 |
Writer Nelson examines the concept of "ekbasis" (Greek for "escape") as he sees it after years of dedicated exploration of the finer messages of the Holy Bible, which, as seen here, clearly delineate the human dilemma: the necessity to reject self-centered beliefs and follow the path to salvation, aligning with God's spirit and intention. Nelson's extensive efforts are revealed from the first chapter, setting forth the scriptural definition of God: spiritual, omnipresent, omnipotent, and eternal. The physical universe and everything within it, whether vast or tiny, are his creations. Humans may choose to pursue eternal life, or they may be attracted by selfish, physical temptations to pursue sin, a tendency that, if left unchecked, leads to certain destruction.
This theme permeates Nelson's work, probing the many ways that one might become a follower of Lucifer, once God's bright angel, who developed self-exaltation rather than striving to glorify God and became Satan. God then sent His son, Jesus, who would embody the blessing and grace that God can bestow. One may utilize those gifts by connecting with God and Christ through the Holy Spirit. Channels for embracing the Holy Spirit encompass commandments, offered to save individuals from self-righteous thoughts and actions. To achieve this goal, one need not compete with others, for God is "no respecter of persons," judging all His created beings fairly and equally. Nelson presents numerous examples of God's will being done and of mankind's weaknesses being turned into strengths, with the Holy Bible as the central focus. Exemplars include the Book of Revelation, the Psalms, and individuals such as Moses, Abraham, Peter, and Paul. God, the author asserts, offers the lure of faith, but faith must always be accompanied by righteous deeds. Death, Nelson explains, is the result of disobedience to God; but since Jesus offered a way to a heavenly resurrection, those who have strived to live according to God's plan will awake from their "first death" and be rewarded, while those who have rejected God's plan will die eternally.
Nelson's sage observations predict the earthly future revealed in holy scripture, advising readers to cry out to God for understanding and an escape, or ekbasis, from the dire prospects that the author has so diligently and thoroughly brought to fresh attention. The author has had a lengthy career in the medical field in Missouri and Washington state, working in a well-child clinic, general surgery, family practice, and urgent care. The diligence and attention to detail required in this demanding field are clearly shown in the composition of the author's book. His intensive study of holy scripture led him to the bold decision to share his journey with a wider audience by composing this valuable work, which was a task of more than twelve years. It is intended to clarify for others the spiritual concepts that once puzzled him, but which he came to understand through concentrated analysis of the Holy Bible. In this effort, he clearly succeeds. Readers, whether already in agreement with the scriptural interpretations as he propounds them or seeking through further delving to derive fresh comprehensions, will receive the inspiration to share Nelson's wisdom in group settings and private, individual contemplation.
RECOMMENDED by the US Review