The Unifying Word

About the Book

Synopsis of the “The Unifying Word” The Word of God brings unity and empowerment to people who were created in the image of God. The Word of God is within itself unified. The Word of God, The Bible, is one book, and it speaks with one voice. All scripture is held together by Jesus Christ who is himself “The Unifying Word.” “The Unifying Word” identifies 26 parallel passages between the Old and New Testaments which add context and depth to the central themes of scripture such as: Creation, the Passover, the Call of Abraham, the Incarnation, the Cross of Christ, and Pentecost. Rev. Wortinger’s methodology suggests a contemporary context for each study that will engage the reader and lead directly to the point where each parallel links. Together the parallels give a greater depth of understanding into the scripture. The parallels give evidence that God has a purpose and a plan as He intervenes in human history. This approach to Holy Scripture was used extensively by the Apostle Paul and all of the Gospel writers. “The Unifying Word” has been written as a study of 26 of these parallels, but the book also points to a number of additional parallels that could be explored using the methodology outlined in the book. This book is an important resource for the serious student of the Bible. The book has been designed not only for individual study, but also a guided group study with a group study guide included with each chapter. The book has been field tested with several adult bible study groups.

About the Author

Rev. John K. Wortinger is a graduate of the University of Indianapolis with a double major in history and philosophy. He also graduated from United Theological Seminary with a Master of Divinity degree. John retired from the United Methodist ministry after thirty-nine years under appointment to several churches in North Indiana. John currently teaches in the United Methodist Course of Study on the Reformation and Wesleyan theology. John directs the Weekend License to Preach School for the Indiana Conference of the United Methodist Church. John has also authored a collection of one hundred and twenty spontaneous biblical melodramas for children’s worship services