The Big Story: How the Bible Makes Sense out of Life

To write a book with two distinct audiences in mind—Christian and non-Christian—is no easy task, but Buzzard has done a fine job. Believers in particular will find helpful tips for using “the big story” to frame evangelistic conversations. Non-Christian readers should benefit from its generally solid overview of the major beats of the story of redemption. This is a good book that will hopefully be used to strengthen many and bring others to their knees in faith before Jesus.
Aaron Armstrong, review for The Gospel Coalition

The Big Story has a powerful message for young adults searching for a connection between their own lives and the message of the Scriptures. Buzzard highlights his main points by using the Bible as well as personal examples and quotations from men and women throughout history. This book challenges readers to learn about their faith and put it into action.
Congregational Libraries Today, Volume XIVII, Number 1

Buzzard gets it right. Life is Story. And he connects that to the Big Story of the Gospel in helping readers find the purpose and direction their lives.
LifeIsStory.com

I think we need to be reminded every single day that we are part of a Bigger Story, part of something greater than ourselves, and that each of our stories matter—a great deal. To be reminded of that truth is to live in Hope. The Big Story gives the reader that gift of Hope.

Sally Lloyd-Jones, author of The Jesus Storybook Bible and Thoughts To Make Your Heart Sing

A good story needs a good teller.  And Justin Buzzard fits that bill.  He not only explains the Bible’s dynamic plot, but draws us persuasively into the greatest story ever told—with arresting images and vivid analogies that connect our stories to The Big Story.  In the process, you’ll find yourself being swept into a world you didn’t make and therefore can’t unmake.  It’s good news in a bad news world.

Michael Horton, Professor of Theology, Westminster Seminary California, co-host of the White Horse Inn, and author of Pilgrim Theology: Core Doctrines for Christ’s Disciples

I cannot overemphasize the desperate need to retell the amazing storyline of the Bible and our place in that story to new generations. Without this, it is far too easy to drift into unfortunate pathways and dead ends which are sadly missing the beauty of the story God has for us. I am very thankful for Justin’s book which gives direction to a world in need of understanding the true way, and the true story.

Dan Kimball, pastor Vintage Faith Church, author of They Like Jesus but Not The Church

The overarching theme of scripture, of course, is the life of Jesus. What makes this new book by Justin Buzzard so good is that it not only highlights the incredible story of scripture, but it shows us how our story fits neatly in Jesus’ story. As we understand Jesus’ story, and our place in it, we are motivated to join God on mission, sharing Jesus’ story with the world. This book is a great asset to God’s kingdom work.

Ed Stetzer, President of LifeWay Research

You don’t need to read this entire book. Just try the first few pages. I predict you’ll have a hard time putting it down. Justin Buzzard knows the Greatest Story well, and he knows how to retell it in a way that can be compelling to those who have never heard it and refreshing to those of us who need to hear it again and again. Try it and see.

Justin Taylor, co-author, The Final Days of Jesus, blogger, “Between Two Worlds”

There are great stories and great storytellers.  But there is nothing like “The Big Story”.  Justin Buzzard captures the compelling drama of the Bible in a way that demands your attention, and ultimately, your allegiance.  If you have been skeptical about the message of the Bible, or if you have found its story confusing, sit down with this book immediately.  You will quickly see how your story needs to intersect with “The Big Story”.”

J. Paul Nyquist, Ph.D., President of Moody Bible Institute

Fundamental to human existence is the question of identity and purpose.  Who am I? Why am I here?  Justin Buzzard, in his book, The Big Story, helps us to find our place in the unfolding drama of life.   As the narrative unfolds, get ready to be compellingly called on stage to be a character in the adventure that Buzzard calls the “Big Story”.

Bryan Loritts, Lead Pastor, Fellowship Memphis and author of A Cross-Shaped Gospel

“Epic” is too small a word for the story of God’s work in this world. Justin shares the one big story so you can see the scarlet thread of Jesus’ atoning sacrifice through the tapestry of the Bible. Where does this scarlet thread intersect your life? Rejoice as you read in The Big Story that you’re not the center of the universe, and worship Jesus as you learn more about our Savior who set the stars in place and numbered the hairs on your head.

Gloria Furman, author of Glimpses of Grace

Is this Bible a book of rules? Is it an instruction manual for Christians? I was taught both growing up in a nominally “Christian” family. What I would later discover is that the Bible was neither of those things. Rather, the Bible is God’s grand narrative of humanity’s continued desire to carve their own path, and God’s overwhelming love and continued intervention when our way finally fails us.

The Bible is the story of God’s great love for His creation, what He once called “very good.” And this incredible story culminates in the coming of Jesus, and our being invited, through Him, to find our true place in His story. My friend Justin captures this with earnestness, care and clarity as he paints for us the beautiful picture of what God is doing in the world, and where we find our place in His story.

Leonce Crump II, Lead Elder, Renovation Church

The story of the gospel is the most compelling aspect of our faith, and this book winsomely captures the heart of what makes it so attractive. It addresses life’s greatest struggles and longings with rock-solid truth conveyed through God’s redemption narrative in the Bible.

Matt Carter, Pastor of Preaching and Vision at the Austin Stone Community Church and co-author of The Real Win: A Man’s Quest for Authentic Success