The Christian Book Shelf

2010-05-25T11:19:00.001-07:00

Unpacking Forgiveness

2009-02-28T06:26:00.000-08:00

Unpacking Forgivenesss

Chris Brauns

Title: Unpacking Forgiveness: Biblical Answers for Complex Questions and Deep Wounds
Author: Chris Brauns
Publisher: Crossway Publishers
Year: 2008
ISBN: 978-1-58134-9801
Binding: Softcover
Pages: 240
Reading Level: 3.0
Price: $17.99

Much thanks to Crossway Publishers for kindly providing a review copy of this book.

Josh Gelatt’s Review: When I receive books to review I place them in one of three piles. The first stack are books I highly value and the second are works that are trite, silly, and insignificant (a sheer waste of good paper). I take my time as I read through the first, and generally only scan the latter. The third category are books that seem important but are ones that I expect I will have profound disagreements with the content. I also read through these carefully, if for no other reason than to refute them.

When I received a copy of Chris Brauns' Unpacking Forgiveness I immediately placed it into the third category. The key premise of the book is that forgiveness should only be given if the offending party is actually repentant. Frankly, I found this idea morally repugnant and eagerly looked forward to disproving it from scripture.

Three days later, after spending equal amounts of time in the book and in Scripture, Brauns has convinced me that my idea of forgiveness is the one that lacks scriptural support. The author distinguishes biblical forgiveness from therapeutic forgiveness. Popular culture, being exposed to elements of Christian teaching while failing to grasp its deeper tuths, has turned forgiveness into a feeling, instead of the radical commitment to reconciliation as taught in scripture. Therapeutic forgiveness sees it as a private feeling that should be granted unconditionally. In this view, forgiveness is offered out of self-interest--we forgive in order to be freed from hate and bitterness. Scripture however demonstrates that forgiveness is a cooperative event between two individuals conditioned upon repentance. The motivation for forgiveness arises out of our love for the other person and for God.

Simply put, Brauns tells us that forgiveness is inextricably linked to reconciliation. Certainly Christians are to offer forgiveness to all, but forgiveness (and thus reconciliation) can only be granted to those who want to be forgiven.

Unpacking Forgiveness is theologically and biblically rich. Perhaps the greatest compliment a Christian author can receive is to be told his book has faithfully and deeply interacted with the Word of God--and Brauns has done just that. Though the style of writing does indicate Brauns is a fairly new author, the work is well illustrated and practical.

Philippians: A Greek Student's Intermediate Reader

2009-02-26T15:18:00.000-08:00

Philippians:
A Greek Student's Reader

Jerry L. Sumney

Title: Philippians: A Greek Student's Intermediate Reader
Author: Jerry L. Sumney
Publisher: Hendrickson Publishers
Year: 2007
ISBN: 978-1-56563-9911
Binding: Softcover
Pages: 192
Reading Level: 4.0
Price: $14.95

Much thanks to Hendrickson Publishers for kindly providing a review copy of this book.

Josh Gelatt’s Review: For those in active ministry, maintaining proficiency in Greek after seminary can be difficult. Hectic schedules and impossible work loads keep ministers struggling just to study for sermons, much less have time to work directly with the Greek text.

Jerry Sumney has designed a work intended to help those who have completed one year of Koine Greek read effective and intelligently through the Greek text of Philippians. Serving as Professor of Biblical Studies at Lexington Theological Seminary (a Disciple's of Christ school), Sumney's stated goal is to "assist those who use [this book] on their path to reading the Greek text of the New Testament with clearer and deeper understanding" (p xx). Understanding that language is easily forgotten if not used, the author attempts to provide a work that will enable the Greek student to bring to mind what has been previously learned while introducing them to more advanced examples of grammar and syntax.

However, this is not a "workbook". Instead, it is essentially a commentary on the Greek text of Philippians. Sumney uses the Greek of this letter to highlight grammatical aspects of Koine Greek and then disusses their bearing upon interpretation. Important grammatical terms and constructions are highlighted in bold and lexical definitions are given the first time key words appear. The Greek text used is that of the United Bible Society's 4th edition, which is immediately followed by a fresh translation.

The format of the work runs very similar to that of a technical commentary. Those familiar with the older works of men like H.G.D. Moule, Lightfoot, and Eadie will find much similarity in the present volume (though certainly this volume is more user friendly to intermediate student's of Greek). Because of this, the work has value not only to those wishing to increase their proficiency in Greek, but also pastor's who are preaching through this letter.

Whiter Than Snow

2009-01-24T11:18:00.000-08:00

Whiter Than Snow

Paul David Tripp

Title: Whiter Than Snow
Author: Paul David Tripp
Publisher: Crossway Books
Year: 2008
ISBN: 978-1-4335-0230-9
Binding: Softcover
Pages: 160
Reading Level: 2.0
Price: $12.99

Much thanks to Crossway Books for kindly providing a review copy of this book.

Josh Gelatt’s Review: Psalm 51 is powerfully provocative. In it we experience, via David's poetic transparency, the soul-damaging aftermath of sin and the deep-hunger for mercy by one of God's wayward children. Often, scripture can be black or white. That is, we are confronted with the choice to follow God and be holy and happy, or follow our sin and by corrupted and damned. Yet in his daily walk the follower of Jesus Christ many times experiences an intersection of these positions. While being secured salvifically in the Father's hand, the carnal disciple still foolishly invites the whore of sin into the bed of his life. As a result, he suffers the venereal consequences of her presence. In passages such as Psalm 51 we witness ourselves--the average disciple who battles sin. In our weakness, we often lose this battle (as David did). Yet as one writer expressed it, it is in the deepest pits that we see the stars most clearly. In these miserable moments--these Psalm 51 moments--we see the strength, grace, and mercy of the Savior most clearly.

Paul David Tripp brings the rich theology and deep piety of Psalm 51 into a contemporary and conversational form. As a seminary professor, Presbyterian pastor, professional counselor, and ministry president, Tripp is uniquely gifted and experienced. He unpacks this psalm verse-by-verse, allowing us to experience the raw-emotion of a chastened leader while simultaneously showing us a devoted disciples' radical and life-changing view of God. In this little book, Tripp offers us 52 short devotionals the explore the deep ugliness of our sin, but more importantly the beauty of grace that goes deeper still. Tripp refuses to move past the reality of soul-destroying sin in order to placate audiences with a cheapened and powerless form of 'grace'. However, he also refuses to lay upon our shoulders the weight of sin without taking us to the foot of the cross--the very place where our burdens are lifted.

This short book is a beautiful written exposition that, like the Psalm on which it is based, has a poetic 'soul'. Tripp often includes poetry and occasionally allows an entire devotional to take poetic form. His use of story adds a warm and real-life touch and his writing style is easily accessible.

Spiritual Leadership Moving People on to God's Agenda by Henry and Richard Blackaby

2009-01-22T10:00:00.000-08:00

Title: Spiritual Leadership
Author: Henry & Richard Blackaby
Publisher: Broadman & Holman Publishers
Year: 2001
ISBN: 0-8054-1845-8
Binding: Hardcover
Pages: 288
Reading Level: 2.0
Price: $13.59 on Amazon

Joe VonDoloski's Review:

My first question is how these authors found out about everything I have done wrong over the last 10 years of my life and why they were so cruel to write a book about it?

Seriously, this book deals with a gazillion mistakes made by leaders. It points them out, shows why they are unscriptural, gives examples of these mistakes in history and or Scripture, shows you how to repent and make amends. I lamented to my wife that I had not been given this book years ago. It would have saved me and those "enduring" my leadership much pain.

Chapter 1 begins by defining Spiritual Leadership. This is a worn out phrase, idea, and there are a billion books out there that claim to corner the market. Is there really anything an author can offer in the area of leadership that has not been written, patented, and seminared?

I believe that in Blackaby's definition, you can see that there is and he has.

Spiritual leadership is moving people on to God's agenda. Thank God! Has anyone noticed how impossible and frustrating it is getting people onto YOUR agenda?

Jesus sought His Father's will. Jesus' vision for himself and his disciples came from his Father.

Blackably asserts that the key to Jesus' leadership was not training others (Lk 6:12-13)but the relationship he had with his Father. It was always the Father's plan. John 3:16, 5:19-20,30; Matt 26:39

So the proposition of the book is stellar. The principle is effective not only in church situations, but in the world and in families. That is what makes this book so powerful. "Jesus trained his followers to watch for God's activity rather than to set their own agendas." pg 28

"Jesus has established the model for Christian leaders. It is not found in his "methodology." Rather, it is seen in his absolute obedience to the Father's will." Good leaders are followers. "Spiritual leaders understand that God is their leader." p 29

Chapter 3 deals with how God develops leaders. Most great leaders have waded through deep waters. Interestingly, many had poor relationships with their fathers. The author looks at childhood, physical attributes, failures, successes, and even birth order but emphasizes 'the active work of the Holy Spirit, and God giving the spiritual assignment. They offer an extended look at these principles in the life of Abraham.

Chapter 4 is about The Leaders Vision. Where leaders get it and how they communicate it. Vision is man produced, revelation is God-given. Vision should be what God has revealed and promised about the future.

Chapter 5 discusses character and what it is that moves people to follow you. "More than anything else, people are looking for spiritual leaders who are clearly experiencing God's presence." He then describes this trait in Moses, Joshua, Samuel, Deborah and Jesus. Chapter 7 deals with Influence. This is a John C. Maxwell law of Leadership. The author provides a clear call for the need of prayer in the life of leaders to learn of God's agenda.

I could go on and on about how the book talks about finishing what you start, but ... let me just say this. You are doing yourself a serious disservice to yourself, and those you lead if you do not purchase and read this book. Get online and order it. Why are you still reading? Go! order it.

A Body of Divinity

2009-01-16T04:00:00.000-08:00

A Body of Divinity

James Ussher

Title: A Body of Divinity: Being the Sum and Substance of the Christian Religion.
Author: Archbishop James Ussher (1581-1656)
Publisher: Solid Ground Christian Books
Year: 2007
Cover: Hardcover
Pages: 467
Binding: Smyth-sewn
Dust jacket: Yes
Reading level: 2.5 (average)
ISBN-10: 1599251086
Price USD: $39.95 from Solid Ground ($50.00 list price)

Josh Gelatt's Review: Reformed believers have unknowingly stood on the theological shoulders of Ussher. He was an instrumental figure among the Irish Puritans. He was greatly admired among his fellow countrymen, as well as across the channel in England. He is best known today for his Annuals of the World, which was a important interpretation of history through a Biblical framework. He was an eminent theologian who was greatly respected among his peers. During the formulation of the Westminster documents at the Westminster Assembly, copies of Ussher's Body of Divinty were present and regularly consulted. Probably no single individual was more influential on the content and form of the documents than Dr. Ussher.

There is some evidence that Ussher never intended this work for publication. He viewed it as a private work to aid his own thought-formulations, and readily admitted having borrowed many ideas, expressions, and thoughts from others in its construction. As such, the book is a virtual mine of propositional gems. I have been using the book for my evening devotional reading over the past month. The work is in a question and answer format, with the answers generally being a sentence or two, or perhaps a brief paragraph in length. While incredibly profound, the work is marked by clarity of thought. You will not find useless jargon in Ussher's Body of Divinity. It is practical, accessible, and user-friendly.

For example, Ussher asks the question What is the Love of God". His answer states, "It is an Essential Property in God, whereby he loveth himself above all, and others for himself". Ussher covers the diverse field of theology in a similar fashion. His dual aim seems to be (1) to solidly ground the reader in true Biblical knowledge, and (2) to prick the heart with the beauty of this knowledge.

Regarding this specific edition: The edition has been completely retype set, and now includes a helpful introduction. There are, however, some minor flaws. In comparing this edition to a 17th century (non-bound) facsimile edition I have in my possession, I noticed the editors inserted parenthetical comments. While this in and of itself is not problematic, it quickly becomes an issue for two reasons. First, Ussher himself inserted parenthetical comments, and (2) the editors do not distinguish between the two. Thus, the reader cannot know which comments are Usshers, and which belong to the editor. For example, on page one (5th question down), the editors insert the word (Humanism) in parenthesis after the word Heathenism and the words (Roman Catholicism) after the term Papism. Four questions down (still on page 1), there are several parenthetical comments, though these appear in the 17th edition I consulted. For a historical reprint, greater care should have been taken to distinguish the editors comments from the authors. However, I am 1/3 of the way through the book and am glad to see the editors only rarely insert comments.

The second quibble is in regards to a footnote found on page 16. Ussher is discussing the subjects of Mary's perpetual virginity and the Baptism of Infants. The editors include the following footnote:

"On both of these points we would strongly yet respectfully disagree with Ussher. We do not believe the Scriptures allow for the opinion of the perpetual virginity of Mary (Mathew 1:25; 13:55; John 7:5). Nor do we agree that Infant Baptism is sufficiently warranted by reasons of Scripture, but rather such a practice is inconsistent with it."

While I agree with the editors on both points, such a footnote is unbecoming in an historical reprint. Thankfully, that is the only footnote I could find in the entire work.

All in all, this is an excellent work that deserves a much wider audience in contemporary Christianity. With the resurgence of Puritan studies, now is the time to begin seriously studying those that shaped the minds of the Puritans themselves.

Physical construction of this edition: This book is beautifully bound in a green hardcover board with an attractive dust jacket. The binding is superb (smyth-sewn), and the text is white, clean, and tight. It was constructed to last a few lifetimes, and with normal care will certainly do so.

A Journey in Grace

2009-01-14T07:52:00.000-08:00

A Journey in Grace

Richard P. Belcher

Title: A Journey in Grace (A Theological Novel)
Author: Richard P. Belcher
Publisher: Richbarry Press
Year: 3rd Edition 2006
ISBN: 0-925703-11-7
Binding: Softcover
Pages: 240
Reading Level: 2.0
Price: $11.95

Joe VonDoloski's Review: This book takes the reader on a journey. Young pastor Ira Pointer finds himself confronted with the accusing question at his interview, "Young man, are you a Calvinist?" Having never heard the term before, he answers, "No!" as he can tell by the scowls and grimaces on the face of the pulpit committee that no self-respecting Christian would ever be one of those.

He then begins a journey to find out what a Calvinist is. He looks at history and the Scriptures to discover for himself what genuine historic Calvinism is. All along the way, he deals with all sorts of issues in the Seminary, with hostile professors, unregenerate roommates and love interests. We also see firsthand the problems that attend pastoring a church.

Many pastors and church members will immediately identify with the various situations that arise. A strength of the book is demonstrating how doctrine affects practice in the local church. This is a very readable book and a fabulous introduction to anyone seeking an unbiased approach to discovering what Calvinism is. I would recommend it for your church book table and even for a cell group study within your church.

Critique: One "weakness" of the book is that it deals with some of the weightiest subjects in all of Scripture in a very simple way. The author is clearly a Calvinist and though he will cause any person reading to consider the arguments, he by no means enters into all the theories, logic, and Scriptures that deal with subjects like Limited Atonement. Some more serious readers may be put off by him solving the subject of who Christ died for while, "nibbling popcorn and sipping Coke." Dr. Belcher is not irreverent in my opinion but is writing to an audience that is not ready to sit down and wade through a large doctrinal work on all the theories.

There are a series of "Journey" novels like this one on the richbarry web site where he deals with many of the subjects facing the church today that cause problems and splits from the same inductive approach. Pick this book up if you want an enjoyable read that also gives a good foundation for further study of the Atonement, and common misunderstandings of what historic, biblical Calvinism really is.

The Legacy of John Calvin

2009-01-11T13:34:00.000-08:00

The Legacy of John Calvin

David W. Hall

Title: The Legacy of John Calvin

Author: David W. Hall

Publisher: P&R Publishing

Year: 2008

ISBN: 9781596380851

Binding: Paperback

Pages: 112

Reading Level: 2.0

Price: $10.99 @ http://www.christianbook.com/

Jeremy Lee’s book review: The Legacy of John Calvin[i] tells the story of John Calvin’s life, influence on our culture and on evangelicalism. The highlight of the book is the first section which reviews ten ways John Calvin has impacted our modern culture. Hall argues that Calvin’s most important influence was the Academy in Geneva because it enabled his reforms to endure through the passage of time. Though Calvin and Calvinists do not immediately come to mind when mentioning care for the poor, Calvin’s care for the poor of Geneva through the diaconate should be a model both for churches and government on caring for the poor. Thirdly, the Calvinist’s positive view of God’s law caused them to look at law in positive light. The fourth influence was Calvin’s insistence that the church free from governmental interference. In addition to arguing for a free church, Calvin in his preaching argued for limited government with checks and balances. Thus, Calvin required at least two councils to make legislative decisions. Like Luther, Calvin taught “the sacredness of ordinary vocations.” Calvin believed in the dignity of hard work, which was encouraged by his belief in free markets. In fact, Hall argues wherever Calvinism existed, there was a love of free markets. Calvin also believed that worship should be in the vernacular; therefore, he encouraged the printing of a Psalter in the vernacular. Calvin’s final contribution dovetails with the previous contribution; he turned “the use of the [printing] press to an art form” using it to publish booklets expressing and defending the Reformed faith.

Many who believe that all Calvin had to say can be summarized by the TULIP acronym will be surprised to find no mention of it here. Calvinism is more than just soteriological formula. Calvinism is a world view. This is easy to discern from the above list. Our world not just our theology would truly be different were it not for Calvin’s thought and life because Calvin applied the whole Bible to all of life.

In the second section, Hall relates the story of Calvin’s life. Much in this section is redundant because of the previous section, yet it is helpful to understand Calvin’s influence in the context of his life. In addition, Hall’s sketch of Calvin’s life is not critical at all. At times, he seems to go overboard in his praise of Calvin. However, this is only a slight critique because Hall acknowledges this asking forgiveness because his aim is to rehabilitate a much maligned man.

The final section contains tributes from persons past and present “Baptists, Anglicans, independents, and Methodists…to illustrate that Calvin is esteemed by evangelicals from differing traditions.”

It is unfortunate that more believers and Americans do not realize the impact of John Calvin on both our theological and political beliefs. I hope that the recognition of Calvin’s 500th birthday and this series will call attention to his important influence. It would be great if the result was a renewed faith in Jesus Christ, a greater understanding of God’s Word, and a thoughtful application of its principles to all of life.

[i] This book is the second in a series of books celebrating the 500th birthday of John Calvin. The first book entitled A Theological Guide to Calvin’s Institutes is edited by David W. Hall and Peter A. Lillback. There are rumors on the web that the series consists of five books. The remaining three are not yet published, but I could not confirm this report.

For These Tough Times

2009-01-06T05:50:00.000-08:00

For These Tough Times

Max Lucado

Title: For These Tough Times
Author: Max Lucado
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Year: 2008
ISBN: 9780849901706
Binding: Hardcover
Pages: 84
Reading Level: 2.0
Price: $10.99

Josh Gelatt’s Review: Max Lucado serves as Senior Minister for Oak Hills Church in San Antonio, Texas. A popular best-selling author, Lucado's writings dominate the Evangelical landscape. I have always appreciated Lucado's warm and personal style of writing. Though not known for tackling issues deeply, he has an undeniable ability to stir and motivate the heart.

In Tough Times Lucado demonstrates a faith that is determined to experience hope and healing even in the midst of incomprehensible loss or difficulty. The book follows a predictable pattern, but does so with skill and vibrancy. It begins by asking the age-old question 'where is God' when tragedy strikes. In only a few short pages Lucado fails to articulate a robust biblical proof of God's sovereignty, but he does touch on those themes. Next, Lucado reminds believers of God's great love for them. Nothing--not even tragedy--can separate us from the love of God. In chapter three he encourages believers to keep their eyes on the Father and in chapter 4 that Scripture promises that good will ultimately triumph over evil.

Chapter 5 seems highly off topic, but did serve as a succinct statement on the dangers and innappropriatness of resentment and vengeance. In the next chapter Lucado reminds Christians to have a sense of reverence regarding God. We are to be still and know that He is. I was surprised at the brevity of this chapter, considering the themes of holiness and sovereignty are repeated constantly throughout Scripture. While Lucado did (lightly) touch on these themes, I walked away disappointed that he did not spend more time meditating on the grandeur and greatness of God. Lucado ends the book by reminding us talk with God in prayer during our difficult times and that departed Christian loved-ones are promised eternity with Christ.

The reader should note that this book does not present any new material. It is simply rehashed excerpts from other Lucado books. Sadly, Max Lucado has become something of a 'machine' that must produce a product--any product--to meet market demand. In the last several years most of the products carrying his name have been repackaged repeats of earlier works.

While I found Lucado's style warm, I walked away from this book disappointed. (1) He offered no fresh perspective. There are several other books on suffering that are excellent and will be more edifying to those encountering loss. (2) He offered nothing new. As mentioned above, the work is simply excerpts, sometimes oddly joined together, from other Lucado books. (3) He offers little depth. Each chapter left me with a sense of "this is it? Is that all he is going to say?"

The book is a handy place to begin with someone who is suffering from loss. But whatever you do, don't hand them this book and walk away. They will need answers this book hasn't provided. Better suggestions would be A Grace Disguised by Sittser or A Grief Observed by Lewis.

The Unwavering Resolve of Jonathan Edwards

2008-12-20T05:00:00.000-08:00

The Unwavering Resolve of Jonathan Edwards
Steven J. Lawson

Title: The Unwavering Resolve of Jonathan Edwards
Author: Steven J. Lawson
Publisher: Reformation Trust
Year: 2008
ISBN: 9781567691085
Binding: Hardcover
Pages: 200
Reading Level: 3.0
Price: $16.00

Places to Order
WTS Bookstore: $10.56
Monergism: $10.88
Reformation Trust: $12.80

Josh Gelatt’s Review: Steven Lawson serves as Senior Pastor of Christ Fellowship Baptist Church in Mobile, Alabama. An author of over a dozen books, Lawson now offers us the second volume in A Long Line of Godly Men series. His first volume highlighted the expository genius of John Calvin. In this volume, Lawson draws the readers attention to Jonathan Edward's faithful and unwavering resolve for the glory of God. The book relies heavily on Edward's Resolutions (provided as an appendix) and his personal diary.

The first two chapters of the book cover the background and life of Edwards. For those unacquainted with the man, these chapters provide a valuable introduction. Yet, this book less about Edwards and more about the nature of true discipleship. Using Jonathan Edwards as a guide, Lawson provides a desperately needed antidote to the superficial devotion evidenced in Western Christianity. In much of contemporary Evangelicalism, faith has has been reduced to its most therapeutic form. In an age where leading pastors are urging people to "give Jesus a 60-day trial and see how he improves your life", is it any wonder why much of the Church has lost a vision of the grandeur of God?

Surprisingly, Edwards would agree with the modern sentiment that God will improve our lives. In chapter 4 Lawson notes that Edwards "believed that prizing God above all else would lead to [our] greatest benefit" (p 66). In fact, his first resolution stated that bringing glory to God would result in his "own good, profit, and pleasure". It was no crime to Edwards to be motivated by a love for God and our own pleasure. Where Edwards would disagree with modern expressions of Christianity is in the order of these motivations and our ability to accomplish the latter.

In chapter three Lawson demonstrates, through Edwards' own spiritual journey, that the prerequisite of faith is the recognition of our own inability. Not only are we incapable of providing for ourselves lasting pleasure, according to Edwards we are also unable to bring glory to God through our own strength. In chapter 4 Lawson demonstrates Edwards' firm belief that the desire to bring glory to God must be our chief motivation. While he believed our own joy would arise from this motivation, he nevertheless affirmed the absolutely necessity of desiring God above all things. For Edwards, this involved a positive as well as a negative. It meant there are actions we must do, as well as actions we must avoid. Even good things, if they are not for God's glory, must be avoided. Lawson writes that Edwards "passed up the good and the better for the best".

Chapter five offers the first step in becoming a person who brings glory to God: putting away sin. Lawson begins the chapter with a remarkable definition: "sin is the antithesis of God's glory, a contradiction of His holy nature" (p 77). If there ever was a soul-damaging problem in the contemporary church it is found in her flippant understanding of sin. Chapter 6 reconstructs Edwards' understanding of the shortness of human life. He lived as if he would die at any moment. Larson writes, "Always living as if he were at the end of his life caused him to live for what is best, the glory of God". As such, every activity in his daily life was made subordinate to his primary motivation in life. This disciplined life is expanded upon in chapter seven. Edwards monitored his eating habits, use of time, and daily activities--all in order to maximize God's glory.

Chapter eight unfolds for us how Edwards brought glory to God through developing a heart of love for others. True discipleship cannot exist in a vacuum. Our relationships are one of the greatest spheres in which we can magnify the Lord's glory. In the final chapter, Lawson walks us through Edward's repeated practice of self-examination. Lawson writes, "only by regularly scrutinizing ourselves can we engage in the pursuit of personal holiness to the fullest extent".

The last few decades have seen a resurgence of Reformed thought. The last and greatest sola of the Reformation, to one to which the other four point and find their logical conclusion, is soli Deo gloria (to the glory of God alone). Lawson notes in the conclusion that "there is a desperate need for a new generation to arise onto the scene of history that will prize and promote the glory of our awesome God (p 154)." In this profile of the life of Jonathan Edwards, Lawson provides this generation with a sure-footed guide.

The American Patriot's Almanac

2008-12-19T14:31:00.000-08:00

The American Patriot's Almanac

William J. Bennett

Title: The American Patriot's Almanac
Author: William J. Bennett
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Year: 2008
ISBN: 978-1955-5267-9
Binding: Hardcover
Pages: 515
Reading Level: 2.5
Price: $32.99

Josh Gelatt’s Review: William Bennett has provided a delicious volume that is sure to please patriotic readers. Written as an almanac, the book provides 365 daily readings highlighting some of the most precious moments of America's history. Throughout the volume, special attention is paid to the Revolutionary period of Colonial America, though Bennett does not ignore other important moments of our past.

In the introduction, Bennett defends his decision to write a book with the clear intention of promoting patriotism. He states, "Some folks view patriotism as something quaint and even embarrassing, an awkward sentiment out of step with modern times". Rejecting this negative view of our nation, Bennett states that "Our nation's founding principles of liberty and equality are among humanity's noblest aspirations. As long as the United States is a place dedicated to those principles, then to be an American patriot is to love something noble and good". Bennett also stresses that America is far from perfect, and true patriotism isn't blind loyalty. He notes that we need "loving critics who use their minds and free wills to examine the country's actions closely and raise concerns when necessary". However, a patriot is someone who is trying
"to make [American] as good as it can possibly be."

Perhaps modern critics will fault Bennett for viewing America through rose-colored glasses. It is indeed possible that the idealized American he presents, one based on principle and ideal, never truly existed. That may be so. However, Bennett has rightly stressed that throughout our nation's history many men and women have resolved to live according to those principles.

The Christian reader should note that Bennett repeatedly brings out matters of religion and faith throughout the book. Though the work is not overtly Christian, it does not shy away from affirming our nations historic connection with Christianity. For those wishing to promote a sense of patriotism in their children, this is a wonderful resource.

A Taste of Heave (Sproul)

2008-12-17T05:00:00.000-08:00

A Taste of Heaven

R.C. Sproul

Title: A Taste of Heaven
Author: R.C. Sproul
Publisher: Reformation Trust
Year: 2006
ISBN: 1-56769-076-9
Binding: Hardcover
Pages: 173
Reading Level: 2.0
Price: $15.00

Josh Gelatt’s Review: "Worship...is far too important to be left to personal preferences". This statement, made in the first chapter of Sproul's book on worship, sets the tone for the entire discussion that follows. R.C. Sproul offers the Christian community a mini-theology of worship. He convincingly argues that far from standing back and allowing us complete freedom in how we choose to worship, God in fact preciously defined worship for the Old Testament believer. The author challenges his readers to ask the question: “If God Himself were to design worship, what would it look like?” The answer is simple: “We’re not left to speculate on the answer to that question, because vast portions of the Old Testament text are specifically devoted to a style and practice of worship that God Himself ordained and established among His people.” While recognizing the inherent discontinuity with the New Covenant, Sproul still sees operative principles at work.

The several chapters of the book cover a wide range of issues related to worship. Worship is something which demands the entirety of the believer (living sacrifices) and involves three elements: offerings of praise, offerings of prayer, and offerings of sacrifice. The middle portion of the book is an extended discussion of the sacraments (Lord's Supper and Baptism) and their relationship to worship.

The book includes three chapters on baptism, the last one being a defense of infant baptism. In this chapter Sproul gives what is perhaps the most irenic and charitable disagreement with believer's baptism currently in print. He fairly portrays the Baptist point of view and carefully outlines his rationale for padeobaptism. Frankly, these three chapters alone are worth the price of the book. Yet, although this last chapter was very helpful it did seem out of place. It's significance to worship wasn't readily evident and if he had simply omitted this chapter the flow of the book would have been smoother and more focused.

Sproul then challenges the worshipper who is bored with worship. They are bored, he insists, "because they have no sense of the presence of God". Only when we understand that worship is an encounter with the risen Christ will ours hearts be set ablaze. To achieve this understanding, Sproul believes we must allow our whole person to enter into worship. Thus, the last section of the book argues for utilization of all five senses (following what Sproul believes to be an Old Testament model). This section was fascinating, but far too brief and ends somewhat abruptly.

Overall, this volume is an excellent overview of the basic biblical principles of worship.