Reading the books of Luke and Acts, you’ll see the name Theophilus. The books were written by Luke and addressed to Theophilus, but who was he? Though we don’t know that for sure, Randy Singer provides a fictional account of this man is The Advocate.

Beginning with his training in rhetoric and going through his presence at the trial of Christ and his conversion, the book covers the majority of Theophilus’ life as a Roman citizen. Always on the fringes of the elite people, he often finds himself the target of their ire. As he matures, he becomes a supporter of the underdog and the truth. In the end, he supports and accepts the Truth.

Though it is historical fiction, the book is more than just entertaining. Details are added to complete the story, but the gospel and its power is very evident and presented faithfully.

Theophilus wants to do what is right, at first because it is the right thing to do. But, it becomes his nature as his love for others in Christ grows, even leading to his forgiveness of those who persecute him.

Singer did a marvelous job in writing The Advocate. It flowed well, and kept me wanting to find out what was going to happen next. Seeing the change that Christ brings in the hearts of believers in the book underscores what He can do for each of us.

I received a free copy of the book from Tyndale House Publishers in exchange for this review.