My Merry Christmas ~ A Book Review

As both a father and a reader, I look forward to finding and sharing books with my children. It’s a joy to see that like me, my children don’t like to leave the house without a book in hand, even to go to the store just six blocks away. Just last month, using a gift card from my oldest son’s birthday, we picked up a number of books we enjoyed from our childhood in hopes that he would also enjoy them . . . and thus far they provided hours of enjoyment. However, finding good children’s books can be hard; even more, finding good children’s books that impart themes of Christ and God is even more difficult. To be straightforward, I almost always cringe when someone gets us those types of books as gifts, often based on the fact that it’s a ‘religious’ book and we are a ‘religious’ family. So often, in an effort to make it more understandable, the theology of children’s books is so watered down that it borders on heretical. Therefore, it was a surprise to read My Merry Christmas by Sally Lloyd-Jones.

It’s a short book, fully-illustrated, and definitely geared for the very young child. The author has simply taken the basic concepts of what we find with a Christmas tree (the lights, angels, stars, and presents) and gives them a Christian meaning as a way to explain the Christmas story. The illustrations go back and forth between a group of forest animals decorating a tree for Christmas and picturing the birth of Christ.

In a book such as this, you can expect the theology to be basic and some may find concern with the author’s allegorization of the Christmas tree. However, the author’s presentation does two things. First, it stays true to the Christian message of Christmas. Second, the author’s wording can prompt conversations between parents and children towards a deeper gospel message. While trying to make it simple, Sally Lloyd-Jones does not shy away from difficult concepts. Phrases like “Live in us, dear Lord, we pray” convey a deep truth that often requires explanation and thus give parents an open door to share more.

One of the final aspects that I found personally appreciative is that the author incorporates the concept of prayer. Even at preschool and kindergarten age (which this book is geared towards), children can understand the action of prayer. It is details such as this that make the book enjoyable.

Before I had a chance to review this book, my wife read it to our two oldest children who not only enjoyed it but also were learning from it. For us, it was refreshing to find a Christian children’s book that was fun, understandable, and did not compromise the integrity of God’s message. Perhaps this is a good book to pick up for your Christmas festivities with your children or grandchildren; not only will it provide a good time, but it will also give you an opportunity to discuss more about Christ.

To purchase a copy of this book, click here. Note: While I prefer hard copy books and would especially recommend them for young children, I recognize the value in ebooks (as a missionary overseas, I rely heavily on ebooks). In this case, the Kindle version of this book is only about $3.00, making it a cheap investment.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher at no cost to me for the purposes of review. However, my review was not influenced by the author, publisher, or any other person associated with the book and instead is the result of my own reading.

Portraits of a Pastor ~ A Book Review

While the Word of God never changes, and thus our interpretation of it never changes, it seems that few books being published these days about the timeless Word of God could themselves be described as timeless. Portraits of a Pastor (edited by Jason K. Allen) appears to be a timeless book. Certainly, only time will tell, but the immediate value of this book is real, and it’s straightforward revelation of truth applied to a pastoral context. That makes this a valuable resource and a needed resource.

What is a pastor and what are his responsibilities? Despite biblical clarity, the answer to that question often eludes many people. Therefore, Portraits of a Pastor seeks to open up the Scripture and answer those very questions. To do this, nine men united to examine the various roles that a pastor must fulfill. Each author has been chosen to write about the area that he specializes in, making this a book of the experts. Utilizing a chapter each, the authors dig deep into God’s word to give the following portraits of a pastor:

• Pastor as shepherd
• Pastor as husband and father
• Pastor as preacher
• Pastor as theologian
• Pastor as church historian
• Pastor as evangelist
• Pastor as missionary
• Pastor as leader
• Pastor as man of God

Examining individual portraits, together these give an overview of just what is expected of a pastor.

While most of the roles a pastor fills are not surprising, there are a couple of surprises on this list (i.e. church historian, missionary). Yet, even some of the expected roles are frequently overlooked (i.e. theologian, shepherd). Therefore, one can appreciate the conviction that each author writes with and the emphasis towards Godliness that is conveyed.

Bogged down by worldly expectations of a pastor, rarely is the first view towards the godly expectations of a pastor. The authors have done well at utilizing a short amount of space (193 pages) by highlighting the major points within each role. Frustrated with many of the books that Moody Publishers so willingly publish, it is nice to see them publish a book of this caliber that maintains a deep conviction of truth. This is a must-have read for every pastor.

To purchase a copy of this book, click here.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher at no cost to me for the purposes of review. However, this review is not influenced by the author, editor, publisher, or anyone associated with the book and is the response of my own reading of the book. 

A Reader’s Guide to the Writings of Jonathan Edwards ~ A Book Review

A preacher who provoked hearts and challenged listeners, Jonathan Edwards has a legacy that transcends generation. Few recognize just how far Edwards influence extends having in his line descendants who profoundly influenced politics, religion, and business in the United States. Edwards legacy is one that at times brings forth theological contention and contemplation but it is a legacy that results oftentimes in discussion, sometimes in dissension, and nearly always in development. It makes reading Jonathan Edwards a notable endeavor, but not always an easy one.

With a host of scholars, Nathan Finn and Jeremy Kimble have put together just the book meant to help readers navigate the most notable and lengthy of Jonathan Edwards. Seeking to help readers understand the background of Edwards’ writings, the book consists of ten chapters, each written by a different scholar, covering an overview of Edwards to specific writings such as Freedom of the Will and Religious Affections, all the while dissecting his theology so that his writings can be better understood. This is not a book that addresses everything available from Edwards, nor does it even address all of his writings. It is a book focusing on understanding Edwards and his writings more by simply looking at the main writings, and in defining that as the primary goal, the authors have done it and done it very well.

To be forthright, often times when I see writings about other’s writings, I haven’t quite figured out the point. Most of the time it is simply restating what the author had already published, and so it makes more sense to go straight to the source rather than add another layer that might make it misunderstood. With that experience, the expectation with reading this particular book was about the same. Therefore, I must be the first to confess, I was wrong. The authors do not merely restate Edwards, but rather they cite him only to give example and clarity to their points being made. Instead, they have fixated on three points:

• Historical Context: There is an explanation about the circumstances taking place at the time. Like understanding the historical context when we read Scripture, the historical context here helps to give understanding and reasoning to the topics that Edwards addressed and why he did so in the manner that he did.
• Christian Context: More than just historical background, the authors frequently address what is taking place in the context of Christianity. Bringing forth figures, functions, and facts so that readers understand even more about the points that Edwards makes in his writings.
• Personal Context: Finally, each offers up insights into who Edwards was as a man so that readers can once again better see his reasoning, theology, and thinking that lead the conclusions and comments he made.

As a result of this, the authors aren’t merely telling people what Edwards wrote, but they explain why he wrote what he did.

The result is a book that adds value to the writings of Jonathan Edwards because it allows readers to grip the reality in which Edwards lived. Such a recognition makes reading Edwards more clear and more personal. As a result, unlike most books of this style, I would recommend it because it provides opportunity to dissect not only Edwards and his theology, but also our own as it compels us to think more deeply about what we believe and why.

To purchase a copy of this book, click here.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher at no cost to me for the purposes of review. However, this review was not influenced by the author, publisher, or anyone else associated with this book and is the result of my own reading of the book.

Emotionally Charged or In Charge? (Part 1)

The more science evolves, the more medicine heals, and the more psychology analyzes the result seems to be less of an understanding about the complexities of humans. Instead, we reduce humans to the most basic of elements in attempt to take away any sense of personal recognition, personal responsibility, and personal respectability. The latest victim in the reductions of humans is emotions.

These days, emotions have nothing to do with a person’s desires, a person’s morality, or a person’s feelings. Now they have been reduced to nothing more than chemicals within the body. Such a notion is easy to accept for a secular society because of the following:

• Emotions Can Be Defined: Reducing emotions to nothing more than the results of chemicals means that emotions we have now can be more clearly defined (although accuracy is not necessarily considered in that definition)
• Emotions Can Be Controlled: Because emotions are supposedly more defined and understood it gives people the sense of control over them. Now we have routines, exercises, and medications that utilize this additional knowledge in order to control emotions and achieve desired outcomes.
• Emotions Can Be Rationalized: Finally, because emotions are nothing more than a few chemicals, they can be rationalized away.

It’s fascinating to watch as people clamor for ways in which  to control their emotions with these new understandings, and yet, when something occurs, the response is to rationalize those emotions as simple chemical imbalances that a person had no control over. To define, control, and rationalize emotions though gives people the sense of power and being in control and the outcomes of their life are not up to anything outside of themselves.

With those outcomes, one can easily see why so many are quick to adopt the mindset and suggestion that emotions are nothing more than the result of chemical interactions. Yet, few consider the consequences of such a mindset when that is accepted as truth because it ignores three major aspects:

• It Ignores Complexity: The mindset ignores the fact that humans are complex beings full of many parts, including a body, mind, and soul and it fails to consider how each of those parts can play a part into emotions.
• It Ignores Science: Interestingly, such a mindset ignores evolution, which is considered one of the key facets to modern science. It does this because it makes evolution responsible for those chemical reactions and adds a layer of discord to the probability that random chance could construct humans in the ‘perfect’ way.
• It Ignores God & God’s Character: It should go without saying that the whole discussion ignores God. It dismisses God as creator and author of lives, however it goes further by denying the very essence of God’s character (as moral, just, good, etc.).

While science and God should not be in opposition of one another, the culture has made them opposites, and so it seems that if you have a concept that ignores both science and God, then it is either false or compels an existence that is independent of any reasonable assertion. Such is the consequence when rational and factual thinking is not employed . . . inconsistencies result.

However, the repercussions of these keep compounding and go even further. Consider that people accept the fact that emotions are chemical based because they can define them, control them, and rationalize them. As a result, they ignore science, God, and humanity in the process. Yet, these consequences go further because they minimize the importance of emotions by taking away the following:

• Takes Away Responsibility: First, it takes away a person’s individual responsibility for his or her emotions. Instead, the excuse is made that the person cannot control his or her emotions because they are just a matter of chemicals not being correct (and we could add to that the excuse that the medication is simply not working if the person is taking any).
• Takes Away Meaning: It takes away the meaning and significance of our emotions. If love is a matter of the chemicals in our brain, then love doesn’t really matter in our society does it? The same could then be said of hatred as well.
• Takes Away Goodness: Finally, it simply takes away the goodness that come with emotions. Responding with emotions without the influence of rationality can be bad, but emotions themselves are not necessarily without goodness, especially since they come from a God who is good.

All that God has given us is good; we must simply consider that they are tainted by our sin and thus subject to misuse, misinterpretation, and misappropriation.

To claim that our emotions are simply a matter of chemical imbalances has severe implications, most notably it takes the burden of responsibility away from individuals (something we seek to do often these days). It reminds us of the need to be cautious in which claims we accept in light of a biblical worldview. It also causes us to question, as Christians, what do we do? The answer to that question comes next week in part two.

Photo “Trust No Emotion” courtesy of user Jeremy Brooks and Flickr.

CSB Spurgeon Study Bible ~ A Book Review

It has been almost a year now since the Holman Christian Standard Bible underwent major review and revisions including updated text and a name change to simply the Christian Standard Bible. Those changes came not only with some textual updates, but the Bible itself got a facelift of updates, including new formats, layouts, and volumes. Thus, this year has seen the release of a plethora of new Bibles featuring the Christian Standard text. The most recent addition, perhaps one of the most unique, and certainly highly anticipated by many was the addition of the CSB Spurgeon Study Bible.

One of the first considerations that must be dealt with is the text itself. There was much to appreciate about the previous version and I lament some of those aspects were taken away. However, at the same time some of those changes are understandable in order to update the text, maintain consistency, and continue fidelity to God’s Word. For a more detailed look at some of my thoughts on those changes, you can click here. Often I still use the previous text for my daily readings and study, however, the text of the new Christian Standard Bible is still very good and should be commended. Therefore, the use of this Bible based upon the text alone is an excellent choice.

Beyond the text of the Bible itself, one then must consider that this is a Bible built upon the notes, sermons, and writings of Charles Spurgeon. The mere mention of his name can be polarizing. Some avoid Spurgeon because of his declaration as a calvinist. Others avoid him because he was a baptist. Still more dislike of his defense of the gospel. During his life he was hated on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean, and that continues today. Regardless of those points though, there is much to learn from his teaching, his discipleship, and his example. Therefore, setting aside discussions about his theology and positions, there is much to be gained by spending time in this particular Bible.

The advantages here are that some of the most powerful notes to come out of Spurgeon’s ministry are joined together and placed directly with the verses that they reference. The simplicity, yet powerful observations that come with the words of Charles Spurgeon comes four points:

• Appreciation of Scripture: Certainly Spurgeon considered the Bible to be authoritative and one can appreciate its true beauty and value from the insights.
• Appreciation of God: From Genesis 1:1 it is easy to read Spurgeon’s Words and be enthralled with who God is, thus pushing believers to incline their hearts more to him.
• Appreciation of Christ: Like gaining an appreciation of God, Spurgeon was a Christ-centered preacher who exalted Christ in every aspect at every opportunity, therefore, you can expect to see that come out here.
• Appreciation of the Gospel: Finally, Charles Spurgeon was a man oriented and motivated by the gospel. As the focal point of his ministry, it is the focal point his teachings as well.

Each of us could grow in our appreciation and thus, these four points are beneficial for all of us.

To accomplish the promotion of appreciation, the Bible is like any study Bible, coming with notes for the verses and a variety of articles. Those additional articles include a biography of Spurgeon, varying quotes and illustrations and even the inclusion of 20 sermons.

Therefore, there is much to be gained from the CSB Spurgeon Study Bible, from the insights of the text itself to the notes that come with it. One major aspect that should not be overlooked is the role that Alistair Begg played in putting together the information contained within the Bible. As a man who has spent much time in Spurgeon’s writings (he has also edited versions of the Morning & Evening devotionals) he is a solid pick to help construct this work. That notion alone should cause many to consider picking up this Bible for the sake of studying and understanding, even if total agreement with Spurgeon is not found from you. There are great benefits in utilizing it.

To purchase a copy of the CSB Spurgeon Study Bible, click here. You can also learn more about the Bible by visiting the website, csbspurgeonstudybible.com.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this Bible from the publisher for the purposes of review. However, the review was not influenced in any way by the publisher, editor, or any other person associated with the book and is instead the result of my own reading of the book.

From the Archives: Parenting ~ A Book Review

With holidays both in the United States and my country of residence this week, blog reading this wee is a bit slower, so I’m taking the opportunity to break from most writing this week by providing some reads from the archives. Enjoy!

Few are able to get at the heart of an issue like Paul Tripp. It does not matter the form that his teaching takes, whether written or oral, the truth of what he reveals addresses the source of human conflict with practical wisdom from Scripture. Therefore, when Tripp released his book Parenting: 14 Gospel Principles That Can Radically Change Your Family on September 30th, Christians took notice. The question to be asked though is: “Was it worth noticing?” After devouring the book, I give you one answer: “Yes.”

The gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ is a lens through which every life situation is filtered. Such a premise should include the aspect of parenting. Yet, it is easy to fail to see how exactly the gospel impacts our stewardship over the children entrusted to our care. Recognizing this, the author has built his book not upon strategies for parenting, but upon reorienting people towards the gospel in order “to give you the big gospel picture of the task to which your savior has called you” (location 146). He not only accomplishes his goal, but he goes further to compel readers to apply the gospel to the activity of parenting.

The author has written a book of fourteen chapters so that each chapter focuses on a specific aspect of the Christian life. He asserts the role of each both in the Christian life in general and then applies it specifically to the impact it has upon our parental mind. Tripp mixes chapters oriented towards the mindset of parents (i.e. ambassadors, calling, law and identity) with those oriented towards activities (i.e. grace, inability, process, authority, and mercy) in such a way that they are directed towards the heart attitude with which you parent your children.

There is one thing that is certain: if you do not want to be convicted of your own failures and sin, don’t read the book, because it will be difficult. Tripp doesn’t deal with the symptoms but with the core issues and in doing so reveals the heart issues that must be diagnosed. Through the use of Scripture, he not only shows you the word of God, but he forces you to examine it, either by going to the verse yourself or asking you to consider what it is you just read. In other words, it’s not merely his words that convict, but God’s.  However, his own humility allows him to do so in such a way that compels readers to be honest in this personal assessment and to willingly to put into practice the truth that is the gospel.

While the greatest challenge is always self-confrontation, I suspect other will be challenged in others ways. Tripp tackles the modern paradigm that frames our parenting and forces readers to analyze them with a biblical framework. At times it can be very provocative in his handling of topics such as the working parents, rightful authority over children, and so on. Yet these are issues that need to be addressed from a biblical worldview, and whether you agree or not, they are worthy of consideration.

His writing style is very simplistic and easy to follow. Each chapter covers a single topic and begins with a principle. That assertion is then discussed and proven by the content of the chapter. Therefore, it is easy to follow Tripp’s discussion and get much out of the information he provides.

Perhaps the only drawback to the book is that it is heavily repetitious. In some sense, that is necessary because we need repetition simply for the sake of remembering. At another level, it’s easy to understand the need for repetition because, while each chapter addresses a specific topic, sometimes topics overlap. In that regard, we can appreciate it. Yet, I confess that sometimes it was so repetitious that it can be distracting and frustrating. I consider this to be of small consequence though and in no way does it take away from my opinion of both the author and his book.

We need more books like Tripp’s book on parenting. Books that will address everyday issues and life circumstances by merely showing us the gospel and how it is lived out within the context of our lives. In that regard then, I would urge all parents to pick up a copy. Certainly you will benefit from it.

Pro Reading Tip: One of the things I appreciate about Paul Tripp’s writings, is that while they may deal with a specific topic usually they are applicable across other areas. What’s that mean? It means that I would suggest you read this book even if you are not a parent or your children are no longer at home. You will find principles and concepts that carryover to a variety of life situations (i.e. I find that many principles in this book would be beneficial for when doing ministry).

To pick up a copy of Paul Tripp’s, Parenting, click here. Recently, I reviewed Paul Tripp’s latest release, Come, Let Us Adore Him. To read that review and see a list of other recommended books from the author, click here.

Full Disclosure: As part of Crossway’s blog review program, I received an electronic copy of this book at no charge. However, that had no bearing upon my review of this book.

Come, Let Us Adore Him ~ A Book Review

Next week is Thanksgiving, which means the Christmas is near at hand. For many, Thanksgiving is the gateway to the inauguration of the shopping season. Unfortunately for many Christians, it means that in the hustle from the department store to the grocery store and every stop in between, the wonder of what we should be celebrating becomes unsalvageable. Therefore, it is necessary to be reminded of the magnitude of what we are celebrating by reflecting deeply upon it with purpose and profundity (not like giving a list of material thanksgivings on Facebook that requires little thought and little reflection).

If there is anyone who does well at fixating upon Christ and causing a deep meditation upon his person and work, it is Paul Tripp. Admittedly, I am a little biased when it comes to his ministry as I find myself looking to his materials continuously, both personally and professionally. Three years ago Paul Tripp released a yearly devotional called New Morning Mercies that includes a short proposition, an exposition on that proposition, ending with suggested readings from Scripture passages. Three years later, and Paul Tripp has released another devotional, Come, Let Us Adore Him. However, it comes with some particular changes. First, this devotional is advent oriented, covering only the month of December with an emphasis on Jesus, the Christ. Second, Tripp has included an additional section for parents and children that is meant to give discussion prompters and teaching points when talking with your children.

Admittedly, there are times that I wish Tripp cited more Scripture (especially in the earlier devotions). This is not because what he has to say is unbiblical, but rather because it is. In fact, many of his comments follow right a long for Scripture, and it would be helpful for readers to know where those thoughts came from so that they can both verify what the author says and be encouraged to dive into Scripture. However, we can’t really say that the devotional lacks any of these points. After all, each devotional comes with recommended passages to be read, and there are times in which he does cite the reference.

Regardless, the author’s adoration of the Son, Jesus Christ, is continuously conveyed. Furthermore, his ability to communicate has the propensity to cause others to capture the necessity and vision of such adoration as well. Although true worship is aided by the Spirit (see John 4:22-24) it is certain that the Lord has gifted the author in being able to aide this.

It can be easy to question the need for such a book, especially in light of the fact that Paul Tripp has already put together a yearly devotional. However, the emphasis is not only different, but it comes during a season in which we should be fixating on Christ the most and yet seem to be riveted by him the least. That in itself makes this a worthwhile read. However, for families, the additional talking points section for family devotions creates the opportunity to generate the habit of family devotions with something that is helpful, practical, and simple. With the month of December a mere few weeks, now is the time to pick up this book, and I would urge readers to do so.

To purchase this book or some of my favourite books from Paul Tripp, click the following links:

• Come, Let Us Adore Him
• New Morning Mercies
• Parenting (Read the review of this book here)
• Instruments in the Redeemer’s Hands
• What Did You Expect?
• Awe
• Dangerous Calling
• How People Change

Or to browse a longer list of titles, click here.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher for the purposes of review at no cost to me. However, the review was not influenced by the publisher, the author, or any other person associated with the book as is instead, the result of my own reading of the book.

Missions ~ A Book Review

Missions: The Book

It appears that the missions is beginning to waver. The priority of missions is no longer found in the churches and so few missionaries are being sent out that not only is missions not growing, but it can even maintain because the number being sent cannot keep pace with the number leaving. As a missionary, this is the world that I am engaged in, and therefore I frequently hear from pastors and lay leaders who are at a loss about how to invigorate their missions program (both as a sending and supporting church). Many know about missions; few understand missions.

Finding good resources to point people to is difficult. There are many great books out there about the why of missions, yet there are few (biblically-based) books out there that can guide church leaders to the implementation of missions. This is partly because there are so many aspects which are further complicated by a degree of separation in which its hard to convey certain thoughts and principles for people who have not actually experienced missions themselves. Andy Johnson, together with IX Marks, has released a book that surveys missions and addresses some of those very issues.

IX Marks is an organization devoted the healthy development of the church. A tremendous resource with much practical insight and advice coming from Scripture, they also routinely release books under this organization that are also devoted to building up healthy churches. Missions by Andy Johnson is the next book in that series addressing the concept of missions in/by the local church.

The book is short (128 pages) and while very practical, it will not be overwhelming for readers. Instead it will compel deep thinking about why and how we fulfill the Great Commission. The seven chapters and conclusion address varying parts of the mission process, first by setting some foundational principles from the Bible (chapters 1 & 2) before going into some specifics that include sending and supporting missionaries (chapter 3), partnering with missionaries (chapter 5) and even short-term missions (6).

Missions: The Critique

Perhaps a copule of things lack. The first is a chapter devoted to raising up missionaries from within your own church. The second is the role of prayer from the supporting church. I recognize the book is meant to be short and readers should not expect it to be comprehensive, however expounding upon these two concepts would add much value because so many churches seem to have a disconnect between discipling people within their own church and its relationship to raising up future missionaries.

The only other critique is the author’s view on partnering with missionaries and having them spend time with the supporting church. The author stipulates that when they partner with a missionary they want that missionary to spend a large amount of time with the church (even a year or so). In one degree, I personally agree with this. It’s something that I find lacking in the way we do missions today; rarely do we get to intimately know the people of the churches that are supporting us because usually churches only want us to come for a day or two with a few minutes of time presenting our ministry before sending us off again. Therefore, the  However, there is an unaddressed point in this concept that makes it impractical. For missionaries heading to the field for the first time, this may be ideal, if the missionary already has support or can maintain a job in order to support the family. However, for missionaries already on the field, this isn’t feasible for two reasons. First, it takes away their time visiting other supporters; second, it can be counter-productive for missionaries to leave their field for that length of time, especially when you are trying to begin a very new work where new believers exist. So while in theory this is a good point, perhaps some flexibility in practicality would be advisable.

Missions: The Substance

Missions is meant to be a book that sets a foundation and gives perspective about missions. It’s not comprehensive in what it teaches, but is profound and insightful in what it teaches. Therefore, it is a book that is necessary. There are several key points that one can expect to find in this book, including the following:

• Priority of Missions: As one would expect, Andy Johnson gives clear points as to the necessity and priority of missions. In doing so, he elevates a forgotten task and conveys its importance.
• Priority of the Bible: The author has done a great job at not only using Scripture as the foundation, but also explaining its necessity. In doing so, he highlights why correct theology is important. Too often, correct theology is assumed or considered unimportant. What we don’t realize is that a such a view is contributing to the rise of heresy in the world. Solid churches are exporting it to the unsaved world without realizing it because they have failed to properly analyze who they are supporting.
• Priority of the Local Church: From the outset the author establishes a key point by stating, “It’s not primarily the job of missions organizations to address the problem. This is a primarily the job of every local church.” Somehow we have disconnected missions from the local church, however the burden in Scripture is clearly placed on the church. Missions organizations can help us, especially in navigating complex laws, finances, and cultural issues that churches are ill-equipped to handle, but they are not meant to supplant the local church, only to supplement. It is important that Andy Johnson brings readers to this point throughout the entire book.
• Priority of the Missionary: Finally, it seems simplistic that you cannot have missions without missionaries. However, the author has taken time to discuss who missionaries are. While not taking away from their fallen state that is revived through Christ, he emphasizes how critical it is to have qualified missionaries with a spiritual life above reproach (all biblical concepts). One of my key discussion points with others about who to support is simply this: if you wouldn’t have them serve in your church, why would you support them as a missionary? The author highlights this same concept throughout.

The four key points make the book, Missions, a profound and provocative book for the local church.

As a missionary, Andy Johnson says a lot of things that I would like to say (or have tried to say). He covers many points that should be considered more deeply when thinking about missions involvement and implementation from the local church. Therefore, the book is one of necessity that should be read not merely by those interested in missions, but by the entire church body.

To purchase a copy of the book, Missions, click here. A good book to supplement with this book is Senders by Paul Seger (director of Biblical Ministries Worldwide) which you can find by clicking here. The two books work well together.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher at no cost to me for the purposes of review. However, the review was not influenced by the publisher, the author, or anyone else associated with this book and is the response of my own reading.

Fusion ~ A Book Review

Ask most pastors, lay leaders, and church members the health of their church and inevitably most of them will direct you towards their numbers. To many, those numbers are the defining measurement by which a church is or is not growing. As a result many churches are looking for ways to grow membership in their churches. Coming together to share what worked for the explosive growth at the Journey Church, Nelson Search and Jennifer Dykes Henson have released Fusion: Turning First-Time Guests into Fully Engaged Members of Your Church.
The book is a simple explanation of developing and integrating a system within the church in order to spur growth and involvement from first-time attenders. This system, and it is a system, is not about getting new people into the church, but instead focuses on guests and visitors that may attend and how to maintain contact with them. Over the course of the 200 pages and nine chapters the authors put together a step-by-step checklist of engaging and following-up with guests so that they don’t merely return to your church, but also are engaged (or assimilated as the authors say) in your church. While the authors have accomplished their objective according to their own definitions, this is really a book wrought with problems and concerns combined with many missed opportunities.

Low View Of God’s Word
Unfortunately, even when statements are made that are in line with Scripture, the authors fail to convey it from a conviction of God’s Word. Searcy and Hanson bring forth some important points that focus on hospitality towards guests and exhort readers to the need for excellence. However, they miss an opportunity to teach from a depth of conviction that comes from God’s Word and instead utilize secular reasoning. For example, there is an opportunity here to utilize Scripture to show how a love for God and love for others results in the very characteristics (like hospitality) that they are calling on readers to have. As a result, readers are left desolate with nothing of more value than what the world has to offer apart from God.

Low View of God’s People
Whereas the authors have missed the connection between godly hospitality and godly love as it comes from a love for God, that inability to connect results in a lack of genuine care for the people coming through the doors. Instead, it treats all people as nothing more than a system. This is not my phrasing, but rather the authors repeatedly refer to what they are teaching as a system. It is a system that is built not upon the needs of the people, but on the wants of the church. This system treats every person as the same by sending the same form letter, the same follow-ups and having the same interactions with all with little recognition of the individual needs of each person.

Low View of God’s Church
Thirdly, the book demonstrates a low view of God’s church body by focusing on numbers and programs. This is further demonstrated in chapter 8 when the discussion approaches getting guests involved in service in the church. There are two major concerns with this. First, there is no discussion of salvation. Second, the authors discuss service in certain areas before membership. These are areas in which caution must be exercised because we certainly do not want unbelievers teaching/influencing believers. Furthermore, membership demonstrates a commitment to the church and the church’s doctrine, therefore membership plays an important role in the determination of who should serve in the church in this way. Now, I must be fair and say that the author’s did not exclusively say get involved new guests involved in teaching only; however, the consistent lack of caution and care over God’s people combined with a lack of clarity leave open an interpretation that many would follow if they are not appropriately taught, and so the author’s have not taken seriously their role as teachers here.

Low View of God’s Work
Each of these points to a major issue of the book: the authors have a low view of God’s work in the lives of people. Not once do the authors mention the need for conversion and in fact, they seem to assume that every person who enters the doors is already a believer and simply needs to be plugged into the church’s programs. I would propose that this comes from a low view of God’s people. The authors have little recognition of the depths of the spiritual needs of the people who come through the doors and instead are more focused upon growing the numbers of their church. The result is pushing every person who enters the church towards membership and involvement in Bible studies without an accurate assessment of who they are.

Unfortunately, much of the church growth taking place these days is less about conversions and more about transfer growth. The system employed here seems to deal more with people who would be coming from another church than dealing with those who are unconverted (although their straw man examples indicate otherwise). Therefore the system fails to account for and take seriously the great commission commanded by the Lord Jesus Christ. Overall, the authors’ failure to consider and deal with the spiritual condition of those coming into the church makes this an inadequate book.

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Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher at no cost for the purposes of review. However, my review was not influenced in any way by the publisher, author, or any other person associated with the book and is the result of my own reading of the book.

The Whole Bible Story ~ A Book Review

Even the most well-versed scholar must admit that the Bible can be a difficult read for most people. Reading through it requires time and patience (something that most people are unwilling to give). It requires scrutiny and study beyond the attention level of most people. the Bible is a book unlike any other because the intricacy of God’s Word carries significance, meaning, and connections that are not necessarily found in other forms of reading. To bridge the gap of limited understanding that many people have with the Bible, Dr. William H. Marty has put together The Whole Bible Story so that Scripture can be grasped at the most basic level.

Dr. William Marty recently retired from Moody Bible Institute where he taught many classes over his long tenure there, most notably and applicable Bible survey classes that certainly enable him to write such a book. In 19 chapters, Dr. Marty seeks to capture the major aspects of the Bible and simplifies them with language that takes the reading level down to the most basic of levels. The particular release that I had the opportunity to review was the illustrated edition that comes with the inclusion of both colored maps and pictures, which add aesthetic value but overall were not necessary as they provided little clarifying value to the book. As a book, the layout is quite beautiful with its font styles, colored section headings, and colored pages to indicate chapter divisions.

However, these details are insignificant when it comes to evaluating the most important aspect: content. There are two major points that the author has sought to clarify from the beginning. Quite simply he has written simply to tell the story of Scripture simply and understandably. As such he is quick to point out that this book is not a paraphrase nor should it act as a substitute for reading Scripture. One can appreciate his acknowledgement and emphasis on this because it is important to understand that only Scripture is the inerrant, infallible, and authoritative Word.

With that in mind, we have to question then, why write such a book? Personally, the author’s introduction about the need for such a book can leave readers feeling as those the Bible is insufficient by itself and needs our help in order to make it understandable. Admittedly, upon receiving this book for review, those were my first questions, and after reading through the book, those thoughts still remain. Yes, the Bible is difficult at times. However, the Bible speaks to its own perspicuity and to say we need to make the Bible more clear denies that very attribute. Perhaps the greatest issues is not that the Bible is so difficult, but that we demands things to be easier. The problem then is not with how the Bible presents the information but with how we invest in that information. Simply put, we must read the Bible faithfully and completely with the mindset that not every concept will be understood in the first reading. Instead, it takes years of faithful reading grasp the intensity of the concepts. And so perhaps we don’t need a new Word but a new mindset with how read the Word.

Aside from this major concern, Dr. William Marty’s presentation of the Bible lacks a number of aspects that one can only get from reading the Bible. First off, it should be noted that despite titling this the whole Bible story, it really isn’t the whole story. The author has chosen to exclude poetry, prophecy, and epistles, which make up major portions of Scripture. Additionally, Scripture is written utilizing a variety of genres that help convey themes, images, and nuances that are missed when everything is presented in a simple narrative. In order to make the narrative simple, the author uses basic language that mirrors more of a secular society and fails to capture the depth of the words in which the Bible is written. Finally, the most glaring omission in this form of writing is God. The Bible is written in such a way that exalts the Lord, pointing to his purposes, sovereignty, and graces, yet the summation within the book fails to capture the depth of those aspects.

One an appreciate Dr. William H. Marty’s intentions with this book (and those who compelled him to put the work together). Certainly, a lot of time and consideration was given to put forth this product, and the quality is reflective of that. However, rather than looking for the easier way, readers should simply invest more time in reading their Bible directly and seeking out godly, qualified individuals who may be able to help them when they lack understanding. There simply is no alternative to Scripture itself.

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Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher for the purposes of review. However, my review was not influenced in any way by the author, publisher, or any other person associated with this book and instead is the result of my own reading of the book.