Review: Jesus v. Jerusalem

Jesus v. Jerusalem by Joel McDurmon

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



I really enjoyed this book, it not only really covered the parables texts in general, but it gave additional cultural/historical insights that most all modern Bible readers would not know, and therefore miss the target topic of in the verse. Time and time again, he gave more information than I expected to get, and in almost all cases, gave me a slightly different angle of view on these parables.

The key point about this book, is that is properly defines Jesus' vision and ministry. he came and dealt with the "lost sheep" of Israel. He spoke 99.9% of his message strictly and directly to the people of God from the first testament, the people of Israel, both in Jerusalem and scattered abroad (the other ten tribes). His message was for and to them, and little to nothing is directed at the nations (Gentiles). This greatly affects the meanings of his sayings, and would greatly alter the uses by those modern-day "red letter" Christians. Jesus is not like some other Confucius who just came on the scene throwing out phrases of general wisdom. No, he came with a purpose and a people in mind, and he hit those people between the eyes with everything he said.

Once we understand the purpose of Jesus' first appearance, it can greatly change the way you read his words. This book sheds so much amazing light on that aspect and how these things directly applied to historical and cultural issues pertaining to the way the people of God had abused their calling, as well as the soon coming judgment upon them.

But, then after reading all the excellent material on the parables, you get the bonus of six great appendixes dealing with other issues of eschatology. "The Dome of the Rock, and the Temple" is an eye opening look at the location of a rebuilt temple - if one is even needed. "The Antichrist Hoax" is a smashing destruction of the modern day teaching of "The Antichrist." "Is the World a Singking Ship" really sheds light on the abuse of modern day dispensational teachers when it comes to the Christian position and duty in the world. "A Legacy of Lies: Martin Luther and Talmudic Judaism" was a very eye opening look at the controversy over Luther's anti-Semitic charges that people hurl at him. And closing the book is "God's Favorite Bible Verse: Psalm 110:1 in the New Testament" which shows how the first century church saw the reign of Christ as being present, while many in today's dispensational circles see it as a future coming event.

Read this book along with the other gospel book published by American Vision ([b:Matthew 24 Fulfilled|5192476|Matthew 24 Fulfilled|John L. Bray|http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41mWccm7VDL._SL75_.jpg|5259585] by John Bray) and you have a very well understanding of a good chunk of the teaching of eschatology in the second testament books.



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