Virtue scores
Review
**About the Book** Timothy Cross presents an in-depth exploration of the Benedictus, Zechariah's prophetic hymn found in Luke 1:67-79. Cross argues that this canticle stands as "a strong contender for being the greatest hymn ever uttered by human lips," originating from Zechariah being "filled with the Holy Spirit." The book unfolds the meaning of this biblical passage verse by verse, designed for Christians who want to deepen their understanding of divine praise and worship. Cross aims to help readers "enter into the praise and joy nurtured into Zechariah's soul by God," promising that engagement with this text will "enlighten your mind, warm your heart, lift your spirit and fuel your fires of devotion and praise." The work serves both as biblical commentary and spiritual guide for those seeking to understand how Scripture provides a "divine blueprint" for authentic worship. **CCMMP Analysis** - **Created**: The book affirms human capacity for transcendent praise and worship, recognizing that humans are uniquely designed to respond to divine revelation with joy and adoration - **Fallen**: Cross addresses the human need for divine assistance in worship, acknowledging that authentic praise requires the Holy Spirit's guidance rather than mere human effort - **Redeemed**: The Benedictus itself celebrates God's redemptive action—"He has visited and redeemed His people"—while the book guides readers toward restored relationship with God through informed worship - **Prudence-Understanding**: Cross provides careful verse-by-verse analysis to help readers grasp the universal principles embedded in Zechariah's divinely-inspired hymn - **Justice-Gratitude**: The entire work centers on cultivating proper acknowledgment of God's gifts through informed and heartfelt praise