The Unfolding Purpose of God

The Unfolding Purpose of God by Stuart Allen.
Mr. Allen brings out the importance of understanding the broad overview of God's purpose in Christ Jesus our Lord (Eph. 3: 11).  Having this enlightenment will help us be approved of God as we live our lives for Him (2 Tim. 2:15).  Mr. Allen has a simple and easy to understand style of writing which makes this book very helpful and enjoyable to the new believer.

The writer begins this book by explaining the unique position the Bible must have for the Christian.  He helps us to prove that all scripture is God breathed (2 Tim. 3:16).  He does this by the use of numerics.  He points out that while the Bible was written over a period of 2,000 years, and by many writers, it still maintains unity, and ultimately points to Jesus Christ.  Another remarkable point the writer makes is the pin-point accuracy in regard to future events.  The Bible endures translation and still  maintains its power and life-giving qualities.  Archeologists have not unearthed one bit of evidence to disprove scripture, but rather the opposite has been the case.  Finally, Christ's own testimony regarding scripture proves it to be the Word of God.

Mr. Allen then describes and explains some very important rules we must all follow if we want to understand what the Bible has to say to us.  There is not enough space to mention every rule, but to list a few:  take the literal meaning first, then context, time periods, figures of speech, symbols, parables, and always compare scripture with scripture, for the Bible will not contradict itself.  Avoid spiritualizing or overlooking the primary interpretation and the literal meaning at all costs.

The writer goes on to discuss the nation Israel and God's purpose with her.  The relationship Christ had with her while He was upon the earth, the second coming of Christ, and the purpose unfolded during  the Acts period are also looked at.  Mr. Allen then spends the rest of the book explaining what he refers to Paul's prison letters which are:  Eph., Col., Philippians, 1&2 Tim., Titus, and Philemon.  These books contain our marching orders for today and the truths of the Mystery of the one body and the doctrine of complete identification with Christ. (Col. 2:9-13)

Finally, Mr. Allen draws some practical conclusions for us.  Search the Scriptures for yourself, use the simple rules mentioned in the beginning of this book, and above all else, take God at His Word by faith.  May I encourage all new believers to read this book.