Bill Perkins and his wife, Susie, have led more than 60 guided tours to Israel and have always marveled how the Bible comes alive for their participants. For the past few years, Bill has kicked around the idea of putting the three years of Jesus’ ministry into a novel form.

The story would center around two rich and powerful members of the Sanhedrin — Pharisee Nicodemus and Sadducee Joseph of Arimathea — two vastly different men who are watching Jesus burst onto the scene with all his miracles. At the most pivotal moment the world has ever known, they’re pulled together as they search for who this man Jesus really is.

People who read the story would learn more about the land and culture of the day. Although Bill had done a lot of writing, he decided he needed an experienced novelist who could put this idea into book form.

Bill and Buck Storm had known each other for several years since they were both involved in Christian ministry in North Idaho. Bill had heard Buck was an excellent writer but didn’t know he was an award-nominated author with two novels already published. When Bill laid out the idea for the novel, Buck was intrigued. Buck stated, “This was a challenge, but very fulfilling. In fact, the biggest challenge was to make sure we were faithful to every word of scripture.”

This started a process over several months of studying the scriptures, reviewing historical writings to accurately bring together a new twist on an old story — a story most people know but presented in a unique way that brings the events to life.

To be honest, I have not been a fan of movies that attempt to depict Christ. Most biblical stories in novel form come across as cheesy and actually detract from the real story. I have to say that I had to set aside my prejudices after getting into this book. It is a readable story that puts you into the Roman culture of the time and makes you realize that every age in many ways is an evil time to be alive.

The authors have not only woven into the story the Jewish influence in the religion but also made it easier to understand with simple maps and diagrams of the area.

Before traveling to Israel this would be a great primer. For those who have been to Israel, you immediately relate to the places and descriptions.

More than anything, this book is a testimony of the factual claims of the Bible and Jesus. Using biblical references, the authors have these lead characters discussing the events and how they fit into prophecy. In fact, in the appendix there is a “list” of 25 Old Testament prophecies that were fulfilled by Jesus and spoken of in the novel by Nicodemus. This is a “short list” that doesn’t include the hundreds of prophecies fulfilled, but these 25 are convincing by themselves.

Here is an example of how the prophecies are woven into the novel:

… Nicodemus said, “Bethlehem.” Joseph turned, “Excuse me?”

“The Nazarene. He was born in Bethlehem. As foretold.” Joseph paused a beat, “Then why do they call him a Nazarene?”

“During the census, his father and mother came to Bethlehem. She was pregnant. The homes and inns were all full so they took refuge in a stable.”

“Where did you hear this?”

“It’s not rumor, I checked the census records myself just this morning. Yeshua was born in Bethlehem.”

Joseph felt his pulse in his temples. Can this be true? “You’re saying Yeshua was the child? The one from the stories? The one the shepherds talk about?”

In these few paragraphs we see the fulfillment of Micah 5:2 and later the fulfillment of Hosea 11:1 that the messiah would come out of Egypt. The book brings Psalm 22 alive when this is fulfilled at the resurrection. There are too many prophecies fulfilled to list in this brief review; you will see them in this terrific novel as you read the story.

The discussion between two Rabbis becomes deep into scripture as they begin making a list of the fulfilled prophecies. If you are looking for a good read for yourself or a book as a challenge to someone who is not convinced of the truth of the Christian story, this is a great purchase.

The Christian apologist Josh McDowell said, “The greatest story ever — from a uniquely new perspective! Beautifully written and Biblically sound — it’ll touch your heart and challenge your mind.”

This is a book that fits the Easter season. Since this coming Sunday is Palm Sunday and Resurrection Sunday follows, this book provides the background and details!

There will be a book signing this Wednesday from 1 to 5 p.m. at the Sower Bookstore at 1234 Appleway for your chance to meet the authors. Bill will also be exhibiting ancient artifacts he has collected from Israel — some 4,500 years old. The book is also available through Amazon.com or you can order directly at compass.org.

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Bob Shillingstad is a regular Press contributor of pieces on religion. Email Bob: bjshill@mac.com