God's Big Picture – Vaughan Roberts

IVP 2009
RRP £8.99 (but £4 on 12-12 scheme!)

This book falls short of its objectives if it leaves us no better off than the Pharisees – diligently studying the Scriptures but not seeking the life that Jesus is offering us through the Word. In this Bible overview, VaughanRoberts takes us on a journey through eight different kingdoms: from patterns of a kingdom; to partial and prophesied kingdoms; to proclaimed and perfected kingdoms; with the aim of tying together its diverse stories as we uncover God's kingdom purposes. But don't expect to get away with just a brief glimpse into God's Word – each chapter ends with a Bible study, an excellent prompt for personal study and reflection.

Reading the Bible in its entirety is a daunting prospect for many. This book is not a substitute for seeking God's purposes and discovering more about his character in the Bible for yourself, but it is a useful tool. 2 Timothy 3:16 tells us that 'All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness' – all Scripture. God's Big Picture encourages us to seek Christ throughout the Scriptures by opening up previously closed passages, thus enabling us to point others to Christ from any Bible passage.

Vaughan Roberts wants to help us to understand the Bible better in its entirety, but above all to help us fall deeper in love with Christ.