After reading Edwards book, "A Tale of Three Kings," I ordered "The Prisoner in the Third Cell" from Amazon. In this dramatic story, John the Baptist, imprisoned by Herod and awaiting death, struggles to understand a Lord who did not live up his expectations.
Again, Edward does an amazing job a filling in the biblical narrative with what might have happened. One cannot forget that it is speculation, but Edwards offers tremendous insights to life and trials of John the Baptist.
A thread that winds through the book is when God doesn't meet your expectations. Edwards ponders what might have been going through the mind of people whom Jesus did not heal - the Bible is clear - many were healed, but not all. What do you do with a God who does not live up to your expectations?
Edwards also ponders what John the Baptist's view of Jesus might have been. The stark desert dwelling preacher preaching repentance paving the way for the Messiah who laughed, ate with sinners and went to parties. Interesting insights into what might have been.
I would recommend this book to those whom have struggled when God didn't meet their perceived needs. Another book that more thoroughly deals with this subject is Phillip Yancey's Disappointment with God.
Just for the record, I have ordered more of Edwards Books and will review them as I read them. They are a quick read - but give thoughts that linger with you, especially in the quietness of a reflective heart.
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