The Word of Promise Dramatized Audio Bible
The Word of Promise–NKJV New Testament audio Bible (unabridged). Thomas Nelson, 2007. $149.00. Purchase at Amazon for less than $95.00. Purchase the MP3 for less than $55.
Introduction/Summary
One of the most viewed reviews on this website is my review of The Word of Promise – New Testament. I have been asked if I have heard the Old Testament and until now, I have not. Thomas Nelson was nice enough to send the entire dramatized audio Bible so as to be reviewed. I will leave the original review published though this review will certainly stand alone and, I think, replace the review of the New Testament.
As for a Summary of this work, suffice it to say that this is an account of God’s creation of the world and man, man’s decision to turn from God in sin, and God’s showing His mercy and grace in sending His Son to live a sinless life so that we may be made right with God once again through faith in His Son, Jesus Christ.
Review
Aesthetic Appeal
First, the box that the entire Bible comes in is very attractive. It has a glossy finish giving it a pleasing look to the eye as it sits on your mantle, near your stereo, or on a book shelf. The lid opens at the top allowing the front panel to fold out revealing the five CD-books. Each CD holder offers a quick index of what is on each audio CD. The only issue I found is that pulling out cases 2-5 can be a bit difficult as there is nothing separating the five books. While it may have raised the price some, having individual shelves within the case would have made this a non-issue.
Audio Quality
As I stated in my earlier review, the actors/actresses narrating the some of the men and women in the Bible leave me somewhat distracted. That is, however, able to be overcome as you listen to the content and allow the different voices and sounds to take you to the land of the Bible. You can play a game at the website that has you guessing the actor reading the Bible. That does seem to be a bit too commercialized for me, though.
The most endearing effect of this audio book is that it takes you back to a simpler time when families would gather around the radio in the evenings to hear dramas like Lassie and The Lone Ranger which were all later made into television shows. The Word of Promise Audio Bible offers the family to once again gather around the radio and to be flooded with audio that will engage the visual mind and nurture the soul.
Children will remain engaged and parents will find that they want to listen to more with their children. The numerous actors and actresses offer unique voices to each character in the Bible so that every character has an identity all their own. This is significant as it helps to bring to life the stories of the Bible.
Use in Family Devotions/Worship
The Word of Promise is an excellent resource to bring life to your family devotions. Sadly, we live in a world where everyone needs (wants) to be entertained. This makes family worship a bit more difficult as the children often find themselves disengaged because of boredom. Fortunately, there is now a way to bridge that gap and do so in a way that does not mar the message of Scripture. As stated above, your children will want to listen more and remain engaged longer. Suddenly, family worship will be something that the whole family will look forward to. You will even find that your children may begin asking to listen to The Word of Promise throughout the day!
Recommendation
There is so much more that can be said, but suffice it to say that you will not regret the purchase of this audio bible. I HIGHLY recommend this resource to every Christian. I absolutely love this resource and tell everyone looking for an audio Bible that this is the only one they need. I have a copy for my home and my family car. You can get the Old Testament or the New Testament though I recommend purchasing both. Ultimately, if you are searching for an audio Bible, your search is over!
Thank you, Mr. Delaney, for posting this review. It’s nice that there is a dramatization available that is a word-for-word narration of Scripture. Sometimes, it helps to listen to multiple voices. I remember a teacher at the Tennessee School for the Blind presenting me with a dramatized New Testament for a Christmas gift when I was very young. She knew how much I loved going to plays and listening to stories, and I’ll never forget her saying, “This story is true, and I thought she might like it”. Braille Bibles were not as easy to come by then, (they are still very expensive), and her gift kindled a desire within me to explore and learn about Christ at an early age. I’ll never forget her generosity. She is one of the people God placed within my life to lead me to a joyous life in His Son.
I’ll also never forget my times spent listening to Focus on the Family’s radio drama, “Adventures in Odyssey.” One day, I was absentmindledly going from station to station, when I stumbled upon an unforgettable dramatization of the account of Elijah in 1 Kings 17 and 18. As I listened to the thunderous crackle of flames as fire consumed Elijah’s soaked sacrifice, my imagination was aflame. I think that is one of the advantages to being blind. We don’t see with our eyes, so even watching television is like listening to old-time radio shows. Close your eyes and try it sometime. You’ll find it’s lots of fun.
Although drama should never be a substitute for careful study, it is a wonderful tool to plant seeds that spark curiosity and point people to the truth.
Drama brings stories to life, and hopefully the audio program will inspire more people to read God’s Holy Word. Thanks again.
Meredith,
I always look forward to what you have to share. Your perspective is always fresh and you, personally, are an inspiration to me. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
Terry
Thanks. You’re very kind, but God is our source for inspiration. Have a fantastic day and God bless you. Keep up the wonderful work.
I got the MP3 at the Apple Store for my iPad and iPod Touch and this is one fantastic way to ‘read’ through the Bible. I’ve tried so many times before but it got so dry in the geneologies and laws….I’m already almost half-way thru the year and I’ve been at it for less than a month. I know I’ll just listen over and over and over.
They could not have chosen a better narrator than Michael York….his voice is perfect for the thousands of verses he reads. I’m buying the App for lots of my relatives for Christmas and can’t think of a better gift for a blind or sight-impaired person.
If you’re thinking about getting this MP3…just do it. You will not be sorry. It’s a blessing!