New Book Identifies Practical Link Between Modern Christians and a Baptist Heritage Predating the Passion of Christ
According to Bill Monroe, President of the Baptist Bible Fellowship International, a new book out by Charles Lyons, Ph.D., “…effectively brings attention to perhaps the most neglected major figure in Scripture.”
Houston, TX (PRWEB) June 8, 2005 -- A new book out chronicling the life of
the historical John the Baptist not only identifies this figure as the first
Baptist of our time but further identifies him as the first martyr of the New
Testament age. The significance of such a position demands a fresh look at the
value of the modern ecumenical movement.
Dr Lyons takes a rather unique
look at this figure that was not only a contemporary of Jesus Christ but whose
mother, Elizabeth, was the cousin of Mary the mother of Jesus. A significant
issue according to Dr Lyons is that just as the earliest manuscripts give
greater accuracy to an historical event than a modern publication, looking at
the first Baptist and earliest Christians give greater insight as to how people
who identify themselves as Baptist should live.
Not content with simply
covering the historical events of his life, Dr Lyons identifies practical
applications that have merit today. According to Dr Lyons, “John the Baptist is
a little known or appreciated prophet of the New Testament, but his message drew
crowds and made an impact on lives throughout history.”
Practical
applications from the life of John are identified that are as contemporary as
any cutting edge management seminar you would find. You don’t typically equate
Bible characters as offering management leadership principles. However, a
principle identified from this martyr’s life is, “the price of development is
not a liability it is an investment.” Another application identified is that,
“leaders understand the value of perspective,” and “idle decisions are a luxury
that can be dangerous.”
The title, “Losing Your Head Without Losing Your
Mind!” at once give you an indication to the unique nature of the book. The
comparison made in the title, according to Dr Lyons is that, “while John was
martyred (losing your head) he did so while taking a powerful and significant
stand against corruption and immorality in the leadership of the government. He
may have lost his head but he certainly kept his wits and focus.”
These
applications at once make the reader aware that this is not a simple
contemporary religious book. However Dr Lyons is not a simple man. Originally
beginning his studies for pastoral work, over the past 30 years he has worked in
law enforcement, the US Navy, accounting and financial management, systems
analysis, the IRS and one of the largest churches in America. He holds degrees
both in both religion and psychology.
“Losing Your Head Without Losing
Your Mind!” is published by Infinity Publishing. Paperback priced at $11.95 ISBN
0-7414-2534-3.
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Source : http://www.prweb.com/releases/2005/6/prweb248304.htm