From Creation to the Cross [Hardcover]

Albert H. Baylis (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: August 19, 1996

Most Christians don't quite know what to do with the first half of the Bible. Some are fascinated by the historical sweep of the Old Testament. Others are blessed by its poetry. Still others focus on its prophecies. But what are the heart and soul of the Old Testament? In From Creation to the Cross, Al Baylis is a guide who shares with us his love for, and profound understanding of, the Old Testament. He walks us through the Old Testament, pointing out along the way perspectives and insights that leave us with a new, personal understanding of these thirty-nine books -- and more importantly, of the God of the Old Testament, who lovingly prepared the way before sending his Son. As Bruce Wilkinson puts it in the Foreword, 'I could almost picture (Baylis) as a seasoned rabbi surrounded by a huddle of eager listeners. He doesn't simply teach the Old Testament; it's as if he personally reminisces through it.' From Creation to the Cross is one of those rare books that speaks to a wide range of readers, from high school students to homemakers to college professors. This revised and expanded edition of On the Way to Jesus makes this unique and highly readable approach to the first half of the Bible available once again. It is ideally suited for use in Bible study groups.

Editorial Reviews

From the Back Cover

Most Christians don't quite know what to do with the first half of the Bible. Some are fascinated by the historical sweep of the Old Testament. Others are blessed by its poetry. Still others focus on its prophecies. But what are the heart and soul of the Old Testament? In From Creation to the Cross, Al Baylis is a guide who shares with us his love for, and profound understanding of, the Old Testament. He walks us through the Old Testament, pointing out along the way perspectives and insights that leave us with a new, personal understanding of these thirty-nine books -- and more importantly, of the God of the Old Testament, who lovingly prepared the way before sending his Son. As Bruce Wilkinson puts it in the Foreword, "I could almost picture (Baylis) as a seasoned rabbi surrounded by a huddle of eager listeners. He doesn't simply teach the Old Testament; it's as if he personally reminisces through it." From Creation to the Cross is one of those rare books that speaks to a wide range of readers, from high school students to homemakers to college professors. This revised and expanded edition of On the Way to Jesus makes this unique and highly readable approach to the first half of the Bible available once again. It is ideally suited for use in Bible study groups.

About the Author

Albert H. Baylis is chairman of the theology department at Multnomah Biblical Seminary in Portland, OR.

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Reading level: Ages 18 and up
  
• Hardcover: 400 pages
• Publisher: Zondervan; Rev Sub edition (August 19, 1996)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0310490804
• ISBN-13: 978-0310490807
• Product Dimensions: 9.4 x 6.3 x 1.2 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.7 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 3.8 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (10 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #222,221 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

Albert H. Baylis is chairman of the theology department at Multnomah Biblical Seminary in Portland, OR.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

13 of 13 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Baylis Is Insightful And Practical, December 31, 2000

By 

"dusybutts" (Denver, CO.) - See all my reviews

This review is from: From Creation to the Cross (Hardcover)

This book is an excellent survey of the Old Testament. Baylis traces each book of the Old Testament in its own theological development of how Jesus is to be the coming Messiah. I highly recommend From The Cross To Creation for college students looking to understand the Old Testament because Baylis' writing style is smooth and easy to read. I also recommend this book to seminary students as a scholarly work because Baylis' footnotes are extensive and provides for wide-ranging supplemental research. As such this book makes a wonderful Bible study. I have used Baylis' work in such a fashion with a college group and his insights were well received. I believe this book is worthy of a five star rating.

6 of 6 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Great Help, December 20, 2005

By 

Work in Progress "WIP" (Boston, MA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: From Creation to the Cross (Hardcover)

I just wish there was a second volume focusing on the NT.

This book was required reading for an undergrad course in OT biblical studies. I have learned so much from this book that is has stayed on my shelf and referred to very often since my college days 10 years ago. I am actually purchasing more copies of this book to give as gifts for some of my bible study students.

I am unclear why the last reviewer only rated the book with one star even with what seems to be a positive review. But, as previously mentioned it does and exceptional job with clear language and presentation of theological ideas. The text is not exhaustive but does argue and present original language issues, proper translation, settings, outlines, maps and graphs with a graceful simplicity while still provoking the reader to further thought and contemplation.

I think it is good to point out that this is not a verse-by-verse OT commentary but rather a survey with the majority of the work focusing on the Pentateuch.

This is one of the best books I have seen and highly recommend it. I often refer to this book when preparing bible study lessons and sermons. I think this book would make a great addition to anyones library.

5 of 5 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Amazing!, January 19, 2003

By A Customer

This review is from: From Creation to the Cross (Hardcover)

This book opens up the world of the Old Testement, showing how God in his infinite wisdom has paved the way for Christ ever since creation. Baylis sheds much light on the prophecies that came true in Christ, and the beautiful love story that God has written for us. A wonderful tool for any wishing to study and explore the Old Testement.