image The 52 Greatest Stories of the Bible
by John Alan Turner and Kenneth Boa

It’s that time of the year where I start checking out bible studies and devotions. It’s been awhile since I have read through the bible in a year so I’m definitely looking at bible reading plans.  John Alan Turner and Kenneth Boa recently collaborated on a devotional that can be used throughout the year. I love these kind of devotionals because you get an overview of the Bible. No matter how many times I’ve read Genesis or The Gospels,  there’s a new revelation awaiting when you read it again.  For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. — Hebrew 4:12

Now this isn’t a typical devotion where you have a scripture and short passages to read.  The authors chose fifty-two stories from the bible, so readers can study and meditate on a story for a week. There are some stories that have been left out and others are consolidated into one week’s worth of reading.  For example, the reading for one week is Genesis 12 which focuses on Abraham and the Promise of a Nation.  In another week, the reading includes Exodus 1-14, which tells the story, The Birth of a Nation.

The authors explain in the beginning, this book is in no way intended to replace Bible study.  It is meant to supplement your Bible study. I would suggest reading the bible passages before jumping into the weekly reading.  That would make using The 52 Greatest Stories of the Bible more effective during your quiet time.

The structure of the book follows this weekly format:

  • Monday is Narration. The story is paraphrased conversationally in context.
  • Tuesday is the Orthodoxy.  Explanation of how the story shapes our beliefs.
  • Wednesday is the Orthopathy.  Explanation of how the story shapes our values.
  • Thursday is the Orthapraxy. This day covers how the story shapes our actions.
  • Friday is the Prayer Response to the story.

If had a gripe about the book, it’s about the structure.  Apparently, John Alan Turner wrote the commentary/explanations for Monday through Thursday. Kenneth Boa wrote the prayers for Friday. I thought the prayer should be placed immediately after the commentary for that day versus lumping them all on Friday.  So, I chose to read the passage for the day and then jump to Friday to read the corresponding prayer.

I have not covered all fifty-two yet, but I will continue the readings into 2009.  John Alan’s writes in a down-to-earth manner that’s humorous and thought-provoking. Kenneth Boa’s prayers are very beautiful written.  Definitely consider purchasing this one for your quiet time.

Reviewed by Tyora Moody