A Net Full of Gospel Truth

The Fisherman by Larry Huntsperger

The Fiction Story:

Simon is just a fisherman and that's all he wants to be, until his brother introduces him to a man named Jesus. Jesus calls him to a new profession, as a fisher of men. At first, a little hesitant, Simon keeps his distance but soon becomes one of Jesus' most passionate disciples.

This biblical fiction book is written in first person and narrated by Simon, later to be called Peter. You know the story, it is an overview of Peter's account of his years with Jesus. It walks the reader through a series of bible scenes from "I will make you a fisher of men." to the repeated "Peter, do you love me?" between includes walking on water and turning water to wine, the well-known phrases, "Get behind me Satan," and, "Who do you say that I am?" Of course there is the famous prediction of what would happen before the rooster crows. And so much more.

Sadly, the writing is a bit under par (or is it over par? I don't golf.). This book almost constantly breaks the very first rule that every writer learns; show, don't tell. it also trends toward being wordy and repetitive. Because of these things it can come off dry.

It's strength is the degree at which it adheres to the Bible's account of its various scenes.

The Gospel Story:

85 percent of people who rated the book on Amazon gave it five stars. I believe that has everything to do with the books content - despite its quality.

The content aims to present Jesus accurately, and does, and to present Peter as a relatable man with doubts, concerns, and follies common to all of us. In each aspect, it hits its mark.

I found myself highlighting a lot of great lines, mostly bible quotes and references but also the narrators internal thoughts. Here was Peter's thoughts when asked the penetrating question, "But who do you say I am?"

I can learn from a teacher. I can respect a prophet. I can admire a wise and wonderful man. I can take what he offers and integrate it into my own life as I see fit. But what if he is more? What if he is someone to whom I owe submission, to whom I must relinquish my own agenda? What if the correct answer to that question requires not just my mind but my will?

The book seems to have a format of acting out the scenes while examining Peter's thought-process concerning them. His thoughts serve as reiterations, highlighting truths that align with biblical doctrine. The book is constantly pointing at Jesus and declaring him to be Lord.

It is difficult to pin point a specific "gospel angle" on this book since the entire book is gospel-grounded. But perhaps the gospel story is how Peter comes to know Jesus as more than just his rabbi. Progressively, he grows from mere follower to disciple; from one who loves the cause to one who loves the man, Jesus.

Along the way, coming to understand the true identity of Jesus, Simon makes this note to himself:

Within a matter of days he had publicly claimed for himself the authority to forgive sins, equated himself with King David, assumed rights given exclusively to the consecrated temple priests, announced that being in his presence was a greater honor than being in the temple of God, and declared himself to be Lord of the Sabbath.

I side with the 85 percent, and love the content of this book far more than I am bothered by the literary sand traps. (I don't know what's up with the golf references). I do recommend the read however, but what do you think?

Read The Fisherman for yourself

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Until the next book, remember Christ the author of salvation and the reader of your heart.

#biblicalfiction #Historical