The Friends of Jesus (Life-Changing Bible Story Series)

Karen Kingsbury creates a beautiful description of these fascinating friends of Jesus while staying true to scripture. It’s truly a wonderful read.

Loved the way you were able to get into their heads and share their deepest thoughts. This brought about a new perspective for me.!

Great book about the people surrounding Jesus.

Another awesome book by Karen Kingsbury. I can't wait to read The Family of Jesus. Looking forward to read her new book in October

The beauty is in how the author weaves what we have all read in our Bibles into stories that fill your heart. The stories also make you take a long look at yourself and how you relate to people. The friends of Jesus are alive in these stories, and after reading them His friends will be alive in you.

While her FICTION novel is just what she says, fiction, she presents these people of the Bible as if these things actually occurred which makes the reader think she has some kind of in-side information, maybe from scholars but she never lists any scholars or books she may have used in her "assumptions." I study scripture and with her companion Bible study book, I now question her "authority" as one who should be assembling a Bible study that might be incorrect. Last night our church watched her first DVD in the 6 part series and I was left baffled as she basically summarized her first chapter of the book and most women in the group were in awe to be learning new facts (actually fiction) but never realized this is FICTIONalized. I can't even give it the title of historical fiction, because there is nothing there to support her claims. Also, the writing itself is for a younger crowd, maybe geared toward middle school or younger. I did enjoy feeling like I now know these "friends" of Jesus, but what her books says of them may never have occurred...I don't appreciate being duped...like I said she uses this book (fiction) to authenticate her DVD Bible study series (supposed to be non-fiction) and uses this DVD (part fiction and part non-fiction) to set the stage for her Bible study (which is supposed to be truth, aka non-fiction).

This book, like Karen Kingsbury's book The Family of Jeus, allows imagination to fill in details of the lives and thoughts and emotions of people who were close to Jesus. It generated good sharing and discussion in our Bible study group. It also allowed me to put myself deeper into the life of Jesus and those who were with him, knowing I was using possibility, not fact, but always anchored by what we find in the Bible.

The author weaves a story around the friends of Jesus so that you remember who they are and what Jesus did for them and how they continued with their life in a positive way. The stories can be found in the Bible. Following Jesus isn't always easy in our complicated life but I found this book to be comforting and understanding of Jesus' ways and miracles. I know He is there for me.

Karen Kingsbury is an excellent writer. She has a great command of words that could touch any heart. She gets to the heart of her characters and allows the reader to identify with them. I recommend her books to any reader.

I chose a rating of 5 because Friends of Jesus brought out so many awesome ways that Jesus transformed people's lives. It is inspiring and faith-building for all who read about each encounter.

Karen Kingsbury creates a beautiful description of these fascinating friends of Jesus while staying true to scripture. It’s truly a wonderful read.

Loved the way you were able to get into their heads and share their deepest thoughts. This brought about a new perspective for me.!

Great book about the people surrounding Jesus.

Another awesome book by Karen Kingsbury. I can't wait to read The Family of Jesus. Looking forward to read her new book in October

The beauty is in how the author weaves what we have all read in our Bibles into stories that fill your heart. The stories also make you take a long look at yourself and how you relate to people. The friends of Jesus are alive in these stories, and after reading them His friends will be alive in you.

While her FICTION novel is just what she says, fiction, she presents these people of the Bible as if these things actually occurred which makes the reader think she has some kind of in-side information, maybe from scholars but she never lists any scholars or books she may have used in her "assumptions." I study scripture and with her companion Bible study book, I now question her "authority" as one who should be assembling a Bible study that might be incorrect. Last night our church watched her first DVD in the 6 part series and I was left baffled as she basically summarized her first chapter of the book and most women in the group were in awe to be learning new facts (actually fiction) but never realized this is FICTIONalized. I can't even give it the title of historical fiction, because there is nothing there to support her claims. Also, the writing itself is for a younger crowd, maybe geared toward middle school or younger. I did enjoy feeling like I now know these "friends" of Jesus, but what her books says of them may never have occurred...I don't appreciate being duped...like I said she uses this book (fiction) to authenticate her DVD Bible study series (supposed to be non-fiction) and uses this DVD (part fiction and part non-fiction) to set the stage for her Bible study (which is supposed to be truth, aka non-fiction).

This book, like Karen Kingsbury's book The Family of Jeus, allows imagination to fill in details of the lives and thoughts and emotions of people who were close to Jesus. It generated good sharing and discussion in our Bible study group. It also allowed me to put myself deeper into the life of Jesus and those who were with him, knowing I was using possibility, not fact, but always anchored by what we find in the Bible.

The author weaves a story around the friends of Jesus so that you remember who they are and what Jesus did for them and how they continued with their life in a positive way. The stories can be found in the Bible. Following Jesus isn't always easy in our complicated life but I found this book to be comforting and understanding of Jesus' ways and miracles. I know He is there for me.

Karen Kingsbury is an excellent writer. She has a great command of words that could touch any heart. She gets to the heart of her characters and allows the reader to identify with them. I recommend her books to any reader.

I chose a rating of 5 because Friends of Jesus brought out so many awesome ways that Jesus transformed people's lives. It is inspiring and faith-building for all who read about each encounter.

This was an excellent book. I love Jesus with all my heart, reading this book about the men who were considered to be his friends made all of them seem more realistic. I especially felt in my heart Johns feelings when he realized , really realized Jesus true messages.

I love all of Karen Kingsbury’s book. Wonderful author and in this book along with The Family of Jesus she did such a great job with the story line. You got to know the friends of Jesus in a more intimate way.

This was for someone else.

I like the book. Helps me understand the sequence of the walk of Jesus during his lifetime.

I am an avid reader of the Gospels. This book brought the characters that I so often read about to life. I would recommend anyone who is new to studying God's Word to read this in order to form a frame of reference to understand the life of Jesus. I loved it!

This book really opened one's eyes as to who Jesus really is, what he asks, and what he want us to change in our lives. Great bible study for any size group wishing to know more & deepen their relationship with Christ

This kept my attention to keep reading til the end. The description of the disciples & Jesus teaching & healing gave me a picture of what life was like during that time.

Haven't read it yet but looks like an excellent book.

Karen Kingsbury writes in such a way, with all her books, that you can "see" the people, hear the sounds, feel the emotion of the characters. Friends of Jesus is no exception. Walk the road with John and Peter, feel the despair of Mary Magdelene and the others she writes about. It's amazing!!!

Let's you look at Jesus in a whole new light! I want to be that type of friend with that much love and forgiveness!

THANK YOU KAREN FOR BRINGING THIS BOOK OUT. MAKES YOU LOOK AT THE FRIENDS OF JESUS IN A DIFFERENT WAY. LIKE THEY TOO WERE HUMAN AND MADE LOTS OF MISTAKES JUST LIKE US. AMAZING READ . YOUR HARD WORK SHOWS IN THE LOVELY WAY YOU BROUGHT THESES CHARACTERS TO US.

Through fiction it was good to see the frailty of the first disciples and their gradual transformation by Jesus, like us.

Enjoyed every minute reading this book! Keep in mind this book is fiction but so realistic. Really makes reading the Bible more interesting.

Excellent read. Really helps you see the world through the eyes of those who were there and how much we are just llike them

Great personal Bible study tool. I have been going to church since I was born but in this book Karen brings out things I never before thought of. Although this is meant for a group study I find it very useful in my daily devotions.

My friends and I have enjoyed the book. We used it in a Bible study and watched Karen's videos with it. Yes, it is fiction based on facts. We did what ifs and the questions in the back.

I have read several off Karen's books. And have not been disappointed in the outcome. She is a hand of God in writing books.

What an excellent book!!! Gives such a realistic perspective on the personalities and backgrounds that we don't tend to think of. I highly recommend it - get an extra as a gift or to have to loan out.

I loved this book because it brought to life Biblical characters and gave them personalities. It made them real. I would recommend this to people who read the Bible and want a deeper understanding of the people that walked with Christ.

This is the second book on studying the family and friends of Jesus. Even though they are Bible Study books they are excellent reading. I strongly agree they are excellent for either reading or study.

Karen Kingsbury creatively intertwines facts from the bible with fictional details of what life may have been like for the friends of Jesus. It really is a wonderful book. I very much enjoyed it and highly recommend it.

Karen Kingsburys writes in such away that the stories surrounding Jesus come alive as if the reader is right there in the midst of each page turning detail.

My devotional group at school did this book as a weekly study and it was awesome. To see these stories from the Bible come to life and get a different perspective on them was great.

This is another example of the versatility of Karen Kingsbury. It will leave you wanting more! I very highly recommend this book to anyone who has wondered what it was like to walk beside Jesus.

This is a very good fiction that flows from one friend to another. Great reading with some good insights.

To see where the friends if Jesus had to change helps us see where we have to change to be His disciple.

Karen Kingsbury is the best author ever.I have read ever book she has wrote and I'm always waiting on the next .they make you stop and look and your life in a different way.Simple the best.

I love Karen Kingsbury. She is a fantastic story teller. I feel like I know each friend of Jesus when I get finished reading each chapter. Great read. Highly recommend.

This book is even better than the Family of Jesus. Really explains the different people in a way that helps make the connections to the sections in the Bible regarding these people. Really loved it.

This brings Biblical people alive. Karen Kingsbury is an excellent writer.

This book was great and really brings the friends of Jesus to life. Really helped me see that Jesus wants to be my friend to

One of the best books I've ever read.

Recommend for all readers made me feel as if I was there great help in feeling closer to HIm by knowing people around Him

Such an easy purchase and reasonable price. Very pleased.

I felt like I was right there in person - a friend of Jesus. I felt the guilt, joy & full range of emotions the disciples felt. Wow!

Easy reading, people they talk about in the book really come across in a human form that is easy to relate too

Great insight into the people who were closest to Jesus and His love for His friends. Really enjoying doing this study in my Sunday School class.

Loved this book! I read it in under a week just like the first one Family of Jesus. That is big for me.

Very interesting point of view. The book is just what I needed to aide with Bible study!

Arrived on time. Packaged well. No damage in shipping. Enjoying another of Karen Kingsbury's great books. I appreciate the research that Karen has put into writing this book.

GREAT book as usual!! Expect nothing less from Karen Kingsbury!!😇😁 Really opens your eyes to the human side of people in the Bible

I enjoyed her approach to Jesus friends Not certain if all of the interpretations from the Greek are accurate. Especially as they pertain to Mary Magdalene.

She has a way of making me see things the way Jesus's friends would have seen them. I appreciate the way she writes her books.

This book is a great learning tool. The stories of these people are truly remarkable. You won't be able to stop reading this book.

Told in simple language the lead-up to Jesus' crucifixion, the miracles he performed, those who were close to him....his Friends.

Easy it understand

Headline says it all!! I have felt my love for the Bible expand through these books. Simple. Love love love.

Excellent study on friends of Jesus. Very uplifting and relevant

This books brings to life those involved in Jesus life!

Loved the insight this book shared on 6 people who were friends of Jesus. All scripture based. I highly recommend it.

Wonderful book, really makes you see what Jesus went through and that he is and was a true friend.

I love Karen Kingsbury books and this series is no exception. A warm, loving look into the friends of Jesus.

Also very interesting and easy to read. I enjoy both books

Great book! Karen Kingsbury never disappoints! Very easy to read and follow stories straight from the Bible.

Great reading I love all her books

Great book.

Loved it easy reading so fun to picture what the friends could have been feeling and thinking loved the perspective of the writer!

Great learning tool. Very easy to read and it helps you to visualize their lives, thoughts and deeds.

This is a great book. Karen Kingsbury is my favorite author and I have read all her books.

Very good book. Easy to read and insightfu and informative of all the characters that Karen wrote about.

Anything Karen Kingsbury publishes is awesome. This will be the next Ladies Bible Study at my Church!

All of Karen kingsbury books are super good. Never go wrong with her books and never boring.

Karen Kingsbury makes these stories come to life. It's as f she was there. She is an excellent story teller and wordsmith.

This gives you insight of how things might have been. Very interesting.

The author uses culture and history very well to narrate the story of relationship, friendship and love!

Awesome read. You get a great insight on authors view of Jesus and his friends.

Excellent. So much so I have passed it on to a friend.

I love all her books

Each friend had different circumstances but Jesus showed that He loved them all the same.

Excellent.

This was a different way of viewing more about Jesus and His friends

Amazing book! Everyone must read this series! So touching and really pulls at your heart strings!

Great stories.

This was my first karen kingsbury books i wasnt disappointed

Great book for our discussion group!

Fast Shipping. Good quality.

Quick arrival. On my list to read soon.

Get book. Made me feel like I know the people better.

Love it

I love reading this wonderful book.

Worthwhile read.

Brings one to know the Friends of Jesus better - good audio book!

This is very good

Karen Kingsbury does it again. Never a let down! Love this story!

Great book. Brings the Bible to life

A personal slant on making the Friends real.

I haven't finished this book yet, but - My, how wonderful. Thanks.

It was a great book I felt like I was there with them.

Wonderful book to experience as the friends of Jesus might feel.

What a great storyteller. Brought each Friend of Jesus to life.

thanks

Logical and historically correct account that makes the subjects very relevant to all human nature.

She makes the characters seem like people you can relate to

Absolutely wonderful. I felt like I was there.

Amazing book truly helps understand the stories in the bible

Brand new book. Very pleased.

A very good read.

Wonderful stories of each character.

Product arrived on time and as described!

Reading now very good.

I LIKED IT. WILL ORDER FAMILY OF JESUS.

One of the best books ive ever read.

Interesting story plots. The writing was okay, just did not create the interest to keep reading.

As usual.. another great book by Karen Kingsbury

She is one of my favorite authors

Love this book and the study guide that goes with it!

Her best book ever. Fabulous!

Fast service, great merchandise! Thanks!

Great

Disagree with some information as to the age of Lazarus

Great Read

Great story and true to Bible.

Delivered on time and as described.

Excellent book and study.

love trying to delve into the mind 0f the people close to Jesus.

Written well

This is a great book.

Another great book by Karen Kingsbury

Excellent book and easy read.

Received book in excellent condition

thanks

Amazing book well written.

Loved this read

I read it and donated it to our public library.

Great book. As always!

good read

A great book.

Good series

As expected

Awesome!

A very unique take on an old subject.

Love it!

I purchased this book for my UMW Circle study group. I feel like I am reading a study book for a 5th or 6th grader. This book is not an adult study book. It is a very good book for a middle school age Sunday school class or study group. Was very disappointed how simplistic it was.

Fantastic book!

Very good

thanks

❤️

Six very different people. Yet all had an encounter with one man who would change their lives forever. They would be the same in some aspects but vastly different because of that one encounter and in many cases a continued relationship as being friends of Jesus. In the book, The Friends of Jesus by Karen Kingsbury, we get an up close and personal look at the very lives of six people who were forever changed in remarkable ways by those who encountered Jesus. From Simon, once a man of political power and influence, brought low and left abandoned by his family and friends when he became a leper. It was only through his faith in Jesus Christ, that would offer him a new life and a new faith. Martha, sister of Mary and Lazarus, was one of Jesus' closest friends, who would have her own faith challenged and tested when her brother dies while waiting for Jesus. She learns what the meaning of belief truly is. Jarius, a man who had one of the highest places of authority in the council of the high priests. As they are making preparations to arrest Jesus, he learns his daughter is dying. He has to make a decision to be with his daughter during her final hours, or trust and hope that the Jesus they have been debating truly has the power to heal. Mary Magdalene, is probably one of the most notable women from the Bible, aside from Mary, Jesus' mother. Hers was a life spent looking for answers in all the wrong places for happiness until she was seized by the power of seven demons. Her life would have remained an internal prison if not for the love and compassion from Jesus to dedicate the rest of her life to serving Him. Peter, the rock on whom Jesus would ultimately build His church upon is finding redemption and meaning to his life even after following Him for three years and would deny him three different times. For John, often called the one Jesus loved, learns how the first in the kingdom of God, will be the least and learn a life of what serving Jesus will truly mean. I received The Friends of Jesus by Karen Kingsbury compliments of Howard Books, a division of Simon and Schuster Publishers for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review, outside of a free copy of this book and the opinions are my own personal. For anyone who loves a connection between the people who encountered Jesus in the Bible, you will absolutely love how Karen, deligates a separate chapter for each of these characters and how they seem to link together in the ways Jesus worked not only in their lives from an external perspective but a lasting internal one as well. For me the biggest eye opener was the statement from Gamaliel, one of the oldest Pharisees on deciding the fate of Jesus claimed, "Leave Jesus alone! Let Him go! For if His purpose or activity is of human origin, it will fail. But if it is from the Father, you will not be able to stop Him. You will only find yourselves fighting against God." This is evident in the life of Christianity, it has never stopped, no matter what they threaten and the message is a timeless now as it was then. Well worth 5 out of 5 stars. Discussion questions are included at the end which would make for a great personal Bible study or for book clubs.

I have no doubt that my friend, Karen Kingsbury, is an amazingly gifted storyteller. I've seen this time and time again from her, but in a whole new level with The Family of Jesus, which was the first book in the Life-Changing Bible Story Series. It was one of the best books I ever read! Anyway, I tell you this because I was so excited to see what Karen did with this next book in the series, The Friends of Jesus. What I loved about this book is Karen's heart and desire for biblical accuracy. She is a fictional storyteller, so it can be easy when reading books like this to want to question things. What I love that Karen did is include a letter at the beginning of the book explaining how she weaved the truths in Scripture together with fiction. She does this in such a delicate, yet honest way. I give her so much credit for being able to pull this type of book off. I also love the way Karen brings the people in the stories to life in a way that makes me learn something new about them. Through reading this book, I found myself saying "I never thought of that." I loved how I finished this book with a deeper understanding of the characters and what life could have been like for them. Karen took these people and made them feel more real to me. Since I loved the first book in this series so much, it was hard not to compare these two. While I got a lot out of this book and enjoyed the stories, I still absolutely love The Family of Jesus. There was just something about the way it was written that I became so connected with the story and the characters. That said, I enjoyed learning more about people Jesus associated with and would still recommend this book to someone because of the way it made me think differently about these friends of Jesus. I'm excited to see what is next from Karen Kingsbury and I really hope she continues to write books like this one. *I received a free copy of this product to facilitate this post, however, my readers come first and all opinions are my own.

The Friends of Jesus is the follow up to Kingsbury’s The Family of Jesus and is book 2 in the Life-Changing Bible Study series. The Friends of Jesus takes a deeper look into the friendships Simon the Leper, Martha, Jairus, Mary Magdalene, Peter and John had with Jesus … each person with his/her own chapter. Kingsbury uses the scriptures as a basis to tell the story of each friend in a more story like fashion … more like the fictional novels we’re used to reading from Kingsbury. There are fictional components included. However, with this book and the first book, The Family of Jesus, I felt as if I were walking along side each character. They were made more human in my eyes through Karen’s story telling. She has a way with a story and has drawn me deeper into the word and given me a greater appreciation for the Bible through these stories. What lesson did I walk away with after reading The Friends of Jesus? Jesus loves me no matter what … no matter how much I mess up! Simon the Leper, Martha, Jairus, Mary Magdalene, Peter and John all had issues. Most were prideful and arrogant … believing they deserved more than others around them. All of us know what that feels like …wanting to be the best. Jesus loved each of his friends anyway, despite their faults … just as he loves us despite ours. The book ends with “Questions for Individual Reflection or Group Discussion” for each chapter. If you’re not able to participate in the Bible study video series and workbook available from Lifeway with a group, I believe these questions will lead you a bit deeper into the book and the lives of these 6 people. Should you read this book? Yes! Fans of Kingsbury will love it. New to the Bible? Grab this book! I think it will have you reaching for a Bible to learn more. ARC provided by NetGalley

New York Times bestselling author Karen Kingsbury presents another title in her Life-Changing Bible Study series with THE FRIENDS OF JESUS. While many viewers were enthralled with the “A.D. The Bible Continues” television series that highlighted the events and biblical characters found in the book of Acts, readers are sure to respond with equal enthusiasm to Kingsbury’s book. She brings to life six of Jesus’ friends and how they met Him, interacted with Him, failed Him, struggled to understand Him, and how each one eventually gave their lives over to Him. Readers will value how in depth Kingsbury goes into the inner thoughts, emotions and reactions of each character she depicts. In fact, her details read “so real” that readers will find themselves feeling similar emotions to these individuals as they are forced to face their own inner demons and are confronted by Jesus’ claims of being the Messiah. Kingsbury presents Simon the Leper and weaves his story of contracting leprosy so vividly that readers will cringe as they read about his own horror of succumbing to this unclean disease and how he may have reacted to the news when he was told to leave the city. His suffering is so intense that when he finally meets Jesus and is healed, it is with an immense sigh of relief on his behalf. Martha and Mary’s story of losing their beloved younger brother Lazarus is another stark tale when all the forces of life and death mingle with faith and doubt. Again, Martha is wrestling with what Jesus told them, and the events surrounding her brother’s death come to a head when she sees Jesus again and He brings Lazarus back to life. Readers will also learn more about Jairus and his 12-year-old daughter who lay dying (then does die). His own doubts about who Jesus claimed to be are revealed when he has nowhere else to go but to the Savior. Jairus contemplates everything he’s heard about Him, but does he believe the stories? Crisis once again forces the hand and the heart of this man who earnestly cries to Jesus to bring her back…and He does. Equally as moving are the accounts of Mary Magdalene, who was possessed by demons; Peter’s up-and-down experience with Jesus culminating in his redemption; and how John’s pride was transformed into true humility. Each of these biblical characters’ accounts are fleshed out in story form by Kingsbury so that readers can richly experience their struggles in a more profound manner. She has a way of bringing exuberance and enthusiasm to her characters’ words and actions that enriches the whole scene with lively humanity. Closing out THE FRIENDS OF JESUS are questions for individual reflection or group discussions that will aid readers in a deeper takeaway of each story. Kingsbury is a dynamic author, and she’s proving that she can take even the slimmest facts found in the Bible and build life-changing storylines around them. Reviewed by Michele Howe

I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. This author is one of the most amazing story tellers I have come across when it comes to Biblical fiction. I read her previous book in this series, but I am absolutely blown away by the sheer detail of each of these stories. I truly feel like I am in each of these stories. My favorite of these six, is the very first one, about Simon the leper. How emotional! How real! It made feel want to cry with frustration, grief and hope during his story. How amazing that the author has been able to reach down into each of story, and make them real enough for the reader to feel as if s/he is right there in the midst of the turmoil and hope. Despite the excellent writing and storytelling, the author has also remained as true to Scripture as can be without being dry and boring. Overall, this is a fantastic book to read and learn a new perspective from each of these characters.

Karen Kingsbury follows up her initial foray into Biblical fiction with another dynamic hit. Last year I read the first book in her Life-Changing Bible Story series, The Family of Jesus, and loved it. I eagerly anticipated this second book, The Friends of Jesus. As I said in my review for The Family of Jesus, I am quite picky about Biblical fiction. I don't mind adding background characters and scenery but I do not like it when an author takes too much license with the known facts. Kingsbury has again done a masterful job at presenting well-known stories by fleshing them out and adding dialogue to the scriptural accounts. I know the first book was a big hit and I anticipate that this one will be as well. The story of Simon the Leper left me heartbroken when he at first lost everything that he knew. He was a Pharisee and prided himself on living to the letter of the law. Then the unthinkable happens and he is struck with leprosy. Talk about the ultimate doom for a Pharisee. He not only lost his standing in the community he lost his home and his family. His family was instructed to think of him as dead. Can you even imagine? The story moves along and continues to weave in Mary, Martha, and Lazarus, Jairus, Mary Magdalene, Peter, and then my favorite John. In her quintessential Kingsbury way Karen has taken these six seemingly separate stories and woven them together to give us a beautiful view of those that were the closest to Jesus. Even though the stories were a fictionalized version it was easy to be drawn in to the ministry of Christ and revel in His miracles and teachings. I enjoyed this second book every bit as much as the first. At the end of the story there is a section of discussion questions that would work well with a book club or reading group. Another great resource to use as a follow up to the book is The Friends of Jesus Bible Study. It is a workbook and video teaching series by Karen Kingsbury. I received a copy of this book to facilitate my review.

Karen Kingsbury truly has an amazing gift of taking Scriptural truths and weaving a beautiful fictional story about those closest to Jesus. This book takes a closer look at Simon the Leper, Martha, Jairus, Mary Magdalene, Peter, and John. This book follows the first book in the series that was called the Family of Jesus. I love the way Karen makes all of the characters, especially Jesus, come to life, be so vulnerable, and so relatable. This book really emphasizes that no sin is too big to be forgiven and that all of us have a desperate need for a Savior whether we know it or not. I happened to connect more with the first book in the series, but this is definitely still a must read.

This was my first Karen Kingsbury book and I really enjoyed it. If you know the stories of the Bible, you might find some of the story repetitive, even though this is fiction. However, I didn’t let that detract me from enjoying this work. I did think the beginning “characters” (Mary Magdalene and Simon) were the best, and felt a bit like the stories with Peter and especially John were kind of thrown in there and rushed. Again, nick picking here because the overall story was very good. This is a book that will help you discuss Jesus as a friend and how he showed the world what friendship really meant to him. It’s also one that will help reinforce your faith.

I've read Karen Kingsbury's fiction in the past, but it was stories related to the Baxter family--a family of her creation. In this book, she takes 6 people who encountered Jesus (Simon the Leper, Martha, Jairus, Mary Magdalene, Simon Peter, and John the Apostle) and using scripture as a base, develops fictional stories of what might have happened around that base. What I liked: *there was a point to each story--a lesson learned by each person and by others who surrounded him/her. *the people and their stories did interact with each other (a person in a later story would be familiar with things that happened in an earlier story) *It does make you think What I didn't like: *With so much license taken, it's hard to know if it is scripturally sound. This isn't unique to this book for me--I've said this same thing about other fictionalizations of Biblical people's lives. I've grown tired of the repetition of the series that involves the Baxter family and their related fictional world. This at least is something different from Kingsbury, so there is that.

I've struggled with what to say about this book. First of all, I enjoyed the book immensely and will be sharing it with my bible study group this week. Second, I think if you read this book it will help you truly understand what it was like being with Jesus and what he desires for us today. Karen Kingsbury took the stories from the Bible and enhanced them with fictional details. This is not a process she took lightly. She goes into more detail at the beginning of the books but suffice it to say she embellished while remaining biblically accurate. You will see yourself in some if not all of the characters. For me it was Peter. I tend to speak first and think later. This is usually not a good trait to have, unless you are boldly declaring Jesus and not focused on the consequences. I think anyone who reads this book will be moved. Just as I said with the Family of Jesus, the Friends of Jesus would make a great witnessing tool. I look forward to other books in the series.

Thank you so much for a wonderful story and helping us realize That Jesus' friends also made many mistakes but Jesus loved them through all their mistakes. Just like we also make mistakes and Jesus loves us anyway. Karen Thank yu for making us realize through this book.

Friends of Jesus - Karen Kingsbury Friends of Jesus is a storybook mixed with a bible study. Kingsbury takes many of the people who knew Jesus personally and tells their story. Now, she is reading into many of their thoughts and actions, but I do think the road she takes is probably very accurate. To be exact 6 Friends of Jesus are covered in this book. Simon would have never encountered the TRUTH if he hadn’t had leprosy. He would have probably continued on living his well-meaning judgmental life. Things Kingsbury adds to his story is how it felt (and smelled) to have leprosy, how it felt to have his wife married to another in less than a year, and how it felt to be rejected by people who held him in high esteem before the leprosy. Kingsbury weaves the stories of 5 more of Jesus’s friends. A GREAT read! Well written – of course – duh – it is Karen Kingsbury! I was given this book in exchange for an honest review.

I received this book in a giveaway but had already planned on buying it. This is an honest review. I loved the way the author brought each of these individuals from the Bible to life. I feel like I know them, and I feel as if their lives could have played out the way that she describes. Each of these people interacted directly with Jesus, and many probably did interact with each other. Starting with Simon the leper, and how he was unbelieving, until the unbelievable happened to him. Sometimes even when things during us right in the face, we can't believe without the help of God. I can really relate to Martha, and how she must have felt. And when she talked about Mary Magdalene, I could visualize how the demons could have driven her crazy. Everyone of the people in this book was brought to life, and I feel as if I really know them. I would definitely recommend this book!

Loved Karen Kingsbury's account of "The Friends of Jesus!" Like the first book in the Life-Changing Bible Stories series "The Family of Jesus," Karen intermingles the relationships and conversations Jesus' friends had with Him. I have markings throughout this book and will certainly use it as a reference guide with my Bible studies. The scriptures Karen uses throughout the book in referencing Simon, Peter, Mary Magdalene, John, Jairus and Martha showcase a great understanding of the characters relationships. I also enjoy the questions at the end of the book for each chapter which enables you to delve further into comparing your own life to those who followed Jesus. Excited for "The Followers of Jesus" to be released in July 2016. I hope Paul will be in a future one!!!!

This book brings to life each of the characters. As I read the Bible I can forget what each person may be going through in their life. This book makes them more real.

I love France Rivers and how she does bible history and peoples lives. And Laren Kingsbury did it! Retelling their story for us to remember those struggles and Gods intentional hand on them!! Oh Simon Peters religious stance but his loss and grief of his family because he was cast out. He was rejected but then healed. This is for a baby Christian or a veteran to the Word!! Let us remember these stories from our childhood and the struggles and be encouraged for today. Would be a great gift for a new Christian. I am loving this in large print.

A very good book, well written.

This book was powerful is such a way that you truly felt like you could have been there. It took Bible stories that I have heard many times and just made them fresh and new. It was written beautifully and with such care to detail. I haven't read the first in the series, but will be picking it up very soon. I hope the author continues this series and that more people will experience the stories for the first time again like I did. The series is called Life Changing, which is exactly what I hope this book will do for its readers! * I received this book from the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review *

Karen Kingsbury has brought the Bible to life in a beautiful series of stories following the Savior and those close to him. She weaves the stories together in ways that inspire. Her ability to evoke raw emotion from Bible stories grown stale in my heart is as astounding as it is appreciated. She has inspired a new thirst for the Gospel in my heart and has me opening my Bible to read it in a whole new way. What a gift she has! Thank you to Karen Kingsbury, Netgalley, and Simon & Schuster for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for this review.

This book brings to life the Holy Bible and makes it easier to see how the teachings of Jesus Christ affect our everyday lives.

The book made the Bible feel so alive to me. Sometimes when I read the Bible I have trouble picturing in my mind what life was like for Jesus and His family and friends. I loved reading about each of the characters in this book and I connected with them in ways that I didn't think were possible. I also was reminded to help those who are less fortunate and to always share who Jesus Christ is and to let nothing stand in my way because Jesus Christ is the greatest friend anyone can have.

Excellent stories of the friends surrounding Jesus. They come to life and you get an insight to the people Jesus directly interacted with. Thank you, Karen Kingsbury, for writing this book and allowing us to see deeper into these people, their struggles, and ultimately their healing all because Jesus was a friend to them! This book also has a beautiful cover and will make a great gift for any friend in your life!!

Wonderful book as is every book from Karen Kingsbury! This one was different and I Loved it!

Karen Kingsbury intertwined facts with fiction using the stories from the bible with her creative writing allowing Jesus' friends to come alive before my eyes. I recommend this book for everyone.

Karen Kingsbury gives life to the characters of the Bible without changing the stories we know so well. She has added depth and a fresh perspective that will enhance the readers' relationships with others including the readers personal relationship with Jesus.

Karen Kingsbury brings the characters of the bible to life !! As you are reading you will come to realize that all the "characters" in the bible are "real" people, with real feelings !! You will not be disappointed !!

This book was wonderfully written to make you feel that you were actually in the audience when Jesus and his friends were there.

Wonderful book to help get a feel of what life was like for some of the friends of Jesus.

The differing perspectives of how amazing Jesus is as a friend, as a healer and as a role model is simply winderful!

As you know, I enjoy Biblical fiction and seeing how different people imagine Biblical characters and the times. This series is interesting to me because its imagining the people closest to Jesus. I didn't feel this was quite as good as the first one, The Family of Jesus, but still interesting. We get six stories from different friends of Jesus: Simon the Leper, Martha, Jairus, Mary Magdalene, Peter, and John. I've never really thought of Simon and Jairus as "friends" of Jesus, necessarily, but they were interesting additions. We got to see three stories before Jesus' death, three stories of healing and raising from the dead. We get one story during His crucifixion, and two stories after His death and resurrection. So we get to see all different sides of Jesus. But although this series is about Jesus, He himself doesn't appear all that much in the stories. Some of the stories were told in flashback of what Jesus actually did for them. But also, we get to see the lasting impression Jesus had on these people's lives, and how their encounters with Him lasted long after the event. I think Mary Magdalene's story was my favorite. But Peter and John's stories were pretty interesting, as we see that they aren't exactly the perfect people we might think the disciples as being. But all in all, this was a pretty fast read, and I enjoyed it.

I thoroughly appreciated the author's expanded take on the character of Jesus's friends.

All Karen Kingsburg books are great inspirational reading.

I love these stories of Jesús friends. It made these people real to me and how much Jesús loved them.

Wonderful Bible study.

I got this out from the library, so this will not shop up as a verified purchase. I found the stories redundant and quite boring. What a shame. For example, in the first story about Simon the Leper there was so much repetition and the voice seemed false. I just happen to be studying the Levitical Law regarding the priest's responsibilities in declaring a person (or garment or house) unclean or clean. I was disappointed that the author did not have Simon more burdened by these observances. Where was his offering for cleansing? This was not even mentioned--could have been so poignant, perhaps with his house being cleansed also with the use of living water and a scarlet thread! These things were happening even as Jesus walked the streets. The conflict each person is experiencing seems so contrived--could have been much better with the internal cultural conflict each one surely faced when confronted with Jesus. Our own personal cultures face such tests, but it just doesn't translate. Perhaps more appropriate reading for middle school, older elementary students.

Very interesting!

Not the write in workbook I expected.

Historical Fiction, I did not care for this book at all... it did not go well with the actual Bible Study Book.Also it was not very Historical at all and it seemed like there was quite a bit of leeway taken in the lives of the Friends.

Karen Kingsbury never disappoints. Her gift of storytelling takes an in depth look at many of the bible characters we have come to know throughout the years, and unfolds their life as they encounter Jesus. I just loved it.