This book focuses on biblical reconciliation, both in its primary sense (as Paul uses it) and in a secondary sense, insofar as it touches on reconciliation between races, rich and poor, Jew and Gentile, the powerful and the weak, and between other alienated groups. The focus of the book is Naaman, a Syrian general, and his Jewish slave girl, whose simple testimony helped to bring about a great work of reconciliation: the salvation of her Syrian master. As the story unfolds, God’s saving power is displayed, particularly in bringing light to the Gentiles and in demonstrating the free offer of the gospel. Many Christians identify Naaman’s story with his miraculous healing in the Jordan River but fail to see the greater truth of God’s love for the Gentiles and the breadth of the gospel’s reach. Mark Belz brings understanding and encouragement to us as we see God’s great mercy at work.
The book’s thirteen chapters and questions for reflection and discussion make it ideal for Sunday school classes or small group study.
