ONE PRECIOUS PEARL God's Design for His Church
Clear analysis with keen insights!
Engaged? Which will you choose? A diamond? A pearl?
In Jesus' day a pearl was the most precious of gems. Are you engaged to Christ?
Matthew 13:45-46
ISBN: 978-0741462329
135 pages
A little-understood parable that is full of practical teaching. This landmark book reveals parallels about the beginning of a pearl and the beginning of the Church, their formation, shape, location, source, condition, value, and more.
It is an enjoyable easy-to-read devotional style book which presents new and unforgettable insights. A correct understanding of the parable of the “one pearl of great price” (Matthew 13:45-46) will cause the reader to marvel at this simple phrase of Scripture.
Early in the book the author provides a straightforward look at the three most common interpretations of this parable. Included is a clear Bible-based rejection of the notion that the pearl represents salvation.
The major portion of the book provides parallels between the “one pearl of great price” and the Christian Church. Presented are seven unique aspects of a pearl which parallel the uniqueness of the Church. Finally, eight additional characteristics of a pearl and their parallels are presented.
As part of the “Christian Concepts Series” One Precious Pearl is made up of short chapters, each followed by a “Think and Grow” section. The series is great for people on the go, for individual devotional study, and as the text in group study. The intent of the series is to assist the reader in the quest for a deeper living theology and dynamic discipleship as timeless truths are presented with a contemporary perspective while maintaining the integrity of the Word of God.
Note: An eBook (or print) update of this book is entitled: “GOD’S CHURCH: Christ’s Pearl” is available.
Note: An eBook (or print) update of this book is entitled: “GOD’S CHURCH: Christ’s Pearl” is available.
This book has won five book awards.• Gold, Literary Excellence, World Book Award (1 of 3 awards across all genres)• Book-of-the-Year, Religion: Eastern/Western, Reader Views Reviewers Choice Award• Winner, Book: Biblical Studies, The Word Guild (Canada)• Runner-up, Religion: Christianity, International Book Award• Finalist, Religion: Christianity, The USA "Best Books" Award
REVIEWS: ONE PRECIOUS PEARL God's Design for His Church
Jerry & Maureen Shoop, Senior Pastor ~ We have been Christians for over 40 years, but never have been so enlightened and enriched as we have been by the in-depth study of the One Precious Pearl. You have given us new meaning and insight.
Ronald B. Allen, Senior Professor of Bible Exposition, Dallas Theological Seminary ~ Throughout this study there is a development of analogical thought, where the latent imagery of the pearl is made clear for the modern reader. Mr. Russell’s content is superior throughout. He has drawn on natural science and Biblical thought without violating either. I have learned a great deal about the concept of a pearl and have appreciated more the concept of the Church as the Pearl of Christ.
Elizabeth Hightower, Women’s Ministries Leader, Laurelwood Baptist Church ~ I will never think of a pearl in the same light again. I absolutely love the way you have drawn a parallel between the pearl and the Church. This is inspired!
William J. Peterson, Senior Editor for Christian Book Publishers ~ This is an excellent Bible study. Mr. Russell really develops insights that I hadn’t appreciated before in One Precious Pearl. He writes clearly so that the material is easily understood by both clergy and laity. It was very edifying for me to read. (Mr. Petersen is Emeritus Senior Acquisitions Editor for Baker Book House and Fleming H. Revell. He also serves on the Editorial Board and as a mentor for the Christian Writers Guild.) Loren Fischer, Senior Pastor ~ I admire what you are doing and your way of putting it! Praise the LORD! Rev. Colin (Wales) ~ Expertly written... feeds the seeking and open mind... opens the closed heart... encouraging as it is enlightening... I can thoroughly recommend to all.
Elizabeth Hightower, Women’s Ministries Leader, Laurelwood Baptist Church ~ I will never think of a pearl in the same light again. I absolutely love the way you have drawn a parallel between the pearl and the Church. This is inspired!
William J. Peterson, Senior Editor for Christian Book Publishers ~ This is an excellent Bible study. Mr. Russell really develops insights that I hadn’t appreciated before in One Precious Pearl. He writes clearly so that the material is easily understood by both clergy and laity. It was very edifying for me to read. (Mr. Petersen is Emeritus Senior Acquisitions Editor for Baker Book House and Fleming H. Revell. He also serves on the Editorial Board and as a mentor for the Christian Writers Guild.) Loren Fischer, Senior Pastor ~ I admire what you are doing and your way of putting it! Praise the LORD! Rev. Colin (Wales) ~ Expertly written... feeds the seeking and open mind... opens the closed heart... encouraging as it is enlightening... I can thoroughly recommend to all.