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Begin: A Journey Through Scriptures for Seekers and New Believers
Everything has a starting point, and none so compelling as the moment you answer God's call for salvation. You change; your perspective alters. How you live your life - it is different from that moment on. But has your decision to accept Christ also led to a deeper understanding of God's Word? Are you a little frustrated with trying to get your Bible study time off the ground? Get ready to take a faith-building look at the Bible that will help you get started today! The Bible, available in so many different versions, can be a little intimidating for the new or casual reader, but now there is a simple road map to follow that sets the stage, creates the context, and helps you effectively navigate the scope and relevance of God's Word. Begin presents foundational and relevant portions of Scripture from the ESV version of the Bible, along with a powerful mix of commentary, historical information, and helpful detail that gives you an easy overview of the structure and focus of the Bible. From helpful details to an opportunity to interact with the verses through journaling, the book encourages you to begin reading and understanding the Bible in a deeper way!
239 pages, Paperback
First published July 1, 2011
38 people are currently reading
265 people want to read
About the author
Ken Ham
236 books361 followersDr. Ken Ham is the president of Answers in Genesis USA and is a well-known speaker and author on the subject of Young-Earth Creationism. He received a bachelor degree in applied science (emphasis on environmental biology) from the Queensland Institute of Technology, and a Diploma of Education from the University of Queensland. He has also received two honorary doctorates: a Doctor of Divinity from Temple Baptist College, and a Doctor of Literature from Baptist Liberty University.
He was a director of Creation Science Foundation (CSF) in Australia, an organization which he jointly founded with John Mackay. In 1987 he moved to the United States, still maintaining his links with CSF.
From 1987 to 1993, Ham worked for the Institute for Creation Research, and in 1994 set up what in 1995 became Answers in Genesis (AiG), a creation ministry dedicated to "upholding the authority of the Bible from the very first verse."
In 2008 Ham was described by well known atheist and evolutionary biologist PZ Myers as a "Wackaloon" for carrying out a prayer session with members of the Pentagon. Ham responded regarding the validity of that prayer breakfastand that PZ Myers and other critics were intolerant of his position.
He was a director of Creation Science Foundation (CSF) in Australia, an organization which he jointly founded with John Mackay. In 1987 he moved to the United States, still maintaining his links with CSF.
From 1987 to 1993, Ham worked for the Institute for Creation Research, and in 1994 set up what in 1995 became Answers in Genesis (AiG), a creation ministry dedicated to "upholding the authority of the Bible from the very first verse."
In 2008 Ham was described by well known atheist and evolutionary biologist PZ Myers as a "Wackaloon" for carrying out a prayer session with members of the Pentagon. Ham responded regarding the validity of that prayer breakfastand that PZ Myers and other critics were intolerant of his position.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
August 21, 2011
Well-meaning Christians have this tendency to give new believers and seekers those darling little copies of the New Testament (usually with Psalms and Proverbs attached), with the common instruction to start with the gospel of John (for theology’s sake) or Mark’s gospel (for brevity’s sake). This well-meaning custom is something of a relic from an era when America was a Christian nation, where the average person knew what we meant we we spoke of sin and salvation, because we had a basic foundation of Biblical knowledge. As the years have passed, America has increasingly become a secular nation and ignorance of the Bible and basic Christian doctrine is the norm rather than the exception – even in the pew!
To remedy this situation, Ken Ham and Bodie Hodge set out to create a “simple road map to follow that sets the stage, creates the context, and helps you effectively navigate the scope and relevance of God’s Word.” Or to put it more simply, Begin wants to give you the Big Picture of what the Bible’s about, from beginning to end. Since they’ve tailored this work for new believers and seekers who often have a hard time with the Middle English wording of the beloved King James, they chose the English Standard Version (ESV) of the Scriptures for readability’s sake.
Their road map consists of five sections of the Bible:
•Genesis 1-11 (The Foundation)
•Exodus 20:1-17 (The Ten Commandments)
•John (The Gospel)
•Romans (An Epistle or Letter from Paul to Christians)
•Revelation 21-22 (The Fulfillment in Heaven)
Begin isn’t just a Bible; it’s also filled with commentary that fills the reader in on the relevant history that occured between each section, short articles on basics every Christian needs to know, what it means to be saved, why we can trust our Bible, and more. Within the Scripture sections themselves are questions for the reader to ponder, Biblical cross-references and quick facts to give the reader perspective.
Better still, the seeker or new believer can use Begin as a Bible study. You see, in addition to lined space in the margins of each page for personal thoughts and notes, there are reflective questions and ample note space at the end of passages of Scripture. For example, after reading John 1-3, the reader is given the following challenge:
“Notice the big picture. God made a perfect world and we messed it up. In the same way the Lord sought after Adam and Eve in Genesis 3, so the Lord sought after us. God is indeed a loving, merciful, and gracious God. How much more should we love God?”
I would definitely recommend this resource to seekers and new believers. I might even suggest that Christians who’ve been in the church a bit longer also go through as a Bible study. It makes an excellent refresher course on the big picture of the Bible.
To remedy this situation, Ken Ham and Bodie Hodge set out to create a “simple road map to follow that sets the stage, creates the context, and helps you effectively navigate the scope and relevance of God’s Word.” Or to put it more simply, Begin wants to give you the Big Picture of what the Bible’s about, from beginning to end. Since they’ve tailored this work for new believers and seekers who often have a hard time with the Middle English wording of the beloved King James, they chose the English Standard Version (ESV) of the Scriptures for readability’s sake.
Their road map consists of five sections of the Bible:
•Genesis 1-11 (The Foundation)
•Exodus 20:1-17 (The Ten Commandments)
•John (The Gospel)
•Romans (An Epistle or Letter from Paul to Christians)
•Revelation 21-22 (The Fulfillment in Heaven)
Begin isn’t just a Bible; it’s also filled with commentary that fills the reader in on the relevant history that occured between each section, short articles on basics every Christian needs to know, what it means to be saved, why we can trust our Bible, and more. Within the Scripture sections themselves are questions for the reader to ponder, Biblical cross-references and quick facts to give the reader perspective.
Better still, the seeker or new believer can use Begin as a Bible study. You see, in addition to lined space in the margins of each page for personal thoughts and notes, there are reflective questions and ample note space at the end of passages of Scripture. For example, after reading John 1-3, the reader is given the following challenge:
“Notice the big picture. God made a perfect world and we messed it up. In the same way the Lord sought after Adam and Eve in Genesis 3, so the Lord sought after us. God is indeed a loving, merciful, and gracious God. How much more should we love God?”
I would definitely recommend this resource to seekers and new believers. I might even suggest that Christians who’ve been in the church a bit longer also go through as a Bible study. It makes an excellent refresher course on the big picture of the Bible.
June 7, 2013
I have read the bible all the way through, and much of it here and there many times through my life. This book for 'begginners' so to speak, is a great book starting with key passages from Genesis, Exodous, John, Romans, and Revelation, with commmentary to clarify passages, referencing other scripture, and a section at the end on the top 10 questions that a Christian should be able to explain when a non-Christian seeks understanding (like Dinosaurs, One Race, etc.). I agree this is a great book for Beginners or those new to being a Christian. However, I also found it refreshing as it really does compress and distill the key information out of a massive book to make it easier for those to 'get up to speed' quickly.
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January 20, 2015This is really just a few little notes and otherwise just straight scripture from the Bible. We did this as a small group study.
February 22, 2025
As a follower of Ken Ham and Answers in Genesis, I have some criticisms about the book and also practical tips on how to get as much out of it as possible that was not presented in the book so that others can see the main theme to what the author is trying to convey.
For starters, I love the information in the back of the book that relates to the basics of what a Christian should believe, and what it means to be saved. This is invaluable information and like that it was presented in an easy-to-understand format, including the websites at the end of each section that gives added meaning to what was written and for continued study.
I think the books that were chosen: Genesis, John, Romans, and the end of Revelations, are a great synopsis to the gospel. I love the little "fact" and "cross-ref" nuggets throughout the pages that add insight to the scripture at hand; not to mention the ability to add notes throughout the book. A great plus when studying God's Word.
I am personally not a fan of the ESV version. Not because there is anything specifically wrong with it, but I like having the pronouns and the Trinity capitalized in the text. I basically had to fill that in because it was confusing. I'm more of a NKJV or NASB guy myself. There were also many editing errors throughout the book, which should have been caught.
I am very happy that the gospel was clearly presented and that it starts in Genesis being we are living in an Acts 17 society. But I wish the authors dove more into the need and command to share the gospel. Yes, this book was geared towards seekers and new believers, but if we make evangelism a priority now, they won't get weird when presented they should be sharing their faith.
HOW TO GET THE MOST OUT OF THIS BOOK
Hold on, I'm almost done.
Now, as you go through this book, mark every instance of the words:
1. believe, believed, belief, faith, follow, followed, follower--green.
2. unbelief and the like--red/pink
3. Righteousness, Redemption, Reconcilliation, Restoration, and Resurrection--blue.
4. light--yellow.
When you do this, you will see a pattern throughout the text.
Ask yourself the "who," "what," "where," "when," "why," and "how" questions throughout the book. Use the space in the margins to answer them. Take many notes, and mark headings and topics in the upper corners of the book for reference.
Any most importantly...pray as you read. Let the Holy Spirit minister to your heart and mind. Ask Him to reveal things you need to learn.
To God be the Glory!
For starters, I love the information in the back of the book that relates to the basics of what a Christian should believe, and what it means to be saved. This is invaluable information and like that it was presented in an easy-to-understand format, including the websites at the end of each section that gives added meaning to what was written and for continued study.
I think the books that were chosen: Genesis, John, Romans, and the end of Revelations, are a great synopsis to the gospel. I love the little "fact" and "cross-ref" nuggets throughout the pages that add insight to the scripture at hand; not to mention the ability to add notes throughout the book. A great plus when studying God's Word.
I am personally not a fan of the ESV version. Not because there is anything specifically wrong with it, but I like having the pronouns and the Trinity capitalized in the text. I basically had to fill that in because it was confusing. I'm more of a NKJV or NASB guy myself. There were also many editing errors throughout the book, which should have been caught.
I am very happy that the gospel was clearly presented and that it starts in Genesis being we are living in an Acts 17 society. But I wish the authors dove more into the need and command to share the gospel. Yes, this book was geared towards seekers and new believers, but if we make evangelism a priority now, they won't get weird when presented they should be sharing their faith.
HOW TO GET THE MOST OUT OF THIS BOOK
Hold on, I'm almost done.
Now, as you go through this book, mark every instance of the words:
1. believe, believed, belief, faith, follow, followed, follower--green.
2. unbelief and the like--red/pink
3. Righteousness, Redemption, Reconcilliation, Restoration, and Resurrection--blue.
4. light--yellow.
When you do this, you will see a pattern throughout the text.
Ask yourself the "who," "what," "where," "when," "why," and "how" questions throughout the book. Use the space in the margins to answer them. Take many notes, and mark headings and topics in the upper corners of the book for reference.
Any most importantly...pray as you read. Let the Holy Spirit minister to your heart and mind. Ask Him to reveal things you need to learn.
To God be the Glory!
January 23, 2018
My wife bought this book for me thinking it would be good for discipling one on one. The book has a ton of bible reading on the most major books that a new Christian needs to be familiar with: Genesis 1-11, John, Romans and Revelation 21-22. There are a few questions during the reading but for the most part it's just reading the Bible which isn't a bad thing for anybody. In the back there 10 basic biblical things about worldview such as creation, Noah's ark, dinosaurs, suffering/death and the Gospel which are good. My only suggestion is to intertwine these items into the bible reading. It would be good to cover some of theses topics in the section of the Bible where they are mentioned.
May 19, 2019
A friend recommended this book. She's very religious and probably doesn't see completely eye to eye with me as we belong to difference faiths. I read this with some apprehension. It is an interpenetration of Scriptures but if I am to be honest, I believe much of it is the author's opinion. I still found much of it fascinating, as it did help to fill in some of the blanks and bridge some of the gaps.
James S.
James S.
March 4, 2024
It was really easy to follow and was mainly scripture. I highly recommend for new Christian’s for a basic understanding of major events in the Bible. 95% is purely scripture, the rest is follow up questions to scripture. It does not lead towards any denomination and is purely for building your understanding of the Bible as a whole. It also has plenty of room for notes on the side and the paper holds well for highlighters.
December 31, 2017
Good concept, but the authors put down other people’s methods so frequently that I would never lend it to a new believer.
May 15, 2021
3.75 stars
not the first book i think of when I think of "new believer." they also heavily cut sections out to make a point in the final chapters. i.e.: "God said...let...there...be light."
not the first book i think of when I think of "new believer." they also heavily cut sections out to make a point in the final chapters. i.e.: "God said...let...there...be light."
March 26, 2025
It’s 95% scripture. For that reason, I recommend that you buy a great study bible instead. The last 40 pages of this book were worthwhile reading.
October 18, 2023
Recuerdo que me gustó específicamente como defendió el creacionismo (no es de lo único que habla). Aún me falta conocimiento en ambos lados del debate, decir la verdad en amor.
November 16, 2018
I don’t know how this book would appear to seekers/new believers (as it is advertised for) as I read it just as a devotional (I have been a follower of Christ for many years now)
....
Anyways. This book is interesting. It is NOT perfect. It has good information about the Bible and theology. It does not have deep or new information.
From the perspective of someone who already knew all the information in this book, it was a good reminder of all this information and gave some good examples of how to witness to others.
....
Anyways. This book is interesting. It is NOT perfect. It has good information about the Bible and theology. It does not have deep or new information.
From the perspective of someone who already knew all the information in this book, it was a good reminder of all this information and gave some good examples of how to witness to others.
August 17, 2011
As stated on the cover, BEGIN is a journey through scriptures for seekers and new believers. It takes readers through key scripture passages from the beginning of the Bible until the end using the ESV of the Bible:
Genesis 1-11 (the Foundation)
Exodus 20:1-17 (the Ten Commandments)
John (the Gospel)
Romans (Letter from Paul to Christians)
Revelation 21-22 (the Fulfillment in Heaven)
The book begins with some brief commentary that includes places to take notes. It then goes into the actual scripture passages. Obviously, since it starts from the beginning, readers will begin with Genesis 1:1. As you read through the scripture passages, there will be little facts and cross-reference points. The sides of the pages include lines where you can take notes as desired. At the end of the chapter/section, there is a question or something to think about which is followed by a notes section to journal your thoughts.
Each scripture passage is preceded by some commentary, an overview, and/or some history. Because this book does not contain the Bible in its entirety, it briefly fills in the historical blanks before moving into the next scripture passage. The book concludes with sections on:
What Does It Mean to be Saved?
Ten Basics to Boldly Proclaim a Biblical Worldview
Six Literal Days
Radiometric Dating
Variety within Created Kinds
Uniqueness of Man
Distant Starlight
Global Flood
Dinosaurs on the Ark
One Race
Suffering and Death
The Gospel
A Final Note of Truth: Wasn’t the Bible Written by Mere Men?
If you do not like commentary with the Bible, this book is not for you. If you do not like Ken Ham’s (Answers in Genesis) teachings, this book is not for you. If you’re looking for key passages in scripture that feature commentary and your worldview lines up with that of Answers in Genesis, this book could be right for you.
Book Description:
The Bible, available in so many different versions, can be a little intimidating for the new or casual reader, but now there is a simple road map to follow that sets the stage, creates the context, and helps you effectively navigate the scope and relevance of God’s Word. Begin presents foundational and relevant portions of Scripture from the ESV version of the Bible, along with a powerful mix of commentary, historical information, and helpful detail that gives you an easy overview of the structure and focus of the Bible. From helpful details to an opportunity to interact with the verses through journaling, the book encourages you to begin reading and understanding the Bible in a deeper way!
About the Authors:
Ken Ham is the founder and executive director of Answers in Genesis in the USA and one of the most sought-after Christian speakers in North America. Ken is the author or co-author of many books, including The Lie: Evolution, The Genesis Solution, Genesis and the Decay of the Nations, What Really Happened to the Dinosaurs?, A is for Adam, D is for Dinosaur, Creation Evangelism for the New Millennium (now called Why Won’t They Listen?), and One Blood: The Biblical Answer to Racism. He is heard daily on the radio program, “Answers…with Ken Ham,” on more than 300 stations worldwide. Ken is also featured in various videos including the series, “Answers in Genesis with Dr. Gary Parker,” and the 12-part series of 28-minute videos, “Answers…with Ken Ham.” Ken’s teaching is clear, true to the Bible, engaging, and challenging. Many have found salvation and others have been encouraged and equipped to reach others with the gospel through Ken’s ministry.
Bodie Hodge is a speaker, writer, and researcher in AiG’s Outreach Department, oversees AiG’s Correspondence Department, and is a regular speaker in the Creation Museum Speaker Series. Bodie is the author of The Fall of Satan as well as co-editor of How Do We Know the Bible is True?
I received a copy of this book from MasterBooks/New Leaf Publishing to help facilitate the writing of a frank and honest review. A positive review is not guaranteed, and all opinions are my own.
Genesis 1-11 (the Foundation)
Exodus 20:1-17 (the Ten Commandments)
John (the Gospel)
Romans (Letter from Paul to Christians)
Revelation 21-22 (the Fulfillment in Heaven)
The book begins with some brief commentary that includes places to take notes. It then goes into the actual scripture passages. Obviously, since it starts from the beginning, readers will begin with Genesis 1:1. As you read through the scripture passages, there will be little facts and cross-reference points. The sides of the pages include lines where you can take notes as desired. At the end of the chapter/section, there is a question or something to think about which is followed by a notes section to journal your thoughts.
Each scripture passage is preceded by some commentary, an overview, and/or some history. Because this book does not contain the Bible in its entirety, it briefly fills in the historical blanks before moving into the next scripture passage. The book concludes with sections on:
What Does It Mean to be Saved?
Ten Basics to Boldly Proclaim a Biblical Worldview
Six Literal Days
Radiometric Dating
Variety within Created Kinds
Uniqueness of Man
Distant Starlight
Global Flood
Dinosaurs on the Ark
One Race
Suffering and Death
The Gospel
A Final Note of Truth: Wasn’t the Bible Written by Mere Men?
If you do not like commentary with the Bible, this book is not for you. If you do not like Ken Ham’s (Answers in Genesis) teachings, this book is not for you. If you’re looking for key passages in scripture that feature commentary and your worldview lines up with that of Answers in Genesis, this book could be right for you.
Book Description:
The Bible, available in so many different versions, can be a little intimidating for the new or casual reader, but now there is a simple road map to follow that sets the stage, creates the context, and helps you effectively navigate the scope and relevance of God’s Word. Begin presents foundational and relevant portions of Scripture from the ESV version of the Bible, along with a powerful mix of commentary, historical information, and helpful detail that gives you an easy overview of the structure and focus of the Bible. From helpful details to an opportunity to interact with the verses through journaling, the book encourages you to begin reading and understanding the Bible in a deeper way!
About the Authors:
Ken Ham is the founder and executive director of Answers in Genesis in the USA and one of the most sought-after Christian speakers in North America. Ken is the author or co-author of many books, including The Lie: Evolution, The Genesis Solution, Genesis and the Decay of the Nations, What Really Happened to the Dinosaurs?, A is for Adam, D is for Dinosaur, Creation Evangelism for the New Millennium (now called Why Won’t They Listen?), and One Blood: The Biblical Answer to Racism. He is heard daily on the radio program, “Answers…with Ken Ham,” on more than 300 stations worldwide. Ken is also featured in various videos including the series, “Answers in Genesis with Dr. Gary Parker,” and the 12-part series of 28-minute videos, “Answers…with Ken Ham.” Ken’s teaching is clear, true to the Bible, engaging, and challenging. Many have found salvation and others have been encouraged and equipped to reach others with the gospel through Ken’s ministry.
Bodie Hodge is a speaker, writer, and researcher in AiG’s Outreach Department, oversees AiG’s Correspondence Department, and is a regular speaker in the Creation Museum Speaker Series. Bodie is the author of The Fall of Satan as well as co-editor of How Do We Know the Bible is True?
I received a copy of this book from MasterBooks/New Leaf Publishing to help facilitate the writing of a frank and honest review. A positive review is not guaranteed, and all opinions are my own.
September 3, 2016
The book takes the `seeker' through specific books of the Bible: Genesis, Exodus, John, Romans and Revelation. Before each section of Bible being put in the book is a commentary relevant to the section. At the end of each chapter of the book of the Bible that is presented in ESV version of the Bible are questions geared to make one think about what is being said in the Bible. Some of the questions are quite simple (yes/no) but most are open-ended, requiring reflection.
The one thing I appreciated the most about this book is the option to `journal' through the study. On almost every page the margins are lined to allow for note taking. Also at the end of each chapter, where the questions are located, is ample room for writing down the answers. There are also footnotes for the scriptures in case a word or phrase may be confusing.
Some of the reasoning put forth to try to help explain an aspect, concept, situation, etc., in the Bible is not very clear in the author's words and personally I would find it to confuse more than enlighten. I did find it a little amusing where Paul wrote "brothers" the footnote says, "Or brothers and sisters..." I find that to be a little silly but do understand that some new believers may have trouble with the prominence of males in the Bible {or lack of prominence of women}. That is just one instance and just a personal view of it.
Another issue I have with the book is the focus of creation and a young earth. But again, I do understand that it is not a commonly held belief and coming into Christianity may challenge previously held beliefs. I just get tired of hearing about it, I guess.
I use the KJV Bible but I think that ESV may be my next choice of Bible so this book wasn't too difficult to adjust to in that respect. If you are adamant that one version of the Bible is the `correct' one then this book may not sit so well with you. Also, if you are adverse to Ken Ham's view points, you may not like this book either.
Overall, I found the book to be okay. It would be good to have beside your Bible while you read the chosen parts discussed in this book.
I received this book from New Leaf Publishing Group in exchange for an honest review.
The one thing I appreciated the most about this book is the option to `journal' through the study. On almost every page the margins are lined to allow for note taking. Also at the end of each chapter, where the questions are located, is ample room for writing down the answers. There are also footnotes for the scriptures in case a word or phrase may be confusing.
Some of the reasoning put forth to try to help explain an aspect, concept, situation, etc., in the Bible is not very clear in the author's words and personally I would find it to confuse more than enlighten. I did find it a little amusing where Paul wrote "brothers" the footnote says, "Or brothers and sisters..." I find that to be a little silly but do understand that some new believers may have trouble with the prominence of males in the Bible {or lack of prominence of women}. That is just one instance and just a personal view of it.
Another issue I have with the book is the focus of creation and a young earth. But again, I do understand that it is not a commonly held belief and coming into Christianity may challenge previously held beliefs. I just get tired of hearing about it, I guess.
I use the KJV Bible but I think that ESV may be my next choice of Bible so this book wasn't too difficult to adjust to in that respect. If you are adamant that one version of the Bible is the `correct' one then this book may not sit so well with you. Also, if you are adverse to Ken Ham's view points, you may not like this book either.
Overall, I found the book to be okay. It would be good to have beside your Bible while you read the chosen parts discussed in this book.
I received this book from New Leaf Publishing Group in exchange for an honest review.
April 11, 2012
Begin: A Journey Through Scriptures for Seekers and New Believers is a great book put together by Ken Ham, the director of Answers in Genesis, and Bodie Hodge. Instead of handing out a New Testament, or even simply a Book of John (which I have done frequently), to new believers or those that are seeking to know more about the Bible and God, the authors are encouraging believers to give them something that is a better overview and foundation to the bigger picture of Christianity, and of the purpose and necessity of Jesus Christ as Savior. Begin does that by including selections from the canonical books of Genesis, Exodus, The Gospel of John, Romans, and The Revelation; as well as ten positions on important, foundational issues for Christians today including creation, evolution, a world-wide flood, etc. Before each portion of scriptures presented, there are a few pages spent giving overview, insight, and highlights from the different biblical accounts that have taken place between the provided portions.
Many would question the need or importance of this, and that can be answered by these three points:
*To not just emphasize the love of God (i.e. a Book of John), but also the judgement of sin
*To not just emphasize the New Testament (i.e. a Pocket New Testament), but also the foundation of the Old Testament
*To explain the need for a Savior
A big-picture view and understanding of the whole Bible will help others better understand the value and necessity of the gospel.
This is a well-done resource that I would definitely recommend to those that are young in their Christian faith and are having difficulty grasping the "big picture" of the Christian faith. Also, for those that are questioning the need for Jesus, or those that are seeking truth and answers, this is definitely a great resource to Begin with.
Many would question the need or importance of this, and that can be answered by these three points:
*To not just emphasize the love of God (i.e. a Book of John), but also the judgement of sin
*To not just emphasize the New Testament (i.e. a Pocket New Testament), but also the foundation of the Old Testament
*To explain the need for a Savior
A big-picture view and understanding of the whole Bible will help others better understand the value and necessity of the gospel.
This is a well-done resource that I would definitely recommend to those that are young in their Christian faith and are having difficulty grasping the "big picture" of the Christian faith. Also, for those that are questioning the need for Jesus, or those that are seeking truth and answers, this is definitely a great resource to Begin with.
April 28, 2013
Begin is a wonderful introduction to the whole of scripture that is especially relevant in today's culture. Many people today believe in the lie of evolution and have no idea what the bible has to say specifically about creation, death, and a number of other topics in both the new and old testament. This book helps to establish the authority of scripture to allow the root of Christianity to run deeper than it might otherwise grow. There is some commentary, but most of the book is a walk through sections of Genesis, John, Romans, and Revelation to give the reader a brief overview of the bible. (I say brief, but it will still take about six hours or so to read.)
I recommend this book for new and 'old' believers alike to establish or re-establish the foundations of their Christian faith. It is also useful for seekers who want to know what Christianity is all about.
I recommend this book for new and 'old' believers alike to establish or re-establish the foundations of their Christian faith. It is also useful for seekers who want to know what Christianity is all about.
October 17, 2013
"With this book, we decided to do something "radical" says Ken Ham. "We have sought to give readers an overview of the Christian faith and the message of the gospel in the following manner: by presenting it the way God does it in His Word, and that's by starting at the Bible's beginning." The compilers of "Begin" have done a good job of telling the Good News-- and of showing the bad news that makes the Good News good! This excerpt will help explain: "As people learn of the good news of the gospel, they also need to have an understanding of the bad news in Genesis: our sin in Adam, and that we are alienated from our Creator and are in need of a Savior." Wondering what the Christian faith is all about? Maybe you'll want to begin with "Begin: A Journey Through Scriptures for Seekers and New Believers." -- (Quotations taken from the Foreword by Ken Ham)
January 6, 2013
The premise is that this book can be given to those who know nothing about Christianity. I don't think so. There is too much assumed in the book that the person reading would have a background of "Christianese" and raises questions even from the point of view of a Christian. I was hoping to give this as a gift to unsaved family members, but I wouldn't recommend it even to new believers.
August 29, 2012
Great book! Got to meet Mr. Ham the day I got the book and he was kind enough to sign it for me!
June 29, 2015
Excellent starter plan for evangelistic Bible studies or beginning discipleship
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May 9, 2018I feel I can’t really “rate” a book that is largely scripture copied and pasted. Not a criticism. That’s just what this is. And sometimes that’s what people need to read scripture. A different presentation. Something different than an actual Bible. Whatever gets “The Word” in front of people for reflection and discussion in a positive or at least neutral manner is certainly good.
As for the other material. It is difficult as as my fellow Gen Xers where certainly raised in a time where it wasn’t The Bible vs Science. Ken Ham has some very good points worth reflection discussion and action. But sometimes the presentation...To often his counter arguments are fuzzy logic at best. He may think his explanations make sense and disprove “scientific and humanism” beliefs but often they are just different ways of saying “because in Genesis is says..”.
Don’t get me wrong. My mind is open. I’m ready and willing to listen to this belief system. And by that I don’t mean Christianity, I mean Ken’s belief that if we
Can’t take Genesis word for word literally, the rest of the book crumbles. He (his team) mention that no book of the Bible is important than any other, that we should be open to discussion, that it’s the others that are biased. But that all seems very debatable to me.
As for the other material. It is difficult as as my fellow Gen Xers where certainly raised in a time where it wasn’t The Bible vs Science. Ken Ham has some very good points worth reflection discussion and action. But sometimes the presentation...To often his counter arguments are fuzzy logic at best. He may think his explanations make sense and disprove “scientific and humanism” beliefs but often they are just different ways of saying “because in Genesis is says..”.
Don’t get me wrong. My mind is open. I’m ready and willing to listen to this belief system. And by that I don’t mean Christianity, I mean Ken’s belief that if we
Can’t take Genesis word for word literally, the rest of the book crumbles. He (his team) mention that no book of the Bible is important than any other, that we should be open to discussion, that it’s the others that are biased. But that all seems very debatable to me.
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