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The Epic Story of the Bible: How to Read and Understand God's Word
A User-Friendly Introduction to Interpreting and Understanding God's Word Many Christians view the Bible as a book that they know they should read, but it can be hard to know where to start. If they spend time regularly reading it, it can often feel like a chore to be checked off for the day. What many miss is that the Bible is a sweeping story full of narrative, poetry, and letters―something to be marveled at and enjoyed. In The Epic Story of the Bible , Greg Gilbert aims to teach Christians―or those interested in Christianity―what the Bible is and how to study it. Explaining the various genres and major themes woven throughout Scripture, Gilbert helps readers appreciate the word of God with less confusion and greater confidence. Adapted from the ESV Story of Redemption Bible .
176 pages, Paperback
Published August 9, 2022
35 people are currently reading
376 people want to read
About the author
Greg Gilbert
57 books71 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Greg Gilbert (MDiv, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary) is senior pastor at Third Avenue Baptist Church in Louisville, Kentucky. He is the author of What Is the Gospel?, James: A 12-Week Study, and Who Is Jesus?, and is the co-author (with Kevin DeYoung) of What Is the Mission of the Church?.
Greg Gilbert (MDiv, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary) is senior pastor at Third Avenue Baptist Church in Louisville, Kentucky. He is the author of What Is the Gospel?, James: A 12-Week Study, and Who Is Jesus?, and is the co-author (with Kevin DeYoung) of What Is the Mission of the Church?.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
October 4, 2022
My endorsement: “Greg Gilbert is a world-class expositor. (Trust me; I got to sit under his preaching for nearly 12 years.) ‘The Epic Story of the Bible’ will revolutionize your ability to grasp the sweeping, soaring narrative that centers―from Genesis to Revelation―on Jesus the King. Read and marvel.”
November 25, 2022
Easily the best short intro book I’ve ever read on understanding the storyline of the Bible. You could either give this to a new Christian or one who’s been in the Bible for many years. Greg’s also my boss so I have to give it 5 stars
December 21, 2022
That man Greg Gilbert does not miss…This book is definitely top 3 of all time books I’ve ever read since becoming a Christian. The way he explains the Bible so clearly, yet so simple, is incredible. I actually had to stop myself from reading too much at one time just so I could really process what he was saying. It is that good. I was excited to pick it up and continue reading every single time. I highly recommend anyone to read this book if you want to learn more about the Bible, it’s meaning, and if you are looking to grow in your reading. Greg Gilbert had ice in his veins with this one. Dude is a straight dawg
September 29, 2022
"That's not the story, and that's not how the Bible should be read—not out of order, not as a bunch of little morality tales, certainly not with ourselves and our concerns at the center of our consciousness of it—but rather as the sweepingly epic story of God's heroic rescue of mankind from our deadly rebellion against him. That's what I hope this book will help you learn to do."
As one of the many Christians who strive to read the Bible once a year, I am always on the lookout for helpful guides to help me read and understand the Bible better. That's why upon reading the title of this book, I immediately decided to dive into it. Even though it's the first time I'm reading a book by Greg Gilbert, I found myself enjoying the casual, conversational writing style. I love how he started off by sharing his two-week trek to Mount Everest and explained how the briefing that he received from the guide is what he's aiming to do with this book. Considering the complexity of the Bible—sixty-six different books written over the course of a millennium, I understand why the author compared reading the entire Bible to a trek. Most importantly, he emphasized that the key to reading the Bible is understanding that all the authors and books in the Bible are telling one overarching story about God's action to save human beings from the consequences of their rebellion. I think the introduction part of the book sets a good foundation for readers before moving on to the next chapters.
"Even when considered to be just historical artifacts, the collection of books we're talking about here is extraordinary. Sixty-six books, thirty-five authors, fifteen hundred years—all collectively and harmoniously telling one epic story of God's relationship with humankind, a story that culminated in a single saving act so unexpected, so breathtaking, that it permanently changed the course of human history."
In the next few chapters, Greg Gilbert provided the outline of biblical history—which is extremely helpful and can give readers a beneficial perspective on the whole experience and not lose sight of what's truly important. After getting familiar with the narrative's course which consists of ten high points, the author introduced some of the main themes that we will encounter as we read the Bible: God's presence, covenant, kingship, and sacrifice. I personally learned a lot from the last three themes. The chapter on covenants allowed me to understand the nature of covenants better, especially its customs back in the ancient days that are unfamiliar to us. I marveled at the fact that when God made a covenant with Abram, God took sole responsibility to carry out the provisions and to do for Abram exactly what he promised. God only expected Abraham to keep believing and remain loyal to him. This revelation definitely helped me see the covenants in the Bible from a new perspective.
Chapter 6 covers the theme of sacrifice, which is my favorite part of this book. I was astonished when the author stated that the theme of sacrifice began when God made garments of skins to clothe Adam after the Fall—it's obvious that there can be no skins for clothing unless an animal died, but I've never really thought deeply about it. Another thought-provoking passage is about the time when God asked Abraham to sacrifice Isaac. The author acknowledged that most Christians tend to put themselves in Abraham's shoes, wondering whether they will obey God or not under similar circumstances. However, Greg Gilbert invites us to see that we are in Isaac's position—who's doomed to die, about to be executed, and yet rescued in the nick of time by one who dies in our place. It's the first time I read this kind of interpretation of this part of the Bible which makes me appreciate what God has done for us all the more. This chapter led me to realize that we are able to live another minute only by the grace of God and because of the Jesus's ultimate sacrifice on the cross.
"And yet again, none of those themes stands alone. They all weave and fold together into the one grand and epic story of the Bible."
"Ultimately, stand in awe at God's mercy and greatness. Be astonished at all he did—though he was obligated to do none of it—to save his people from their sins.
Finally, and above all, let the experience of reading the Bible teach you to see Jesus more clearly and therefore worship him more deeply."
I think this is a great book for those who might feel overwhelmed by the many different kinds of literature in the Bible and want to grasp the story as a whole. I really liked how the author use examples that are easy to understand, such as comparing the storyline of the Bible with the Lord of the Rings. As I reached the end of this book, I finally recognized that all the themes of the Bible are deeply interrelated and mutually reinforcing. I also appreciate the author for reminding us of the four dangers that we need to watch out for as we read the Bible: 1) Don't go it alone, 2) Never forget that it's a story, 3) Don't panic when you run into things that you don't understand or don't make sense to you at first, and lastly 4) From start to finish, never lose sight of the goal of the whole story—Jesus Christ. I think those are important precautions before we begin our trek of reading the Bible. Lastly, I thoroughly enjoyed my experience reading Greg Gilbert's writing and will pick up more books by him in the future! 😊
"And so, off we go. With joyful anticipation and beating hearts, let's set off on this grand adventure of experiencing the epic story of the Bible!"
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November 21, 2024
In the Epic Story of the Bible, Greg Gilbert warmly invites his readers to set out on a journey. The destination? To read the Bible! This book serves as a basic field guide for how to read the Bible. It does this by explaining four overarching themes of the Bible; God’s Presence, Covenant, Kingship, and Sacrifice. Gilbert writes a chapter on each theme to show how each is intricately woven into the Biblical story. He posits that if one keeps these themes in mind while reading the Bible, it will serve as a rubric of sorts that points ultimately to Jesus.
I stress that this is a basic field guide. Gilbert mentions in passing that there are different types of literature in the Bible, but he never touches on how different pieces should be read. He does touch on the inspiration and authority of the Bible, as well as how the canon came to be, which I appreciated.
I enjoyed Gilbert’s writing style; it’s personal and warm. He writes with wisdom and insight, salted with just a pinch of humor and anecdote. His giddiness about reading the Bible is contagious. He constantly likens reading the Bible to a journey, and like Gandalf to the hobbits of Bag End, he beckons us go off on an adventure.
In summary, I wish I had read the Epic Story of the Bible when I set out to read the Bible for the first time. It is by no means a comprehensive guide; however, that is never its goal. It gives you the necessary elements to go and enjoy the Bible and gives you a basic guideline for how to study it on your on. It calls, “pick up and read”.
I stress that this is a basic field guide. Gilbert mentions in passing that there are different types of literature in the Bible, but he never touches on how different pieces should be read. He does touch on the inspiration and authority of the Bible, as well as how the canon came to be, which I appreciated.
I enjoyed Gilbert’s writing style; it’s personal and warm. He writes with wisdom and insight, salted with just a pinch of humor and anecdote. His giddiness about reading the Bible is contagious. He constantly likens reading the Bible to a journey, and like Gandalf to the hobbits of Bag End, he beckons us go off on an adventure.
In summary, I wish I had read the Epic Story of the Bible when I set out to read the Bible for the first time. It is by no means a comprehensive guide; however, that is never its goal. It gives you the necessary elements to go and enjoy the Bible and gives you a basic guideline for how to study it on your on. It calls, “pick up and read”.
December 1, 2022
With so many biblical theology intros out there, this is one of my favorites. Clear. Well-paced. And covers the high points and themes of the biblical story. Most church members could pick this book up and tremendously benefit from it.
August 6, 2023
This is really more of a 3.5 stars for me. It does exactly what it sets out to do - give readers a digestible and compelling outline of the Bible. This’ll be a book I frequently recommend to those who see scripture as daunting.
“So many Christians read the Bible as if it’s mainly a duty, or hard work. They read for daily devotions because they think they have to, or they read it thinking they have to ‘get something out of it for daily living’ or to be ‘convicted’ by something in it. To be sure, all that has its place, but have you ever read the Bible just for fun? Just for the sheer joy of letting the movie play in your imagination?”
“So many Christians read the Bible as if it’s mainly a duty, or hard work. They read for daily devotions because they think they have to, or they read it thinking they have to ‘get something out of it for daily living’ or to be ‘convicted’ by something in it. To be sure, all that has its place, but have you ever read the Bible just for fun? Just for the sheer joy of letting the movie play in your imagination?”
October 6, 2024
Superb and so accessible. I think from now on it’ll be what I recommend to those who are new to understanding the arc across Scripture, but I still felt like I learned plenty even though I’m not brand new to biblical theology.
April 1, 2025
Great book-talks about the big themes in the Bible (God’s presence, covenant, kingship and sacrifice) and how they “all weace together in various ways until they come to rest on the crowned head of Jesus Christ.”
He is a little ‘let-me-tell-you-how-much-I-know” but I think it is mostly things we can understand and that are helpful for us when understanding the Bible as a whole (as it was meant to be understood).
He is a little ‘let-me-tell-you-how-much-I-know” but I think it is mostly things we can understand and that are helpful for us when understanding the Bible as a whole (as it was meant to be understood).
June 28, 2025
Recommend this book to new believers and old. Super rich in helping us see the Bible as one cohesive story. Glory to God
July 22, 2022
In 2019, a Lifeway Research study indicated 32% of regular church attenders read their Bible everyday. We hear it taught during our weekly worship services, maybe read a few verses in a devotional or as we scroll social media, but only a third of us intentionally take the Word in every day.
Time evaporates - we're too tired or stayed up too late. We struggle with routine or discipline. The season with littles prevents us from developing consistent habits.
You've found yourself at one time or another, starting a reading plan, until you've finally landed in Leviticus overwhelmed trying to make sense of what you're reading. Understanding Scripture can seem daunting and difficult, causing you to lose any momentum you had.
In The Epic Story of the Bible: How to Read and Understand God's Word by Greg Gilbert, he provides us with the basic facts about the Bible, how the books were put together and became accepted as Scripture. Then he outlines the narrative of the Bible through the lens of creation, the fall, redemption and consummation; with a handful of the peak points in between, fitting together the chain of events of God's work in the world.
The next 4 chapters each highlight a theme throughout scripture - God's presence, covenant, kingship and sacrifice - following how these come up from cover to cover and how they are connected.
To work through the challenge of understanding what we're reading when we approach the Word, this book is a helpful tool. As we gain understanding about what it is we're reading, we're less afraid to open the pages and better equipped to learn about who God is and what He's doing.
If you've felt a bit overwhelmed approaching Scripture, or just unsure, even though you've been a believer for years, this could be for you.
Quick Stats
# of pages: 176 pages
Level of Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
My Rating: 4 stars
*A big thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC and for the opportunity to post an honest review!
Time evaporates - we're too tired or stayed up too late. We struggle with routine or discipline. The season with littles prevents us from developing consistent habits.
You've found yourself at one time or another, starting a reading plan, until you've finally landed in Leviticus overwhelmed trying to make sense of what you're reading. Understanding Scripture can seem daunting and difficult, causing you to lose any momentum you had.
In The Epic Story of the Bible: How to Read and Understand God's Word by Greg Gilbert, he provides us with the basic facts about the Bible, how the books were put together and became accepted as Scripture. Then he outlines the narrative of the Bible through the lens of creation, the fall, redemption and consummation; with a handful of the peak points in between, fitting together the chain of events of God's work in the world.
The next 4 chapters each highlight a theme throughout scripture - God's presence, covenant, kingship and sacrifice - following how these come up from cover to cover and how they are connected.
To work through the challenge of understanding what we're reading when we approach the Word, this book is a helpful tool. As we gain understanding about what it is we're reading, we're less afraid to open the pages and better equipped to learn about who God is and what He's doing.
If you've felt a bit overwhelmed approaching Scripture, or just unsure, even though you've been a believer for years, this could be for you.
Quick Stats
# of pages: 176 pages
Level of Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
My Rating: 4 stars
*A big thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC and for the opportunity to post an honest review!
August 30, 2022
Biblical theology as a discipline has seen a resurgence in recent years. Tragically, some of the books that focus on biblical theology are designed for readers who have a strong background in theology. Greg Gilbert’s new book, The Epic Story of the Bible is written with the new believer in mind. And while he sets his sights on new Christians, the book will also encourage readers with a strong theology background.
Gilbert sets the stage by discussing the origins of the Bible and the process that God used to assemble his Word. He introduces the big picture, what he refers to as “the grand storyline of the Bible.” He makes good use of ten themes that help guide readers on their journey. The themes include 1) The Creation and the Fall, 2) The Flood and God’s Promises, 3) The Exodus, 4)The Conquest, 5) The Crown, 6) The Exile, 7) The Return, 8) The Messiah, 9) The Church, and 10) The End.
The author traces the presence of God from the Garden of Eden all the way until the New Jerusalem, where God will dwell “right out in the open, among his people.” Gilbert continues, “His throne is there, and the throne of the Lamb. His people see his face, and they reign with him - joyfully in his presence, and in the presence of the Lamb Jesus Christ - forever and ever.”
The concluding chapters focus on the themes of covenant, kingship, and sacrifice. Each chapter clearly portrays the unmistakable way that God fulfills his promise to Abraham and ultimately makes good on the promise that he made in Genesis 3:15.
The Epic Story of the Bible is a powerful little book that new Christians and seasoned Christians alike should read. It will help rekindle a desire to see the redemptive purposes of God in the pages of sacred Scripture.
I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review.
Gilbert sets the stage by discussing the origins of the Bible and the process that God used to assemble his Word. He introduces the big picture, what he refers to as “the grand storyline of the Bible.” He makes good use of ten themes that help guide readers on their journey. The themes include 1) The Creation and the Fall, 2) The Flood and God’s Promises, 3) The Exodus, 4)The Conquest, 5) The Crown, 6) The Exile, 7) The Return, 8) The Messiah, 9) The Church, and 10) The End.
The author traces the presence of God from the Garden of Eden all the way until the New Jerusalem, where God will dwell “right out in the open, among his people.” Gilbert continues, “His throne is there, and the throne of the Lamb. His people see his face, and they reign with him - joyfully in his presence, and in the presence of the Lamb Jesus Christ - forever and ever.”
The concluding chapters focus on the themes of covenant, kingship, and sacrifice. Each chapter clearly portrays the unmistakable way that God fulfills his promise to Abraham and ultimately makes good on the promise that he made in Genesis 3:15.
The Epic Story of the Bible is a powerful little book that new Christians and seasoned Christians alike should read. It will help rekindle a desire to see the redemptive purposes of God in the pages of sacred Scripture.
I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review.
January 1, 2023
I loved the way Greg Gilbert describes the story of the Bible! He begins the book with a little defense of the legitimacy of the books of the Bible, and how it was made. Then he gives an overview of the story by pointing out “mountain top moments” to look out for to know at what point you are in the story and where you are going. The final portion of the book covers a few major themes through out the Bible. These were amazing to consider! He does so in an expository way, looking at the original language and intent of the stories and not according to modern agenda, sprinkling in just enough mountain climbing and Lord of the Rings references to add excitement to the epic feel of the story! This is not an exhaustive look at the Bible but a fabulous enticement to set out on the adventure of further understanding God’s word.
August 4, 2022
A beautiful, enthralling and sweeping summary of the Bible and Christianity as a whole. I’d say this is like a CliffNotes version of the Bible, detailing the key points, main ideas and main characters so that you can better understand the Bible and it’s storyline. Though it doesn’t replace scripture itself, it provides an excellent tool to help you sort out timeline and ultimately understand the Bible better.
Thank you to NetGalley and Crossway for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and Crossway for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
July 30, 2023
I was looking for a discipleship resource, one I could use in beginning to teach others how to read the Bible. Didn’t want something academic, not something cheesy and thin. Was hoping for a resource that would engage the what, why, who, and how of the Bible. What is it? Why should we read it? Who is it about? How do we read well? In every way, Greg’s work here met the expectation, exceeding them even. Very clear. Enjoyable to read. A little cheesy at moments but never too much or for too long. It’s relatable and helpful, never trying to do too much but certainly contributing something substantial to those who want to learn. I’m very grateful for Gilbert’s work here. Will use heavily moving forward.
August 1, 2025
Great Book! Extremely helpful in approaching the Bible as a narrative and grand story rather than random stories compiled together. The author does such an amazing job highlighting multiple themes seen throughout the bible, it really helps you connect the whole thing and see the purpose of so many of the Old testament realities. The overview chapter was also SO helpful. He gave an analogy that when you are about to go on a hike up a mountain you study the checkpoints to know where you are. The author created multiple “checkpoints” throughout the bible in order for the reader to have a brief understanding of where they are at in the story. AMAZING BOOK!!!! Highly recommend to new believers or mature Christians!
May 6, 2023
An excellent, easy and very effective read on the major themes of the Bible and how it all fits together in the great story of redemption. My favorite quote at the end of the book wraps up the major takeaways I had from this book.
“It’s wonderful, isn't it, how all of these themes that make up the epic story of the Bible God's presence, God's covenants, the kingship, and sacrifice all weave together in various ways until they come to rest on the crowned head of Jesus Christ! You can see how it all comes together. Through Jesus's sacrificial death on the cross and resurrection, the curtain in the temple is torn in two as people are brought back into God's presence, the new covenant is inaugurated by which God binds himself to his people once and for all, and Satan--the dragon, that serpent of old--is fully and finally defeated by the King of kings and Lord of lords.”
“It’s wonderful, isn't it, how all of these themes that make up the epic story of the Bible God's presence, God's covenants, the kingship, and sacrifice all weave together in various ways until they come to rest on the crowned head of Jesus Christ! You can see how it all comes together. Through Jesus's sacrificial death on the cross and resurrection, the curtain in the temple is torn in two as people are brought back into God's presence, the new covenant is inaugurated by which God binds himself to his people once and for all, and Satan--the dragon, that serpent of old--is fully and finally defeated by the King of kings and Lord of lords.”
April 20, 2023
Fantastic read! Quick and easy to understand, this book helps you to see the overarching story of the Bible, Jesus.
As I read this I wondered what it would be like to read it as one who has never read or studied the Bible. I feel like he does a great job explaining things and really focuses on the larger picture to help you through.
As you read you will say, oh yeah I remember him talking about that. Definitely a must read for those just starting to read the Bible, or for someone who has read parts but not the whole. Thank you Mr. Gilbert for a great book.
As I read this I wondered what it would be like to read it as one who has never read or studied the Bible. I feel like he does a great job explaining things and really focuses on the larger picture to help you through.
As you read you will say, oh yeah I remember him talking about that. Definitely a must read for those just starting to read the Bible, or for someone who has read parts but not the whole. Thank you Mr. Gilbert for a great book.
April 10, 2024
Taking a new believer through this book now. Such an easy, insightful, and rich book to hit the major themes of the Bible.
Probably the first new Christian book I’ve read that explains the threefold office of Christ, talks about and defends the covenant of works in Eden, and displays biblical typology well. Very encouraged.
I will likely use this book for other new believers, and you should, too.
Probably the first new Christian book I’ve read that explains the threefold office of Christ, talks about and defends the covenant of works in Eden, and displays biblical typology well. Very encouraged.
I will likely use this book for other new believers, and you should, too.
April 13, 2023
Enjoyable read! Well, most chapters were. Some were a little bland - though maybe that's because I wasn't really paying attention.
Ahem, anyway, I'd recommend it since it opened my eyes to the incredible (or should I say...epic? Eh? Ehhhhh?) story of the Bible and how I can find enjoyment in watching that story unfold. 😃
Ahem, anyway, I'd recommend it since it opened my eyes to the incredible (or should I say...epic? Eh? Ehhhhh?) story of the Bible and how I can find enjoyment in watching that story unfold. 😃
May 3, 2023
Wonderful little intro book to biblical theology, which traces the development of theological themes as they progress through the Bible. Gilbert has a way in this book of retelling the biblical story with an efficient and vivid style. Above all, he gives a roadmap to help the average Christian reader know how to faithfully interpret their Bible based on where they are on the journey.
July 29, 2024
Really an excellent introduction to the themes of the Bible. It’ll be a book I recommend to people reading through the whole Bible for the first time.
January 1, 2025
This helped me understand the big picture, themes, and connections throughout the Bible. It gave me much excitement to embark on doing a Bible in a year plan!
November 4, 2025
Great introduction to historical-redemptive hermeneutics. I'd call it a must read for new christians, or even christians struggling with actually getting into God's word in a meaningful way.
February 19, 2023
Another great resource from Greg Gilbert.
September 11, 2025
Best book I’ve read on understanding the storyline of the Bible.
Major Themes:
1. Gods dwelling place
2. Covenants
3. Kingship
4. Sacrifice
Major Themes:
1. Gods dwelling place
2. Covenants
3. Kingship
4. Sacrifice
December 10, 2022
Greg Gilbert’s The Epic Story Of The Bible was an awesome refresher for me on how to read my Bible. It teaches what the Bible is and how to study it. He explains the various genres and major themes woven throughout Scripture. I found this book to be very accessible and gospel centered. This would make a wonderful gift for a new Christian or someone who is interested in learning about God and the Bible. I have been a Christian for many years but found this book very helpful and I learned so much!
January 6, 2023
First sentence: As the plane descended toward the city, I didn't see any mountains out the window. At some level, this was disappointing, because that was why I'd come in the first place.
The Epic Story of the Bible is a companion book (of sorts) to the ESV Story of Redemption Bible. (The last chapter of The Epic Story of the Bible is promoting the ESV Story of Redemption Bible in almost every paragraph.) Essentially...to sum it all up...this one communicates the 'big picture' story of the Bible. It then provides four additional lenses to view that big picture of the Bible. It explores--goes over the same groundwork essentially--four themes of the Bible. So readers have five opportunities to grasp what the big picture is. The four themes are: Presence, Covenant, Kingship, Sacrifice.
Throughout the book the author talks about traveling to the mountains. (I personally could have done without this casual framework. But it's not like I'm going to dislike a book because of personal narrative.)
Who is the book for? First, I think this is best suited for those who are either a) new to the faith or b) new to Bible reading. Second, I think it could be used as a refresher course for those who have perhaps 'lost' that initial passion and/or diligence for the Word of God. Maybe it's been a while since they've last picked up the Bible because of love of the Lord. Maybe Bible reading is more a chore or duty. Third, I think plenty of Christians could benefit from reading this one. Maybe the information is not new and sticks to the basics--and what beautiful, amazing basics--but readers could then recommend this one to those who need it most.
It is sad but true that sometimes over-familiarity with a subject effects one's appreciation of it. Oh to read with new, fresh eyes the story of the Bible.
The Epic Story of the Bible is a companion book (of sorts) to the ESV Story of Redemption Bible. (The last chapter of The Epic Story of the Bible is promoting the ESV Story of Redemption Bible in almost every paragraph.) Essentially...to sum it all up...this one communicates the 'big picture' story of the Bible. It then provides four additional lenses to view that big picture of the Bible. It explores--goes over the same groundwork essentially--four themes of the Bible. So readers have five opportunities to grasp what the big picture is. The four themes are: Presence, Covenant, Kingship, Sacrifice.
Throughout the book the author talks about traveling to the mountains. (I personally could have done without this casual framework. But it's not like I'm going to dislike a book because of personal narrative.)
Who is the book for? First, I think this is best suited for those who are either a) new to the faith or b) new to Bible reading. Second, I think it could be used as a refresher course for those who have perhaps 'lost' that initial passion and/or diligence for the Word of God. Maybe it's been a while since they've last picked up the Bible because of love of the Lord. Maybe Bible reading is more a chore or duty. Third, I think plenty of Christians could benefit from reading this one. Maybe the information is not new and sticks to the basics--and what beautiful, amazing basics--but readers could then recommend this one to those who need it most.
It is sad but true that sometimes over-familiarity with a subject effects one's appreciation of it. Oh to read with new, fresh eyes the story of the Bible.
August 7, 2022
I will entirely admit I was very pleasantly surprised with this book--in large part because it uses _Lord of the Rings_ as an extensive example, LOL. BUT, that example proves, to me anyway, entirely effective!
I also loved the incorporation of trekking to Everest Base Camp as another example; both Everest and Rings help illustrate the scope of navigating the Bible (and of the material itself). I am a huge travel/trip planner and avid reader, and both of these proved right up my alley. I love nothing more than visiting places I've read about, and reading _The Epic Story of the Bible_ helped me revisit that with this Most Important Book in a new and fresh way.
I'm really excited to explore it alongside the _ESV Story of Redemption Bible_, which released a few years ago and looks to be a brilliant resource--even more when paired together with this. The author notes this is geared toward newer believers or not-yet-believers, but I absolutely gained insight and added depth into the Bible myself. There's something to be said for revisiting the familiar with a fresh set of eyes; it's all too easy to become overly familiar and skip things. Plus, the Bible is one book that we can never learn everything about, no matter how much we study/read it. (That's also why I love Rings, ha--I've read it a boatload of times and still get new things out of it every time.) Studying the Bible well is so important, and _The Epic Story of the Bible_ is a great resource to help do so, no matter where the reader is on their faith journey.
I received an eARC of the book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
I also loved the incorporation of trekking to Everest Base Camp as another example; both Everest and Rings help illustrate the scope of navigating the Bible (and of the material itself). I am a huge travel/trip planner and avid reader, and both of these proved right up my alley. I love nothing more than visiting places I've read about, and reading _The Epic Story of the Bible_ helped me revisit that with this Most Important Book in a new and fresh way.
I'm really excited to explore it alongside the _ESV Story of Redemption Bible_, which released a few years ago and looks to be a brilliant resource--even more when paired together with this. The author notes this is geared toward newer believers or not-yet-believers, but I absolutely gained insight and added depth into the Bible myself. There's something to be said for revisiting the familiar with a fresh set of eyes; it's all too easy to become overly familiar and skip things. Plus, the Bible is one book that we can never learn everything about, no matter how much we study/read it. (That's also why I love Rings, ha--I've read it a boatload of times and still get new things out of it every time.) Studying the Bible well is so important, and _The Epic Story of the Bible_ is a great resource to help do so, no matter where the reader is on their faith journey.
I received an eARC of the book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
November 15, 2022
A tiny book with massive value and key points to assist readers, new or seasoned, with reading the BIBLE.
Greg Gilbert, author of “The Epic Story of the Bible”, is also an enthusiast for mountain climbing; major, huge, mountains like in Nepal. There are lots of vignettes about his trip to the base camp of Mt. Everest and how this preparation relates to the book and preparation for your potential adventures reading about God’s relationship with mankind.
Some of the information is statistical: # of books, authors, literary styles, span of years, etc. After these, Gilbert provides a storyline review from creation thru Revelation, a review of major themes, covenants, those anointed and he traces the progression of blood sacrifices and forgiveness from earliest law/rule driven, Priest administered to the completed process of Christ’s sacrifice on the cross.
Gilbert encourages readers to study with others and use resources from other authors. Altho’ he does mention a few works that he found useful, there isn’t a list included at the end of the book for easy reference, which I found lamentable.
Novice or Experienced, this diminutive volume will earn its shelf space in your home or office library. It’s a concise guide to direct readers on their adventure into “The Epic Story of the Bible”📚
Greg Gilbert, author of “The Epic Story of the Bible”, is also an enthusiast for mountain climbing; major, huge, mountains like in Nepal. There are lots of vignettes about his trip to the base camp of Mt. Everest and how this preparation relates to the book and preparation for your potential adventures reading about God’s relationship with mankind.
Some of the information is statistical: # of books, authors, literary styles, span of years, etc. After these, Gilbert provides a storyline review from creation thru Revelation, a review of major themes, covenants, those anointed and he traces the progression of blood sacrifices and forgiveness from earliest law/rule driven, Priest administered to the completed process of Christ’s sacrifice on the cross.
Gilbert encourages readers to study with others and use resources from other authors. Altho’ he does mention a few works that he found useful, there isn’t a list included at the end of the book for easy reference, which I found lamentable.
Novice or Experienced, this diminutive volume will earn its shelf space in your home or office library. It’s a concise guide to direct readers on their adventure into “The Epic Story of the Bible”📚
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