Panorama
of the Bible Lands is the new sequel to Panorama of
the Holy Land. It is of the same size and format and is also published by
Eagle. It has 80 pages and 95 superb photographs by Jon Arnold. Eighteen further
biblical sites around the Mediterranean are explored. Each is covered by a double-page
panoramic photograph followed by an informative illustrated text providing the
biblical, historical and cultural background, bringing alive the events associated
with each site.
John Stott has kindly written the foreword.
After the success of Stephen Sizer's first book, A Panorama
of the Holy Land, this sequel (which reaches further into the Mediterranean and
Middle East) is sure to attract a wide readership. A Panorama of the Bible Lands
might well have borrowed the title of a well known 19th Century volume by George
Adam Smith entitled, The Historical Geography of the Holy Land. For it is a fine
blend of history, geography, biblical allusion and Christian teaching.
Like the ripples caused by a bird landing on water, we are taken on a journey
outward from Palestine, following the Apostles as they are commissioned by the
risen Christ and empowered by the Holy Spirit to be his witnesses in the major
cities of the Roman empire including Ephesus, Pergamum, Colosse, Corinth, Athens
and Rome. The text itself is long enough to be satisfying, and yet brief enough
to be accessible to the reader. Its contemporary applications are always relevant,
and often challenging. It has always been a salutary exercise for the Christian
Church in each generation to compare itself with the early Church.
Stephen
not only draws out the relevant historical and biblical significance of each site
but seeks to highlight its contemporary relevance also. We are reminded, as the
New Testament proclaims, that we believe in both the historical Jesus who lived
and the contemporary Jesus who lives. Bible students will enjoy looking up its
many references. Would-be pilgrims will use it to prepare for their visit. Those
who have already been will be helped to re-live their experience. And those who
will never have the chance to go will be able through the descriptive text and
stunning pictures to imagine the scenes whose names are so familiar. Particularly
striking are the 20 or so double-page, full colour spreads, which occur every
few pages and give us spectacular panoramic views.
Luke ends the Acts
of the Apostles confidently with Paul preaching, "boldly and without hindrance"
symbolising the wide open door for the gospel (Acts 28:31). In that sense it is
an unfinished book. Although some of the places described here are no longer known
for their living Christian presence owing to persecution, it is our privilege
to step into their shoes and to make Christ known in our generation. May this
book remind you of our heritage and inspire you to fulfil our high calling.
John Stott,
Rector Emeritus, All Souls, Langham Place.
Bethlehem
Galilee
Hills
Capernaum
Cana
Caesarea Philippi
Jerusalem
St Peter in Galicantu
Jerusalem
Mount of Olives
Jerusalem Western
Wall
Megiddo and the Jezreel Valley
Ephesus
Pergamum
Pisidian
Antioch
Sardis
Colosse
Athens
Corinth
Rome
If you would like to purchase a copy of the book for
£14.99 including postage (retail price £18.00) please email me stephen
sizer