God Speaks: What He Says, What He Means

by Craig A. Evans

Dr. Craig Evans opens the door to the inquiring mind as to why 1) God chose to create the Bible, 2) those vital things we so often miss when we do read Scripture, and 3) why it really matters that we pay attention to the Word of God at all.

270 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 7, 2015

About the author

Craig A. Evans (PhD, Claremont Graduate University) is Payzant Distinguished Professor of New Testament at Acadia Divinity College in Wolfville, Nova Scotia. He is a frequent contributor to scholarly journals and the author or editor of numerous publications.

Reviews

[Jon Kidwell · Rating 4 out of 5]

First, may I say that I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a honest and timely review. I have no other associations or expectations from either the publisher or the author.

Upon the first receipt of this book, I tried to start reading it a couple of times before it really caught my interest. Dr. Craig Evans is a renowned Biblical scholar. For the more academic among us, I believe they will find this to be an excellent work, chocked full of important data. The casual reader or newbie Christian may find himself scratching his head, trying to understand all the data..

This is a well-written book that should be well received by the theological community. I say the next thing, not to cast negativity on the volume, but to try to clarify a point. My personal reading of this book was difficult. I found myself reading the same paragraph two and three times in my effort to understand. I believe that the content of this book will be "over the heads" of the average reader looking to learn. It's entirely academic, showing little of the author's personality. But, with this subject, that is perfectly acceptable.

The author's purpose, I believe, is to equip Christians to understand and defend the Gospel in this post-modern world. Dr. Evans does an excellent job in summarily outlining his argument for such things as the Creation Story, the Source of Christ's authority, the Last Days, etc.

My favorite part of the book was Part 3, "Common Questions About the Bible". A chapter is devoted to understanding the violence in the Bible. And, another chapter identifies numerous non-Canon tangibles that support the Bible's content, meaning, and authority. Examples of these would include: the Rosetta Stone, Egyptian inscriptions, the Davidic era ruins in Jerusalem, the Dead Sea Scrolls, and many more that the secular, scientific community cannot refute.

I believe that "God Speaks" is an analysis of a centuries long love story. It's about God's love, His mercy, His longing for relationship with His People.

I give this book 4-Stars because it is well written and documented, but at the same time, a bit un-accessible to the young Christian and the general population. Hey, if you want to learn more about the Bible than you could ever imagined, this book should be on your library shelf.

[Yibbie · Rating 1 out of 5]

Well, It's about time I wrote something about this book. Just so everyone knows... I received this book free in a giveaway through Goodreads. I've had it for a while now but just couldn't bring myself to finish it, I haven't finished it yet, and I won't.

From the very start the author undermines the authority and in the process the inspiration of the Bible. Which is a very odd thing to do if you're trying to find out what God says. Perhaps the title should have been God Speaks: What I & Others Think God Should Have Said.

Actually it's terribly sad. Without the firm foundation of the inspired Word of God how can they hope to find the Truth. Jesus said it was in the Scriptures, with particular reference to the Old Testament, that we have knowledge of Him. If He trusted the Scriptures accuracy, I can do no less.

So, I would say, don't read this book.

[Stephen Bedard · Rating 4 out of 5]

Craig Evans is one of my favourite New Testament scholars anything he writes is worth reading. This book is a bit different, as it is aimed at the reader who does not know much about the Bible. If you are well read in biblical studies, this book is not for you. But if you are looking for a great introduction to the Bible for a new believer or to disciple a new believer, this is the book. This is the book I wish was around when I first came to faith.

[David Diaz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well researched and comprehensive information.

[Ellen Wildman So · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great primer for new theologians- well researched and written in a very easy to understand way! I’d recommend to anyone who is interested in learning more about Scripture.

[Rod Horncastle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Craig Evans quote: (pg 199)
"Knowing how to interpret the Bible will protect you from being deluded by the quacks and the cults. It will also protect you FROM YOURSELF!"

That sounds about right. I've seen the Bible push people into Charismatic insanity, Liberal stupidity, and brutal Conservative legalism. This is not the Bible's fault - it's simply what happens when people don't slow down to properly understand the ENTIRE word of God. And here we have a book that slows us down for a moment. Thanks Craig.

I was a bit perturbed that the books forward was written by Mark Burnett and Roma Downey - I didn't appreciate the loose theology and strangely edited movie "The Son Of God". It was interesting that they consulted Mr. Evans while pumping out their films. Probably the smartest thing they achieved.

Craig quote:
"The message of the Bible transforms lives and changes society because of the divine Author who stands behind its message. The Bible is no mere compilation of opinions and imagination. At the center of the Bible is God who speaks... The message of the Bible stands in stark contrast with the messages of those who think God no longer has anything to offer or that Christian faith is passe."

We are then taken on a journey through:
What is the Bible really? (chapter 1).
This is stuff most Christians should learn in church - but seldom do - shame on most liberal hearted humanistic pastors who are more interested in lifestyles and social issues. You have an hour a week to teach God's BOOK, don't fail!

The author is careful not to get into important scriptural fights about Genesis or miracles or 1000's of other Essential Doctrinal issues that affect the very core of Christianity -- save that for another book. This one is about God's Word and how to read it properly. Most spiritual people don't even get that far before they run amok of interpreting scripture based on their own cultures desires and passions. OR sadly, some folks make entire religions out of a few poorly explored verses. (Roman Catholics --- i'm looking at YOU!)

My favorite parts of this book are the ending comments of each chapter:
Craig Evans has a small bits of wisdom called "Why Does This Matter to Me?", simple stuff we often forget - like:
"Rightly understood, the Bible is rich with relevant meaning. That means you and I can get out of it what was all along meant for us to get out of it. This is great news!" (pg. 46)
"The law of God benefits all, especially the poor and the powerless. This should matter to anyone who cares about the weak and disadvantaged." (pg. 126)

So, for those religious folks who run on pure spirituality and Cosmic fuzzies - They need this book to show them how history, geography, ancient literature, cultures, science, archaeology, philosophy and basic world religions interact with God's very word. Yes, we live in a real world of dirt and gravity - we never run around believing blindly. Reminds me of my favorite Bible verse:

John 20:29
Jesus said to him, “Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”

We are indeed blessed when we apply effort into our thinking and faith. Blind faith might have you accepting Hindu Monkey gods who steal other gods wives. Anybody can easily believe something they see, they don't even need to properly understand or critique it, Cults depend on this. Believe AND Understand BECAUSE you have been assisted by Books like Craig Evan's God Speaks - What He Says What He Means. This is essential introductory information that every Christian (and even skeptic) needs. Then start reading some of the suggested books Craig lists at the end. Eventually all Bible readers need to pick a specific topic to really excel at. Even Craig has done this in his other books. But "God Speaks" will get you started perfectly. Enjoy.

[Victor Gentile · Rating 5 out of 5]

Craig A. Evans in his new book, “God Speaks” published by Worthy Publishing gives us What He Says, What He Means.

From the back cover: Explore and examine the depth of the Bible with evangelical scholar Dr. Craig Evans in God Speaks.

No matter how familiar or unfamiliar you are with the Bible, God Speaks will bring its timeless truth alive as you view it with fresh eyes and apply its restorative power to your life.

Far from a dusty old book of do’s and don’ts, the Bible is a relevant and eternal message of love and reconciliation that holds the power to shape society and transform lives. Dr. Craig Evans, a consultant on Mark Burnett and Roma Downey’s blockbuster miniseries The Bible, unfolds Scripture with compelling clarity. God Speaks will equip you to provide answers to skeptics’ questions about the Bible’s true message.

By taking readers on a journey through each part of the Bible, God Speaks…

Examines the Bible as a force for progress in economics, justice, charity, and human rights
Explores the Bible’s power to shape culture and transform individual lives
Extols God’s deeply resonant message of forgiveness and hope for all
Equips readers with tools to understand Scripture to apply its ever-enduring precepts to daily living

Why is The Bible important? Why do we need to pay attention to what God says and take action upon His word? In “God Speaks” Dr. Evans addresses those very questions and more. Dr. Evans divides his new book into three parts: Part One: What Is The Bible?, Part Two: What Is The Bible About? and Part Three: Common Questions About The Bible. “The Bible not only transforms society but it also transforms individuals”. Dr. Evans provides us a fresh insight into what The Bible is and why God had it written. There is a huge amount of truth that will transform our lives within these pages. I think everyone should have a copy of this book and give it as gifts to our friends and family members.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Worthy Publishing for this review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

[Yonasan Aryeh · Rating 4 out of 5]

Craig Evans is well-known for his theological works. In this book, Evans looks at what G-d says in His Word, and what He means in His Word. Evans evaluates this thesis by starting with a definition of what the Bible is, what it is saying, and what the Bible is about. He starts with the first pages of Genesis, evaluating the creation narrative, and discusses the Old Testament Law.

Evans continues on his linear evaluation of Scripture through the arrival of Y'shua and to the apocalypse. Evans finishes his work with common questions about the Bible, such as how to ensure a proper translation and interpretation, what one needs to understand about violence in the Bible, and how archaeological discoveries prove the events found in Scripture.

Evan's goal in his writing of this book is to inspire readers to view the Bible as "a timeless book whose life-changing truths speak to every generation." Evans writes at length to argue the point of relevance and application of Scripture on an individual, corporate, and national basis.

Evans' points are simple and fluid, yet build to an overall complex argument. Such could be expected, however, given the text he is working with has the same characteristics. Evans' approach makes the assumption that the reader is biblically-inclined and does not dispute the validity of Scripture, instead focusing on how it can better one's life and existence.

Disclosure: I have received a reviewer copy and/or payment in exchange for an honest review of the product mentioned in this post.

Evans writes with a prescriptive language, not necessarily engaging in the discussion directly, but rather taking an academic evaluation of the material. This book is wide in its challenge yet narrow in its focus, giving the reader a basic overview of key points, yet honing in on those points to a microscopic degree. This book is not designed for the average lay person, but rather for one considering taking the leap into academic studies. Evans' writing matches that of a baccalaureate study program, and should be regarded as such as well.

Overall, the content is superb, and the voice is solid, yet at times needing something more motivating for the reader. In this regard, four out of five stars seems most appropriate.

[Julie D. · Rating 5 out of 5]

So many of us truly don't understand what the Bible says. Even those of us who read it all the time can use more understanding about what God is saying to us through His Word!

This book is packed with information that will give you knowledge that you can really use. The best thing about this book is that it was super easy for me to understand. So many times when you have a book like this, the author will write over your head or the text is boring and dry. Not this book. I found it intriguing and couldn't wait to sit down and read.

Another great thing is how we, as Christians, can sometimes we swayed by what others tell us the Bible says and we have no idea how to answer that person. They sound reasonable and we aren't sure what the Bible says, so we are speechless. Dr. Evans gives us the answers to all these questions and comments that others say to us. I found this invaluable!

Some think the Bible is a bunch of rules and negative talk, too, but that is not so and this book really shows us the bright truth of the Bible. I always thought that the Bible was a encouragement, but this book really confirmed this for me and gave me knowledge to share with others who think it's negative.

I loved this book and how much it taught me! It is a wonderful book for everyone and I highly recommend you getting this if you truly want to learn all you can about what God is telling us through his Word! I give this book 5 out of 5 stars. You can find the link to purchase this book below.

*This book was provided to me for my honest review by Worthy Publishing

[Brent Soderstrum · Rating 4 out of 5]

I won this book through GoodReads First Read program.

This book reminded me of Lee Strobel's book The Case For Christ only it was written to establish the authenticity of the Bible. It does a good job of doing that.

The book is broken into three sections. The first section breaks down what the Bible is and what it says. The second section covers what the Bible is all about. The final section answers common questions about the Bible. The final section interested me the most. Especially the chapter which discussed all the excavation discoveries that have been made over the years which really back up the authenticity of the Bible.

Good read for those who have questions about what the Bible is and its authenticity.

[Joan · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a good book reminding us of the importance of the Bible. Evans gives a good general introduction, a synopsis of the story, evidence for its reliability, and how to interpret it. This would be a good book for new Christians, Christians who have forgotten the important role of the Bible in their lives, or for people who do not know the Bible well at all.
You can read my entire review of this book at http://bit.ly/1E3sYXb.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book from the publisher for the purpose of an independent and honest review.

[Gina · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book as a first read. While it can be a bit dry at times it's a well written and informative book. It answers most questions that people have about the Bible. Historical context provides a lot of information. It's well researched and you learn a lot of facts about the Bible (when it was written, different versions, the various books within it, authenticity, etc.). This is a must read for all Christians as it provides the background for the book that provides the foundation of the faith. People will derive a lot more in their readings of the Bible after reading this book.

[Irene]

Started reading God Speaks: What He Says, What He Means thanks to Goodreads giveaways.I'm very interested in getting a better insight into the Bible.

[Susan Walker · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked that the Author, a Evangelical Scholar, shows you his version of what the bible says. The book is easy to rad but a bit dry.