AGAINST THE FLOW: THE LIFE & WITNESS OF DANIEL PB

This book was recommended by Stephen McQuoid as part of the '50 years- 50 people- 50 books!' series. Here is Stephen's full message and recommendation:

When were you involved in GLO and in what role?

'I have been working full-time for GLO since 1990, though I had previously done some summer teams and the GLO course. Initially I worked at Tilsley College, eventually becoming the college principal. I then became General Director of GLO, a role I still occupy.'

Why have you recommended 'Against The Flow'?

'There are several ways in which this book really shaped my life. Firstly, John takes the text of Daniel seriously and helps the reader not only understand the story of the life of Daniel but also how this book fits into the whole Old Testament. I found that it really clarified the Old Testament for me. There is also a strong apologetic dimension which defends the historicity and inspiration of Daniel. It helped me feel confident about the reliability of the Old Testament. Most of all, the book was very practical with sound advice about how to live in a secular environment, work hard and maintain the reality of your faith, especially in an age of relativism. It is an inspiring read, a brilliant resource!'

With great thanks to Stephen for his recommendation for the '50 years- 50 people- 50 books!' series

Daniel’s story is one of extraordinary faith in God lived out at the pinnacle of executive power. It tells of four teenage friends, born in the tiny state of Judah about twenty-six centuries ago, but captured by Nebuchadnezzar, emperor of Babylon.

Daniel describes how they eventually rose to the top echelons of administration. Daniel and his friends did not simply maintain their private devotion to God; they maintained a high-profile witness in a pluralistic society antagonistic to their faith. That is why their story has such a powerful message for us.

Society tolerates the practice of Christianity in private and in church services, but it increasingly deprecates public witness. If Daniel and his compatriots were with us today they would be in the vanguard of the public debate. What was it that gave that ancient foursome, Daniel and his three friends, the strength and conviction to be prepared, often at great risk, to swim against the flow?

Format: Paperback, 448 pages
Published: 20/03/15