“Theology 101 in Bite-Size Pieces, A Bird's Eye View of the Riches of Divine Grace
Just Released -- Theology 101 in Bite-Size Pieces; A Bird’s Eye View of the Riches of Divine Grace WINS the 2011 International Book in the Religion/Christianity Category
The word theology tends to lead people to think that it is only meant for seminarian scholars; however, the word speaks for itself by the sole definition of "the study of God's Word." Theology 101 takes a fresh look at God's Power, Character, Love, Nature, and what the finished work of Christ meant to the world in bite size portions. It offers scripturally based truths of some of the riches of His Divine Grace that include answers to thought provoking questions such as what is predestination; who are the chosen; the called, and the elect. The author uses everyday language to explain what it means to be justified, reconciled, forgiven, and offers a clear and easy to understand explanation of why practicing merited grace contradicts Christ's finished work on the cross.
VIDEO SYNOPSIS OF THEOLOGY 101 in BITE-SIZE PIECES
Ryan Dennison, www.ChristianBookPreviews.com - April 1, 2011
Judy LeBlanc’s Theology 101 in Bite-Size Pieces is a slim, yet comprehensive examination of God’s love revealed through Scripture. Worried that people’s spiritual lives are being held back by a lack of understanding, LeBlanc endeavors to educate readers in a way that is not “meant only for seminarian scholars.” Nevertheless, as the name suggests, the book provides a host of useful tools for better understanding a relationship with God.
The book opens with a general discussion of God’s attributes, such as his omnipotence and omnipresence, before moving on to omniscience. LeBlanc addresses a few common questions about grace, particularly with regard to more debatable issues, such as predestination. The study then increases in depth and specificity, with detailed analyses of passages, including word studies of the original languages. In fact, the second half of this book is essentially a Greek lexicon supplementing earlier analyses. Though LeBlanc’s credentials are more focused on writing than on theology, this makes her interpretation of the Bible’s writing all the more reliable. Her personal opinions, when they appear, are always identified as such, and supported by clear use of Scripture.
Though focusing heavily on subjects such as mercy and justification, the tone of discussion is very casual and encouraging. The unique blend of scholarly and conversational information gives the feeling of reading an elaborate devotion or attending a contemporary sermon. LeBlanc frequently offers examples of life application and personal experience, and these vignettes give the book an uplifting energy. Though acknowledging the difficulty of advanced theology, the book seems to approach this study with the biblical idea found in Galatians 6:9: “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
Though perhaps a tad too thin for serious academics and career theologians, Theology 101 in Bite-Size Pieces is ideal for most Christians, or anyone interested in theology. Whereas a few more opinionated readers might disagree with conclusions on predestination or atonement theories, these comprise only a small section of the book and can be easily overlooked without changing the book’s message and value. Additionally, the Greek lexicon is extremely helpful and saves interested Christians from having to purchase a full-sized guide to biblical Greek. For those interested in gaining a fuller understanding of God’s love for humanity, Theology 101 in Bite-Size Pieces can be an invaluable, convenient resource. – Ryan Dennison, www.ChristianBookPreviews.com
By Richard R. Blake (Bridgman, Michigan)
(VINE VOICE) (TOP 500 REVIEWER)
This review is from: Theology 101 in Bite-Size Pieces: A Bird's Eye View of the Riches of Divine Grace (Hardcover)
Personally acquainted with and a recipient of God's gift of Divine Grace, award winning author, Judy Azar LeBlanc writes of her spiritual adventure in "Theology 101 in Bite Size Pieces" subtitled "A Bird's Eye View of the Riches of Divine grace."
LeBlanc focuses on the person of God, his attributes, his character, his nature, and his disposition. It is her intent to lead the reader into a deeper understanding and appreciation of the personhood of God and the riches of his divine grace.
LeBlanc's writing is Biblically sound and includes the primary tenants of the Christian faith. She tackles the hard questions, universally asked by seekers of truth. She begins by establishing the importance of understanding the true nature of love and of grace.
In a logical organized manner Judy guides the reader step by step in an easy to follow and understand, thought provoking consideration of God's Omnipotence, His Omnipresence, and His Omniscience. She goes on to lay the foundational truths of the need for redemption, reconciliation and forgiveness.
I found that in addition to the bite sized doses of Theology for the seeker and new Christian, the comprehensive appendix with suggested resources, complete with entries from lexicons, word studies, definitions, and scriptural references make the book a valuable resource for further study.
The bibliography included gives credence to the basic theological issues LeBlanc has chosen as essential to establishing a new appreciation of the unmerited riches of God's divine grace.
In a day when there is a dearth in Biblical understanding, duplicity in Christian conduct, and an ongoing hunger for intimacy with God, "Theology 101 in Bite Size Pieces" comes as a breath of fresh air.
The book is ideal as a personal study, as a guide for mentoring others, or for the small group study leader. I am looking forward to a series of "101 Bible Study Guides" in the near future from Judy Azar LeBlanc. LeBlanc's writing is Biblically sound, relevant, articulate, and convincing.
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Pastor Bill Collins
White Chapel Church of God
South Daytona, Florida
