The Advent of the Lamb of God

“Russ Ramsey's Retelling the Stor[y] is a worthy addition to the tradition of scriptural retellings, such as Eugene Peterson's The Message and Sally Lloyd-Jones's The Jesus Storybook Bible. . . . The three installments of the Retelling the Stor[y] series are beautifully written and easy to read without being condescending, simplistic, or taking too many liberties. As a commentary engages the mind, Ramsey's books capture the heart. The stories here, in service to the scriptures, refreshed my soul, gave my heart joy, and lit my eyes. If Russ Ramsey's goal is to help his readers understand scripture better and to have their 'eyes open to the beauty of mercy and grace,' he succeeds.”

“This story, and the compelling beauty with which Russ tells it, is what helps us make sense of the big story, which we need to hear all year long, our whole lives long.”

“Russ Ramsey is that rare kind of writer: both an astute theologian with a comprehensive knowledge of the Holy Scriptures and a masterful storyteller. In beautifully written prose, he takes us on a trip through the history of redemption, bringing to life the true tale of a Divine Lover who comes to rescue his people. As a loving pastor, Russ shepherds this great story as well or better than any writer. Not only is he that skillful, he's that full of care, which is no small thing.”

“The Advent of the Lamb of God offers readers a sterling opportunity to walk through God's story of redemption. Ideal for personal or family devotions, the stories are told with imagination, verve, and gospel-driven joy.”

“Ramsey deftly retells the story of Jesus with a pastor's heart and an artist's touch. In this book, real people sigh and cry, tremble and rejoice. It captured my heart. My family will treasure it for years to come.”

“Russ Ramsey tells a story you've heard a hundred times and still haven't heard enough. With remarkable attention to the facts of the matter—the water dripping from John the Baptist's beard, the heft of Abraham's knife, the groans of a girl giving birth on a stable floor—Russ brings to life the story that brings us to life. Here is glory made visible, tangible, audible. Which is to say, here is the Incarnation.”

“When Andrew Peterson sings 'Behold the Lamb of God,' three worlds collide: ours, Abraham's, and Jesus'. Russ Ramsey's book opens the doors between those worlds and helps us bring them together.”

“So many authors write like they're on a mission to prove something about their own brilliance. Not Russ Ramsey. He's doing something entirely different. Even the simple preface is a study in how calming, winsome, and selfless writing can be. Put this book in your hands and feel loved.”

“What better way to prepare our hearts for Christmas than to do what Russ has done so well in The Advent of the Lamb of God—rehearse the magnificent story that begins centuries before, the magnificent story woven through all of the Bible. The story of how God loves his children and has come to rescue them.”

“Russ Ramsey has that rare gift—the ability to animate the imagination. May you and yours take up this book, read it, and be renewed.”