What do you think?
Rate this book
Where God Came Down: The Archaeological Evidence
Does archaeology agree with Scripture? Is there evidence to support the biblical account? Can archaeology reflect God’s redemptive presence in history? Yes! In contrast to the biblical skepticism common today, Where God Came The Archaeological Evidence emphasizes agreement between the Bible and archaeology. Using Scripture as his primary ancient text and interpretive tool, author Joel Kramer examines the archaeological record for ten locations recorded in the Bible. Incorporating an abundance of photos, maps, graphics and illustrations, Kramer expertly lays out the evidence and shows how archaeology speaks for the Bible, not against it. More than that, he delves deeper into the Gospel-significance that ancient, unimportant places are still known to us today because they are the stage where redemption’s story played out on earth—the places Where God Came Down . If you answer “Yes” to any of these questions, then Where God Came The Archaeological Evidence is a must-read for you!
158 pages, Hardcover
Published October 14, 2020
39 people are currently reading
482 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
February 5, 2023
I picked up this book in preparing for my upcoming trip to Jerusalem. Honestly, I thought it would be a pretty "dry" read, as I have no background in archeology. To my surprise, I really enjoyed it.
The book covers maybe a dozen sites throughout Israel, each with direct ties to the scriptures. Where Abraham built an alter and was (likely) buried, where Jesus was crucified, buried/risen, and ascended to heaven, etc. Each site is an amalgamation of ruins, from the bronze age, Herodian period, Roman occupation, Byzantines, Crusaders, Muslims, etc. Each subsequent occupant of a site would destroy the prior structures and build their own. This stacked (or layered) archeology is known by the Hebrew word "Tel", as in for example, Tel Aviv. Over thousands of years, this historical process makes it VERY difficult to distinguish an old structure from the newer ones built on top of it. And this is where the history of the bible and other sources help fill in the gaps. The author likens it to a jigsaw puzzle - but instead of having all the pieces from which to reconstruct the big picture, all the archeologist has is a maybe 10% of the puzzle pieces. He must then look to the bible to help understand how they all tie together.
I'd say over half of the book, in terms of pages, is comprised of photos and maps. I found this to be exceptionally useful for me, as I process things visually rather than verbally. Overall, it's just a very well done and educational book.
The book covers maybe a dozen sites throughout Israel, each with direct ties to the scriptures. Where Abraham built an alter and was (likely) buried, where Jesus was crucified, buried/risen, and ascended to heaven, etc. Each site is an amalgamation of ruins, from the bronze age, Herodian period, Roman occupation, Byzantines, Crusaders, Muslims, etc. Each subsequent occupant of a site would destroy the prior structures and build their own. This stacked (or layered) archeology is known by the Hebrew word "Tel", as in for example, Tel Aviv. Over thousands of years, this historical process makes it VERY difficult to distinguish an old structure from the newer ones built on top of it. And this is where the history of the bible and other sources help fill in the gaps. The author likens it to a jigsaw puzzle - but instead of having all the pieces from which to reconstruct the big picture, all the archeologist has is a maybe 10% of the puzzle pieces. He must then look to the bible to help understand how they all tie together.
I'd say over half of the book, in terms of pages, is comprised of photos and maps. I found this to be exceptionally useful for me, as I process things visually rather than verbally. Overall, it's just a very well done and educational book.
January 23, 2023
Archeologist Joel Kramer does fine work in examining ten digs in the Holy Land where God has appeared. His method is to document each layer of the excavation, from the present-day building to each structure that preceded it.
One site was Abraham's grave at Machpelah. Another was the church of the Ascension on the Mount of Olives. Most digs had at least six layers going back to the time of Jesus or before, to the time of Abraham. Dr. Kramer tied each to the Bible verses describing them, showing how the archeological evidence lined up with what the Bible says.
I recommend this for any student of the Bible, archeology, or history.
One site was Abraham's grave at Machpelah. Another was the church of the Ascension on the Mount of Olives. Most digs had at least six layers going back to the time of Jesus or before, to the time of Abraham. Dr. Kramer tied each to the Bible verses describing them, showing how the archeological evidence lined up with what the Bible says.
I recommend this for any student of the Bible, archeology, or history.
July 11, 2023
This book is AMAZING! My friends love Joel Kramer, and recommended this book. Seeing these physical sites through the pictures of this book had me telling everyone about it. Read it. You won’t regret it!
“Jesus’ kingdom is not yet full. But as we share our hope in Him, it continues to grow. When His building is complete, Jerusalem’s final archaeological layer will descent to earth, never to be destroyed again:
‘I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God… I did not see a temple in the city, because the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple.’ - Rev 21:2, 22”
“Jesus’ kingdom is not yet full. But as we share our hope in Him, it continues to grow. When His building is complete, Jerusalem’s final archaeological layer will descent to earth, never to be destroyed again:
‘I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God… I did not see a temple in the city, because the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple.’ - Rev 21:2, 22”
September 17, 2022
Kramer’s book is a little gem. It faithfully reports archaeological data with simplicity. He rightly uses the Bible as a contemporary literary source to help interpret the scientific data; rocks generally don’t speak by themselves. The diagrams and photographs are carefully chosen and often marked so the reader can compare the geography of different images. The theology respects science and the Bible and the reader. I recommend this book to anyone but especially to those who are honestly seeking the truth about God.
October 11, 2022
I love history and archeological, especially Biblical Archaeological. I always smile when they find proof of God’s works, I kind of do a fist bump. I have never doubted a word in the Bible. I dream of going to Israel, my husband says I will have to wait and see the New Jerusalem.
May 9, 2023
Really cool book! Has lots of pictures. ;)
June 16, 2024
I enjoyed this book, particularly its wonderful panoramic explanations of site location and interrelation. I also enjoyed the aerial shots which provided wonderful perspectives about terrain and the geography of the region. With a reasonable knowledge of Scripture, the book is even more interesting because one will be able to make other connections outside of those explicitly described in the book.
However, if you expect this to be an archaeology textbook, it is not. It is more of an archaeology coffee table book with a Gospel message or archeology travel guide. It introduces a number of ideas, sites, and perspectives with a connected narrative which is valuable to a young Christian or to one who is oblivious to the field of archaeology. However, it only presents the primary view of the author and his rationalized conclusions without describing any "counter-point" views of other scholars. I would love to see a more "in-depth" version of this book which lays out the various scholarly views and describes in detail where and why the author diverges from or agrees with them.
Nevertheless, I did enjoy the book a great deal and am happy to have it in my library! Looking forward to the next edition!
However, if you expect this to be an archaeology textbook, it is not. It is more of an archaeology coffee table book with a Gospel message or archeology travel guide. It introduces a number of ideas, sites, and perspectives with a connected narrative which is valuable to a young Christian or to one who is oblivious to the field of archaeology. However, it only presents the primary view of the author and his rationalized conclusions without describing any "counter-point" views of other scholars. I would love to see a more "in-depth" version of this book which lays out the various scholarly views and describes in detail where and why the author diverges from or agrees with them.
Nevertheless, I did enjoy the book a great deal and am happy to have it in my library! Looking forward to the next edition!
January 13, 2024
As a Christian myself I like to test things and seek truth that is what Jesus taught in His word. If you are a Christian this book will open your eyes to the awesomeness of God and how there is evidence that points to Him. If you are not a Christian this is a book I ask you to take a look at honestly and see the evidence for yourself. Joel does a great job of going through each piece of evidence and places that have been preserved and support Christianity. I’m not asking you to convert I am asking you to look at the evidence and truly test to see if what is revealed in the Bible is actually there.
April 12, 2024
What a great book about biblical archeology. I had to order it from the US to Europe, but it was all worth it.
Very easy explanations (no niched or technical archeology terms) together with amazing pictorial guidelines and evidence and topped up with biblical references and proof. It also includes evidence from ancient documents (like Eusebius, Josephus and written testimonies from pilgrims).
I wish it was longer.
Very easy explanations (no niched or technical archeology terms) together with amazing pictorial guidelines and evidence and topped up with biblical references and proof. It also includes evidence from ancient documents (like Eusebius, Josephus and written testimonies from pilgrims).
I wish it was longer.
March 5, 2024
Just wonderful. Clear, compelling evidence of 10 Jewish and Christian sites. I would not have considered seriously that these places are really what they purport to be. It is encouraging to consider that the Bible describes events that really took place in real time and place. This is a great addition to the apologetic's library.
December 31, 2024
I loved this book. I read it slowly, savoring the pictures (of archaeological layers) and scriptural connections. It was written educationally—so the reader would understand some of the places in Bible as they have developed throughout history —but also devotionally so that the reader would see the power of God and therefore worship.
January 10, 2026
If you have any interest in visiting the Holy Land, but are unable to do so, this book is for you. This book detailed—with text and excellent pictures—ten Holy Land sites. I was amazed to learn locations for particular events are still known. Especially Mamre. I had no idea. Made me long to visit Jerusalem.
As a side note, Joel Kramer has a YouTube channel with even more Biblical archeology.
As a side note, Joel Kramer has a YouTube channel with even more Biblical archeology.
March 18, 2024
This book is one of my favorite books of all time. The actual binding and quality of the book is outstanding, and the graphs, photos, and drawings are super helpful in understanding the content. This is a true gem that all Christians should read to explore the historical aspect of apologetics.
April 4, 2024
I would give this book 10 stars if I could. I follow Kramer's YouTube channel, Expedition Bible. He does a tremendous job of bringing Scripture to life through archeology. If you like archeology or the Bible, you will LOVE this book!
June 21, 2024
This is such a beautiful book! It’s full of so much information, and evidence, supporting Biblical text and events! Very organized, lots of photos and illustrations, and easy to follow! This book has reinforced my Faith, and given me hope! I only wish I had a signed copy!
October 15, 2024
Oh, what hope and comfort this book is! The Biblical places that lead to the Messiah, His life, death, and Resurrection.
January 1, 2025
A well written and enjoyable book. Pictures and graphics to illustrate where ancient events took place with the modern places alongside.
March 30, 2025
Love this book!
June 4, 2025
So interesting! I loved it!
November 18, 2024
Gorgeous photography. Each chapter reads like a tv episode in structure, but especially the first half of the book. There are some absolutely incredible and inspirational locations included.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews