4 out of 4 stars
Share This Review
WHO TOLD THAT YOU WERE NAKED? by William E. Combs
This book rates a solid 4 over 4, if not for anything else but the introduction. What a grand entrance! I now understand those “grab you by the neck” reviews. The introduction starts with an over-the-top, exciting and vivid description of the author’s first encounter with real light (as opposed to his trusty flashlight) at age five –the aurora borealis! And wait for it during a nightly visit to an “outhouse privy” (he called it a three-holer, incidentally built by his Grandpa and it was the envy of the neighbours!) somewhere in Alaska most likely during a winter. Then perfectly relating it to the
sometimes held view of the Old Testament as shadow of truth revealed in the Gospel.
Slam dunk! Buzzer beating three-pointer!! In fact an Oscar if it was a movie (anyway more like a Pulitzer for investigative journalism into the dynamics of the Word- the Holy Bible). At this point a curtain call would have been most appropriate- but wait we are still at the introduction just somewhere past the middle! (Beginning of page iv to be precise). In the author’s own words- “We are [often] tempted to skip through this extended introduction [the Old Testament] to rejoice in God’s love and forgiveness in Jesus Christ.” Emphasis (and inclusion) of “often” and “Old testament” are mine.
While still reeling from the author’s lightning fast jabs (pen strokes or keystrokes?), he unleashes a (canvas kissing) powerful uppercut- he is a southpaw by the way.
........Then quite unexpectedly, a different kind of brass hook unlatched and an old wooden door slowly creaked open in my mind. I heard the words, “Who told you that you were naked?” as though I had been there on that tumultuous afternoon with our great, great, great . . . great, great grandparents.
It is said the genesis of all biblical revelation has its roots in the first book of the Bible. My own knowledge of sin, salvation, and faith had been largely shaped through the lens of the New Testament. Standing in the garden that day, as it were, brought a much deeper understanding of these critical building blocks. [That is the Old Testament –emphasis and inclusion again mine.]
I am now gasping, breathless and begging for dear mercy. And does the Reverend William E. Combs let go at this point? Or am I the one holding on for dear life? Answers are immaterial at this point as there can be no turning back. Then a sucker punch is thrown in for good measure (?).
………….. I invite you to come with me on a mission [A mission? No, this is a quest!] to delve into the events through which sin and death entered the world (Romans 5:12). It is my hope you too will rediscover, as I did, the glorious Light and Life available to us who believe. In chapter one, we will visit our first parents in their new digs east of Eden, and in chapter two, we'll reexamine the circumstances that……
Oh the style! The reverend’s writing style!! – Behind the book it was stated that as a Pastor he loved to paint word pictures - (Or is it also due to Bob Irving – the professional editor mentioned before the introduction under special thanks?). What do I care?, as I am at this time weeping softly or bawling loudly (you can decide which when you get there) but careful to do this with dry eyes, so the tears do not disrupt the speed at which I intend to devour the next 204 pages (plus 5 pages of endnotes) before I calm down and reread at a saner pace.
I delve into Chapter one, it is punch after punch, jab after jab, and then a round hook …………
“That afternoon, he took the lamb back to the
river to show it his reflection, but Lively (Adam had named the little lamb he rescued Lively!) was not the
least bit interested, and Adam realized—sadly—
there would be many things he could not share with
his little friend.”
Now I know I am in a full paradigm shifting quest (mission, adventure – all and above) where previously known (and unknown) beliefs as well as notions are going to collide and violently. Consider a snippet from Chapter 6 – Free Indeed!;
In Romans chapter 7, Paul struggled mightily to overcome sin dwelling in his members—but could not. Those very actions indicate he was focusing on sin in his members—meaning he was alive to sin, not dead to sin as Romans 6:11 indicates. As long as he, or we, wrestle with the sinful habits we no longer wish to perform, our adversary will win because we are conforming to a way of life sin can control. To die to sin means we should not attempt in any way to resist sin any more than we would if we were lying (dead) in a pine box.
Let me add a quick bible verse;
For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Hebrews 4:12 NKJV.
I give this book a solid four out of four, I know, this is repeated again for emphasis. One last thing even though you already know they ate the apple, the absolute shock value when they do is better read than imagined. Then the repercussions, the shame………….. Read on.
******
Who Told You That You Were Naked?
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
Like ea_anthony's review? Post a comment saying so!
You have a unique and charismatic style. In any event, I am often curious of Bible-based books and may consider this one. Thank you for your review and and I'm glad you enjoyed this read.
