The Bible Code: Finding Jesus in Every Book in the Bible

Reviewed by:

Connor Salter, Professional Writing alumnus from Taylor University, Upland, IN.

Title:

The Bible Code: Finding Jesus in Every Book in the Bible

Author:

O. S. Hawkins

Publisher:

Thomas Nelson

Publication date:

September 8, 2020

Format:

Hardcover

Length:

240 pages

OVERVIEW

“The cross is the hinge upon which the door of all human history turns,” O.S. Hawkins writes in his introduction. Since all Scripture is God-breathed and shows God’s plan, this means that we can also see Jesus not just in the four Gospels but hinted at in the Old Testament. He takes readers through all sixty-six books of the Bible, showing how roles Jesus played – the good shepherd, the Passover lamb – can be seen in each book. In doing so, he helps readers to see the Bible as a tapestry of pieces that fit together, which taken together tell the story of Christ.

Hawkins is covering a well-known subject with this book. It’s been discussed in commentaries, theology textbooks and even in study journals (see Zondervan’s Jesus Bible Journal series). However, unlike some recent takes on the subject, Hawkins doesn’t retell Bible stories, or give an in-depth commentary or his own Study Bible. Instead, he covers each book of the Bible in 2-3 pages, showing how each book foreshadows Jesus in some special way.

Since Hawkins gives only a couple of pages to each book, it is necessarily an introduction to this topic, not a deep dive. However, that seems to be what his intended audience is looking for. He writes with an inspirational tone, and the book’s design (plush hardcover spine, title in cursive-like font) suggests it’s directed to older readers who like inspirational material. It looks similar to the hardcover Christmas books released every November with titles like The Christmas Message. In other words, it’s a brief book for readers who want something educational and encouraging to get them through the day. Hawkins gives readers exactly that, and does so with a clear writing style.

A useful introduction to an interesting topic.

ASSESSMENT

Rating (1 to 5 stars):

3 stars

Suggested Audience:

Christians, who enjoy inspirational material, seeking an introduction to the Bible and how every book points back to Jesus.

Christian Impact:

Hawkins take readers into the context of each book of the Bible, showing how each has something beneath the surface that provides unexpected spiritual rewards.