Customer Reviews

The Language of God: A Commonsense Approach to Understanding and Applying the Bible

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I didn't enjoy reading this book for a number of reasons. It yas been a while since I've finished reading it, so pardon the lack of details. When I picked up this book, I was eager to start. But once I did, I found to be rather sub-par.

The idea behind this book is great, but the book's composition could use some rethinking. I don't feel that the book does a good job of teaching the subject matter. At least 3-4 chapters needlessly drag on and seem to be the rough equivalent of a burdensome rant. That is not the best way to instill a passion for the subject in those who are looking on.

In retrospect, I'm left with very little tangible benefit from reading this book and the only things I took away from it are the author's drawn-out argumentations regarding I Cor 3 and James 5 in addition to their tedious argumentation that we should only see a single level of meaning in prophesy, and all scripture.

I walked away from reading this book with the impression that the authors failed in fulfilling the goal implied in the subtitle: Teaching the Reader "A Commonsense Approach to Understanding and Applying the Bible". I have no doubt that Ron Julian, J.A. Crabtree, and David Crabtree are brilliant, helpful, and interesting individuals, but I think you should look elsewhere if you are trying to find a book that will give you a commonsense approach to Bible interpretation.

Understanding the language of God would be an amazing achievement if Ron Julian & the Crabtrees had accomplished such an undertaking. Humility aside, the goal was woefully out of reach. Relying on linguistic terminololgy and copious, rambling illustrations, the authors rarely complete discussions or support conclusions that relate to the chapter headings or stated theses.

The goal of helping others to understand the Bible requires clear communication and clarity of thought; ironically, both components are missing from this effort. The authors ramble and provide illustraion after illustration until meaning is obscured. They raise and leave unanswered many questions relating to the reliability of biblical translations and our ability to understand God's Word. This book fosters confusion and doubt while touting the advancements contributed by linguistic and philosophical theorists. While the authors appear to hold to steadfast doctrines of the Bible, they ignorantly chip away at the foundation they claim to be defending.

The chapter devoted to applying God's worldview primarily provides 3 simplistic questions to guide in life's decision making process and several pages of discussion about the state of the spotted owl. The reader is left with the sensation that they have been peering through the "Looking Glass" as they are advised by Dr. Crabtree to "step into God's head." Experience seems to be elevated to an equal position with biblical revelation, if not a higher one. While the author "seldom finds it helpful... to make decisions by asking... what Jesus would do in a given situation...." I do not find this book helpful in understanding the language of God.