The sermons in this volume, by example and expla- nation, introduce a fresh approach to sermon preparation and preaching as well as an intriguing way to study Christian history. Expositions of Scripture and key events from the lives of selected personalities are woven together in these biblical sermons. Paul, Francis of Assisi, Martin Luther, John Wesley, Lottie Moon, and others are included. The final chapter makes suggestions for using the Bible and Christian history in sermon preparation. Central to the theme of this book is the affirmation that the Word of God across the ages spoke to and was discovered by the people mentioned in these sermons. That same Word continues to speak. The author writes: "This is not a book on preaching church history. The materials recorded here are not 'talks' or lectures; they are sermons aimed at proclaiming the truth of Scripture within the framework of historical event. They represent one type of sermon which might be used...for relating Scriptures and history to contemporary questions and controversies."

Bill J. Leonard, a native of Decatur, Texas, is assistant professor of church history, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, Louisville, Kentucky.