Review by DathanReeves -- Who Told You That You Were Naked?

DathanReeves · Post by **DathanReeves** » 04 Apr 2018, 12:36

[Following is a volunteer review of "Who Told You That You Were Naked?" by William Combs.]

4 out of 4 stars

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The story of Adam and Eve and the Original Sin is well known. The punishments and consequences of this Original Sin is also well known and understood. Right? William Combs’s nonfictional Who Told You That You Were Naked? would disagree. Comb’s book argues there is more to the story than what we might believe and this new interpretation changes not only the perspective of the first chapters of Genesis, but also the promise of salvation. Using this new interpretation and a scholar’s wit, Combs challenges his readers to see the Bible and the world in a new light. With a Masters in Divinity and a Doctorate in Ministry from Fuller Theological Seminary, as well as being a retired Presbyterian minister, Combs has the credentials, but does he have the validity?

The book is written into three parts: the new interpretations of early Genesis according to Combs, what this means for us and how we view the rest of the Bible, and what we can do about it. This is because, as a retired minister, Combs writes this as a sermon he would preach to the masses of a church. Consequentially, the narration has an intellectual and theological authority. And yet, there are elements used to make this different from other sermons.

Combs uses several tactics to make his argument clear, powerful, and unique. He has drawings of scrolls throughout with quotes lifted from the book, making highlighting practically redundant; he finishes every chapter with open-ended questions to ponder; he occasionally rewrites the stories of the Bible or invents new ones to make the reader aware of what’s possibly overlooked; and he even slips in some personal history and trials for extra punch. These tactics feed into what these biblical stories actually say so we can fully understand why they are relevant today and how they can guide us to our better future.

I must confess, while reading, I practiced what this book preached and my life improved because of that decision. Therefore, when I say this book’s message is true and life-changing, I mean it. The more I read the more I could see myself for what I was and what I needed to fix, and I believe the same can be said for anyone who is willing to give this book a chance.

Combs is valid in what he states about sin and salvation in this book. This book can change your life like it did mine. And with only a single editorial error in the whole book, I can proudly give this a 4 out of 4. I recommend this book for everyone, if it can change my life it can change your's. Though those of Christian faith are the primary audience for this book, and anyone who isn’t might feel hesitant, I still suggest giving it a shot, you will find yourself changed for the better.

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Who Told You That You Were Naked?
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kwame1977 · Post by **kwame1977** » 08 Apr 2018, 06:57

I'm glad to read that this book changed your life. No wonder you've been able to write such a nice review. Well-done!

BriennaiJ · Post by **BriennaiJ** » 08 Apr 2018, 13:09

That's amazing that the book really changed your life! I might end up giving it a try if it is so inspirational. Great review!

denizebookz · Post by **denizebookz** » 08 Apr 2018, 16:19

Well written review. I agree that reading books can change you and your thinking. William Combs' book is a gem and I know I will refer back to sections of it to reread on occasion. Your challenge to encourage people to give this book a try is a good one.

DathanReeves · Post by **DathanReeves** » 08 Apr 2018, 19:26

BriennaiJ wrote: ↑08 Apr 2018, 13:09 That's amazing that the book really changed your life! I might end up giving it a try if it is so inspirational. Great review!

I couldn't have picked a better time in my life to read this. I began to ask questions this book answered.

DathanReeves · Post by **DathanReeves** » 08 Apr 2018, 19:28

kwame1977 wrote: ↑08 Apr 2018, 06:57 I'm glad to read that this book changed your life. No wonder you've been able to write such a nice review. Well-done!

Thank you, I'm humbled to be complemented on my review.

DathanReeves · Post by **DathanReeves** » 09 Apr 2018, 01:59

denizebookz wrote: ↑08 Apr 2018, 16:19 Well written review. I agree that reading books can change you and your thinking. William Combs' book is a gem and I know I will refer back to sections of it to reread on occasion. Your challenge to encourage people to give this book a try is a good one.

After finishing, I wanted to get as many people to read the book as possible, it left such a strong impact and I knew it would do the same for others.

Libs_Books · Post by **Libs_Books** » 09 Apr 2018, 04:17

Combs ... occasionally rewrites the stories of the Bible or invents new ones to make the reader aware of what’s possibly overlooked

I would find this quite confusing and off-putting, but obviously you thought this was helpful. Thanks for your review - I'm glad you found the book so life enhancing.

DathanReeves · Post by **DathanReeves** » 09 Apr 2018, 13:21

Libs_Books wrote: ↑09 Apr 2018, 04:17
Combs ... occasionally rewrites the stories of the Bible or invents new ones to make the reader aware of what’s possibly overlooked
I would find this quite confusing and off-putting, but obviously you thought this was helpful. Thanks for your review - I'm glad you found the book so life enhancing.

It makes sense when you read them. He adds detail to give narrative to the ideas he puts forth. An example is the two Willy Wonka adaptations, both tell the same story and have the same origins (the bookll, but how they get there in detail is different.