Great Cloud of Witnesses: A Series of Papers on Hebrews XI

by E.W. Bullinger

E. W. Bullinger's discussion of Hebrews XI, viewed through biographic accounts of Biblical figures, is imbued with the author's scholarship and gifts for research. Introducing the text with his innovative method of articulating the meaning of scripture, the author shows us how he uses the structure of Biblical passages to divine their message. We see how he arrives at a reasonable conclusion as to what the Bible says, with each word and turn of phrase scrutinized. This intensive approach ensures that no meaning or kernel of truth escapes analysis. This superb Biblical commentary proceeds by examining certain Biblical figures, which the author shows are connected to the Hebrews XI passage either through direct reference or through the deeds and principles they followed in life. Whether it is Abel, Noah, Abraham, Moses or other Old Testament figures, all carry a certain essence of faith that is vital to the Book of Hebrews message. Through the series of short biographies comprising the sum of this work, readers pick up a picture of what faith and man's place on Earth mean in the context of Hebrews XI. The profundity of the words are seen to echo through the books and verses of the Bible; taken as a whole, they contain part of God's most valuable lessons to mankind. As such, Bullinger's researches are useful and carry substantial merit for Christian believers. E. W. Bullinger spent decades reading and researching aspects of the scripture. Working in the English clergy, he developed a distinctive scholarship of the Bible, meticulously chronicling his insights in a series of helpful texts. Although many of Bullinger's views were contrarian and unique, and thus held in low regard by other Christian preachers and authors, his esoteric knowledge was towering then as it is now.

260 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 1979

About the author

E. W. (Ethelbert William) Bullinger was born in England. A direct dissent of Swiss reformer Johann Heinrich Bullinger, a covenant theologian, he was born and raised in a home strongly influenced by Wesleyan Methodist doctrine. An Anglican priest as well as secretary of the Trinitarian Bible Society, he is primarily known as a theologian who published numerous books. He is most commonly known for The Companion Bible.

Some of his theology was and remains controversial, but there is no arguing that he had an in-depth knowledge of Aramaic, Greek and Hebrew. Some of his more popular books still in extant include his Figures of Speech Used in the Bible and Number in Scripture.

Reviews

[Dennise Pagan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bullinger’s commentary leaves modern scholars in the dust, as usual.

Not much can be said, if you are familiar with Hebrews then you know this book’s subject.
Bullinger just goes all in defining and illustrating what it is about the cloud of witnesses that makes them special and the application their witness (example) has when considering our own walk of faith.

This is aimed at strong drink guzzlers of scripture; if you are in any way hesitant or doubtful about the divine inspiration thereof, this study may turn you off.

[Charlie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was one of the most life changing books that I have ever read! It is still changing my life. The basis of this book is: "faith COMES by hearing." Without having (spiritual) ears to "hear," we cannot have faith. We must have a relationship with the Lord in order to "hear." God wants that relationship more than us.

Bullinger takes us through the list of the faithful in Hebrews 11 (which is the great cloud of witnesses) revealing their faith in a very practical and historical way.

I have read this spiritual book more times than any other book in my library. Each time I read it, I see something new, something deeper, and a greater need in my life revealed.

[Rose Ross]

Did not read. Picked in error.