Author: Lori Denning
We are familiar with the stories and parables of the New Testament. But it can be easy to forget that the people in those stories were as real and complex as we are today. They were sinners, failures, and doubters. Yet, through the Savior Jesus Christ, they became something more: heroes. These heroes were imperfect people with faith in the Lord.
In this companion to Real Heroes of the Old Testament, author Lori L. Denning examines key figures in the New Testament. By drawing on the context, history, setting, motifs, and literary styles of the scriptures, we can see that the people behind the miracles were real people just like us. They had hopes and doubts, strengths and weaknesses. By coming to know them as more than just stories, we can identify our own roles as heroes in the Lord's continuing restoration. With this exploration of New Testament heroes, you will
- Come to know the real women and men of the New Testament, including their failures and their successes.
- See the Lord in each story, working to teach each person what they needed to change in their life to make them better disciples.
- Understand that we can also succeed in Christ, no matter our doubts, sins, or imperfections.
These people and more overcame sin, misunderstanding, and wrong expectations as they heralded the kingdom of God on the earth. But despite their challenges, they loved the Lord, and by learning from their experiences, we can come to know and understand our Savior in a new light.