Review by csimmons032 -- Who Told You That You Were Naked?
-
csimmons032
- Posts: 687
- Joined: 27 Feb 2015, 21:49
- Favorite Book: Twilight and The Last Song
- Currently Reading: Bluewater Walkabout
- Bookshelf Size: 706
- Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-csimmons032.html
- Latest Review: "Book Blueprint" by Jacqui Pretty
Review by csimmons032 -- Who Told You That You Were Naked?
[Following is a volunteer review of "Who Told You That You Were Naked?" by William Combs.]
3 out of 4 stars
Share This Review
Who Told You That You Were Naked?: A Refreshing Reexamination of the Garden of Eden is an analysis of how sin began in the Garden of Eden. Author Reverend William E. Combs examines life in the Garden of Eden, how sin was brought into the world, the actions of Adam and Eve, and the lasting effect that their choices have had on us. As those choices are observed, we are also taught to observe our own relationships with Jesus Christ, and the relationship that we should and would like to have with God.
Due to its references towards the Bible, this is a Christian based book. I know that the title and description probably makes that seem obvious, but I thought that this should be made clear in case there is anyone not interested in this type of book. This book mainly focuses on the book of Genesis, although it does reference other stories from the Bible as well.
Who Told You That You Were Naked? focuses on the idea of reexamining the nature of sin and how we often view sin in our own lives. Reverend William E. Combs states "By reducing sin to a mere list of offences, we can convince ourselves that we are becoming better persons because we are committing fewer "sins" than we once did. This attitude shifts our focus away from the devastating consequences of sin- the inner conviction we do not measure up." Reverend William E. Combs tries to get rid of the idea that by committing less sins, we are better people. I found this to be one of the interesting points that the author made because it is easy to relate to. In interesting ways, the author uses Adam and Eve's relationships with God in order to try and get the reader to examine their own relationship with God and possibly develop a more personal relationship. Each of the points that the author makes is referenced back to the bible, and he provides a great deal of detail which is helpful.
While I did enjoy what the author had to say and made some good points, I felt like he could have said more in some areas. He uses detailed fictional examples to show what life was possibly like for Adam and Eve in the Garden. These additions were enjoyable to read, but I think the author could have embellished a little bit more on what these particular moments and stories mean to him. These additional stories and references towards scripture covered most of the chapters. Of course I expect there to be a fare share of references towards scriptures in a Christian based novel, but I would also like to read an equal amount of what the author thinks of these particular scriptures and stories that they chose. The information itself is very good, which is why I would have enjoyed reading a little bit more on what the author has to say.
There are study questions at the end of each chapter, which could serve well for bible studies. The questions are interesting and thought provoking, which will make for easy discussion among group members. One of the personal stories that the author told was a little frightening but it was relevant to the point that he was trying to make. Other stories that he told from his life were very enjoyable to read.
I rate Who Said You Were Naked?: A Refreshing Reexamination of the Garden of Eden 3 out of 4 stars. The writing in this novel is very good, and I enjoyed what the author had to say. I would have just preferred to read a little bit more of what he has to say so that it is equal with the amount of scriptures, additional biblical stories, and personal stories. Otherwise, this book is a great read and I would recommend it.
******
Who Told You That You Were Naked?
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
Like csimmons032's review? Post a comment saying so!
3 out of 4 stars
Share This Review
Who Told You That You Were Naked?: A Refreshing Reexamination of the Garden of Eden is an analysis of how sin began in the Garden of Eden. Author Reverend William E. Combs examines life in the Garden of Eden, how sin was brought into the world, the actions of Adam and Eve, and the lasting effect that their choices have had on us. As those choices are observed, we are also taught to observe our own relationships with Jesus Christ, and the relationship that we should and would like to have with God.
Due to its references towards the Bible, this is a Christian based book. I know that the title and description probably makes that seem obvious, but I thought that this should be made clear in case there is anyone not interested in this type of book. This book mainly focuses on the book of Genesis, although it does reference other stories from the Bible as well.
Who Told You That You Were Naked? focuses on the idea of reexamining the nature of sin and how we often view sin in our own lives. Reverend William E. Combs states "By reducing sin to a mere list of offences, we can convince ourselves that we are becoming better persons because we are committing fewer "sins" than we once did. This attitude shifts our focus away from the devastating consequences of sin- the inner conviction we do not measure up." Reverend William E. Combs tries to get rid of the idea that by committing less sins, we are better people. I found this to be one of the interesting points that the author made because it is easy to relate to. In interesting ways, the author uses Adam and Eve's relationships with God in order to try and get the reader to examine their own relationship with God and possibly develop a more personal relationship. Each of the points that the author makes is referenced back to the bible, and he provides a great deal of detail which is helpful.
While I did enjoy what the author had to say and made some good points, I felt like he could have said more in some areas. He uses detailed fictional examples to show what life was possibly like for Adam and Eve in the Garden. These additions were enjoyable to read, but I think the author could have embellished a little bit more on what these particular moments and stories mean to him. These additional stories and references towards scripture covered most of the chapters. Of course I expect there to be a fare share of references towards scriptures in a Christian based novel, but I would also like to read an equal amount of what the author thinks of these particular scriptures and stories that they chose. The information itself is very good, which is why I would have enjoyed reading a little bit more on what the author has to say.
There are study questions at the end of each chapter, which could serve well for bible studies. The questions are interesting and thought provoking, which will make for easy discussion among group members. One of the personal stories that the author told was a little frightening but it was relevant to the point that he was trying to make. Other stories that he told from his life were very enjoyable to read.
I rate Who Said You Were Naked?: A Refreshing Reexamination of the Garden of Eden 3 out of 4 stars. The writing in this novel is very good, and I enjoyed what the author had to say. I would have just preferred to read a little bit more of what he has to say so that it is equal with the amount of scriptures, additional biblical stories, and personal stories. Otherwise, this book is a great read and I would recommend it.
******
Who Told You That You Were Naked?
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
Like csimmons032's review? Post a comment saying so!
Latest Review: "Book Blueprint" by Jacqui Pretty
