the apostle Paul reflected on his passing life, saying, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” What would it be like to creatively peel back the curtain of Paul’s final 12 hours of his time on earth? What could we learn about living life with purpose, redeeming the time, and embracing the mysterious reality that we, too, are on a sacred journey?
Bible Gateway interviewed Brent Crowe (@BrentACrowe) about his book, Moments ’til Midnight: The Final Thoughts of a Wandering Pilgrim (B&H Books, 2018). Read our interview with Brent here: https://bit.ly/2AQsmWB
Bible Gateway interviewed Brent Crowe (@BrentACrowe) about his book, Moments ’til Midnight: The Final Thoughts of a Wandering Pilgrim (B&H Books, 2018). Read our interview with Brent here: https://bit.ly/2AQsmWB
December 23, 2018
As I was reading this book, I was transported back in time about a half a century-give or take a few years. We all read the books in English class about important people, and then had to write an essay on what we would do if we found out we had only one day to live. Or what we would do if we were to be left sightless in 24 hours, or even what would we listen too if we were only going to have our hearing for another day or week. Thinking back, I probably could have come up with something much more profound.
Moments til Midnight: The Final Thoughts of a Wandering Pilgrim by Brent Crowe ((B&H, 2018) asks the reader to look at the last hours of the Apostle Paul, imprisoned because of his faith in Jesus, and his desire to share the good news of the Messiah throughout the known world. But Paul’s essay on “what would you do with only hours to live?” is so much more complex than anything I thought of 50 years ago.
Paul is well known for his comments on running the race set before him, and finishing well. And here we have some possible musings that the apostle might have made as he waited for his executioner to bring him from his cell one final time. Musings about the race that he had run, what he might have done differently, what he was proud of, what distressed him. And then Crowe adds snippets of information about the race that others are running, or have run.
And reading about Paul’s essay on life, or the way that other people are running their races asks me to pull out the paper and pencil in order to rewrite my essay on what I would do if I knew I only had a few hours left to live.
As a member of the publisher’s bloggers’ program, I received a copy of this book and was asked to write an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review.
4/5
Moments til Midnight: The Final Thoughts of a Wandering Pilgrim by Brent Crowe ((B&H, 2018) asks the reader to look at the last hours of the Apostle Paul, imprisoned because of his faith in Jesus, and his desire to share the good news of the Messiah throughout the known world. But Paul’s essay on “what would you do with only hours to live?” is so much more complex than anything I thought of 50 years ago.
Paul is well known for his comments on running the race set before him, and finishing well. And here we have some possible musings that the apostle might have made as he waited for his executioner to bring him from his cell one final time. Musings about the race that he had run, what he might have done differently, what he was proud of, what distressed him. And then Crowe adds snippets of information about the race that others are running, or have run.
And reading about Paul’s essay on life, or the way that other people are running their races asks me to pull out the paper and pencil in order to rewrite my essay on what I would do if I knew I only had a few hours left to live.
As a member of the publisher’s bloggers’ program, I received a copy of this book and was asked to write an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review.
4/5
September 12, 2018
This book is a Christ-focused Christian living book. The author used the premise of what Paul might have thought about in his last hours as a way to tie the varied topics of the various chapters together. He started with some historical information about Paul's life and some speculation about his last hours in prison before his execution.
The rest of the chapters were about things that Paul talked about in his letters or might have thought about in those last hours. Each chapter had modern stories that tied into the topic and also quoted Scripture (usually Paul) about the topic. The writing was easy to follow. The chapters talked about: grace, living with a purpose, the value and role of friendship, having a heavenly mindset (pilgrim mentality), clothing ourselves in virtues (based on Colossians 3:12-14), our family in Christ and unity, how God empowers us, communicating clearly, living life to God's standard of excellence, overcoming failure and regrets, leaving a legacy, and dying well.
I received an ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley.
The rest of the chapters were about things that Paul talked about in his letters or might have thought about in those last hours. Each chapter had modern stories that tied into the topic and also quoted Scripture (usually Paul) about the topic. The writing was easy to follow. The chapters talked about: grace, living with a purpose, the value and role of friendship, having a heavenly mindset (pilgrim mentality), clothing ourselves in virtues (based on Colossians 3:12-14), our family in Christ and unity, how God empowers us, communicating clearly, living life to God's standard of excellence, overcoming failure and regrets, leaving a legacy, and dying well.
I received an ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley.
November 30, 2018
Let me start off by saying that this book is not what I had expected. The description made it sound as though this was going to be a fiction work depicting the last days of Paul. The description sounded interesting which was why I picked it. But this is a non-fiction book about Paul's most important words in the New Testament. This is more of a treatment on Christian living and Christian character. There is nothing wrong with that but the summary is a bit deceiving.
This book doesn't contain anything new that a mature Christian can learn from but it's perfect for the new Brothers and Sisters in the faith. It discusses Christian character and I would say is more of a summary of Paul's letters to the churches. The bulk of the book's material is about grace, redemption, and Christian conduct. I would have given this book 4 stars but have to go with a 3 because it's not what you'd expect and it has nothing new to teach a mature Christian.
I received a copy of this book from B&H in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed here are entirely my own.
This book doesn't contain anything new that a mature Christian can learn from but it's perfect for the new Brothers and Sisters in the faith. It discusses Christian character and I would say is more of a summary of Paul's letters to the churches. The bulk of the book's material is about grace, redemption, and Christian conduct. I would have given this book 4 stars but have to go with a 3 because it's not what you'd expect and it has nothing new to teach a mature Christian.
I received a copy of this book from B&H in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed here are entirely my own.
October 29, 2025
It felt like a pertinent time for a re-read of this book that had such an impact on me in high school. First of all, still one of my favorite and most creative covers I’ve ever seen, look closely. As well as just a creative way to share such Biblical truths by using the final hours of Paul’s life to journey through different truths he lived by and preached.
With the overall theme being to wander well on our pilgrimage to heaven, this book is for all who follow Christ, young and old. It’s one of those books that I’m glad I read young because it’s shaped the way I wander through this world in major ways. I won’t spoil how because you much do the task of reading it yourself and learning.
I haven’t read a Brent Crowe book in a while or sat under his teaching in years so it was a blessing to enjoy his story telling, read his quotes from places I’d never think to look, and be inspired by his passion and drive to live a life of excellency.
With the overall theme being to wander well on our pilgrimage to heaven, this book is for all who follow Christ, young and old. It’s one of those books that I’m glad I read young because it’s shaped the way I wander through this world in major ways. I won’t spoil how because you much do the task of reading it yourself and learning.
I haven’t read a Brent Crowe book in a while or sat under his teaching in years so it was a blessing to enjoy his story telling, read his quotes from places I’d never think to look, and be inspired by his passion and drive to live a life of excellency.
October 29, 2018
Moments 'til Midnight
The Final Thoughts of a Wandering Pilgrim
by Brent Crowe
B&H Publishing Group (B&H Books, Holman Bibles, B&H Español, and B&H Kids)
B&H Books
Christian
Pub Date 01 Sep 2018
I am reviewing a copy of Moments till Midnight through B &H Books and netgalley:
In 2 Timothy, Paul’s letter reflected on the passing of his life, saying it was like a vapor. Paul was a Pilgrim passing from this life to the next.
In this book author Brent Crowe retells the last twelve hours of Paul’s life, from the perspective of Paul, using his imagination.
In this book the readers will be encouraged to live with purpose, to redeem the rinse and to embrace the reality we are on a sacred journey.
I give Moments till Midnight five out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
July 16, 2019
I really enjoyed this book as a reflection of Paul’s last moment, broken down into the hours before his life was to end by the hands of the Romans. It was not an academic or difficult read and being familiar with Brent Crowe, some of the stories and reflections are genuine. He compares the mindset of what Paul is going through as each hour passes and lays out how we should walk through our Christian life, viewing it as a pilgrimage to honor God. I thought it was a fantastic read, for both young and old. I enjoyed a chapter each night, reflecting on what Paul May have felt and comparing it to the story he told. I really enjoyed this and will read it again.
September 15, 2018
This was an easy to read Christian living book. I was anticipating a novel set in biblical times following the struggles that Paul had in the last moments of his life. While it wasn't that, it certainly was a good book filled with practical wisdom. I took a few quotes away with me from completing this book!
October 16, 2019
Strong beginning and ending. It plods a bit in the middle. I was expecting more concerning the end of Paul’s ministry and it basically gave an overview—a reminiscence of the Apostle. It’s a worthy premise but I didn’t think fully executed. A number of good illustrations and applications are found.
February 24, 2021
This book is an excellent take on the topic of living well. The author uses the life of Paul to beautifully illustrate our journey as pilgrims. I would highly recommend reading this book, especially if you find yourself in a season of discouragement regarding your spiritual journey.
Read
June 20, 2019A poignant memoir of the last day of Paul using each hour as a testimony of salvation.
October 19, 2020
My friend calls this hypothetical exegesis. lol. It is not that good.
October 19, 2020
Pretty bad. All hypothetical "moments" in Paul's imprisonment. Stick to Biblical text please.
Read
January 2, 2022An interesting read on what it could of been like during the Apostle Paul's last days.
September 26, 2023
Not a fan of the message Bible and NOT a fan of “creative imaginings” on how Paul’s last 12 hours went. Adding anything to scripture is a no go for me.
May 14, 2019
Most women, when asked who is their favorite Bible hero, say, King David! Bathsheba-gate means nothing to them. He was a musician! He killed a giant!
But I like Paul. I even dare to think, that if we had met here on Earth, we would become friends. He was fervent and choleric, honest and very human. Broken-hearted sometimes, oh so jazzy - always.
So I like him and Elijah. For the same reasons, mostly. And also because of Elijah's stellar sarcasm.
I am yet to find and read a book on Elijah, but this book on Paul is a treasure box.
But I like Paul. I even dare to think, that if we had met here on Earth, we would become friends. He was fervent and choleric, honest and very human. Broken-hearted sometimes, oh so jazzy - always.
So I like him and Elijah. For the same reasons, mostly. And also because of Elijah's stellar sarcasm.
I am yet to find and read a book on Elijah, but this book on Paul is a treasure box.
January 10, 2019
The picture and the description led me to believe this book was going to be a series of first person thoughts from Paul's perspective. Instead, the book uses Paul's final hours before his execution as a frame for telling the reader modern day anecdotes and feelings-based theology. Frankly, it's nothing I haven't already read or heard and there isn't really any meat on the bones. I thought there would be more historical research and insight, but it's really just a few sermons on grace, living with purpose, the value and role of friendship, pilgrim mentality, virtuous living, unity with the family (body) of Christ, and more. It didn't grab me.
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for a fair review.
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for a fair review.
December 12, 2018
Great book on what Paul may have been thinking before he went to be with the Lord
In his new book, "Moments ‘til Midnight: The Final Thoughts of a Wandering Pilgrim," Brent Crowe does a fairly good job of conveying the mind of Paul in his final moments here on earth. Broken down into an hour-by-hour account, Crowe beautifully describes what Paul might have been thinking in his final 12 hours before his death.
Published by B&H Publishing, Crowe’s 240-page book reads like a commentary as Crowe apparently had intended. He details what Paul may have been pondering in his final hours: Everything from living by grace, his loyal friendship with Luke, to living in “togetherness” with one another and the world needing “a new breed of thinkers – people who are ever aware of God’s grace in their lives and thus believe that with Christ all things are possible (page 134).”
In the end, Paul lived his life completely sold out, and dedicated to the Lord and His purposes for his life, always pointing to our Lord and Savior as his ultimate example. What few theological qualms I do have with Crowe’s interpretation of Scripture and often questionable commentary pale in comparison to his mastery of the subject matter and detailed analysis of what may have been Paul’s last thoughts in his final moments here on earth.
Overall, while some readers may dismiss Crowe’s account as a commentary based solely on emotion, nonetheless, Crowe’s description and tapestry of possible scenarios Paul may have experienced before his impending death and entrance into the presence of the Lord makes this book a great read. It is well-written, insightful and thought-provoking.
I highly recommend it and gave it a 4 out of 5 stars.
Full disclosure: In accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, I received this book free through B&H Publishing. My opinions are my own and I wasn’t required to write a positive review.
© 2018 by Doug S., M.A.
In his new book, "Moments ‘til Midnight: The Final Thoughts of a Wandering Pilgrim," Brent Crowe does a fairly good job of conveying the mind of Paul in his final moments here on earth. Broken down into an hour-by-hour account, Crowe beautifully describes what Paul might have been thinking in his final 12 hours before his death.
Published by B&H Publishing, Crowe’s 240-page book reads like a commentary as Crowe apparently had intended. He details what Paul may have been pondering in his final hours: Everything from living by grace, his loyal friendship with Luke, to living in “togetherness” with one another and the world needing “a new breed of thinkers – people who are ever aware of God’s grace in their lives and thus believe that with Christ all things are possible (page 134).”
In the end, Paul lived his life completely sold out, and dedicated to the Lord and His purposes for his life, always pointing to our Lord and Savior as his ultimate example. What few theological qualms I do have with Crowe’s interpretation of Scripture and often questionable commentary pale in comparison to his mastery of the subject matter and detailed analysis of what may have been Paul’s last thoughts in his final moments here on earth.
Overall, while some readers may dismiss Crowe’s account as a commentary based solely on emotion, nonetheless, Crowe’s description and tapestry of possible scenarios Paul may have experienced before his impending death and entrance into the presence of the Lord makes this book a great read. It is well-written, insightful and thought-provoking.
I highly recommend it and gave it a 4 out of 5 stars.
Full disclosure: In accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, I received this book free through B&H Publishing. My opinions are my own and I wasn’t required to write a positive review.
© 2018 by Doug S., M.A.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews