1445691
9780930852269
An eye-opener for anyone who considers him or herself a Christian. It shows how the early Church sprang from the sect Jesus was raised in, the Essenes, who had prepared for generations for His coming. One has to feel a pang of conscience to read how this ancient, unique Essene community was morally and spiritually so far ahead of us. The author's findings are carefully buttressed by solid research from the Dead Sea Scrolls, classical authors like Pliny and Philo, early Church writers, and the Bible - Isaiah and James, brother of Jesus, have an Essene perspective. As the "Jews of conscience" of their times, the Essenes condemned the inhumane parts of the Old Testament. They followed the true precepts passed down by a chain of "Teachers of Righteousness," culminating in the mission of Jesus. The great practical value this book offers today is a touchstone to rediscover real Christianity, and help distinguish the truth or essence of every faith.Ewing, Upton C. is the author of 'Prophet of the Dead Sea Scrolls The Essenes and the Early Christians-One and the Same Holy People. Their Seven Devout Practices', published 1994 under ISBN 9780930852269 and ISBN 0930852265.
[read more]