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What Does God Want?
What does God want? Sounds like a simple question, but if you give it a bit of thought, it’s really not. For starters, you have to know who’s asking the question. People will ask it for a lot of different reasons. It’s pretty obvious that the question is a religious one. Questions about God naturally get filed in that folder. If you’ve spent a lot of your life in church, you might think you already know the answer. You might know parts of it, but I can guarantee you’ll see a lot that’s new here. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill “Christianity 101” book. Unfortunately, the thing that most often gets in the way of the wonder of the story is religion, and that isn’t what this book offers. And if you’ve never been in a church or heard much about the Bible, don’t worry. You’ve got nothing to unlearn or re-learn. It’s all fresh. That makes you an ideal reader. So what does God want? Best-selling author, Dr. Michael S. Heiser, shows readers that the answer is pretty simple. God wants YOU. That might surprise you. You may doubt it. That’s okay. But it’s the right answer. But it isn’t enough of an answer. You can’t get a sense of how amazing and profound the answer is by just that one sentence. There’s actually a long, remarkable story behind the answer—one that isn’t well known by most people interested in the question.
118 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 31, 2018
817 people are currently reading
578 people want to read
About the author
Michael S. Heiser
66 books947 followersMike Heiser is a scholar in the fields of biblical studies and the ancient Near East. He is the Academic Editor of Logos Bible Software. Mike earned the M.A. and Ph.D. in Hebrew Bible and Semitic Languages at the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 2004. He has also earned an M.A. in Ancient History from the University of Pennsylvania (major fields: Ancient Israel and Egyptology). His main research interests are Israelite religion (especially Israel’s divine council), biblical theology, ancient Near Eastern religion, biblical & ancient Semitic languages, and ancient Jewish binitarian monotheism.
Mike blogs about biblical studies at The Naked Bible, and fringe beliefs about the ancient world at PaleoBabble. He offers courses to the public in Old Testament, biblical theology, Israelite religion, ancient languages, the Book of Enoch through his online institute, MEMRA.
Mike's other academic interests include the paranormal and the occult. His UFO Religions blog discusses how the pop cultural belief in aliens shape religious worldviews. Mike has been a frequent guest on a number of radio programs such as Coast to Coast AM. He is best known for his critique of the ancient astronaut theories of Zecharia Sitchin and his paranormal thriller, The Facade, which intertwines many of his interests.
Mike blogs about biblical studies at The Naked Bible, and fringe beliefs about the ancient world at PaleoBabble. He offers courses to the public in Old Testament, biblical theology, Israelite religion, ancient languages, the Book of Enoch through his online institute, MEMRA.
Mike's other academic interests include the paranormal and the occult. His UFO Religions blog discusses how the pop cultural belief in aliens shape religious worldviews. Mike has been a frequent guest on a number of radio programs such as Coast to Coast AM. He is best known for his critique of the ancient astronaut theories of Zecharia Sitchin and his paranormal thriller, The Facade, which intertwines many of his interests.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 116 reviews
January 13, 2019
Simple, concise & a great starting book for new disciples!
I just love how a brilliant scholar like Michael Heiser can take heady scholarly jargon & make it so basic & accessible for the lay person. I’ll be purchasing plenty of these to give to new believers! He writes books geared to the newest believer all the way to the most advanced Hebrew scholar. I can’t get enough of his stuff. Thankfully he has 240+ podcast episodes on The Naked Bible where I get to nerd out on theology!
I just love how a brilliant scholar like Michael Heiser can take heady scholarly jargon & make it so basic & accessible for the lay person. I’ll be purchasing plenty of these to give to new believers! He writes books geared to the newest believer all the way to the most advanced Hebrew scholar. I can’t get enough of his stuff. Thankfully he has 240+ podcast episodes on The Naked Bible where I get to nerd out on theology!
April 17, 2022
Best overview I’ve ever read of the big story of the Bible because he not only includes the story of humanity on earth but also what is going on in the unseen realm. This book is a great introduction to Heiser’s work. I’d recommend reading this book first, then Supernatural or The Unseen Realm (this one is a more academic take on the subject).
June 30, 2019
Contains insights that had not occurred to me before. A very rewarding read.
December 1, 2018
Excellent Summary of the Bible, Gospel, and Discipleship
Dr. Heiser presents the overall narrative of the Bible clearly in a few short chapters. He then digs in on the gospel, what it is and isn't. He does a great job using Scripture to back up his position. Lastly, he tackles discipleship with a clarity I have not found elsewhere. I very much appreciated this book for both its concise and plain spoken presentation of its subjects. This is a terrific book both for non-believers interested in understanding what the Bible and Jesus are all about, new believers wanting to know what is expected of them, and seasoned believers looking for a good refresher or tool to use in introducing Jesus and the Bible to others.
Dr. Heiser presents the overall narrative of the Bible clearly in a few short chapters. He then digs in on the gospel, what it is and isn't. He does a great job using Scripture to back up his position. Lastly, he tackles discipleship with a clarity I have not found elsewhere. I very much appreciated this book for both its concise and plain spoken presentation of its subjects. This is a terrific book both for non-believers interested in understanding what the Bible and Jesus are all about, new believers wanting to know what is expected of them, and seasoned believers looking for a good refresher or tool to use in introducing Jesus and the Bible to others.
December 28, 2024
Short book that would be very good for a new believer or even someone that wants to go deeper into the story of the Bible for the first time. Sweet book.
Read
August 12, 2019Excellent for new believers and believers who lack solid foundational teaching.
I‘ve been pastoring for three years and in search of excellent foundational material to teach those who join our Christian community whether newly converted or not. I’ve found it in this book! I plan to use and share this for introductory discipleship training.
I certainly wish I came across Dr. Heiser long ago. He is certainly a wonderful gift to the body of Christ. I’ve been blessed in profound ways by his material. He’s a kindred spirit in that he’s not afraid to be different, as the Spirit leads.
I’ve read and reading his other works such as The Unseen Realm, his book on Angels, Notes on Leviticus, Notes on Acts, and I’m a subscriber to his Naked Bible podcasts.
I‘ve been pastoring for three years and in search of excellent foundational material to teach those who join our Christian community whether newly converted or not. I’ve found it in this book! I plan to use and share this for introductory discipleship training.
I certainly wish I came across Dr. Heiser long ago. He is certainly a wonderful gift to the body of Christ. I’ve been blessed in profound ways by his material. He’s a kindred spirit in that he’s not afraid to be different, as the Spirit leads.
I’ve read and reading his other works such as The Unseen Realm, his book on Angels, Notes on Leviticus, Notes on Acts, and I’m a subscriber to his Naked Bible podcasts.
February 5, 2020
I like a lot of what Heiser writes, and enjoy his podcast also. One of the things that I liked about this little volume was that he shared a reading order for some of the rest of his books. I have been inclined to agree with this view of the Divine Council, and the other implications that he shares the unseen realm -- so his presentation in this book of the story of what God has done, in the first half of the book, was or real interest to me. I didn't find the second half of the book quite as compelling. But, if someone is looking for an introduction to the writings of Heiser, this is a good starting place. I would recommend this book, but, maybe, not quite as strongly as some of his other works like "Supernatural".
April 18, 2019
Straight to the point
I wanted something not wrapped in excess but truly tries to answer this question (title question). I got that and more. I recommend if you've been a Christian for a long time and feel as though the church has convoluted the story (by way of keeping interest or otherwise) or if you're new and want to know what it's all about. I may be biased as I have liked the teachings of Heiser, Agathos, etc. Which firmly teach in terms of "your works don't save you", but in either case (biased or unbiased) I recommend.
I wanted something not wrapped in excess but truly tries to answer this question (title question). I got that and more. I recommend if you've been a Christian for a long time and feel as though the church has convoluted the story (by way of keeping interest or otherwise) or if you're new and want to know what it's all about. I may be biased as I have liked the teachings of Heiser, Agathos, etc. Which firmly teach in terms of "your works don't save you", but in either case (biased or unbiased) I recommend.
August 5, 2019
I've been following Jesus for a year now and I felt the need to be able to give those interested an overall story about what means to "be Christian". This book does exactly that, whilst adding some new perspectives on why we, and the hosts of heaven, rebelled. I would like to get more detail about this, because at times it feels confusing, but I understand this is an introductory book.
December 26, 2019
Exactly as described!
Heiser is an excellent resource for guiding you through the cultural and language difficulties we encounter when reading the Bible so that we can hear the message that God has given us. His theology is sound and his passion for searching for the truth is needed in these times. Highly recommended!
Heiser is an excellent resource for guiding you through the cultural and language difficulties we encounter when reading the Bible so that we can hear the message that God has given us. His theology is sound and his passion for searching for the truth is needed in these times. Highly recommended!
March 4, 2020
Refresher/Starting Point
I'm already a fan of Heiser so I was pleased. Having read most of his other more extensive works I can't say I gleaned much from this particular book but I can appreciate the refresher on the basics and still managed to get a few notable tidbits. Definitely worth the read as a refresher or starting point on your faith journey.
I'm already a fan of Heiser so I was pleased. Having read most of his other more extensive works I can't say I gleaned much from this particular book but I can appreciate the refresher on the basics and still managed to get a few notable tidbits. Definitely worth the read as a refresher or starting point on your faith journey.
August 13, 2024
Intrigued to read more by this author.
July 21, 2023
Easy to understand
I've read a lot of Christian books. This book is the most understandable book by far! I will re-read this again.
I'd recommend this book to everyone. The language is easy to understand from front to back. The author writes about his Christian experiences without being overly forceful and austere. He even makes the Biblical stories seem less confusing, at least for me. Whether you agree or disagree with what is written, I still hope people will find some comfort and hope that they aren't alone in this world. I also think it's good to focus on something that's not bad news, world wars etc.
I've read a lot of Christian books. This book is the most understandable book by far! I will re-read this again.
I'd recommend this book to everyone. The language is easy to understand from front to back. The author writes about his Christian experiences without being overly forceful and austere. He even makes the Biblical stories seem less confusing, at least for me. Whether you agree or disagree with what is written, I still hope people will find some comfort and hope that they aren't alone in this world. I also think it's good to focus on something that's not bad news, world wars etc.
June 23, 2023
Primer on the basics of Christian life
This book gives an overview of the Bible in practical and comprehensible terms. It tells the big picture story including parts that are confusing and difficult to piece together. The book additionally illuminates the spiritual beings who co-inhabit creation with us.(There have always been spots about this subject in the Bible I skip over because they make no sense to me. This book addresses many of those foggy parts.) It also helps us comprehend the fullness of God’s creation and being made in God’s image. (We should understand God’s design and principles in order to live fully and abundantly.) It teaches us what life as a believer entails and hammers home the rock solid truth of God’s love for us.
This book gives an overview of the Bible in practical and comprehensible terms. It tells the big picture story including parts that are confusing and difficult to piece together. The book additionally illuminates the spiritual beings who co-inhabit creation with us.(There have always been spots about this subject in the Bible I skip over because they make no sense to me. This book addresses many of those foggy parts.) It also helps us comprehend the fullness of God’s creation and being made in God’s image. (We should understand God’s design and principles in order to live fully and abundantly.) It teaches us what life as a believer entails and hammers home the rock solid truth of God’s love for us.
December 1, 2018
Ready to clear the clutter?
Many people study and do so in great depth only to feel inundated with too much information and overwhelmed by neverending questions with not enough life to gain all the answers. What Does God Want? will help to snap you back to what's important, to what's essential and offer you a primer of what to keep one's spiritual eye on. God wants us. He always has. We must carry on His will and rescue our fellow imagers, loving and serving like Jesus and become more useful to His Kingdom.
Many people study and do so in great depth only to feel inundated with too much information and overwhelmed by neverending questions with not enough life to gain all the answers. What Does God Want? will help to snap you back to what's important, to what's essential and offer you a primer of what to keep one's spiritual eye on. God wants us. He always has. We must carry on His will and rescue our fellow imagers, loving and serving like Jesus and become more useful to His Kingdom.
April 7, 2019
Excellent summary of biblical texts and meaning
The Bible is a vast collection of wisdom, history, and inspirational texts of guidance. There is just so much to absorb, that it can literally take a lifetime to grasp. So where to begin? I recommend starting here with this book. Michael Heiser does a great job breaking down all the “need to know info” to get you started. And if you’ve been reading the Bible for a long time this could be a great summary reference for times you need to reestablish where you’re at in your faith. This is an excellent book.
The Bible is a vast collection of wisdom, history, and inspirational texts of guidance. There is just so much to absorb, that it can literally take a lifetime to grasp. So where to begin? I recommend starting here with this book. Michael Heiser does a great job breaking down all the “need to know info” to get you started. And if you’ve been reading the Bible for a long time this could be a great summary reference for times you need to reestablish where you’re at in your faith. This is an excellent book.
October 13, 2019
If you are starting with Michael Heiser books. This is the book to start with. What I was expecting is the super summary version of Supernatural. But while the book delivered on the promise, it also went extra mile in unlocking the practical christian living in Part II which is epic. The gospel, salvation and discipleship explained in day-to-day terms with what it means portions are true gems in this must-read for Christians.
I would recommend Christians to read this book before going to Michael Heiser's Supernatural.
I would recommend Christians to read this book before going to Michael Heiser's Supernatural.
April 5, 2020
A short read, but a powerhouse
As a faithful and long-time listener to The Naked Bible podcast, and having read most of his books, I feel that Dr. Heiser is a good friend. Much of Dr. Heiser’s teaching has helped me to understand the Bible in a liberating way. Being raised in the legalistic, Baptist paradigm, I was in need of being freed. Jesus‘s words, “You shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free,” ring ever more true for me, after having read this book. “What Does God Want“ is a powerful, “little“ book. Thank you, Mike!
As a faithful and long-time listener to The Naked Bible podcast, and having read most of his books, I feel that Dr. Heiser is a good friend. Much of Dr. Heiser’s teaching has helped me to understand the Bible in a liberating way. Being raised in the legalistic, Baptist paradigm, I was in need of being freed. Jesus‘s words, “You shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free,” ring ever more true for me, after having read this book. “What Does God Want“ is a powerful, “little“ book. Thank you, Mike!
October 29, 2020
This one is not for people looking for theological depth. The target audience is individuals from all religious inclinations and even those that don't have any inclination at all. It provide a very grounded discussion for people looking at the God of the Bible from the outside in, to understand what He wants.
Some points made in the book might be new to professing Christians too but those that are familiar with the works of Dr. Heiser will have encounters those in some of his other works like The Unseen Realm and Reversing Hermon.
It was a good refresher and I enjoyed reading it.
Some points made in the book might be new to professing Christians too but those that are familiar with the works of Dr. Heiser will have encounters those in some of his other works like The Unseen Realm and Reversing Hermon.
It was a good refresher and I enjoyed reading it.
December 22, 2018
I’ve long been a fan of Dr. Heiser. He is gifted at communicating complex academic and theological ideas to the layperson.
Though I grew up within the church and have been blessed with pastors who thoughtfully exposit Scripture through most of my life, I found Dr. Heiser’s simple outline of the Good News made me feel anew just how good that news is. I feel refreshed and encouraged. I highly recommend this book to anyone with any interest in what God’s message to us really is.
Though I grew up within the church and have been blessed with pastors who thoughtfully exposit Scripture through most of my life, I found Dr. Heiser’s simple outline of the Good News made me feel anew just how good that news is. I feel refreshed and encouraged. I highly recommend this book to anyone with any interest in what God’s message to us really is.
June 18, 2019
Excellent. Biblical. True.
It is refreshing to read a book about the Bible, God, salvation and discipleship that does not have a denominational bend to it.
I follow his Naked Bible podcast and couldn't resist grading one of his books when I had the chance.
This book is extremely helpful to understanding the biblical story and God's plan for humanity. I look forward to reading more from Dr. Heiser.
It is refreshing to read a book about the Bible, God, salvation and discipleship that does not have a denominational bend to it.
I follow his Naked Bible podcast and couldn't resist grading one of his books when I had the chance.
This book is extremely helpful to understanding the biblical story and God's plan for humanity. I look forward to reading more from Dr. Heiser.
September 22, 2019
Deep truth, easy to understand
Dr. Heiser has the ability to convey deep truths in ways anyone can understand. These basics of Christian faith are often either glossed over or over-comp!icated when taught in church or by well-being believers one-on-one. God's comprehensive plan and overarching purposes are sometimes completely overlooked. "What Does God Want" is a must read for every believer, regardless of your time in the Lord
Dr. Heiser has the ability to convey deep truths in ways anyone can understand. These basics of Christian faith are often either glossed over or over-comp!icated when taught in church or by well-being believers one-on-one. God's comprehensive plan and overarching purposes are sometimes completely overlooked. "What Does God Want" is a must read for every believer, regardless of your time in the Lord
November 23, 2019
Good read
Presents a clear overview of the story of the Bible and the how to be a follower of Christ. This book also provides an important foundational understanding of how our physical world interacts with the spiritual.
Whether you are new to the Bible or have studied the Bible for years, you will learn something new. Heiser presents important foundational understandings of the Bible’s overall story that is rarely discussed or understood in today’s Christian culture.
Presents a clear overview of the story of the Bible and the how to be a follower of Christ. This book also provides an important foundational understanding of how our physical world interacts with the spiritual.
Whether you are new to the Bible or have studied the Bible for years, you will learn something new. Heiser presents important foundational understandings of the Bible’s overall story that is rarely discussed or understood in today’s Christian culture.
September 9, 2020
Brilliant A must to all people!
I loved this little booklet. A must to all people. While trying to study the Bible we get so caught up in Commandments, do`s and don`ts, visions, prophecies, Judges, Kings and Prophets and miss the amazing story of the Bible. What really happened and what does that mean to me.
This book will open it up for you, and you will never read your Bible the same way ever again!
I loved this little booklet. A must to all people. While trying to study the Bible we get so caught up in Commandments, do`s and don`ts, visions, prophecies, Judges, Kings and Prophets and miss the amazing story of the Bible. What really happened and what does that mean to me.
This book will open it up for you, and you will never read your Bible the same way ever again!
March 20, 2023
Great introductory book to what it means to be saved as a Christian. Would recommend to anyone wanting to know the 'why' behind the Gospel. I was glad to see that Heiser touched on the disciplines that should make up a Christians walk. It would have been nice if he spent some more time fleshing these disciplines out. However this is a great entry point and summary on what God wants.
Spoiler. He wants you to be in his family because he loves you.
Spoiler. He wants you to be in his family because he loves you.
December 20, 2023
EDIT: I just read back through my highlights and gave this an additional star. The highlights being an even further simplification of this already basic overview….
If someone did not have the interest or patience to even read this whole book, just these highlights are a great intro and Gospel presentation (in the characteristic matter-of-fact Heiser style.). The beauty of the Gospel is in it’s simplicity.
____________________________________________
The “voice” in this book sounds very much like Dr Heiser’s speaking (which is endearing.) This is a very basic breakdown of the story of God relating to people and of the Gospel.
It is an excellent overview for non-Christians or new Christians who want a high level view of what “this” is all about. It is also a good resource for Believers for “unlearning” some distorted or convoluted teaching on some topics.
The terms glossaries are good for definition of terms which are often tossed about in “christianese” but may be misunderstood. I recommend reading vs skimming over them.
At the end of the book is a Summary of Supernatural Terms, which is an excellent high level overview in Dr Heiser’s trademark area of expertise. This section is a Must-Read as it is the piece which is not commonly discussed or is commonly misunderstood. These few pages could also be a good “entry” into understanding the unseen realm. He also guides the reader to further exploration, including his book “Supernatural” which he describes as also being written in this basic and simple style. I may check that one out next..
If someone did not have the interest or patience to even read this whole book, just these highlights are a great intro and Gospel presentation (in the characteristic matter-of-fact Heiser style.). The beauty of the Gospel is in it’s simplicity.
____________________________________________
The “voice” in this book sounds very much like Dr Heiser’s speaking (which is endearing.) This is a very basic breakdown of the story of God relating to people and of the Gospel.
It is an excellent overview for non-Christians or new Christians who want a high level view of what “this” is all about. It is also a good resource for Believers for “unlearning” some distorted or convoluted teaching on some topics.
The terms glossaries are good for definition of terms which are often tossed about in “christianese” but may be misunderstood. I recommend reading vs skimming over them.
At the end of the book is a Summary of Supernatural Terms, which is an excellent high level overview in Dr Heiser’s trademark area of expertise. This section is a Must-Read as it is the piece which is not commonly discussed or is commonly misunderstood. These few pages could also be a good “entry” into understanding the unseen realm. He also guides the reader to further exploration, including his book “Supernatural” which he describes as also being written in this basic and simple style. I may check that one out next..
May 1, 2024
THE FIRST HALF OF THIS BOOK IS A 5+ . The author does a fantastic job of showing you that God wants you in His family. He doesn't need you, He wants you in His family, loves you deeply, and that is why He created you. The second half of the book is flawed in many places as the author does not rightly divide the books of the bible as we were commanded to in 2 Timothy 2:15. This leads to blending law and grace, and thinking the books of Matthew MarK Luke and John are direct instruction to the church when they were to Israel.
For more on this:
The Simple Gospel That Saves:
While we can learn things about God in every book of the bible, in order to understand which books of the bible are direct instruction TO us we need to rightly divide the word of God - 2 Timothy 2:15 KJV. Once you rightly divide the word of God by simply understanding who God was speaking to in each book it removes any conflicting scriptures , difficult verses and unlocks the beauty, freedom, and peace of God’s amazing love and grace and eternal life/salvation in paradise made available freely to us ( Ephesians 2:8-9 KJV ) by the death burial and resurrection of Jesus , without the need for religion or doing good works (cleaning up your life) BEFORE you can be saved. Simply believe/trust the gospel Jesus gave Paul for the church / body of Christ ( 1 Corinthians 15:1-4 KJV) for salvation in this time of the dispensation of grace that will end without notice with the rapture. When you do, you have full assurance of salvation and are sealed until the rapture. Then study Paul’s epistles Romans through Philemon to learn and grow in your new exciting identity and hope of a future you cannot fathom how great it will be. We were created by God to live with Him in harmony and in heaven/PARADISE (2 Corinthians 12:4 KJV) and heaven will be that and better in ways we cannot imagine or comprehend. He intends to restore EXACTLY that for those who accept His free and gracious offer of reconciliation through the death burial and resurrection of His son. Trust that and NOTHING else. Because that is the only thing that saves you and keeps you saved. What Jesus did. NOT what you do. Not your church, your pastor, your good works, your heart, your feelings, you perceiving yourself to be a good enough person on your own , going to mass, and whatever other man made religious attempts to earn your own righteousness that you can never achieve. Salvation is by what Jesus did not what you do.
In the books of Matthew Mark Luke and John , Jesus himself said He was speaking to Israel under their program. You are not Israel. That program with Israel was put on hold due to their rejection of Jesus (Romans 9-11 KJV) But God had a plan for victory before creation , a mystery hidden in God and hidden from ages and generations and from the “princes of this world” and satan (Ephesians 3:8-10 KJV) while Jesus converted and revealed this mystery of the dispensation of the grace of God to the Apostle Paul (starting in Acts 9 KJV) , part of which is the new creature, the church, the body of Christ, a program distinct from Israel's program in the Old testament and Matthew Mark Luke and John, which were to Israel. Paul is our Apostle for the church today in this age of grace JUST as Moses was to Israel with the law …..and the 12 apostles Jesus converted during his earthly ministry will judge the twelve tribes of Israel - NOT THE BODY OF CHRIST - you see clearly that ISRAEL’s program and the church/body of Christ program are two different messages/ gospels. Everyone wants to make Jesus words in Matthew Mark Luke John the new law even though they do NOT actually obey a fraction of it. Jesus himself said He was talking to Israel. YOU ARE NOT ISRAEL. Acts 15 KJV and Galatians 1-2 KJV clearly show that Peter had the gospel to the circumcision Israel and Paul had the gospel of a different program to the gentiles or the uncircumcision….. Paul is our apostle for the church commissioned by Jesus. Genesis through Mid book of Acts Chapters 9-15 KJV (Paul’s conversion) is about Israel's program with God before it was put on hold with Israel's rejection of Jesus. Now we can learn from those books however Romans through Philemon are our direct and only instruction given by Jesus to the gentiles for the church age of grace until the rapture (which will occur next and without notice). After the rapture, Israel's program will RESUME ( Romans 9-11 KJV ) and the books of Hebrews through Revelation will be instruction for all during the tribulation, which will be the most difficult, UNCOMFORTABLE 7 years the earth has ever seen. ( Revelations 9:6 KJV And in those days shall men seek death, and shall not find it; and shall desire to die, and death shall flee from them.) God's desire for you now is to be reconciled to HIM and to receive His forgiveness right now for your past, present, and future sins, and to spend eternity with Him in love and paradise as this world was originally intended to be !! No sin, sorrow, or pain !!!
Trust/believe in the gospel that saves today - 1 Corinthians 15:1-4 KJV
Then study Romans through Philemons to grow in God’s grace !!
Lastly if you ask why this has not been taught by mainstream Christian religions/denominations/churches in buildings…….. when it is right in the Bible….well here is why :
2 Corinthians 4:3-4 KJV
3 But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost:
4 In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.
2 Corinthians 11:13-15 KJV
13 For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ.
14 And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.
15 Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.
Trust/believe in the gospel that saves today - 1 Corinthians 15:1-4 KJV
Then study Romans through Philemons to grow in God’s grace !!
Grace and peace !!!
This is my personal biblical belief with proof scriptures why I believe it.
For more on this:
The Simple Gospel That Saves:
While we can learn things about God in every book of the bible, in order to understand which books of the bible are direct instruction TO us we need to rightly divide the word of God - 2 Timothy 2:15 KJV. Once you rightly divide the word of God by simply understanding who God was speaking to in each book it removes any conflicting scriptures , difficult verses and unlocks the beauty, freedom, and peace of God’s amazing love and grace and eternal life/salvation in paradise made available freely to us ( Ephesians 2:8-9 KJV ) by the death burial and resurrection of Jesus , without the need for religion or doing good works (cleaning up your life) BEFORE you can be saved. Simply believe/trust the gospel Jesus gave Paul for the church / body of Christ ( 1 Corinthians 15:1-4 KJV) for salvation in this time of the dispensation of grace that will end without notice with the rapture. When you do, you have full assurance of salvation and are sealed until the rapture. Then study Paul’s epistles Romans through Philemon to learn and grow in your new exciting identity and hope of a future you cannot fathom how great it will be. We were created by God to live with Him in harmony and in heaven/PARADISE (2 Corinthians 12:4 KJV) and heaven will be that and better in ways we cannot imagine or comprehend. He intends to restore EXACTLY that for those who accept His free and gracious offer of reconciliation through the death burial and resurrection of His son. Trust that and NOTHING else. Because that is the only thing that saves you and keeps you saved. What Jesus did. NOT what you do. Not your church, your pastor, your good works, your heart, your feelings, you perceiving yourself to be a good enough person on your own , going to mass, and whatever other man made religious attempts to earn your own righteousness that you can never achieve. Salvation is by what Jesus did not what you do.
In the books of Matthew Mark Luke and John , Jesus himself said He was speaking to Israel under their program. You are not Israel. That program with Israel was put on hold due to their rejection of Jesus (Romans 9-11 KJV) But God had a plan for victory before creation , a mystery hidden in God and hidden from ages and generations and from the “princes of this world” and satan (Ephesians 3:8-10 KJV) while Jesus converted and revealed this mystery of the dispensation of the grace of God to the Apostle Paul (starting in Acts 9 KJV) , part of which is the new creature, the church, the body of Christ, a program distinct from Israel's program in the Old testament and Matthew Mark Luke and John, which were to Israel. Paul is our Apostle for the church today in this age of grace JUST as Moses was to Israel with the law …..and the 12 apostles Jesus converted during his earthly ministry will judge the twelve tribes of Israel - NOT THE BODY OF CHRIST - you see clearly that ISRAEL’s program and the church/body of Christ program are two different messages/ gospels. Everyone wants to make Jesus words in Matthew Mark Luke John the new law even though they do NOT actually obey a fraction of it. Jesus himself said He was talking to Israel. YOU ARE NOT ISRAEL. Acts 15 KJV and Galatians 1-2 KJV clearly show that Peter had the gospel to the circumcision Israel and Paul had the gospel of a different program to the gentiles or the uncircumcision….. Paul is our apostle for the church commissioned by Jesus. Genesis through Mid book of Acts Chapters 9-15 KJV (Paul’s conversion) is about Israel's program with God before it was put on hold with Israel's rejection of Jesus. Now we can learn from those books however Romans through Philemon are our direct and only instruction given by Jesus to the gentiles for the church age of grace until the rapture (which will occur next and without notice). After the rapture, Israel's program will RESUME ( Romans 9-11 KJV ) and the books of Hebrews through Revelation will be instruction for all during the tribulation, which will be the most difficult, UNCOMFORTABLE 7 years the earth has ever seen. ( Revelations 9:6 KJV And in those days shall men seek death, and shall not find it; and shall desire to die, and death shall flee from them.) God's desire for you now is to be reconciled to HIM and to receive His forgiveness right now for your past, present, and future sins, and to spend eternity with Him in love and paradise as this world was originally intended to be !! No sin, sorrow, or pain !!!
Trust/believe in the gospel that saves today - 1 Corinthians 15:1-4 KJV
Then study Romans through Philemons to grow in God’s grace !!
Lastly if you ask why this has not been taught by mainstream Christian religions/denominations/churches in buildings…….. when it is right in the Bible….well here is why :
2 Corinthians 4:3-4 KJV
3 But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost:
4 In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.
2 Corinthians 11:13-15 KJV
13 For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ.
14 And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.
15 Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.
Trust/believe in the gospel that saves today - 1 Corinthians 15:1-4 KJV
Then study Romans through Philemons to grow in God’s grace !!
Grace and peace !!!
This is my personal biblical belief with proof scriptures why I believe it.
December 19, 2025
A Great Book to Start Reading Dr. Michael Heiser's Writings!
This short read (i.e., about 100 pages) will explain to the new Bible reader what the Gospel is and how it relates to the Bible. I started down another path with the intent to read Pentateuch (i.e., the first five books of the Bible, in the Old Testament). By the time I completed reading the third book, Leviticus, I decided to pause and learn about the Gospel. Why? My parallel readings and podcasts kept telling me if I wanted to really understand the Bible start with Gospel. The recommendations weren't necessarily clear about why, just insistent to start there and I would find out why.
I had read Dr. Heiser's "Supernatural" book and was impressed with his clear writing style. While reading Anthony Delgado's "The Gospel Is Bigger Than You Think" I noted his reference to Dr. Heiser's "What Does God Want." Since it was a short (page length) reference and liking Heiser's writing style, I paused on Delgado's book to read Dr. Heiser's (this book under review). I'm glad I did as it cleared up a number of items in Delgado's that I was not fully grasping. I'm not criticizing Delgado's book, he may have made an assumption that his readers would already understand what was covered in "What Does God Want?"
Anyway, this book accomplished what I was looking for, a basic understanding of the Gospel. Now, I can return to finish Delgado's book which would be a good follow- up to "What Does God Want?" To be clear, I recommend both books.
This short read (i.e., about 100 pages) will explain to the new Bible reader what the Gospel is and how it relates to the Bible. I started down another path with the intent to read Pentateuch (i.e., the first five books of the Bible, in the Old Testament). By the time I completed reading the third book, Leviticus, I decided to pause and learn about the Gospel. Why? My parallel readings and podcasts kept telling me if I wanted to really understand the Bible start with Gospel. The recommendations weren't necessarily clear about why, just insistent to start there and I would find out why.
I had read Dr. Heiser's "Supernatural" book and was impressed with his clear writing style. While reading Anthony Delgado's "The Gospel Is Bigger Than You Think" I noted his reference to Dr. Heiser's "What Does God Want." Since it was a short (page length) reference and liking Heiser's writing style, I paused on Delgado's book to read Dr. Heiser's (this book under review). I'm glad I did as it cleared up a number of items in Delgado's that I was not fully grasping. I'm not criticizing Delgado's book, he may have made an assumption that his readers would already understand what was covered in "What Does God Want?"
Anyway, this book accomplished what I was looking for, a basic understanding of the Gospel. Now, I can return to finish Delgado's book which would be a good follow- up to "What Does God Want?" To be clear, I recommend both books.
December 27, 2022
What does God want? Most Christians ask this question at some point in their lives. But the answers seem as varied as everything else in life. But there is a simple, universal answer to the question of you care to look. What does God want? In short, He wants you. But what exactly does that mean?
Michael Heiser responds to this question by connecting the answer to the story of mankind as relayed in the Bible narrative. It seems astounding to say that God would want you. Doesn’t He know who you are? Doesn’t He know all your shortcomings and mistakes. Yea, He does, but He still wants you anyway. God does not need us, but He does want us. The answer is so simple that it just couldn’t be the right answer.
If you’re a new Christian or one who feels stuck in a stagnant relationship with God, this short book will breathe new life into you. It will help you to realize that God loves you even with all your flaws, and that He truly wants you, all of you, for Himself. Recommended to all Christians who want to know what God wants from them.
Michael Heiser responds to this question by connecting the answer to the story of mankind as relayed in the Bible narrative. It seems astounding to say that God would want you. Doesn’t He know who you are? Doesn’t He know all your shortcomings and mistakes. Yea, He does, but He still wants you anyway. God does not need us, but He does want us. The answer is so simple that it just couldn’t be the right answer.
If you’re a new Christian or one who feels stuck in a stagnant relationship with God, this short book will breathe new life into you. It will help you to realize that God loves you even with all your flaws, and that He truly wants you, all of you, for Himself. Recommended to all Christians who want to know what God wants from them.
January 10, 2023
Such a worthwhile and important read !
I have come across many a book describing and defining exactly what Christianity is all about but I have never found one that is not only thorough but that is an easy read and entirely engrossing! It is the perfect book to bless a nonbeliever with or like myself a 40 year lover of God. My son introduced me to Michael Heiser’s other books as well - Unseen Realm and Supernatural and I found myself enjoying the Old Testament in a profound and new context . Not surprisingly is that another friend in my prayer group was enthralled with Supernatural as well. We were unaware that we were enjoying his book Unseen Realm at the same time . Consequently,we added the bible study on his book Supernatural to our prayer group time with friends joining us. All I can say is Heiser’s books and podcasts will transform the way you view God and spiritual warfare and make you a more complete and fearless worshipper of Jesus .
I have come across many a book describing and defining exactly what Christianity is all about but I have never found one that is not only thorough but that is an easy read and entirely engrossing! It is the perfect book to bless a nonbeliever with or like myself a 40 year lover of God. My son introduced me to Michael Heiser’s other books as well - Unseen Realm and Supernatural and I found myself enjoying the Old Testament in a profound and new context . Not surprisingly is that another friend in my prayer group was enthralled with Supernatural as well. We were unaware that we were enjoying his book Unseen Realm at the same time . Consequently,we added the bible study on his book Supernatural to our prayer group time with friends joining us. All I can say is Heiser’s books and podcasts will transform the way you view God and spiritual warfare and make you a more complete and fearless worshipper of Jesus .
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