Part 3: Just and the Justifier

Proverbs 2 focuses on the pursuit of wisdom and understanding, emphasizing their importance for navigating life's challenges. It highlights the rewards of seeking wisdom, including protection from evil, guidance in making righteous choices, and the joy that comes from knowledge. The chapter contrasts the paths of the wise and the foolish, showing the dangers of following wickedness and the blessings of adhering to God's ways. It encourages readers to diligently seek wisdom and understanding, recognizing their value in all aspects of life. Proverbs 2 is a timeless guide to living a life of purpose and integrity.

This commentary offers a detailed analysis of the book of Micah, exploring the individual sayings, their historical context, and their role in the final form of the document. It is part of the Old Testament Library series, which provides fresh and authoritative treatments of important aspects of Old Testament study. Dr. Mays argues that Micah is not just a collection of prophetic sayings but the outcome of a history of prophetic proclamations and is itself prophecy in its final form.

Set in the Sydney slums at the turn of the 20th century, 'Jonah' follows the life of Joe Jones, known as Jonah, a hunchback and the ruthless leader of the 'Push', a violent gang. After a chance encounter with his son, Jonah decides to abandon his larrikin life and settle down. He marries Ada, the mother of his child, and opens his own business. The novel contrasts the sordid streets of the inner suburbs with the glittering lights of the harbour city, providing a vivid portrayal of Sydney life during that era.

The Book of Psalms is a diverse collection of prayers, poems, and hymns that span many centuries of Israel’s history. It includes works by various authors such as King David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Moses, and King Solomon, among others. The book is divided into five sections or books, each concluding with a doxology. The psalms cover a wide range of themes including God and His creation, war, worship, wisdom, sin, evil, judgment, justice, and the coming of the Messiah. They were integral to the ritual life of the Temple and have had a profound impact on both Jewish and Christian worship traditions.

The Book of 3 John is a short epistle written by John the Apostle to Gaius, a Christian leader known for his hospitality to itinerant missionaries. The letter commends Gaius for his support of these missionaries and contrasts his behavior with that of Diotrephes, a church leader who refused to recognize John's authority and mistreated the missionaries. John also praises Demetrius for his good testimony. The letter emphasizes the importance of walking in the truth of the Gospel and practicing Christian hospitality.

This book approaches the Epistle to the Ephesians in a unique manner, deviating from the traditional verse-by-verse analysis. It acknowledges the debt of biblical studies to historical method while offering a fresh and comprehensive examination of the text. The study provides a radical and insightful look at the Epistle, making it a valuable resource for scholars and readers interested in New Testament studies.

The novel 'Exodus' by Leon Uris is a historical fiction account that explores the establishment of the state of Israel in 1948. It follows the stories of Jewish refugees, many of whom are Holocaust survivors, as they attempt to reach Palestine despite British opposition. The book delves into the back stories of its characters, the history of Jewish settlement in Palestine, and the broader political context of the time, including the struggle for independence and the conflicts between Jewish and Arab populations.

The Book of Isaiah is a major prophetic book in the Hebrew Bible and the Christian Old Testament. It's attributed to the prophet Isaiah, who lived in Judah during the 8th century BCE. The book contains a collection of oracles, poems, and prophecies addressing various aspects of Judah's history and the future. Key themes include God's judgment on Israel's sins, the promise of a future messiah, and the restoration of God's people. Isaiah's powerful imagery and evocative language have had a profound impact on religious thought and literature for centuries.

Raising Passionate Jesus Followers is a guide for parents seeking to cultivate a strong spiritual foundation in their children. The book emphasizes intentional parenting, focusing on creating a home environment that nurtures faith and encourages a personal relationship with Jesus. It provides practical advice and strategies for parents to model and teach biblical values. Through personal anecdotes and insightful reflections, the book aims to equip parents to raise children who are not only knowledgeable about their faith but also passionate about living it out. It addresses common challenges and offers encouragement for parents on their journey to raising children who love and follow Jesus wholeheartedly. Raising Passionate Jesus Followers inspires parents to embrace their role as spiritual leaders in their homes and to intentionally guide their children toward a lifelong commitment to Christ.