Youth ministry programs

        New Review received July 13, 2018 from the Onlinebookclub: "I think it's normal for man to wonder about other beings on other planets - IS there really life out there in the universe? I also wonder, IF there is life on other planets, do they believe in the Christian God? Does God oversee them like He sees us? Will we believers go to the same Heaven, or will there be different Heavens for different planets and universes and etc? In his book, The Chest of Visions, Secrets of Caperston, author Tim Ferguson introduces us to Mattpaul, who hails from the planet Caperston, a world on which they have no knowledge of God or Jesus. Having read some electronic news from our planet, he sends out a communication that is intercepted by Tim of planet Earth. Tim does believe in God, and he confirms that the Bible is a holy book. Mattpaul and Tim continue communicating, forging a friendship that literally spans the universe...

For me, the best part of this book was the multiple parallels to reality. I noted at least two major parallels, though other readers may find more. First, there was the parallel between Caperston and a young America. While I was reading about the separation between the Valley People, where Mattpaul hails from, and the Mountain People, I was reminded of when the USA's settlers "found" America and made it "civilized", usurping the Native Americans from their land."

Other parallels the Onlinebookclub found can be read at: Chest of Visions Review

Fourteen billion years ago, a fraction of a second after the Big Bang, a gravity defying force emerged, less than a thousandth of a second in duration

and a second parallel universe to our own emerged.

What happened in this universe? The record of it has been personally received and it is:

An "Extraterrestrial Adventure a story of a young man, who changed his World by acting on his faith! The Chest of Visions calls the reader to examine herself/himself and one's life goals as young people from Caperston confront a prophet and his unique message."

Lee Ashford of Readers Favorite ends his review with the following: "If read in its entirety and considered prayerfully, "Chest of Visions" should be acknowledged as a significant step forward in Youth Group Study Guides".

Summer Reading for all, aged ten and older. To read more about the outcome of these parallel universes, please click: Reviews Chest of Visions

"Click: ... Give it a Try

The Chest of Visions


"Engaging, exciting ... easy-to-read"


The Chest of Visions, takes us to a parallel universe, similar yet different from our own world.

Click on the below arrow for a video with more information.



For more reviews and purchase information click ... Reviews Chest of Visions

"The Chest of Visions" is crafted as a totally new concept for involving today's youth in Bible study. Borrowing from the contemporary popularity of Science Fiction and Fantasy fiction novels, comics and movies, the author has devised a correspondence across parallel universes between several teen-aged individuals on two different planets in two different universes.

If read in its entirety, and considered prayerfully, "Chest of Visions" should be acknowledged as a significant step forward in Youth Group Study Guides.
Review by Daniel Mosley, age 16: "I loved this book. It is inspiring and interesting ..."

Review by Melissa Jagel: "Engaging, exciting, entertaining, and easy-to-read! Ferguson's super-cool little book, "The Chest of Visions," brilliantly captures the essence of the Gospel message "

Review by Keila Ochoa Harris, Mexican christian fiction author: "Through a fast paced story we learn about Mattpaul and his adventure in Caperston... Mattpaul had a decision to make. He had to choose between following Chihaysu or staying as he was."

Marie Hough Review: "The Chest of Visions, Secrets of Caperston is a must read for everyone... I began reading it with my ten year old grandson one day. When I came back one week later he had finished the book on his own and said he cannot wait to read the sequel.This is one of a few books that I will enjoy rereading numerous times."

Elizabeth Marie review: "In this book we meet youth from two different worlds...Once I opened this book, I couldn't set it down ... I love this book! I think it's perfect for a youth group read and study."

Richard Blake review: "Tim Ferguson skillfully combines his creative imagination, and nearly twenty of experience in youth ministry into a story of hopefulness, fearlessness, and intrigue. "

Shirley Johnson review: "I read this book with a thirteen year old girl and once we were finished I asked her how she felt about our experience. She said it definitely made her think about many things in her own life and in her walk with God."

Ann B. Of Readers Favorites Review: "This story was written for young adults; however, I enjoyed it very much. Tim Ferguson is very creative and has found a wonderful way to reach youth."

Paul H. review: "It helps us think about spiritual matters in a most entertaining way."

For purchase information click ... Reviews Chest of Visions

See below for all nine, full reviews.

New Book Reviews from Goodreads

Aug 08, 2013 ...Sandra Stiles rated it 5 of 5 stars

I think every youth group should read this book. This makes us take a look at why bad things like death happen. It makes us look deeply at our own faith. Have we pulled away from God? Are we doing enough to reach others for the Lord? This book is the one you need to read with your teen to open those conversations. One thing I kept thinking about when we looked at the world where they had no religion was how many nations in our own world have never heard of our God. How do they react when we introduce them to him. I am surprised each year when I give my autobiography to my students and I discuss my religious beliefs, the number of students who have never seen and some of them never heard of the Bible or Jesus. This is a book that I have on my shelves at school. It has wonderful pictures in it which will reach that kid who really enjoys the more graphic type novel. It is a way to plant the seeds of Christianity. I definitely recommend this book to all grandparents, parents, teens and youth groups.


Lee Ashford for Readers' Favorite rated it 5 of 5 stars

"The Chest of Visions: Secrets of Caperston" by Tim Ferguson is a well-reasoned, well-written, and intelligently conceived allegory for use as a Christian Youth Group Study Guide. It is bound to be considered quite "awesome" by the Youth Groups which use it, just as it is bound to be considered controversial or even blasphemous by older generations, which often comprise church leadership.

However, if it is recognized for what it is - an allegory - it should be seen as no more controversial than "Pilgrim's Progress", which no doubt faced a lot of opposition when it was first released. It should also be conceded that ANYTHING which helps youth understand the Gospel better is a good tool to be used for that purpose.

"The Chest of Visions" is crafted as a totally new concept for involving today's youth in Bible study. Borrowing from the contemporary popularity of Science Fiction and Fantasy fiction novels, comics and movies, the author has devised a correspondence across parallel universes between several teen-aged individuals on two different planets in two different universes.

The correspondences are prompted by the appearance on the planet Caperston of what amounts to a missionary, spreading the Gospel message of Jesus Christ. At first glance, one might assume the missionary is intended to imply an appearance of Jesus on another planet, by which He intends to extend salvation to the residents thereof. That is NOT the case, however. The missionary, Chi-hay-su, repeats a number of Jesus' sermons, and selects a number of "followers" who seem as if they are meant to fill the role of the Apostles, but in reality Chi-hay-su has HEARD the Gospel himself, believed it, and is doing what he believes is the most efficient approach to reach his entire planet FOR GOD.

If read in its entirety, and considered prayerfully, "Chest of Visions" should be acknowledged as a significant step forward in Youth Group Study Guides. It has my stamp of approval, for whatever that's worth.

Book is available on Amazon.com, on Kindle or on Nook. There are more reviews on Amazon.com, which are different than the below.

For these reviews and purchase information click ... Reviews Chest of Visions

Review of The Chest of Visions (January 23, 2013)by Daniel Mosley, age 16, of Holding Out Hope Youth Group, New York

"Tell the author - I love this book. It is inspiring and interesting and I love it. Thanks for writing the book!"

Review of The Chest of Visions (January 2, 2013)by Melissa Jagel

Engaging, exciting, entertaining, and easy-to-read! Ferguson's super-cool little book, "The Chest of Visions," brilliantly captures the essence of the Gospel message and shares it with fresh, fast-moving, suspense-filled 21st century appeal. Ferguson's journal-entry style book chronicles the intriguing pen-pal relationship between two youths from different universes with such charm and personal appeal...it is the best creative tool for formation and evangelization I've read in years! I'd love to put "The Chest of Visions" in the hands of every youth and young adult leader in the country!

Review of The Chest of Visions (October 21, 2012)by Keila Ochoa Harris

Can you imagine receiving e-mails from a different planet? Have you heard about the Strings technology? Welcome to "The Chest of Visions" by Tim Ferguson! Through a fast paced story we learn about Mattpaul and his adventure in Caperston, a planet smaller than our own. We also meet Alex, a teenager from Earth who is struggling with justice and fairness. But in the midst of these young people's experiences we come face to face with the center of everything: Jesus, or Chihaysu, for those living in Caperston.

Life is full of choices, and we tend to look for simple answers or easy recipes to reach happiness, fulfillment or satisfaction. However, the real questions in life are answered when we face the most important issue: what will we do with Christ? Mattpaul had a decision to make. He had to choose between following Chihaysu or staying as he was. Even more, he knew one of his choices could mean suffering and a difficult journey. But in saying "yes" to truth he touched others. In saying "no" to himself, his life received purpose.

Jose Carlos has added much to the story with his talented illustrations. This is a book for young people and adults alike. It can be used individually or in a group. But the purpose of the book will be completely lost if we don't feel challenged to open the Chest of Visions and make a decision about Jesus. Will we follow him or not, whatever the cost?

Keila Ochoa Harris, Mexican christian fiction author and youth leader.

Review of The Chest of Visions (October 14, 2012): Three cheers for Tim Ferguson!

Three cheers for Tim Ferguson! I would also like to thank Jose Carlos Gutierrez for his beautiful illustrations.

From start to finish The Chest of Visions, Secrets of Caperston is thoroughly entertaining as well as inspirational. Every age group will enjoy and benefit from getting to know these characters and traveling alongside their experiences. The Chest of Visions, Secrets of Caperston is a must read for everyone who has been gaining wisdom as well as for those who are searching for answers. I began reading it with my ten year old grandson one day. When I came back one week later he had finished the book on his own and said he cannot wait to read the sequel. This is one of a few books that I will enjoy rereading numerous times.

The next time I visit my grandson I will be bringing him a copy for us to read together. At Christmas time The Chest of Visions Secrets of Caperston will be given to family and friends.

Thanks again for a magnificent read!

Marie Haugh, host of Holy Ghost Power Worldwide Ministries.


For purchase and/or additional information click:
The Chest of Visions

"The pictures in the book are beautiful on a Kindle Fire"

The Chest Of Visions Review, October 5, 2012 By Elizabeth Marie(Read Review Smile)

(Fives stars out of five)

I got the chance to read this book for free, in exchange for my honest opinion, by the author Tim Ferguson

My Review: In this book we meet youth from two different worlds. One which Jesus hasn't arrived yet, and the inhabitants do not know God. Throughout the book there are letters being sent between Tim, Alex, Mattpaul, and Huchfee; and during these letters Alex and Mattpaul become friends. Mattpaul is being challenged with wanting to become a follower of Chihaysu, when his parents, and community are against the man. Alex is also being challenged in faith as well, stepping away from God and the church. This book is unlike any other Christian book I've read. Once I opened this book, I couldn't set it down, I read it in a day and a half. This book is perfect for youth and even adults, it answers questions in a way people can easily understand it. It's perfect for a youth group read. The artwork in this book is also amazing. It really brings the story to life.

Positive Elements: We are all faced with set backs, and a lot of times be struggle with our faith. We wonder why God would let this happen. God is all around us, he has a plan for everything. This plan may not seem ideal for me or you, but never lose your faith, always trust in God.

Spiritual Elements: This is a Christian book, so of course they talk about God, the Bible, praying, etc.

Negative Elements: N/A

Other Thoughts: I love this book! I think it's perfect for a youth group read and study, since they have lessons for youth groups in the back of the book. If I was already a youth minister, I would use this book in my group. But since that's ways off, I'm going to recommend this to my pastor for our youth at church. This book is part of an anticipated trilogy, I cannot wait to read the other books in this series.

The original review can be found on Amazon.com, enter "The Chest of Visions"


A Creative Approach of Presenting the gospel Message to a New Generation, October 12, 2012 By Richard R. Blake

"The Chest of Visions" is a unique resource tool for equipping a generation of today's Christian youth for evangelizing their peers. Tim Ferguson skillfully combines his creative imagination, and nearly twenty of experience in youth ministry into a story of hopefulness, fearlessness, and intrigue. The story integrates individuals from two parallel universes.

Using the elements of fantasy, science fiction, and allegory Tim Ferguson stimulates the reader to ponder the questions: If Jesus were to come to earth today instead of 2,000 years ago, how would you respond? How do Christian teens react to difficulty? And, how can we effectively define faith?

The illustrations created by Jose Carlos Gutierrez graphically portray the nature of the characters and locale and events, reinforcing the narrative.Suggestions for using the story to explore lessons in life are provided using three approaches with stimulating questions for consideration, additional instruction and information for each of the ten individual chapters of the book. "The Chest of Visions" provides a creative approach for equipping Christian take the gospel message to their peers.

A complimentary copy of this book was provided for review purposes. The opinions expressed are my own. The original review can be found on Amazon.com, enter "The Chest of Visions"



The Chest Of Visions Review, September 19, 2012 By Shirley Priscilla Johnson, Author/Reviewer - Florida

In this book we meet some young people from two different universes. In the one, the Savior Jesus has not yet arrived and they are challenged with problems they are not sure how to handle. Two youths from the different universes become friends, one knows our Savior, one does not. Now young Mattpaul is challenged by what he is being told and what he holds as tradition. Learning about the ways of the Lord are not always easy to understand, will this encounter make a difference.

This was a different read, one that opens the door for discussion with young people. I read this book with a thirteen year old girl and once we were finished I asked her how she felt about our experience. She said it definitely made her think about many things in her own life and in her walk with God. She told me at times she was a little confused but all in all she enjoyed what we read and what she learned. She could identify with some of the challenges presented and that was good. I feel this is a good book to be used with a group of Christian teens, where there can be discussion on the different happenings in both Universes. I believe this work can be very useful.

Book Review by Ann B. of Reader's Favorite (Fives stars out of five)

"The Chest of Visions" by Tim Ferguson is the story of Caperston as told by Mattpaul. Caperston is a planet much smaller than our own and its sun is much smaller than ours. Time is measured by generations that pass rather than years. Their ability to communicate with us is due to Strings technology.

Ferguson has chosen the perfect format for this tale. The text reads much like email messages. Each one is dated. On May 2, Mattpaul shares information about Chihaysu. The man told the people about God who oversees the world, treats everyone equally and hears when people pray to him. Chihaysu also told the people stories like the one about a man who needed help, but many people would not stop. Rumors were circulating that Chihaysu prayed for a little girl and she was healed. I found it heartwarming that as Mattpaul shared information about Chihaysu, the Earthlings reading Tim's blog began to ask questions. Those familiar with scripture and with the life of Jesus Christ will quickly see the parallel between Jesus and Chihaysu.

I find the plot of this book very realistic, for God is bigger than my imagination and who am I to say he did not place life on other planets? Ferguson deftly demonstrates how one person can share the word of God with another and it spreads like dandelions. One seed creates a plant with a thousand seeds and each seed creates another plant with another thousand seeds.

This story was written for young adults; however, I enjoyed it very much. Tim Ferguson is very creative and has found a wonderful way to reach youth.

Appendix I explains String Theory.

Appendix II shares the options for using this book with a youth group

Appendix III shares 10 lessons that correspond with the chapters.

I can easily see this book as Sunday School literature or Youth Group literature.

Ferguson has written it in a simple easy to read and understand easily. Ferguson's light shines in this book. I look forward to more books by Tim Ferguson.

A Book ending with Christian teen discussion questions for a Youth Ministry Program.


Book Review by Paul H. (Fives stars out of five)

Tim Ferguson uses his gift of intelligence to craft a highly original tale involving a orthodox Evangelical Christian "What if" scenerio regarding the thought, "What if the Creator of our universe came back to Earth at the same time something significant was happening in a parallel universe". It helps us think about spiritual matters in a most entertaining way.The artwork in the book is amazing, a big improvement from Mr. Ferguson's last book titled "Not the same old, done-it-before youth meetings".

Mr. Ferguson puts his money where his mouth is and financed the entire budget himself and that commitment shows.

He uses his vast experience as a Director in the field of Foster Care; Adult Protection , Bible Study; and Youth Group leader to weave a intoxicating, brain stimulating tale that diverts you away from the world system. I think Hank Hanegraaff of Equip.org would be proud. Philip Yancey,John Ankerburg,Lee Strobel,Tim Stafford would all be proud of this effort of a mentor touching the world around him with the grace of Christ.

For additional information click, The Chest of Visions

Christian teen advice on dealing with events that seem unfair to the faithful is one of the themes of "The Chest of Visions". Why would God allow bad things to happen to a faithful Chrisitan youth like Alex? Read "The Chest of Visions" for answers.