A Magical World: How the Bible Makes Sense of the Supernatural

“Well written, well researched, engaging . . . fascinating”— Stephen G. Dempster, Professor Emeritus of Religious Studies, Crandall University“McGuire has trodden where many Christians today are fearful to tread”— Matthew D. Arnold, Editor of The Christian ParapsychologistAre miracles “violations” of the laws of nature? Are demons and ghosts more than just a relic of ancient mythology? Is there any truth behind modern-day exorcism? Do some people possess prophetic abilities? Are near-death experiences a true glimpse of the afterlife? Can the worldview of the ancient texts of Scripture help us interpret these supernatural phenomena?In A Magical World, each of these questions is explored in depth. With a unique combination of research, interviews, personal experience, and theological reflection, author Matthew McGuire takes the reader on a journey to re-examine his or her presuppositions about the nature of the world we inhabit. Is this universe nothing more than Bertrand Russell’s “accidental collocations of atoms,” or are there deeper, spiritual dimensions to the cosmos?Meticulously documented with over 900 endnotes and 400 bibliographic entries, McGuire’s work is at the same time intellectually stimulating as well as spiritually engaging. Whether one is a Christian looking for a deepened understanding of the universe, an atheist or agnostic committed to materialism, or a devotee of Eastern or New Age religious practices, all readers will find material in this book that will challenge their perspectives and drive them to contemplate the truly magical properties of the world around us. Read more