Jesus: The early years uncovered in new book

His tome, Finding the Lost Years of Jesus: A Christian Approach, looks at the times of Jesus’ life between the ages of 13 and 30.

‘‘I had always wondered about what Jesus did before his ministry,’’ Mr Graham said.

‘‘The Bible doesn’t go into details about what he did before then.’’

Mr Graham, 37, is studying for an ancient history doctorate at Macquarie University and writes for the magazine, Archaeological Diggings, published by Adventist Media.

‘‘I checked books that had already been written about Jesus’ early life,’’ he said. ‘‘They were either conspiracy theories or exposés.

‘‘I wanted to show people what the Bible really says.’’

Mr Graham said he examined archaeological and ancient writings about Jesus’ time.

‘‘I particularly looked at archaeological information and writings about Nazareth at the time,’’ he said.

‘‘I tried not to replace what’s in the Bible, but 2000 years is a long time and Israel is on the other side of the planet.’’

He said this made it difficult for some present-day Australians, for example, to always understand Jesus’ message.

‘‘I’ve discussed what sort of person Jesus was,’’ Mr Graham said. ‘‘That comes through reading the Bible and understanding how people at the time were living.

‘‘You get a feel for how Jesus taught his spiritual lessons.’’

He said Jesus is famous for his parables and parables were often the way people in ancient Israel communicated stories.

‘‘The Bible is a trustworthy source of information; it goes hand-in-hand with archaeological and ancient historical research,’’ Mr Graham said.

‘‘The research strengthened my faith; I learned that Jesus was a loving person and the Gospels can be trusted.’’

Finding the Lost Years of Jesus: A Christian Approach will be launched at Hawkesbury District Presbyterian Church, 46 Drummond Street, South Windsor on Sunday, May 3 after the 10am church service. It is free and Mr Graham will sign copies of his book.