One of the well-designed aspects of Dan’s study is its flexibility. While this study is aimed at men, it is really a devotional guide that can benefit anyone seeking a helpful companion piece to a year-long journey through the Bible. His experience as a pastor comes through in his devotional insights, exercises, and discussions. Dan brings a wealth of knowledge and a solid expositional approach to the biblical text. There is much of value for men seeking to read the Bible and draw helpful and thoughtful insights from the text. In these counter-cultural perspectives, Dan begins with familiar biblical texts and helps men understand that some of their struggles are based on an unhealthy, even toxic, misunderstanding of manhood. Dan explores the importance of deep friendships with other men (Week 17), the value of being present with those who are suffering (Weeks 29 and 38), and encouraging men to not be defined by success or a hunger to earn a sense of worthiness (Week 47). Part of my goal in this book is to dismantle some of those stereotypes of what masculinity looks like.” (Hyun, “Introduction,” xi) Dan is not afraid to challenge unhealthy stereotypes and conceptions of “biblical manhood,” offering, instead, a vision of manhood that allows men to see suffering, failure, vulnerability, compassion, and loving relationships as not only healthy, but biblical. Dan notes, “There are a lot of stereotypes about manhood. One of the main reasons I find Dan’s work so helpful and timely is his understanding of the need for a better vision of manhood. At a time when many still struggle with unhealthy stigmas and beliefs about the importance of mental health, Dan’s understanding of Scripture and his insights are quite timely. Dan’s perspectives on suffering and grief even include thoughtful engagement on the reality of mental illness and the need for men to deal with these realities in healthy ways. In Weeks 22 (Psalm 42), 39 (Lamentations), and 43 (Romans 12), Dan develops important insights on the importance of lament in a culture that resists the need to process pain and suffering. Dan’s timely insights on doing justice transcend political and cultural boundaries as he draws upon biblical teaching to flesh out his passion for justice. For example, in the devotionals for Weeks 7 (Psalm 10), 44 (Amos 5), and 52 (Revelation 3), Dan highlights the importance of justice as the outworking of righteousness. Some of the ways in which Dan brings perspectives from the margins include his attention to the theme of doing justice. Out of the wealth of Dan’s background he is able to read Scripture and draw out meaningful insights and share fresh perspectives on timeless passages. In addition, Dan shares honestly about his own struggles with life challenges, such as his daughter and brother both being diagnosed with cancer around the same time. Dan is able to deftly weave fresh insights born of his immigrant background, his Korean American identity, and his experiences serving in a multicultural community. Dan brings a needed and timely perspective as a Korean American pastor who serves in a multicultural church. However, the value of Dan’s contribution goes beyond his solid presentation of helpful insights on biblical passages. Dan’s devotional companion is an excellent yearlong program for studying the Bible that works well for individuals or in a group setting. At a time when Christians in America wrestle with understanding the concept of “biblical manhood,” Dan Hyun’s Bible study companion for men is a welcome resource. What is still missing, however, are diverse voices who bring fresh perspectives to the devotional reading of Scripture. Book Review: The Bible in 52 Weeks for Men: A Yearlong Bible Study Companionĭevotional materials are not new and there are already many excellent resources available to anyone interested in reading the Bible as part of a devotional routine.
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