THE RED-LETTER WORDS OF JESUS, by Jack Countryman

This book brands itself as illuminating words of Jesus. It is actually a devotion. The author, Countryman, starts his book with a short Introduction. Then he launches into his first verse. It is followed by a page of thoughts about the verse. And he similarly spreads his content across 100 verses. Countryman follows every verse with thoughts about it. These thoughts are meant to challenge the reader to apply the verses to his/her life. This is a small volume. The cover is true to the title and is red in color. Each verse is in red text. Red ridges appear at the top of each page of meditations for the verses.

I must say I was disappointed when the book arrived. I had waited for it believing that it would pick chosen verses apart, give details on the historical background of each verse, and then personalize these passages for application. This was because the headline to this book seemed to indicate this. Instead, I discovered that it is simply another devotional. A pretty good devotional. But still a devotional. I had no intention of reviewing another devotional. The theology of this devotional is good as it is solidly based on the Bible. It doesn't make any use of psychology or make any modern comparisons with modern-day people or modern-day issues. Avoided are controversial issues like abortion or same-sex marriage. It's great as a way to get into the Word as it can be hard to do that without guidance. But the shortness of the devotions gives the silent message that unresolved personal issues and spiritual needs can be resolved by simply looking to God.

I recommend this book for Christians. Especially I recommend it for those who don't like to read or have little free time. It may help ground new believers in the CHristian faith. The volume may not be enough for more seasoned Christians who hunger more theology and actual historical context to each chosen verse. And it does not yield its meaning to those who don't identify as believers in Jesus.

I have received a complimentary copy of this book through BOOKLOOKBLOGGERS in exchange for my honest review of this book. I was not required to give a positive review of this book.