Tracing God’s Story
How can you get a big-picture look at the Bible? In Tracing God’s Story, Jon Nielson provides an insightful introduction to biblical theology, making it accessible and engaging for readers at all levels. The book emphasizes the importance of personal study and reading of the Bible, encouraging you to dive deep into the text and discover its rich layers of meaning.
Events and Themes
Nielson masterfully helps you see the big picture of Scripture as a developing storyline, centered around the gospel. He invites you to see yourself within God’s great narrative, highlighting how various accounts weave together to reveal profound truths about his character and plan for humanity.
Chapters are thoughtfully divided into different scenes, guiding you through significant events and themes. Each section highlights important facts to notice in the text, providing steps and implications that deepen understanding. He provides takeaway lessons that resonate with contemporary life, making the ancient texts feel relevant and applicable.
Explanations and Connections
I was particularly pleased to see how Nielson navigates the split of the nation and the exile period. This era has always been one of the most challenging aspects of Israel’s history for me to grasp, but this book clarified and brought the narrative together. The explanations and connections from Nielson helped me fill in my missing gaps.
The sections between the crucifixion and the beginning of the Church were especially compelling. I found myself caught up in the excitement of what it means to be a New Testament believer, with Nielson's insights shedding light on the significance of new life in Christ.
God's Unfolding Story
Towards the end of the book, I was most impressed by Neilson's ability to use the entire Bible to pull you into the future, not just through the lens of Revelation but also by revisiting passages in Isaiah and Daniel. This holistic approach gave me a deeper appreciation for the continuity of Scripture and its ultimate fulfillment in Christ.
Tracing God’s Story is a valuable resource for anyone looking to understand the overarching narrative of the Bible and their place within it. I benefit from this book as a preacher and teacher, but also as a simple student of God's word. Nielson’s engaging style and thoughtful approach make this book a satisfying and refreshing read for both newcomers and seasoned believers seeking to enrich their understanding of God's unfolding story.
I received a media copy of Tracing God's Story and this is my honest review. Find more of my book reviews and follow Dive In, Dig Deep on Instagram - my account dedicated to Bibles and books to see the beauty of the Bible and the role of reading in the Christian life. To read all of my book reviews and to receive all of the free eBooks I find on the web, subscribe to my free newsletter.