The Last Temple, by Hank Hanegraaff and Sigmund Brouwer

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I knew The Last Temple would be good, based on the fact that it's the result of a teaming of Hank Hanegraaff, the Christian apologetics guru known as the "Bible Answer Man," and Sigmund Brouwer, author of dozens of successful books for kids and adults.  The Last Temple concludes the trilogy after The Last Disciple (2005) and The Last Sacrifice (2006).  I have not read the first two books, but The Last Temple easily stands on its own, despite the references to events in the prior books.

The Last Temple follows the soldier Vitas, as he takes part in palace intrigue and adventure in first-century Caesarea, Rome, and Jerusalem.  He's between two worlds, a Roman married to a Jewess, serving undercover as a slave.  As a first-hand observer of corruption at high levels and persecution by the ruling class, Vitas is uniquely placed to be a force for integrity and justice.

Hovering over the churning political movements around him are the stories of the Christos, who had been crucified, but whose followers believe is still alive.  And then there are the mysterious writings of Vitas's acquaintance John, who seems to have predicted that the temple in Jerusalem will soon fall.

Hanegraaff and Brouwer's great strength in The Last Temple is the way they bring alive the world of the first century.  These were real people living in real houses on real streets.  They have real relationships and real conversations.  I know that sounds simplistic, but it's refreshing to see that era portraying in such a relate-able, believable way.  After the opening scenes, a few chapters bogged me down with the dialogue, talking about politics and politicians.  I know that makes me sound shallow.  The story did come around to a pretty satisfying conclusion.

This isn't the Bible, and it's not history (even though they do place it in the context of actual events), but if you know the Bible and enjoy the history of first-century church, you will certainly enjoy this historical novel and the world and people it portrays.

Check out this cool preview video:

watch on tyndale.com

Thanks to Tyndale Blog Network for this complimentary review copy!