Joyce Baldwin shows the vivid narratives of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and Joseph speaking to us today, despite their great antiquity. Above all, they highlight God's ways of dealing with ordinary men and women. God takes the initiative in drawing us to himself. His purpose is not local, but world-wide; the rich scope of God's love is tellingly evident. Yet, in fulfilling his great plan in history, he works individually – with people who are fearful like Abraham or twisty like Jacob. Their often painful experiences enabled them (and help us) to know the specific character of the God they worshipped. The narratives, Joyce Baldwin points out, are an epitome of the gospel.

David Atkinson vividly presents the magnificent cosmic setting of the early story of mankind. Here is the insight that allows us to understand both the greatness and the tragic flaw inherent in human beings today. Here is the key to our history. We are responsible participants in God's creation who must, like Noah, confront the possibility of global catastrophe.