The Cipher

"The book’s multi-chapter study of sexuality and marriage is remarkably nuanced in its research into historical contexts, literary analysis, and study of Hebrew texts, addressing issues like transgender identity with particular sensitivity...Consistently engaging" —Kirkus Reviews

"The narrative style was perceptive and informative and didn’t feel condescending or overwhelming. Walton made sure to maintain a steady pace and ensured a complete understanding of the concepts. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who wishes to understand the Bible more deeply and move away from the influence of both modern and traditional narratives." —Philip Van Heusen, Readers' Favorite

"This book will make you think and examine your current belief system. Covering many areas of theology, Mark approaches each section using allegory as his basis of interpretation. This book explains the secret meanings of various biblical passages. I find his statement, “Scripture is meant to be confusing,” both telling and interesting. Mark shares at least twelve layers of the Scriptures, and understanding them requires a deeper dive than most people are willing to do. If you want your theology challenged, this book is for you.
" —Rabia Tanveer, Readers' Favorite

"A thought-provoking book that challenges traditional interpretations of the Bible and aims to unravel the mysteries and symbolism embedded within its texts. With a bold premise, the author explores the idea that human pride and ambition have tainted the interpretations of the Word of God for centuries. Through the exploration of symbolism, patterns, numbers, and God's code, the author seeks to uncover the true Gospel of love and tolerance that Christ intended...a positive and uplifting theological read that will warm the heart of anyone on their journey to discover deeper faith." —K.C. Finn, Readers' Favorite

"The Cipher by Mark Walton probes the historical intricacies of biblical interpretations, suggesting an intentional design whereby Jesus leveraged human pride in establishing the Church. Walton presents a critical examination of the spiritual distortions introduced by this human factor and proposes a rectification rooted in the original gospel of Christ emphasizing love and tolerance. This book, a follow-up to Walton's The Calling, uses an array of symbols, patterns, and divine codes to look at deep-seated biblical conundrums. Walton tackles prevailing religious doctrines, providing a platform for those feeling spiritually disconnected to reignite their faith. The book culminates in proposing love as the mechanism of spiritual fulfillment, shedding new light on faith and Christ's universal salvation.



The American revolutionary and a Founding Father of the United States once said, “Controversy is only dreaded by the advocates of error.” Advocates of Christian error will get their feathers ruffled by The Cipher by Mark Walton, but that's their own issue and not the problem of those who have more sense. Walton's shift in perspective invites readers to question their beliefs, embrace self-discovery, and find the answers to questions asked in the Bible alone, not only by religious leaders. For example, Walton says to question the fire-branded stance that marriage is between one man and one woman and that there is no biblical passage explicitly stating this. Instead, it argues that marriage is a spiritual union and suggests alternative interpretations of passages such as Ephesians 5:31-32 and Matthew 19:1-12 to support this viewpoint. The Cypher contains numerous instances of flawed Bible interpretation. While I only address a few examples briefly, you should follow Walton's advice and not look just to me for a reason to read it. Instead, pick it up and have a look firsthand." —Asher Syed, Readers' Favorite

“An inclusive, compassionate approach to Christian theology, inviting readers to a revolutionary understanding of scripture. Mark Walton breaks the mold in The Cipher…The most striking departure lies in his examination of homosexuality within the Christian context. Walton dissects the conventional understanding of Leviticus, suggesting the term "flesh" has multiple meanings that, when taken into account, might drastically alter our perception of the Bible's stance on homosexuality… Very highly recommended.” —Jamie Michele, Readers' Favorite