Panorama of the Bible Lands is the new sequel to Panorama of the Holy Land. It is of the same size and format and is also published by Eagle. It has 80 pages and 95 superb photographs by Jon Arnold. Eighteen further biblical sites around the Mediterranean are explored. Each is covered by a double-page panoramic photograph followed by an informative illustrated text providing the biblical, historical and cultural background, bringing alive the events associated with each site.

John Stott has kindly written the foreword.

After the success of Stephen Sizer's first book, A Panorama of the Holy Land, this sequel (which reaches further into the Mediterranean and Middle East) is sure to attract a wide readership. A Panorama of the Bible Lands might well have borrowed the title of a well known 19th Century volume by George Adam Smith entitled, The Historical Geography of the Holy Land. For it is a fine blend of history, geography, biblical allusion and Christian teaching.

Like the ripples caused by a bird landing on water, we are taken on a journey outward from Palestine, following the Apostles as they are commissioned by the risen Christ and empowered by the Holy Spirit to be his witnesses in the major cities of the Roman empire including Ephesus, Pergamum, Colosse, Corinth, Athens and Rome. The text itself is long enough to be satisfying, and yet brief enough to be accessible to the reader. Its contemporary applications are always relevant, and often challenging. It has always been a salutary exercise for the Christian Church in each generation to compare itself with the early Church.

Stephen not only draws out the relevant historical and biblical significance of each site but seeks to highlight its contemporary relevance also. We are reminded, as the New Testament proclaims, that we believe in both the historical Jesus who lived and the contemporary Jesus who lives. Bible students will enjoy looking up its many references. Would-be pilgrims will use it to prepare for their visit. Those who have already been will be helped to re-live their experience. And those who will never have the chance to go will be able through the descriptive text and stunning pictures to imagine the scenes whose names are so familiar. Particularly striking are the 20 or so double-page, full colour spreads, which occur every few pages and give us spectacular panoramic views.

Luke ends the Acts of the Apostles confidently with Paul preaching, "boldly and without hindrance" symbolising the wide open door for the gospel (Acts 28:31). In that sense it is an unfinished book. Although some of the places described here are no longer known for their living Christian presence owing to persecution, it is our privilege to step into their shoes and to make Christ known in our generation. May this book remind you of our heritage and inspire you to fulfil our high calling. John Stott, Rector Emeritus, All Souls, Langham Place.

Bethlehem
Galilee Hills
Capernaum
Cana
Caesarea Philippi
Jerusalem St Peter in Galicantu
Jerusalem Mount of Olives
Jerusalem Western Wall
Megiddo and the Jezreel Valley
Ephesus
Pergamum
Pisidian Antioch
Sardis
Colosse
Athens
Corinth
Rome

If you would like to purchase a copy of the book for £14.99 including postage (retail price £18.00) please email me stephen sizer

 To read about Stephen's other books and articles click here