What readers
are saying.

In this book, the author talks about truth. As a reader, I understand that truth is seen through the lens of the believer. His disection of Bible verse leads the reader to ponder, consider, and think. As the author said, “Group think is the kind of preparation we most often use in our time.” Read this book and find theories and ideas that could add a whole new dimension to the way you critically think about religion and spirituality.

deep reflections, true to scripture, humor and new insights

the interludes are special ...the need for silence, the proper place of science and the working of the Holy Spirit

Richard Farmer is an excellent teacher ....listen to what he has written

For those who don’t know Rick personally, a word of caution---strap in before opening the book. It launches in multiple directions from the beginning and doesn't let up. Rick's fertile, flamboyant, frenetic, and fascinating mind wants to explore every nook and cranny of every possible angle in the opening verses of Luke's Gospel. If you are not careful, you can easily be distracted by the sudden shifts of subject matter. Don't major on the gear shifts but learn to put the vehicle in neutral from time to time and contemplate on a deeper level what you read; you'll discover genius at every paused turn. My margins are full of comments as I found myself dialoging with Rick in every entry. If you are looking for a classic commentary, you may find yourself scratching your head from time to time (where did he get THAT idea?); but if you like a dash of snark with your scholarship, and a pinch of spry wit with your spirituality, then join Dr. Farmer as he journeys through Dr. Luke's magnificent portrayal of Advent. The deity and the humanity of our Christ are on full display in these pages. The book defies pigeonholing by theological, political, social, or any other categorization. It is simply vintage Rick Farmer and I hope many are introduced to both him and Jesus by delving into this adventuresome tome. But remember---strap in, lest you get tossed from your roller coaster seat at the first twist and roll!

A Timeless Script from a 1st Century Doctor invites readers to encounter the Gospel of Luke with fresh eyes. Rick Farmer brings the world of the first century to life while thoughtfully connecting Luke’s ancient testimony to the questions, struggles, and hopes of modern readers. The result is an accessible and deeply reflective book—grounded in faith, enriched by history, and written with the warmth of a teacher who genuinely cares about those reading his words. It is an excellent choice for personal study, group discussion, or anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the life and message of Jesus.

A Timeless Script from a 1st Century Doctor is a thoughtful and engaging examination of Luke’s Gospel that successfully integrates historical context, theological reflection, and contemporary application. Rick Farmer writes with the seasoned perspective of a counselor, educator, and minister, making substantial ideas accessible without diminishing their depth. One sentence especially captures the vitality of Farmer’s approach: “The Gospel is a living, breathing, eternally resurrecting Person who will never fit into our boxes or become content to live primarily in our sanctuaries.” That conviction runs throughout the book. Farmer does not treat Luke’s account as a distant religious artifact, but as a living testimony that continues to challenge assumptions, awaken faith, and speak meaningfully to the modern world. Carefully reasoned, warmly written, and spiritually perceptive, this book is a valuable resource for personal reflection, church study, and thoughtful group discussion.

Rick Farmer combines keen biblical insights with a wise, devotional heart as he leads the reader through the unique and powerful advent of Christ contained in the Gospel of Luke. Rick’s A Timeless Script is just what the doctor ordered for those looking for a Guide through Advent and beyond.

We’re sick, and in desperate need of a doctor, to both diagnose and treat.

In A Timeless Script from a 1st Century Doctor, Dr. Rick Farmer wisely recommends Luke’s Gospel, written by a physician whose treatment plan would be initially resisted, or downright rejected by most.

But Luke’s Gospel, specifically the first two chapters, highlight the uniquely universal cure capable of healing us all - The Advent of Christ.

The story of the birth, life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, who embarked on a mission to save, teach, and heal, offers a remedy for all. Despite the heartache, pain, and suffering found in this timeless story, it is the miraculous truth of faith, hope, and love that provides us with the prescription we desperately need.

If you are seeking to be restored to a healthy state of mind and body, so you can live a life of meaning and purpose, look no further.

Rick, I want to thank you for allowing me to read and offer my suggestions regarding your manuscript, A Timeless Script from a 1st Century Doctor. You are to be commended. This is more than first century. It is first class! Thank you for the privilege. I am most grateful. May I say, too, that your writing style is appealing. You have blended excellent research with brilliance of thought, and your readers will quickly discover your perceptions to be worth their serious consideration. The blend continues: humor, anecdotal enrichment and local arrangement, work together to enhance a serious study and analysis of a most important subject. Yes, you’ve done what you set out to do. You have written conclusively and convincingly. Your readers will not forget the experience of learning that you have offered them. Finally, Rick, I praise our Lord for this effort of love for Him.

Anybody who calls the writer of the third Gospel (and Acts!) “Dr. Luke” has my attention, both because it is obvious the author has done some homework, and is playful enough to wear the scholarship lightly. I enjoy these sorts of books, well conceived and simply told, conversational and inspiring (even as they are informed by professorial insight.) A Timeless Script is this rare kind of book with quotes from Leslie Newbigin, and worldview studies combined with goofy cartoons. The print is a good size, there are quotes and jokes, and the academic stuff is found mostly in interesting footnotes.

More than mere Biblical insight, Farmer offers great wisdom here, devotion in the best sense of the word. He has studied faith formation and religion and has a degree in Psychology. He is a preacher and a teacher — and, truth be told, a former staff member of the fabulous Pittsburgh-based campus ministry organization the CCO. That he has been involved with the big Jubilee conference and has gone on to lead classes and mentor young adults shouldn’t surprise us.

This chatty volume has 300 pages -- plenty to read in a month. Dr. Farmer does Biblical study, practical application, offering keen faith-based visions of God’s Kingdom transforming those who trust in Christ, including those with mental health concerns, parenting needs, desires for healing or desperate for fresh starts. From the Gospel of Luke he draws insight from the life of Jesus, does some analysis of our cultural biases against the supernatural, and invites us to a whole-life discipleship filled with true truth, deep joy and real hope.