THE great number of Bible story books that have been published show how
many attempts have been made to supply the want which has long been
felt of a work containing a carefully written story of the Scripture
narrative for young people.
In this great work which is written in simple language, the captivating
story of the Bible is told in a style that will cause it to be read
over and over again, and the thrilling truths and beautiful lessons it
contains will never be forgotten.
It takes the reader through the Bible in fifty-two lessons, each lesson
comprising three readings for each Sabbath of the year, while a series
of questions following each reading, help to impress upon the young
mind the truths of the Holy Scripture.
The work begins with the marvellous Story of the Creation, describing
the beauties of the Garden of Eden, and the awful disaster of the
flood; it relates the thrilling scenes in the life of Abraham and the
other Patriarchs, and furnishes a great panorama of the wonderful
events in the dawn of history.
This is followed by the delightful story of Joseph, who was sold by
his envious brethren and hurried away to Egypt, where he was adopted
into the king's family, and finally made ruler over that country. The
lessons of his life should be read by every boy and girl in the land.
He was one of the noblest characters spoken of in the Bible.
Next, we have a glimpse of Moses in his little life-boat, found and
cared for by a Royal Princess. We see him growing to the fullness of
manhood, becoming leader of his people, and finally breaking their
chains and bringing them out of captivity. He stands at the burning
bush; he opens a fountain in a rock; he goes up among the clouds of
Sinai and receives the tables of the law. This part of the Bible story
is full of instruction.
[Illustration: As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness]
Then grand old Joshua comes forth upon the scene, and the reader
follows him through his stormy conflicts and brilliant triumphs. Here,
too, is a graphic description of the magnificent achievements of
Gideon, telling what wonders he wrought and what valor he displayed.
Who has not been fascinated by the delightful story of Ruth? This
humble but charming woman was an ancestor of our Lord Jesus and all are
interested in the story of her life.
Every young person follows eagerly the thrilling account of King Saul
and King David. We see the strong, misguided yet mighty Saul, and also
the ruddy shepherd boy whose swift sling slew a giant. Then comes
Solomon in all his glory, and along in this part of the Old Testament
Story we see that grand man of the desert, Elijah, and follow him
through his startling experiences until, in a chariot of fire, he is
borne away through the clouds to heaven. We also read of that young
patriot Nehemiah, who left the splendors of a palace to rebuild the
shattered walls of Jerusalem. He accomplished wonders, teaching the
great lessons of devotion and energy.
[Illustration: Even so must the son of man be lifted up]
The Bible is a rich store-house of instruction and entertainment. How
captivating is the story of Queen Esther. She presents a striking
example of those great crises in which the scale has been turned by
the power and influence of woman. Other narratives come in thick
succession. The young are always interested in the story of Daniel. Why
should they not be? His strong and beautiful character has a peculiar
charm, and there are few names in history that shine so resplendently.
Let his brilliant record be studied by all, whether old or young.
How eagerly young people read the charming story of Bethlehem--the
story of the angelic choir; of the wondering shepherds who heard the
heavenly anthem of Peace and Good-Will; of the Holy Child laid in
the humble manger; of the burning star that lighted the wise men of
the East to the feet of the infant Prophet, Priest and King; and the
thrilling incidents connected with His life. It would not be possible
for human pen to depict more vividly those majestic events, at once
awful and fascinating, which form the closing chapter of our Lord's
life upon earth.
We venture, in conclusion, to hope this volume will be the means, with
God's blessing, of endearing to many young hearts "the sweet story of
old," making them to love from childhood that book which in after years
will truly be a lamp unto their feet and a light unto their path.