A unique approach to studying the Bible, Malinda Fugate’s “The Other 3:16s” considers the universally-known John 3:16 and the Bible’s resounding message of love and explores the third chapter and sixteenth verse of the other books of the Bible that have them. She bases her analysis on the fact that God is love and that He has an overwhelming love for all of His children. Proceeding in order, she begins with Genesis and moves through both the Old and New Testaments, ending with Revelation and John. Not only is this logical and easy to follow, but I love that she includes the Old as well as the New Testament. The former tends to be written about less often, and it is challenging reading. I am impressed with the effort that the author has put into the organization and presentation of this book.

“The Other 3:16s” offers the big picture of the Bible in the form of a continuing narrative related by the author. As such, it can be read as one would a regular book, or it can be used as a devotional. This latter option is bolstered by the discussion questions that the author has graciously provided at the end of the book; they are merged with a Bible reading plan and formatted into either 6-or 10-week time spans, although this could be adjusted to the reader’s preference. Along these same lines, Fugate has arranged each chapter to discuss a book of the Bible. The verse corresponding with chapter 3 verse 16 is written out, and then she explains the setting and historical background, which is so important of any writing, but especially to a text as sacred as the Bible. In order to gain an understanding of the Lord and His workings from the earliest times through the book of Revelation, it’s necessary to have at least a basic knowledge of the individual Bible books and also be able to put them together as one cohesive narrative. Also, Fugate ties in the most-often-quoted verses from the Bible book from which they come, which is also helpful in bringing everything together. With an e-book copy, when I pulled up my notes section to read the passages that I highlighted, I was surprised and delighted to find that each one had the Bible book noted above it.

Speaking of the content itself, aside from a few isolated instances, this nonfiction book follows Scripture and provides information and clarification about the historical and cultural milieu, which helps readers to more fully understand what is transpiring and how it is significant. This, in turn, draws readers closer to the God who “welcomes questions from His children when they come from humble, reverent hearts.” I appreciate that Fugate acknowledges the tough questions that we all ask at some point, the answers to which we will probably never fully know on this side of eternity, concluding that we simply need to trust God because He always has everything under His perfect control, and His plans for His children are always for our good and for His glory. And so, “Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God.”

I received a complimentary copy of this book through Celebrate Lit and was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own. ( )

Once I realized (in the introduction) exactly what this book was going to be about I felt a curious expectation rising inside of me. I felt like I was about to discover something really special and couldn't wait to find out what the author had to say about every 3:16 in the Bible. This is one of the few books of its kind that I would call a "page-turner" and I looked forward to the next 3:16 every time. With her knowledge of the scriptures, the author brings God's love into focus from Genesis to Revelation starting with each book's 3:16 and then moving on with a wonderful overview of what is happening in the surrounding chapters and verses. I highly recommend it! ( )

I remember Sunday School so well as a child. My dad was a pastor so I was at church every time the doors were open. The one scripture that I memorized first was John 3:16. It was the focal point for every thing that was taught to me in church. The foundation of my Christianity was that one scripture. When I started reading this book, I saw a new perspective of 3:16 that could be found in other Books of the Bible.
I like how the author goes methodically through the Bible and directs readers attention to little gems that are often passed over. I really liked so many of the scriptures that it was hard to pick out my favorite. The book travels from Old Testament to New Testament showing us how God’s Word is truth. One of the things I discovered was that the scriptures all lead back to the one thing which is how much God loves us. We may go through trials, but God is always there. “He doesn’t rush into punishment, but instead gives His children plenty of warning and time to repent and reverse course.”
I liked when the author pointed out that God “is the Prince of Peace.” He doesn’t like chaos but rather loves us enough to surround us with joy, love and peace. When we are in crisis, He doesn’t ignore us. He wants us to cry out to Him to find comfort. Throughout the book, the author reminds us that God does love us and gave the ultimate sacrifice so that we would be free.
This will be a book that I will go back to often and refresh myself with God’s words. I did take lots of notes in my journal because I love to go back and read things that really stood out to me in books I read. The author does a good job of breaking scriptures down and showing us that there is more 3:16s to gain wisdom from.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion. ( )