Title: The Mission of the Body of Christ (Retelling the Story #3)

Author:  Russ Ramsey

Publisher: InterVarsity Press

Publication Date: 2018

Format: Paperback

Length: 238 pages

OVERVIEW

In this third book in the Retelling the Story series, Ramsey again retells Scripture stories in a novel format to help people rediscover Scripture’s power. This book, The Mission of the Body of Christ, focuses on the early church’s activities described in the Book of Acts. Ramsey narrates the central events, adding in details from historians and other New Testament writings.

As in the previous books, Ramsey paraphrases what Scripture says and speculates a little about events and motivations. For example, he talks about what Paul and Barnabas’ first meeting might have looked like and suggests what motivated John Mark to stop traveling with Paul and Barnabas. These details aren’t things Scripture tells us. However, Ramsey admits upfront that he speculates and that he wants readers to go back to Scripture to find the full story. So, Ramsey only does what every other writer dramatizing Scripture does. He adds minor details to make the story interesting, then points readers back to the original source. Ultimately, this book makes Scripture feel relevant again for readers who’ve become used to the stories

ASSESSMENT

Rating (1 to 5)

4 out of 5 stars

Suggested Audience

People who struggle to read Scripture, people who enjoy Scripture dramatizations.

Christian Impact

Each chapter paraphrases Scripture, giving readers context to help them understand it in new ways. This approach makes the book perfect for people who struggle to understand or enjoy reading Scripture.

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