Eat Like Jesus by Andrew L. Hoy, Book review and GIVEAWAY

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• Publisher: WestBowPress (September 27, 2013)

• ISBN-13: 978-1449791292
• Paperback: 192 pages

SYNOPSIS:

What does the Bible really teach about food? Were Adam, Eve, and the animals originally created as vegetarians? Why did Noah take extra pairs of certain animal species into the Ark? Which animals did God permit Moses to eat? Did Jesus actually declare all meats fit to eat? What kind of animals did Peter see in his vision? Would Paul really encourage us to eat anything ? 

For generations, religious institutions have served people a steady diet of dispensational theology, in which new covenants and teachings are portrayed as healthy substitutes for Moses' eating instructions. Commandments of Moses are usually dismissed as outdated, irrelevant, and oppressive. But are these views valid, just because they are popular or traditional? How did first century Christians eat? What did Jesus, Paul, and the apostles teach about food and about Moses' law? How do biblical diets help people live longer? 

EAT LIKE JESUS answers all of these questions and more by comparing infallible Bible texts to mistranslations and status-quo religious dogma. Offering a simple, scientific, and comprehensive Bible-based dining theology, EAT LIKE JESUS probes into - and beyond - New Testament accounts, explaining how and why God has been qualifying food for all humanity since the Garden of Eden.

Here are my thoughts:


Before anything else Folks I would like to invite you to visit Andrew L. HOY's website 'THE CLEAN EAT GREEN'  as first suggested by the author. It makes absolutely good sense to check out what this book is offering before reading further!

Beginning with questions such as 'How do biblical diets help people live longer?', 'Were Adam and Eve created as Vegans?' or 'Why did Noah take extra animals on his Ark?' you will get an idea of the author's fresh approach at all essential bibles verses regarding Christians eating habits.

In 5 well documented chapters, the author addresses such subjects as Traditions, Gentile Dining Acts, the Genesis of Food and so on.

Eat Like Jesus is like no book I have read before in that regard and anyone from seasoned scholar to new believer will take something away from it!
The author offers readers much 'food for thought' bringing a whole new dimension to our feeding habits as he introduces readers to his interpretation of where and why Christians have strayed from the original teachings of Christ, starting with inadequate translations of related biblical texts.

Discerningly using the teachings of disciples Peter, Paul, Mark and others Andrew L. Hoy explains his understanding of returning to Kosher Christianity, from changing where and how we consume food to with whom.

Demonstrating a well noted understanding of Hebrew and Greek translations he shares what he believes to be the diet Jesus and His disciples observed whilst pointing out the translations discrepancies of Paul's letters to the Corinthians and Romans, both in the K.J. version and the N.I. version.
I found it interesting that "the K.J. version was written four centuries ago when the English term 'meat' generically referred to 'food' not exclusively to food derived from animal flesh, as it does today.", something I remembered learning years ago and promptly forgot!K.J.

Andrew L. Hoy tells readers: "While I am no Philip Yancey, Rick Warren, or Max Lucado, I can nevertheless assure you that my book has great potential to improve your understanding of the Bible, to challenge your faith, and to strengthen your relationship with God - all while improving your health and the health of those that you love and feed!"

As outlined in his book, Andrew L. Hoy's comments matches remarkably the health experts warnings about our daily food consumption and as such well worth checking out!
After all, WWJD?

5 Stars!!

Note: First Edition - Chapter two has since been revised due to a timeline error.


About the Author:

From Amazon:

Andrew L. Hoy worked as a professional engineer for over 15 years. Searching for greater meaning, he embarked on African missionary work, where he began questioning traditional church doctrines. Only after moving to Israel to study the Scriptures did he find answers, along with a passion for discipleship and an authentic understanding of the Great Commission.

Visit his website for additional information (HERE)

and/or his  Hebrew "word of the day" blog at https://www.facebook.com/DayLeBrew, or his facebook page https://www.facebook.com/Andrew.Hoy.Author.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR'S GIVEAWAY:

Andrew L. HOY has kindly offered one reader the opportunity to receive the following package:

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Interested? Just place a comment on this post telling me you would love to learn more about Eat like Jesus and your name will be added in the hat!

You have until Midnight on February 15, 2014. Drawing will be done by an independent hand on the 16th!

Winner's name will be posted on the blog and contacted via email with confirmation (be sure to include an email address in a safe format Folks!)

GIVEAWAY OPEN INTERNATIONALLY!!



I received a copy of this book courtesy of the author as part of his book promotion. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC 16 CFR, Part 255 'Guides concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising. I was not asked to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are entirely my own. 

The Key To The Middle East by Derek Prince, Book review

• Publisher: Chosen Books - Reprint edition (November 5, 2013)
• ISBN-13: 978-0800795559

SYNOPSIS:

(From the back cover)

One Nation Holds the Key to the Destiny of Mankind
Though it may seem distant from our modern lives, the drama playing out in the Middle East on the world stage has consequences beyond what we can imagine. And in the tumult of it all, one tiny nation will become the watershed of world events, affecting us all. 

In this accessible, behind-the-scenes guide, internationally renowned teacher and scholar Derek Prince goes beyond the headlines and immerses you in what the Bible has to say about Israel. Tracing her long, astonishing history, he offers insight into the mounting tension and exposes the destructive enemy now stalking this war-torn land.

Accessible and fascinating, The Key to the Middle East also reveals God's plans for all nations--and what our future could look like. Prince's depth of understanding and interpretation of Scripture will challenge and encourage you. But above all, you will be brought face-to-face with the God who remembers, honors and lovingly guards His promises to His people.

Here are my thoughts:

Broadcasts highlights the Middle East daily as you well know and as a nation Israel features prominently in these news. 

First in print under the title 'The Last Word On The Middle East' than as 'Promised Land' Derek Prince's The Key To The Middle East was written more than 30 years ago yet is even more relevant today than at its first edition! 

Why will you ask? Because it offers such a scopic view of the sequence of events which ultimately (at least in the opinion of those familiar with the area) will influence the outcome of the world we know.

Bible prophecies are at best a difficult subject as depending on whom we are we interpret these often with blinders on! Derek Prince however offers readers a rich insight on those documented Middle East's events linked to numerous prophecies of Israel's past, present and future. 

It is interesting to note that decades ago the author was keenly aware of both sides' point of views, Arab and Jewish and perceived how explosive the situation in the Middle East would become. 

If you acknowledge what has already passed you know those events soon to unfold bears once again the imprint of God's plans for his chosen people and the world in general.

Covering both the historical perspective and the prophetic fulfillment of Israel this book is easily understood, filled with substantial facts and related scriptures for those wishing to understand a little more more of the future, The Key To The Middle East is well worth 5 stars and a great addition to any personal library!

Meet The Author:

Derek Prince was born in India of British parents in Bangalore, India, in 1915, into a world and a way of life that no longer exists. Kings, queens and emperors ruled over vast domains, and the British Empire exceeded them all. 
The British army and civil service governed the colonies, and India was the brightest jewel in the imperial crown. 
Derek says, "I was born into a family of 'empire builders'. My father, Paul Ernest Prince, was an officer in the Queen's own Madras Sappers and Miners, his commission signed by Victoria's own hand. 
My mother, Gwendolen, also born in India, was the daughter of Major General Robert Edward Vaughan. Her brother, a Punjab Lancer, later became a brigadier."

He was educated at Eton College and Kings College, Cambridge.

At the time of Prince's death in September 2003 he was the author of over 50 books, 600 audio and 100 video teachings, many of which have been translated and published in more than 100 languages. 
Some of the subjects that are covered in his teachings are prayer and fasting, foundations of the Christian faith, spiritual warfare, God's love and marriage and family to name a few.

More (HERE)


I received a copy of this title from CHOSEN - BAKER PUBLISHING GROUP to review . I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC 16 CFR, Part 255 'Guides concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising. I was not asked to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are entirely my own. 

A Man Called Blessed by Ted Dekker, Book review

• Publisher: Thomas Nelson edition (April 4, 2006)
• ISBN-13: 978-0849945144

Synopsis:

One man holds the key to finding the ark of the covenant.

In this explosive sequel to Blessed Child, Rebecca Soloman leads a team deep into the Ethiopian desert to hunt the one man who may know the final resting place of the Ark of the Covenant. But Islamic fundamentalists fear that the Ark's discovery will compel Israel to rebuild Soloman's temple on the very site of their own holy mosque in Jerusalem.

They immediately dispatch Ismael, their most accomplished assassin, to pursue the same man, but the one in their sights is no ordinary man. His name is Caleb, and he is also on a quest--to find again the love he once embraced as a child.

The fate of a million souls rests in the hands of these three.

(Source Google - Ethiopian wilderness)

Here are my thoughts:

'A Man called Blessed' story line will grip you with its intriguing 'what if' Israel would discover the Ark of the Covenant and rebuilt the Temple. 

As it is his norm, Ted Dekker offers his readers a spectrum of ideas and reactions to this possibility, informing rather than preaching. His novels stands out with their unusual aspects, their very subjects offering new dimensions to entertaining, this one, the concept of what might happen 'if', riveting! 
His co-author Bill Bright stated this novel is a message spun from both their hearts, judge for yourself!

A sequel* to 'A Child Blessed', this novel questions many probabilities depending on your beliefs, such as will the Temple be rebuilt? Before the second coming of Christ or after the Rapture of the Church?
In this instance Dekker profiles the Jewish point of view, weaving it intricately into an action packed story.
Through the eyes of Israeli Mossad soldier/archaeologist Rebecca Soloman we follow up on a blind man's wild story about the Ark. This Ethiopian Falasha Jew profess to know its exact resting place.

Traveling into Ethiopia with a highly trained team of experts, including one of Israel's best archaeologists, Rebecca pursues the claim. In doing so her life and beliefs are soon challenged by outside forces bringing her to question her mission and all she thought she knew about God's purpose for His children.

Battling Islamic fundamentalists, trained assassins, hostile elements and a brutal landscape, Rebecca might just find more than she expected in this quest for the ultimate prize. But you will have to read it to find out more, no spoilers Folks!

An amazing journey to witness, you will not want to put this one down!

5 Stars!

* This sequel stands on its own, have no fear but I believe you will enjoy reading the first of the Caleb Books series as well!

About the Author:

Ted Dekker began his career writing fantasy novels that explored spirituality (Black, Red and White) and has since become a major force in the mainstream fiction arena with his recent thrillers, "Adam," "Thr3e," "Skin," "Obsessed," "BoneMan's Daughters," which landed in the #10 on the New York Times hardcover bestseller list in 2009, and "The Bride Collector". 

Dekker has been honored with a Christy Award as well as a Gold Medallion Award for Best Fiction. "Thr3e" and his novel "House" became feature films.

Dekker was born to missionaries and grew up among cannibals of Indonesia, and his peculiar upbringing gives him a unique perspective outside the cultural bubble, allowing him the freedom to share provocative insights in his fiction. After leaving Indonesia, Dekker graduated from a multi-cultural high school and took up permanent residence in the United States, earning his B.A. in philosophy and religion, and then went into business.

In the early nineties, Dekker decided to pursue his desire to write fiction, selling his company, moving his family to the mountains of western Colorado, and writing full-time. Two years and three books later his first novel, a supernatural thriller called Heaven's Wager, was published. Dekker proceeded to write 6 more supernatural thrillers, rising to the top of many bestsellers lists and earning himself critical acclaim and legions of fans. "Thr3e" heralded his launch into mainstream fiction and was followed by "Obsessed," "Skin," "Adam," and "BoneMan's Daughters," all of which hit the New York Times bestseller list.

Ted Dekker's fans are comprised of readers of all ages, backgrounds, and belief systems who love his compulsively readable stories, authentic characters, and universal and relatable themes that he explores from a unique point of view.

Visit his website (HERE)

I received a copy of this title from BOOKSNEEZE to review . I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC 16 CFR, Part 255 'Guides concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising. I was not asked to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.  

Why Still Care About Israel? by Sandra Teplinsky, Book review

Publisher: Chosen Books; Upd Rev edition (September 1, 2013)

ISBN-13: 978-0800795290

Synopsis:

Could you be asking all the wrong questions about Israel?
Conversation about the Arab-Israeli conflict usually starts by asking if God is for or against the Jewish state--or Palestinians, Arabs or Muslims. In this updated and urgent book, Sandra Teplinsky, an American-Israeli Jewish believer, shows why many Christians are asking the wrong questions about Israel. With gracious honesty and solid biblical insight, she unravels the mystery and controversy of Israel-- 
and shows how it impacts you--by taking you into the Lord's passion for all humankind.  

Here are my thoughts:

The past, present and future of Israel has fascinated the world for centuries. 
Somehow, despite or perhaps because of conflicts and difference of opinions, each of us seem to be tied in some way to God's chosen people. 

With a considerable amount of time in front of me (remember dry dock?) I felt this past month would be just right for this review. 
As it turned out, with the extensive amount of information to process, 'Why Still Care About Israel' was much more informative than I ever anticipated! 

An American-Israeli Jewish believer, Sandra Teplinsky uses her ample writing skills and theological background to underline why Christians and other believers should in fact pray and care about Israel.
Using both the Old and the New Testament Sandra illustrates God's love for Israel is as strong today as it was during the old biblical times.

There is no doubt the author deeply cares also about the Arab-Palestinian views, witnessed through her writing on the subject of Palestinian Christians. However she also consistently keeps her objectivity as demonstrated in her passionate point of view regarding Israel's future.

As a mere student of the Word, I found considerable help in reviewing this book using the Bible and unless you are a re known scholar, so will you!  None the less, the extended footnotes provided by the author promise to be of invaluable importance to anyone contemplating the future, let me rephrase this, our future! For somehow, it is written...

As God's children, we are all in this together!

 A great addition to any church library and bible studies, I give it 5 stars! 


About the Author:

Sandra Teplinsky has been in Messianic Jewish ministry since 1979. She is president and founder of Light of Zion, a Messianic outreach to Israel and the Church based in California and Jerusalem. From an Orthodox Jewish background, Sandra obtained a J.D. from Indiana University School of Law, B.A. in Political Science from the University of Illinois, and Bible training from Talbot Seminary in Los Angeles.

Sandra is an ordained minister and international conference speaker. She has taught Bible college-level courses and church seminars about the relationship between Israel and the Church. She has mobilized prayer for Israel and the Middle East in many nations. Together with her husband, she developed intercessory prayer groups and humanitarian aid projects in Jewish evangelism in the former Soviet Union.

A former attorney, Sandra has authored several books and articles about Israel and the Church, including Israel's Anointing (Chosen Books, 2008); Why Care About Israel? (Chosen Books, 2004); The Blessing of Israel (2002); and Out of the Darkness: The Untold Story of Jewish Revival in the Former Soviet Union (1998). She has been a frequent guest speaker on international television and radio. She and her family maintain their primary residence in the Jerusalem area.

For more visit Light of Zion's website (HERE) and blog (HERE).


I received a paperback copy of this title from CHOSEN BOOKS - BETHANY HOUSE PUBLISHERS as part of their blogger review program . I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC 16 CFR, Part 255 'Guides concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising. I was not asked to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are entirely my own. 

Love In A Broken Vessel by Mesu Andrews, Book review

Publisher: Revell (March 1, 2013)

ISBN-13: 978-0800721695

Synopsis:


Hosea has been charged by God with a difficult task--marry a prostitute in order to show God's people the nature and depth of his love for Israel. When Hosea goes to Israel to proclaim God's message, the prostitute God tells him to marry turns out to be his childhood friend Gomer. He finds her broken and abused, unwilling to trust Hosea or his God. But when marrying Hosea becomes her only choice, Gomer does what she's good at--she survives. Can Hosea's love for God and God's love for Israel heal Gomer's broken spirit?

With her potent combination of in-depth research and masterful storytelling, Mesu Andrews brings to life a complex and fascinating biblical story of the power of love and forgiveness in the face of utter betrayal.

My thoughts:

Once before I had the experience of reading and reviewing Mesu Andrews' exquisite work ( Love's Sacred Song - See review HERE) and I can but only marvel at the incredible research and dedication involved in these novels! 

This author's  penmanship is above and beyond the usual historical fiction perhaps because it is first and foremost based on the Old Testament, not the easiest subject to speculate upon. Yes, we have the Scriptures but these are not always easy to understand.
To say that as a student of the Word I have little knowledge of this biblical chronology is an understatement but like others, I am curious and I wish to learn. To help us understand better her story Mesu Andrews 'Note to the Reader' and the Prophets and Kings genealogic chart should not be missed!

Mesu Andrews' works of fiction gives a vivid and colourful approach to biblical history, allowing us to perceive a little of the lives of the men and women who roamed the land of Israel in these ancient times.
Her intricate details gives an unsurpassed approach to biblical life and thus gives us immensible understanding of Yahweeh's hopes and dreams for His people. 
It was a time for prophecies, persecusions and much abuse in Israel. I stress this as I always feel the Old Testament must surely be written in another language (of course it was, no pun intended), incomprehensible for many believers surely?!

In 'Love In A Broken Vessel' we meet Hosea, a lesser prophet, never the less the voice of Yahweeh reaching out to His people and help redress their many faults. Like other prophets he lives in Tecoa, a communal farm where like him, they learn to listen to God's word and do His work.

A tantalizing tale of love, forgiveness and also redemption, 'Love in a Broken Vessel' speaks of Isaaiah, Jonah, King Uzziah's and God's judgment upon the many tribes of Israel. The cruelty in ancient biblical times, always difficult to grasp for me, is reflected in Mesu's novel from its beginning and perhaps better suited to mature readers.

Yahweeh's bride choice for Hosea is alluring Gomer, a childhood friend turned harlot. Married and now living in Judah , Gomer feels bitterness, betrayal, and continuous heartbreak as Hosea pursues Yahweeh's work leaving her alone for many moons. She spends her time learning the art of pottery at which she excells but feeling abandonned she returns to prostitution before long. 

Secretly, Gomer also continues to revere the idol Asherah and soon her prayers to the fertility goddess comes to pass and she bears children. She lives for Jezreel, Lo-Ruhamah and dreams of saving enough silver as an harlot to leave Hosea's village. 

Mesu's story reminds us that there is redemption and hope for us if we truly believe. In Gomer's own words: "If Yahweh can take a life as broken as mine and restore it, perhaps there is a way to redeem other broken vessels."

An exceptional fictional rendition of lesser known facts of the Old Testament, 'Love in a Broken Vessel' is a novel historical and biblical students will appreciate whilst also being an amazing love story you will remember for a very long time. 

There is no doubt there can only be a 5 Stars rating for such a work of love. Mesu Andrews is in a class by herself!

“Available March 2013 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group."

 About the Author:

Mesu Andrews is the author of Love Amid the Ashes and Love's Sacred Song. Winner of the 2012 ECPA award for Best New Author, she is an active speaker who has devoted herself to passionate and intense study of Scripture. Harnessing her deep understanding and love for God's Word, Andrews brings the biblical world vividly alive for her readers.

Note to Readers from the Publisher:

If you have any  questions for Mesu Andrews, or just want to say hello, Revell is hosting an Author Café, an hour chat with Mesu, on Wednesday 20 March at 3 pm EDT/12 pm PDT .
We would love for you to join the party on our Facebook page (www.facebook.com/revellbooks)! Plus we’re giving away a signed book to one lucky participant! 


See you there!


I received this book free from BAKER REVELL as part of their blogger review program. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC 16 CFR, Part 255 'Guides concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising. I was not asked to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.