In the Non-Fiction Corner with Lauren: Old Testament Insights

Old Testament Insights takes us on a deep-dive of the Old Testament through many chapters, each written by a different author. These authors cover stories that are more familiar to us like Cain and Abel and Esther, but also expound on what we can learn from lesser known stories like Jeremiah and Hosea. Many of these chapters focus on sacrifice, which is a major theme of the Old Testament. This book definitely enhanced my knowledge of the Old Testament and made me excited for this year and what Come Follow Me has in store!

 
One of my favorite chapters of the book talks about Shiprah, Puah, and Deborah. The author starts out talking about how Christ is the light of the world, and how sacrifice is an essential part of the gospel of Jesus Christ. As we sacrifice and obtain a broken heart and a contrite spirit, others can see the Light of Christ through us. Shiprah and Puah are two biblical examples of women spreading their light to others, even though they lived in a very dark time. These women were midwives during a time when Pharaoh had commanded all the male babies to be killed. But Shiprah and Puah believed in the sanctity of life, and refused to be a part of this violence. Because they stood up for what was right, they were blessed by the Lord. This story is told in eight verses in the Old Testament, but we can learn so much from others perspectives as we study the Old Testament this year and this book will add more depth and perspective to our Old Testament knowledge.

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Here's the back copy:

We are instructed to offer unto the Lord a broken heart and a contrite spirit, a concept taught in Psalms 34:18, which is at the heart of the prophetic teachings on sacrifice and in the lived experiences of people in every age. But what does the phrase "broken heart and contrite spirit" mean, and what does God require of you? Old Testament Insights, featuring a compilation of essays from twenty gospel scholars, provides clarity for readers on the eternal principle of personal sacrifice, both as taught throughout the Old Testament and in its modern application.

Featuring multiple perspectives on the practice of sacrifice, this powerful volume offers valuable insight into our Heavenly Father's expectations for His covenant people. By looking to the experiences of individuals in scripture to anchor discussion, contributors weave together an in-depth explanation of the law of sacrifice and the true and eternal value of turning to the Lord with a broken heart and a contrite spirit.