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This informative collection concentrates on New Testament narratives, referring back to Old Testament events when required, with the goal of establishing the identity of Jesus of Nazareth. Author Howard expresses a sincere credo: Jesus Christ always was and will be; he performed miracles, fulfilled prophecies, and rose from the dead. Some of Howard’s ideas deviate from certain church teachings, casting doubt, for example, on the notion of “the rapture” when Christ returns. Using scriptural citations, Howard argues strongly against any sexual act other than for conception. He believes that humans are meant to be vegetarian, referencing “eat no blood”—a commandment established after Noah’s time and reaffirmed in the Law of Moses. He explains, through biblical sources, the meaning of such terms as “idolater,” “sorcerer,” and “whoremonger.” He concludes that those who believe in Jesus Christ may look forward to a spiritual “New Jerusalem.”
Howard is clearly a diligent investigator of scripture with strong convictions. He has taken great care in ordering and ascribing the biblical records presented to prove each point he makes. He groups and gives explanatory titles to biblical quotations, forming chapters about issues such as judgment (“Jesus Is the Judge”) and the power of evil (“Satan on the Earth”). He introduces each chapter in a flowing, almost conversational narrative style, urging his readers to think “outside the box.” He interjects occasional humor, such as suggesting that God created a day of rest, knowing “the workaholic attitude of humans.” However, he rarely strays far from his central theme: readers will benefit by accepting the truth of Christian scripture, acknowledging the role of Jesus Christ in universal history and their personal lives. Howard’s book is both studious and lively, enhanced with many unique perceptions, and would make a worthy focus for Bible study groups.