Awkward Moments doesnt pull any punches as the book explores some of the most confusing and at times gruesome stories from the Bible. The 80 page book begins with an insightful foreword from author David G. McAfee. Then the real fun begins with thirty-two whimsical full spread illustrations painted by the accomplished artist, Agnes Tickheathen. Starting with the Old Testaments depictions of foreskins, genetics research, r*pe, and unicorns, the book moves on to the New Testament to uncover

little known history of the Bibles roots while asking many important questions about Jesus Christ.

While many of the images might stretch the limits of some peoples comfort zones, the accompanying commentaries found in the back of the book bring context and relevance to each illustration that will likely challenge many readers. Each commentary also includes web links and QR codes to engage readers in active online discussions related to each illustration

''The funny thing is the book isnt actually a parody or satire at all,'' stresses the author. ''We use word-for-word passages directly out of the Bible. Sure, we get a lot of hate mail. Many Christians dont like the idea of Jesus telling his disciples to hate everyone. But those are His words - not ours.

The book toes a fine line between tackling some of the toughest topics in the Bible while not being flippant or disrespectful toward Christians. Horus adds, We dont want to alienate anybody. After many years in full time ministry, I am fully aware that some Christians will be angered by some of the ideas we share. On the other hand, we didnt write the Bible we just illustrate the parts that many people would like to forget.''

Why would Jesus become angry with a suffering leper? Why would Jesus encourage the killing of his enemies? Why would God try to kill Moses? Why would God send bears to tear 42 boys to pieces? Why is Jesus so explicit about the old law remaining in full effect? Why does Jesus demand that his disciples eat his flesh and drink his blood - literally? Awkward Moments addresses all of these questions in a unique and accessible way

''We arent trying to offend anybody, we just want people to really think about the most important book in the history of world - a book many have never read,'' says Gilgamesh. ''A recent Pew survey shows an overwhelming lack of Biblical knowledge among Christians in the US, with 55 unable to even name the four Gospels. And, these are the very foundation of Christianity!''

When asked about the online controversy that some of the illustrations have caused, he adds, ''It is no surprise that some readers are shocked to see what the Bible really says about the Great Flood, Jesus anger issues, birth control, slavery or womens rights. But, dont blame us - its in the Bible! We just paint the pictures to go with the scripture. It is up to readers to interpret the content and context for themselves.''

Awkward Moments doesnt only address issues of the ancient past. The book paints a clear picture of how the Bible continues to influence modern culture today - referencing the work of famous (and infamous) modern Christians like Pat Robertson, Ken Ham, and Fred Phelps. Using examples of changed, added, or deleted passages of scripture that have acted as the basis for many traditions and laws,

Awkward Moments also makes a stunning case for the importance of Biblical literacy in modern society. Illustrator Agnes Tickheathen remarks, ''I dont have any trouble with people believing in Noahs Ark. What I have a problem with is that most people completely gloss over the fact that this wasnt just the backdrop for a colorful story of adventure and perseverance