The Complete Jewish Study Bible

The Complete Jewish Study Bible by Hendrickson strives to help both Christian

and Jewish followers connect with the Jewish roots of our faith. The previous edition was translated by David H. Stern with this updated version containing new introductions by Rabbi Barry Rubin. With these introductions, additional material about Jewish customs and feasts, and a translation of some names from English to Hebrew, this helps the reader to connect deeper.

I can only speak from the Christian point of view, so I do want to say upfront that this Bible is better for those who are familiar with the Bible and have at least a rudimentary knowledge of the history of our heritage. A beginner or new believer may get a little lost despite the excellent English to Hebrew translations provided both with the names and in footnotes throughout the Bible. A serious scholar will love it! This Bible provides a greater depth of understanding about traditions that may be unknown, therefore, a new richness is uncovered as new insights are discovered. I love that I can expand my knowledge as I pursue my study of God's Word. I want to apply His word to my life today, and it helps to understand what was going on during the time these words were first written or revealed to mankind. There are also additional color-coded articles and maps provided.

Not only is the book "heavy" with the depth of knowledge, it weighs more than the Bible I normally use. The one I have is a hard cover and I love the outward appearance of it. It is a beautiful addition to your library---but do not just leave it sitting. This is a book that needs used frequently. The print is very easily read, but my one issue is that there is no room to write notes on all of the pages. For both Christians and Jews (especially Messianic) who want to learn more of our shared heritage, while studying God's Word, I do recommend The Complete Jewish Study Bible.

  Learn more at:
Product Page: hendrickson.com/content/complete-jewish-study-bible
Website: hendrickson.com
Twitter: twitter.com/hendricksonpub
Facebook: facebook.com/thecompletejewishstudybible

Disclaimer: I'm a part of the CWA Review Crew and I received a copy of this book at no cost to myself in exchange for my honest opinion.

Chase the Lion - Mark Batterson

Chase the Lion by Mark Batterson is based on the Old Testament story in 2 Samuel 23 about a warrior in the army of King David named Benaiah. Those who read Batterson's 2006 best seller are familiar with Benaiah---who chased a lion into a pit on a snowy day—and then killed it.

But there is more that is known of Benaiah, and a bigger lesson to be learned from his action with the lion. Most people would run from a lion, but Benaiah chased it. He overcame his fear and went after the personification of it.

This is what Batterson is saying in his sequel to In A Pit With A Lion On A Snowy Day. Benaiah chased his fear, faced his fear, and used it as an opportunity to move forward. For Benaiah, becoming King David’s bodyguard and eventually the Commander-in-Chief of Israel’s army under David's son, King Solomon. Batterson says that your dreams should be so big they scare you. He says that 'Chase the Lion' is not just a catch phrase, but a radical approach to life. The fear of failure prevents one from seizing opportunity by the mane and conquering all fear.  You cannot succeed if you are afraid of failure, but you have to accept that you may fail several times.

Do I agree? Yes and no...but my opinion does not really matter for a book review. I know many people who have huge dreams that may feel overwhelming. For those, this book can be a huge inspiration to never give up "chasing the lion" until ultimate success. For others, like myself, there are no grandiose dreams and we are quite content. I do, however, love to cheer on others, and I recommend this book. Not only is it great for those who feel God has called them to greater things, but I enjoyed reading it and felt inspired. Even the smaller dreams and dreamers need encouragement. I admit that I did prefer 'In A Pit With A Lion On A Snowy Day' but 'Chase The Lion' did engage my attention and was well-written.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from Waterbrook-Multnomah "Blogging For Books" program at no cost to myself. However, I was not required to write a positive review.


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Biblical Reproductions - The Website

Last week I talked about the products available from Biblical Reproductions, and this week I am reviewing the website. Located at www.biblicalreproductions.com, it opens to a slide show of some of their featured products, but I was even more impressed with the easy access to other sources. Whether you want to read articles written about them or want to click on the sections that are lined up across the top, each brings you a wealth of information.

The Shop is divided into categories including scrolls, pottery, and unique discoveries. I loved an added benefit to just looking at prices and photos, though. Say you were intrigued by the photo of the miniature Dead Sea Scrolls jar. When you click on the photo, you get a more indepth description of the product, but also more historical detail of the original. I loved learning more about each product that is available.

For history buffs, the blog is another great source of information. With topics ranging from Qumran to Masada to Pontius Pilate and more, you are given a deeper understanding and background of certain pieces associated with history. There is also a Q&A for any questions you may have concerning the reproductions.

Another section I found of interest was one entitled Raise Funds. If there is a way they can help you use their products as a fund-raiser, you can contact them. It is good to know that this is a company that not only wants to shed light on the antiquities and Biblical history, but also want to shine light on present day needs that need help. I think that is why one of my favorite pieces is their replica oil lamps.


Biblical Reproductions website
Biblical Reproductions on Facebook
Biblical Reproductions on Google+
Follow @biblicalreplica
Biblical Reproductions on LinkedIn
Biblical Reproductions Pinterest
Biblical Reproductions Instagram

I was given this opportunity due to my participation as a CWA Review Crew member. Look for part 2 of my review next week.