The three most important parts of a book are: a well constructed plot, compelling characters, and a satisfying conclusion.

Sunday, February 23, 2014

HEAVEN & HELL: Are They Real? By Christopher D Hudson

Heaven and Hell by Christopher D. HudsonPublisher:  Thomas Nelson
Release Date:  February 11, 2014
Pages:  277

Reviewed by Wanda and WC

Book Description:  It can be said that the words "heaven" and "hell" are thrown around flippantly these days. It seems they have become part of our vernacular without much thought or concern about what they really mean.

The reality of heaven and hell is a hotly-debated topic spurring countless conversations, books, and sermons. It's fashionable to have an opinion about the reality of heaven and hell, but what does the Bible really say? "Heaven and Hell: Are They Real?" discusses what Scripture really says about these mysterious places, giving you real, solid, reliable information. The book includes scripture quotes that capture the current interest in the reality of heaven and hell, while offering readings on heaven and hell. Also included are quotes and insights from trusted authors including Billy Graham, Randy Alcorn, C.S. Lewis, and more. For the curious reader looking for more information on heaven and hell, "Heaven and Hell: Are they Real?" is the perfect choice.

Features include:
Readings on heaven and hell Questions for digging deeper Additional content from trusted contemporary and ancient scholars Scripture from the NIV.

Wanda's Review:  Heaven and Hell: Are They Real? - A thought provoking book written in a clear and simple way, while providing answers to questions for us to ponder. It certainly captured my attention, and had me wanting to read more. 

Part 1 - Heaven
Will heaven be boring? - When we experience the fulfillment of heaven and see God as he truly is, it will be an endless reservoir of fascination - the greatest fun-filled adventure we've ever known. 

Will we have physical bodies in heaven? - We will never be all that God intended until out body and spirit are joined in resurrection - a new creation of the perfected body and perfected soul. 

Will we be busy in heaven? - We will find deep satisfaction in serving God. The more we know him, the more there will be to know. Our activities in heaven will be enjoyable and fulfilling as we enjoy God and he enjoys us. We will learn, grow, and develop, and it will be an exhilarating experience that will never come to an end. 

Will there be animals in heaven? - There doesn't seem to be a conclusive answer to this question - I can only hope so.

Where is heaven? - Heaven is a dimension where time and distance are not obstacles. Heaven is more than a state of mind - it is an actual place where God dwells, and where we can finally find complete peace. It is beyond our imagination and comprehension. 

Part 2 - Hell 
How can someone purposely choose to go to hell? - If you have rejected salvation, God can refuse to show mercy on you. At death you are at the end of your journey, and the road to destruction has been chosen. 

How can I avoid going to hell? - Christians can not get to heaven just by doing good works. John 14:16 - I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. 

This book provides Scriptures that enable us to see life with an eternal perspective. There is an added question, or two, to sum up up each chapter - For Further Thought. These questions help us to delve deeper into the written chapter while creating our own conclusions. 

We all have the power to choose heaven or hell. God allows us to decide whether on not to accept the eternal gift through his son, Jesus, by opening up our hearts and committing our lives to him. For those who choose our true home in heaven, the dark sorrows of the earth will be erased and changed to the joys of heaven, and our hearts will be filled with God's enduring presence. Heaven will be the perfect place to spend eternity! A great and inspiring read! 4.5 Stars

I received a complimentary book from BookSneeze to read and give an honest review. All opinions shared are my own and I was not required to give a positive review.

WC's Review:  If Heaven does not exist then it is plausible to reason that Hell does not as well. Reasonable men and women must think that both do resonate, for what is the purpose of living this life that is infinitesimally short but seems insufferably long?

Most pressing of all issues discussed in this succinct book for many readers is whether their favorite pet accompanies them to Heaven. We all hope so, as Billy Graham imagined that a loving God would not consider leaving Fido behind, as much or more so than a beloved spouse.

Universalism, the belief that all go to Heaven, is widely debated and the arguments for it seem appealing. The significance of the existence of Hell diminishes the gift of Heaven, as contributors argue. Nihilism, another tenet, implies those of us who don't measure up to God criteria, simply cease to exist. And salvation, the acceptance of the Lord Jesus Christ as the person of your existence, is passionately asserted.

Fascinating as well are the descriptions of both places of eternal residence. A particular favorite is that Heaven may well be similar to the Garden of Eden, much larger and more beautiful than the original between the Tigris and Euphrates.

Surely all of us ponder what becomes of us after we die. 

 About the Author:  The American Bible Society was established in 1816 with a mission to make the Bible available to every person in a language and format each can understand and afford so all people may experience its life-changing message.

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