We wish to recognize the following individuals for their valuable contribution to this book.
Dave Bellis, my (Josh’s) friend and colleague for 35 years, for collaborating with us on the outline of the book, writing the first draft, and rewriting and doing the overall shaping of this work into its final form. In many respects, we consider Dave a “third author” and are deeply grateful for his contribution.
Dr. David Ferguson, for his insights and ministry in our own lives, especially in regard to his focus on relational theology and experiencing the Bible. David’s ministry through the Great Commandment Network has impacted many lives through his sermons and printed material, and his ministry impact is reflected in the many pages of this book.
Dr. Richard Fisher, for critiquing the manuscript and providing a wealth of biblical knowledge and insights into interpreting Scripture.
The Niemi small group for providing helpful input and guidance to the book manuscript as they used the material for their group study. Also to Mark and Marcie Niemi, Kathryn and Andy Milligan, and Laura Fahringer for reviewing the manuscript and providing insights that helped us make the book more clear and easier to understand.
Tom Williams, for editing the manuscript, to which he applied his valuable wordsmithing skills and passionate heart to make words come alive on a printed page.
Becky Bellis, for laboring long and hard at the computer to ready the manuscript.
Dave Bellis II, for his insights into the book of Hosea and the added passion he brought to this work in pursuing God’s Word with a heart of relational discovery.
Terry Glaspey of Harvest House, for his analytical skills and structural understanding of what makes for a compelling book, and for sharing them to help form the direction of this book.
Paul Gossard of Harvest House, for the expert editing and insight he brought to the manuscript completion.
Bob Hawkins Jr. and the Harvest House Publishers team, who caught the vision of experiencing your Bible and labored with us to bring this book to reality.
Josh McDowell
Sean McDowell