Review of The Divine Messenger

[Merits Anih]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "The Divine Messenger" by Matthew Bryce Ervin.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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Have you ever thought of Jesus, the Son of God, as being present in the Old Testament? In the story of revelation, did you know that it was the Son of God present after Adam and Eve sinned? The Bible notes that they heard the voice of God and went to hide because they were naked. For them to hear the voice of God means God spoke a word or words. And John 1:1 says: "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God." Do you see it now? This book aims to make us aware of all the Christophanies in the Old Testament and to show how the Son of God has been present right from the beginning.

I have always loved reading the New Testament because, to me, it is the gospel. It is where the life of Jesus, our savior, was lived. However, The Divine Messenger: Appearances of the Son of God in the Old Testament by Matthew Bryce Ervin has made me look at the Old Testament differently. If you, like me, give little time to the Old Testament whenever you pick up your Bible, then you need to read this book. The whole Bible is called the word of God for a reason, not just the New Testament.

This book explores the different ways and places that the Son of God appeared in the Old Testament before he became a man. Reading this book was eye-opening, as it made me see the stories in the Bible in a new light. It became obvious all the time that the Word of God had been with man even before he was made flesh and dwelt among us. The author discussed the Son of God's various appearances to Abraham, Jacob, Moses, Elijah, Daniel, etc., and explained them all extensively, citing many sources. The author also proves the Son of God's presence during the Israelites' exodus from Egypt and into the promised land.

The book also proves the Son of God as the "Word," as represented in different languages. I love that this book is well-researched, as the author references many books in different languages to explain his points. I have always had questions about Melchizedek, and I'm glad I saw an explanation about him in this book. Reading this book made obvious the many times Jesus called himself "I AM," the name God introduced himself as to Moses at the burning bush incident.

There was something I didn't like about the book. Many passages of the Bible were quoted many times. Though at different places for different reasons, those passages that tell stories don't need to be repeatedly written once they have been used before, as the stories do not change. Just mention the story and go ahead with what is being explained. However, this is a minor negative aspect, as it does not affect my rating.

What stood out for me in this book was when the author wrote on page 173, "Christ will be to his people what their faith needs." It struck a chord in me. This book is perfect for teaching at religious gatherings. Hence, I recommend it to Christian leaders and other readers interested in the Bible and God in general. Finally, the book was exceptionally well edited, and I'm gladly rating it 5 out of 5 stars.

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The Divine Messenger
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon

[Amy Luman]

I have been told, and have seen for myself, many instances of Christ in the Old Testament. Many appearances of unknown people are seen as Jesus. Thanks!

[Rashad Deniro Price]

There has been a lot of debate as regards the nature of God: whether he is "all one" or "three in one person." Well, I would like to know this book's take on the nature and divinity of Jesus.

[Rashad Deniro Price]

There has been a lot of debate as regards the nature of God: whether he is "all one" or "three in one person." Well, I would like to know this book's take on the nature and divinity of Jesus.

[McDonald Lauren]

This book serves as a transformative guide, illuminating the presence of the Son of God throughout the Old Testament, shedding light on his appearances and underscoring the continuity between the Old and New Testaments. Ervin's extensive research and meticulous exploration of biblical stories offer a fresh perspective, making evident the profound pre-existence of the Word of God before the Incarnation. For those seeking a richer understanding of biblical narratives and the divine presence woven within, this book is an invaluable resource."

[Aaron Joseph Maupin]

This review is helpful as it highlights the book's exploration of Christophanies in the Old Testament and the author's extensive research. The reviewer's positive experience and newfound perspective make the review sufficient in conveying the book's value. The review has the potential to motivate readers, particularly those interested in religious teachings, to purchase the book. Overall, the reviewer believes this book would be a valuable addition to anyone's library.

[Donaking]

Based on the review, "The Divine Messenger: Appearances of the Son of God in the Old Testament" by Matthew Bryce Ervin seems to be a well-researched and enlightening read. The reviewer emphasizes how the book sheds light on the presence of the Son of God throughout the Old Testament and discusses various appearances in detail. They appreciate the extensive references and explanations provided by the author. Although the repeated quotations from the Bible are pointed out as a minor downside, it doesn't affect their overall positive rating of the book. This well-edited book is recommended for both Christian leaders and anyone interested in exploring the Bible and understanding God on a deeper level.

[Ivan Kovic]

Exploring the premise of Christ's presence throughout the Old Testament feels revelatory. This intriguing concept piques my spiritual curiosity.

[Victoria Ukamaka]

I appreciate forefronting the extensive research and multi-language sources underpinning the book's biblical analysis. Demonstrates scholarly rigor.

[Salome Ogani]

As someone drawn more to New Testament writings myself, this persuasively conveys rich revelations in Old Testament overlooked.

[Richard Thomasalw]

Illuminating the manifold ways the Son of God appeared prior to human form seems to unlock deeper scriptural meanings. The reviewer's own transformation in connecting more with overlooked Old Testament merits this book's reshaping power.

[William Wrightmill]

Granular examples like noting the burning bush "I Am" ties to Jesus' later self-references amplify its case convincingly. The Melchizedek clarification example demonstrates the book satisfying longtime uncertainties around biblical mysteries.

[Brian Adamss]

While excessive repetition of full biblical passages seems unnecessary, it likely intends reinforcing key arguments. A mild quibble. The choice to deeply explore singular revelations in Jesus' Old Testament presence rather than range more broadly pays off in impact.