Sword in the Fire

When Ancient Faith Radio interviewed me about my new book, I was asked about my favorites books in this mysterious group of Biblical writings.  I mentioned two, Sirach and the Maccabees.   My reason for choosing Maccabees is because it is action-packed.  There is fighting, intrigue, and heroism.  Men, women, and children are sacrificing their lives for their faith in God.  Maybe it's a man-thing but it is hard for me not to picture Chuck Norris when reading about the exploits of Judas Maccabeus.   In an off-hand comment, I mentioned my surprise that these books have never been made into a movie.  I didn't know he was an AFR fan, but Mel must have heard the interview.   Entertainment Weekly reported that Mel has decided to make a movie on the Maccabees. While Mel has had his problems lately, I welcome a movie.  No doubt, it will be violent and not for the kiddies , but these are stories that need to be known and told on a larger...

I am giving away 5 copies of my new book.   Instructions for how to enter are at the end of the post. Over the past couple months, I have been teasing my new book that has just been released. The book is titled, The Rest of the Bible (A Guide to the Old Testament of the Early Church). Have you ever wondered about those mysterious books, that some Christians have in their Bibles, but are absent from others?   The Rest of the Bible will fill in the details. This book is an introduction to the books often called the Apocrypha or the Deuterocanonicals.  St. Athanasius called them the Readables.  Why do some Christian's have them and some do not?  What are they about?  When were they written? Regardless of your opinion of them as Scripture, understanding them will deepen your understanding of the New Testament and the world of Christ and His apostles.  Your faith will be challenged and you will be inspired to live courageously. Here's an exce...