Boy a Magician And a Harlot: Stories You Never Heard From the Bible by Lori Gainer

LORI J. GAINER and JEANIE THIBAULT Invites the reader behind the scenes of Bible stories - Opens new perspectives for individuals, study groups, and sermon writers. What was the reaction of the head waiter at the wedding at Cana when he realized the wine had run out? What gave the man the idea to lower his paralyzed friend through the roof to see Jesus? What were the young men who accompanied Abraham and Isaac on the journey to the mountain thinking? Much of scripture is comprised of individuals who are unnamed but have important roles to play in biblical stories. This illustrated book offers first person accounts of twenty-one Bible stories (Old Testament, New Testament, and apocrypha) from the perspectives of bystanders or "supporting" characters, giving us an opportunity to imagine: how would we react? What would we say or do given similar circumstances today? This imaginative collection includes thought-provoking discussion questions for congregational or individual reflection, and can be invaluable for fresh perspectives in sermons and study groups. Paperback 160 pages Lori J. Gainer started leading youth groups and teaching Bible studies while she was in college and has been active in youth ministry and teaching in-depth Bible studies the entirety of her adult life. She has an Mdiv from Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary and lives in Austin, Texas. Jeanie Thibault, teaching experience at all grade levels, spanning forty-five years. She graduated from Pacific Oaks University with a degree in child psychology and attended Fuller Theological Seminary. A certified religion teacher, she taught in parochial schools and was also a Teaching Fellow with the Nevada State Writing Project in Las Vegas, Nevada. She is retired and lives in Washington State.