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Author Canning presents his comprehension of the messages of the Holy Bible through a portrait of the mission of Jesus Christ, whose conveyance of the word "amen" needs to be explained and shared. The author presents a central thesis: Jesus usually uses the word "amen" in scripture in advance of his timeless declarations. This assertion may surprise many readers, accustomed to saying that word as a conclusion and acknowledgement of religious presentations. In biblical text, "amen, amen" is sometimes shown in the pronouncements of Jesus as "verily, verily," or "truly, truly." The deeper significance of these words, Canning states, is that Jesus is the truth, and his followers must take this understanding to the heart of their faith and commitment.
Canning's work references sixty verses from the books of Matthew, Mark, and John, setting forth spiritual facts, promises, and predictions. These depict many of life's possibilities through observations or experiences related by Jesus, such as entering a new town and not being welcomed, or offered by him as parables for contemplation, including one's developing faith like that of a child, because, as Canning says, Jesus knew that "children are valuable and right for heaven." Canning deftly draws this relationship between Jesus' words and the truth of his being when he states that "Jesus is the vine and we are the branches."
Canning, a former pastor with master's degrees in both science and divinity, offers here the diligent evidence gathering and organization needed for scientific endeavors, and the open mind and heart necessary for spiritual life. Over the years, he has written other books focusing on the Christian religion while planning and teaching Bible studies. This volume reveals Canning's steadfast determination to share the truths Jesus propounded, providing a focus for group study and individual spiritual seeking.