Almost all my Bibles have maps of Palestine during Jesus’ time and charts of Paul’s missionary journeys. Publishers include them to supplement our background knowledge and to help us interpret the Bible accurately. Although I am aware of the significance of knowing the historical settings, I never look at those charts. But since discovering the Journeys of the Apostle Paul by David Bomar, I realize I have done myself a great disservice.
Journeys of the Apostle Paul follows the life and ministry of the most renowned missionary in Church history: Paul of Tarsus. Bomar, the editor, was fascinated with Paul’s journeys since his teenage years. His passion led to a five-part series in the Bible Study Magazine, which then developed into a book.
And it features contributions from several prominent New Testament scholars like Craig Keener, Joseph R. Dodson, and Caryn A. Reeder.
The book has five main parts that cover Paul’s travels, as reported in Acts. They are, The Journey to Damascus (Acts 9:1-30), The First Missionary Journey & The Jerusalem Council (Acts 13:1-15:35), The Second Missionary Journey (Acts 15:36-21:14), The Third Missionary Journey (Acts 18:23-21:14), and The Journey to Rome (Acts 21:15-28:31).
Each part had essays that featured details on Paul’s life, the culture, places, theological insights, and commentaries. And it made Journeys of the Apostle Paul a delightful read.
I loved the detailed accounts of Paul’s journeys, the historical facts, the gorgeous pictures of locations, and the pull-out maps. The editor skillfully wove all these data into one story; that of a man who dedicated his life to sharing the Gospel to gentiles like you and me.
Reading Journeys of the Apostle Paul has enriched my understanding of Paul’s ministry and provided me with additional background information to understand his letters in the New Testament. I never realized how far and wide Paul traveled for the Gospel. I am thankful Bomar didn’t neglect the maps and charts in his Bible like I did but labored to provide this excellent resource for the Church.
It’s a magnificent work of art and a valuable tool to have beside you when reading Acts or Paul’s letters. I highly recommend it!
*Lexham Press graciously gave me a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.*
