Below is the review I posted on Amazon for Frank Viola’s new book, God’s Favorite Place on Earth. This is an excellent book full of practical wisdom. For information on the book and to see a video trailer and download a free exerpt containing 20% of the book, go to GodsFavoritePlace.com.
I highly recommend Frank Viola’s newest book God’s Favorite Place on Earth. Viola points to the little town of Bethany just a couple of miles from Jerusalem as Jesus’ preferred resting place while He was on earth in human form. Bethany was a place where Jesus was accepted and adored; therefore, Jesus chose to “rest” in Bethany rather than Jerusalem, where He was rejected. Viola pieces together the various stories in the Gospels related to this small town (such as Jesus being anointed by Mary and raising Lazarus from the dead) along with first century history to reconstruct the story through the eyes of Lazarus thirty years after his resurrection. The story is really beautiful and brings the Bible to life – a feat not too common among authors today. Readers will get an insight into first century life, and more importantly, into the life and character of Jesus Christ. Viola follows each segment of the Bethany story with a “Walking it Out” section that provides invaluable and practical insights. These include how to not be offended by others, the value of giving our all to and for Christ, how to deal with suffering and rejection, what to do when God doesn’t seem to respond the way we want, what it means to receive Christ, and more.
God’s Favorite Place on Earth is a short and easy read that accomplishes:
– Bringing the Scriptures to life
– Revealing the height, depth, breadth, and width of Jesus Christ
– Demonstrating how the Holy Spirit is leading Christians to live by Christ’s life today.
yes I am currently reading the book and as usual its another great read as all of franks books are
Truth to tell I was disappointed in this book. It’s good story, but from all the hype I expected much more than what I got. I like the story of the Mary and Martha, but really I didn’t glean anything new from this book. I would not buy it had I known.
Sorry you didn’t get more out of the book. I thought the narrative was a great approach. Actually, I wish those parts had been a bit longer. And I found the Walking It Out parts to share some helpful perspectives. Thanks for commenting.