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Glimpsing Into the Kingdom by Paul Harrington

Glimpsing Into the Kingdom

by Paul Harrington

Pub Date: Oct. 21st, 2013
ISBN: 978-1490810614
Publisher: Westbow Press

Harrington, in his debut, interprets a collection of parables for readers seeking the kingdom of God in everyday life.

The author’s interpretation of the Bible rests on the principle that it’s necessary to understand the Bible’s original context in order to apply it to modern living: “A fundamental, vital task is to understand what the authors were saying first in their own situation, to the listeners of their day….[T]hen we can apply that meaning to ourselves. Only then can we put together a full, meaningful, vibrant understanding of God and how to relate with Him.” To that end, this collection seeks to help readers determine where they are in their journey to the Christian religious community he calls “the kingdom of God.” Harrington emphasizes its communal nature, contrasting it with the individual joys of salvation and a personal relationship with God: “Our family, our kingdom, has at its head the King of Kings and Lord of Lords,” he writes. “Government does not justify us; religion does not save us. Only being in community, and fellowship…with Jesus Christ does that.” The author notes that many people concentrate on individual churchgoing and personal faith, and so he attempts to illuminate the necessity of religious fellowship. Harrington’s work as a pastoral counselor and Bible teacher shines through in this book; he’s clearly very familiar with the Scriptures, but also intimately familiar with everyday life and its struggles. He’s also gifted at turning profound ideas into messages that all readers can grasp. In his introduction, he mentions his hope that this book will be useful in a group setting, and its presentation seems ideal for that purpose. The discussion questions at the end of every chapter will be of particular interest, as they may help readers reflect on Harrington’s insights and use them in their own lives.

A book with challenging, uplifting messages that may spark valuable discussions about the community of faith.