Category: Theology/Christian Living Page 2 of 33

DETAILS:
Publisher: Crossway
Publication Date: January 13, 2026
Format: eARC
Length: 224 pg.
Read Date: December 21, 2025

What’s The Goodness of God in the Gift of Scripture About?

This is a brief devotional book—twenty short readings—primarily based on Psalm 119, discussing gifts God communicates through his word.

I really feel like I should have more to say there, but I don’t know how to get into it. The Table of Contents should give you a decent idea of what to expect:

Introduction: Our Good God and the Grace of Scripture

Chapter 1: The Gift of Blessedness
Chapter 2: The Gift of Purity
Chapter 3: The Gift of No Shame
Chapter 4: The Gift of a Wonderful Counselor
Chapter 5: The Gift of Fear
Chapter 6: The Gift of Salvation
Chapter 7: The Gift of Fruitfulness
Chapter 8: The Gift of Warnings
Chapter 9: The Gift of Peace
Chapter 10: The Gift of Understanding
Chapter 11: The Gift of Sight
Chapter 12: The Gift of Nourishment
Chapter 13: The Gift of Strength in Affliction
Chapter 14: The Gift of True Truth
Chapter 15: The Gift of Freedom
Chapter 16: The Gift of Life
Chapter 17: The Gift of Joy
Chapter 18: The Gift of Wisdom
Chapter 19: The Gift of Righteousness
Chapter 20: The Gift of Hope

Epilogue: Opening the Gift

Bonus Material

Anizor ends each chapter with selections (not all the same length) from topically appropriate hymns. I’m unfamiliar with all those he picked, but they seemed to be good choices. There’s a concluding thought on the way to react to the chapter’s material. And there are some prayers for the reader’s use at the end of the book, as well.

Given the nature of the book as a devotional, these are all nice touches and help the project. I do wonder occasionally if those end-of-chapter suggested responses could’ve shown a little more trust for the reader, they seemed a little obvious.

So, what did I think about The Goodness of God in the Gift of Scripture?

My biggest problem with this book is self-inflicted. I didn’t do a thorough enough job of reading the description—the title refers to the “Gift of Scripture” and I focused on that over the part of the description, saying that each reading “focuses on an individual gift that God communicates through his word, such as warnings and wisdom that bring repentance. Readers will explore themes including righteousness, hope, freedom from shame, strength in affliction, and more.” Not that I have a problem with any of that—I absolutely do not. I just went into the book looking for material on the gift of Scripture, not the rest.

The book does an okay job of that frequently, but it’s not the overwhelming theme. It just makes the book feel unfocused. And the lack of focus hurts.

It’s a fine book, I liked the additional material at the end of the chapter and the Epilogue. I just think it could’ve been better—and if it focused on the theme as expressed in the title, I think it would’ve been that much stronger. Still, readers going into it for the right things—looking for what the book really is—will find themselves rewarded.

Disclaimer: I received this eARC from Crossway via NetGalley in exchange for this post—thanks to both for this.

3 Stars

This post contains an affiliate link. If you purchase from it, I will get a small commission at no additional cost to you. As always, the opinions expressed are my own.
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Grandpappy’s Corner: Tiny Hands Hymns, Vol. II; Tiny Hands Psalms; and Tiny Hands Apostle’s Creed edited by Hannah Duguid Estes, illustrated by Jessica Hiatt: A Great Set of Starter Devotional Reads

By HCNewton

On December 14, 2025

In Grandpappy's Corner, Theology/Christian Living, YA/MG/Children's Books

Tiny Hands Hymns, Volume II

Tiny Hands Psalms

and

Tiny Hands Apostle’s Creed

edited by Hannah Duguid Estes, illustrated by Jessica Hiatt

DETAILS:
Publisher: P & R Publishing
Publication Date: October 29, 2025
Format: Board Book
Length: 16 pg. (each)
Read Date: November 29, 2025

What are the Tiny Hands About?

This is going to be remarkably like the post I did about the first 3 Tiny Hands books, because these new three are remarkably like them–consistency is good. These are little board books that serve as beginning devotional materials—training wheels for young worshipers, if you will.

Tiny Hands Hymns, Volume II

These are the first stanzas/verses of some of the best hymns around: “Abide with Me,” “Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus,” “Fairest Lord Jesus,” “How Firm a Foundation,” “O Worship the King,” “Rock of Ages,” “Take My Life, and Let It Be,” and “When I Survey the Wondrous Cross.”

On the opposite pages are fitting illustrations, with some accent illustrations on the pages with text.

Tiny Hands Psalmss

These are a selection of psalms—translated by Iain Duguid (Professor of Old Testament at Westminster Theological Seminary)–either the complete psalm or a notable portion.

They include Psalms: 1, 18, 23,334, 51, 100, 121, and 139. The translations are clearly “kidified.” But I think they’re faithful.

Again, opposite each is an appropriate illustration, with some accent illustrations on the pages with text.

Tiny Hands Apostle’s Creed

This is a fairly standard translation of The Apostle’s Creed, split up segment by segment. Yet again, opposite each is an appropriate illustration, with some accent illustrations on the pages with text.

This is probably my favorite of the new bunch–if only because this’ll be one of the easiest for my grandcritters to put into use.

Let’s Talk about the Art for a Minute

Outside the previous Tiny Hands books, I’ve apparently appreciated Hiatt’s work as a cover designer on a few books (The Wonderful Works of God by Herman Bavinck, Things Unseen by J. Gresham Machen, and Struck Down but Not Destroyed by Pierce Taylor Hibbs), but illustrating board books calls for a slightly different skill set. Still, the illustrations remind me of those covers.

I think these are great. Bright and cheerful, without being cartoonish or silly (I have nothing against those kinds of illustrations, but they’re not fitting for the subjects).

How are they to Read Aloud?

They’re fine—although I can’t imagine that anyone, even those who can’t carry a tune, not singing the hymns instead of reading them. A lot of adults won’t need to actually read the Creed, we have it memorized (although, it’s good to pay attention so the pictures match up.

The translations (I’d be tempted to call them paraphrases, but the books say translations—and I don’t know enough to contradict that) are foreign-feeling for people who are familiar with/have memorized the relevant portions from the AV, ESV, NASB, etc. Once you get past that feeling, there’s nothing about the text that’s difficult or odd to read—and they seem easy enough for young children to comprehend (to some degree).

What did the Grandcritter think of Them?

I haven’t been able to read them to him–he sees this art/format and he assumes it’s the first volume of Hymns and demands to sing some of them–he won’t even give us a chance to go over the new ones, much less the other books. I’m sure I’ll get him to let us eventually. But for now, I can’t answer this.

So, what did I think about the Tiny Hands books?

I think they’re a great idea—and overall, I am pleased with the execution. I do recommend them without hesitation.

I have some questions about some of the technical bits of translation, verse choices, and whatnot—not so much that I have a problem with the books, I’d just like someone good with the original languages to sit down with me and walk through these.

But for a young child? I think they’re well done and would be great resources for regular use.

4 Stars

This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase from it, I will get a small commission at no additional cost to you. As always, the opinions expressed are my own.
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The Canvas of Creation: A Biblical Response to the Heresy of Racial Superiority by Drew Poplin—A Great Booklet That I Wish We Didn’t Need (but we sadly do)

By HCNewton

On November 23, 2025

In Non-Fiction, Theology/Christian Living

The Canvas of Creation: A Biblical Response to the Heresy of Racial Superiority

by Drew Poplin

DETAILS:
Publisher: Crown & Covenant Publications
Publication Date: October 30, 2025
Format: Paperback
Length: 55 pgs.
Read Date: November 9, 2025

What’s The Canvas of Creation About?

Recent years have seen a rise of despicable teachings advocating racial/ethnic superiority and separation, particularly among some groups online.

Thankfully, they’re not going unchallenged—recently, three denominations stated:

Condemn without distinction any theological or political teaching which posits a superiority of race or ethnic identity born of immutable human characteristics and does on the solemn evening call to repentance any who would promote or associate themselves with such teaching, either by commission or omission.

Drew Poplin, a minister of one of those, has written this short book to go along with that. He makes (or perhaps “sketches” would be a better word) five arguments. He arguing that it is contrary to nature, contrary to the law of God, contrary to the gospel of Jesus Christ, contrary to the nature and government of the church; and then he seeks to answer the primary historic argument from Scripture. After this, he takes a look at the roots of the recent rise in this heresy and some practical applications in dealing with it.

This is a lot to tackle in 55 pages (less, after the Introduction), so Poplin cannot really get into depth. But he attempts to make up for that depth by the breadth of his considerations.

Dealing with Christians of the Past

This is a dicey thing—but “X minister” or “y theologian” from the past thought in terms of racial superiority, or owned slaves, or fill-in-the-blank. Does this mean we need to discount everything they said/wrote/passed down to the Church? Poplin suggests that no, we don’t—and makes a case to overlook this in love. His arguments are much like those of Jacobs’ in Breaking Bread with the Dead when it comes to people of earlier times writing and saying things that clash with contemporary mores.

I think his argument works—although I admit I want it to work, so it’s hard for me to evaluate objectively. Regardless, I’m glad he addressed this idea directly and didn’t leave it unanswered.

So, what did I think about The Canvas of Creation?

First, I think it is lamentable (in the sense Jeremiah would use) that a book like this needs to be written—ever, much less in 2025. I’m troubled even more that we’re going to need more like this. Because as good as this is, it’s not enough. (probably nothing will be enough until the Lord returns, but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t keep swinging).

Secondly, it’s a good little book—Poplin makes the arguments that I’d think would be pretty standard—he also makes some (rather convincing) arguments along lines that I’ve never considered.

He does say a couple of things that only work in theologies committed to Christian magistrates and covenanted nations (not in a contemporary Christian Nationalist way, but in something more historic). As someone who has never been convinced by those positions, I found those parts of the book to be rather weak. But I probably wouldn’t if I accepted the premise.

Otherwise, I was with him every step of the way. I do appreciate the case Poplin makes to consider this kind of thing a heresy (while not wanting to overuse the word). I’m not sure I’d have called it anything but grave error before, but that time is over. Thank you, Rev. Popliln for that.

Get this, read it, give copies to friends.

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Becoming God’s Family: Why the Church Still Matters by Carmen Joy Imes: A Household for Former Aliens and Strangers

By HCNewton

On November 2, 2025

In Non-Fiction, Theology/Christian Living

Becoming God’s Family:
Why the Church Still Matters

by Carmen Joy Imes

DETAILS:
 Publisher: IVP Academic
Publication Date: October 28, 2025
Format: eARC
Length: 256 pg.
Read Date: August 17-31, 2025

What’s Becoming God’s Family About?

This is, to use a phrase from Imes’ Introduction, a love story. It began with a conversation with a friend who was convinced they didn’t need the Church. Imes became convinced that someone needed to make the case that such was not the case. The idea that Christians need the Church—in all of its fallible, messy, disappointing, loving, supportive, worshiping ways.

Imes surveys the Scriptures from Genesis through Revelation, looking at what redemptive history shows us about the Church—how we need it, how it’s grown (and developed—not always in its favor), how we’re called to be part of it (and who that “we’re” is), and what it should do.

My Favorite Chapter

Well, they could all make a strong case for it, honestly—the last two chapters, particularly. But Chapter 6, “Processing Family Trauma,” takes the cake. Now, you may not think if from the title—but this is an encouraging chapter, and probably doesn’t focus on what you think it does.

It’s about communal worship. Singing the Songs of Zion, really. Both those of Lament and those of Praise. Imes talks about these in ways that may not seem intuitive (and probably aren’t, but maybe should be).

They’re about—first, “us” and “we,” a communal activity. The local congregation seeing hardships, challenges, and blessings together. It’s about recognizing the trauma and tragedies and trials that believers have—and are—suffering and how God has kept them from succumbing to them, how He’s been with His people—and therefore will be with them even now. How in a culture with many other options, His people declare His wonders in opposition to the false idols and lures around them.

I’m not doing a great job here, because I’m not going to try to replicate Imes’ work—but I assure you, it’s great.

So, what did I think about Becoming God’s Family?

Is this the most rigorous, robust work that I’ve ever read on The Church? No. Is this the most technical, theological work I’ve come across? No. Did this take a lot of effort to get through? No (and what a relief). Is this perhaps the most passionate work on the subject I’ve read? Yes. Is it perhaps the most persuasive about the need for individual believers (particularly in an individualist culture) to be involved with the Church? Also, yes.

I’ll take those last two any day over the others (not that I have a problem with the others, but…come on). Imes undoubtedly approaches this subject from the perspective of someone in her tradition—or her particular mix of traditions. But I can’t imagine any Protestant or Evangelical finding substantial grounds for disagreement. While I have a tendency to read primarily works in the Continental or Scottish/English Reformed traditions, I’m glad to see something so catholic in nature (particularly when it would fit just fine in my traditions).

I’ve struggled to write this post—I’ve been chipping away at it for two months, and still am not satisfied with it. I keep getting distracted in wanting to respond to her arguments—pointing out a couple of areas I think could’ve been done better, and talking about the ways that she really nailed the discussion. But I’m supposed to be focused on the book and reading experience.

It’s warm, it’s approachable, it’s learned in a non-off-putting way. Imes is a great guide through the topic and a fun companion through the stroll. She pointed out some things I hadn’t thought of before—and helped me grasp a couple of texts that I’ve struggled with for years.

I do think that any discussion of the Church should have more to say about the sacraments than she managed (she did mention them), but I understand how that doesn’t fit into what she’s trying to do and would’ve added controversy and disagreements she didn’t need (I’m fairly certain I’d have critiqued heavily anything she said—so it’s good for me that she didn’t).

The “Digging Deeper” sections she included in each chapter are a great resource, and I’ll be using it for some time to come (I’d previously read some of the works she’d listed there, and if the rest are as profitable, I’ll be well-sated).

Basically, I’m a fan of this and strongly recommend you invest your time and attention (and book-buying money) into it.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from IVP Academic via NetGalley—thanks to both for this. Sorry it’s up late, it’s been a couple of those months.

4 1/2 Stars

Did Jesus Really Say He Was God? by Mikel Del Rosario: My Kind of Apologetics

By HCNewton

On October 26, 2025

In Non-Fiction, Theology/Christian Living

Did Jesus Really Say He Was God?:
Making Sense of His Historical Claims

by Mikel Del Rosario

DETAILS:
Publisher: IVP Academic
Publication Date: October 23, 2025
Format: eARC
Length: 256
Read Date: September 14-October 5, 2025

What’s Did Jesus Really Say He Was God? About?

One of the most common things non-Christians will say about Jesus is something along the lines of, “He never claimed to be God, that’s something that Christians made up years/decades later.” As people probably no longer say, “big, if true.”

Del Rosario takes on this question (and variations of it) head-on—he takes just two passages of Scripture, examines what they say, looks at what critics say about it, and then argues that Jesus did claim divinity in the passages.

The Strengths

The strengths of this book come in the two parts (slightly more than 50% of the book) looking at Mark 2:1-12 (“The Healing of the Paralytic”) and Mark 14:53-65 (the examination before the Jewish leaders before going to Pilate). These passages are selected from Mark because it’s widely considered the earliest of the canonical gospels, and therefore less likely to have gone through any kind of mythologizing. Another reason they were selected is that the reaction of Jesus’ opponents highlights his claims of divinity.

For each passage, he begins by looking at the events depicted in the passage for a chapter or two. He then spends a chapter on the blasphemy accusation against Jesus. He concludes with a chapter on the claim of divinity made in the passage.

Seriously, I could’ve read more on each passage—not because he needed to say more, but because I enjoyed and benefited from the discussion. Or I could’ve read another passage or two for more examples of how his approach strengthens one’s confidence in Jesus’ claims.

The Weaknesses

Del Rosario employs a tool I’ve seen others use a couple of times—where they attempt to attach a numerical value on the probability of something happening the way a historical record says it does—and weighing that numerical value against a competing interpretation’s value.

Maybe this is just me, but it feels like trying to take history and making it a “real” science with numbers and whatnot. I just don’t understand the appeal of doing history this way.

I also tend to have a hard time following the discussion whenever it attempts to do that—maybe it’s a block on my part, maybe it’s because I already have little interest in it, or maybe it’s an inherent flaw in the idea. But I think the book would’ve been stronger without it.

So, what did I think about Did Jesus Really Say He Was God??

Del Rosario writes clearly and compellingly. The text—even when it gets technical—is straightforward and approachable by people who aren’t historical scholars (except for the numerical assignments).

Not only does reading this help buttress the confidence a reader has in the passage and Jesus’ claims in them, but Del Rosario gives his readers a model to follow when they come across similar passages. Whether that’s on your own or in reply to a challenge to Jesus’ claims of divinity.

Did he actually say x, y, or z? What do those sayings me? How did his listeners hear his claims? What is he really claiming in the passage—what does what he says mean? How does knowing that help make sense of his opponents’ reaction?

I really appreciated his focus on the text of Scripture in his apologetic here, not an appeal to reason or philosophical arguments, or a vague history—but to the revelation we’ve been given and then to see what that revelation said to the original readers/listeners.

I heartily encourage this book, and hope for a sequel or three, tackling similar passages.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from IVP Academic via NetGalley—thanks to both for this. Sorry it’s up late, it’s been one of those months.

The World’s Last Night by C.S. Lewis: An Interesting (if Somewhat Scattered) Collection that Starts Off With a Banger

By HCNewton

On August 24, 2025

In C.S. Lewis, Further Up and Further In, Non-Fiction, Theology/Christian Living

Further Up and Further In A Year with C.S.Lewis

The World’s Last Night
And Other Essays

by C. S. Lewis

DETAILS:
Publisher: HarperOne
Publication Date: February 14, 2017
Format: Paperback
Length: 122 pg.
Read Date: August 3-10, 2025

What’s The World’s Last Night About?

This is a collection of essays by Lewis, quite simply. I don’t know that they belong together more than that. GIven the original date of publication (1952), he was alive when this was collected, but I have no idea if he was involved in the selection—I am curious about that. So much so that I’ve written 3 more sentences (including this one) about it than I intended to.

Here’s what the jacket flap on my copy says:

In these seven satirical yet poignant essays, C.S. Lewis tackles the temptations of evil. He challenges readers to decide how they would live on thew world’s last night and writes, “We are not the playwright, we are not the producer, we are not even the audience. We are on the stage. To play well the scenes in which we are ‘on’ concerns us much more than to guess about the scenes that follow it.” The infamous Screwtape makes a special appearance with a toast that explores the prospects for exploiting evil. Blending irony, humor, and paradox, Lewis tackles religion’s most difficult and intriguing questions regarding immorality, belief, and the meaning of prayer.

I’m also not sure “satirical” applies to all seven essays. But I didn’t come here to pick a fight with anyone involved with putting this together. So let’s move on with a quick look at each essay (the premise should be clear for most from the title).

The Efficacy of Prayer

I loved this essay. I’m glad I read the collection, if only for this—sadly, the rest of the collection really didn’t live up to it. But I’m okay with paying most of the $17 I spent on the book for this essay. It’s one I will be returning to.

On Obstinancy in Belief

This is sort of a Science v. Faith (a ridiculous debate). Lewis made some pretty good points, and it was generally good. But I’m not sure it’s a home-run.

That demand for our confidence which a true friend makes of us is exactly the same that a confidence trickster would make. That refusal to trust, which is sensible in reply to a confidence trickster, is ungenerous and ignoble to a friend, and deeply damaging to our relation with him. To be forewarned and therefore forearmed against apparently contrary appearance is eminently rational if our belief is true; but if our belief is a delusion, this same forewarning and forearming would obviously be the method whereby the delusion rendered itself incurable. And yet again, to be aware of these possibilities and still to reject them is clearly the precise mode, and the only mode, in which our personal response to God can establish itself. In that sense the ambiguity is not something that conflicts with faith so much as a condition which makes faith possible. When you are asked for trust you may give it or withhold it; it is senseless to say that you will trust if you are given demonstrative certainty. There would be no room for trust if demonstration were given. When demonstration is given what will be left will be simply the sort of relation which results from having trusted, or not having trusted, before it was given.

Lilies that Fester

This is an interesting take on anti-intellectualism and related ideas. It really feels like it could be a recent composition.

There’s a paragraph about a child reading Science Fiction that sold me.

Screwtape Proposes a Toast

I was just going to refer you to what I wrote about this as an add-on to The Screwtape Letters, but apparently, I never finished that post. So, um, that won’t work.

This fell short of the original Screwtape material. It doesn’t have the wit, the insight. It feels like a sequel to The Abolition of Man crammed into Screwtape’s mouth, and it didn’t work nearly as well.

Good Work and Good Works

Second-best essay in the batch.

‘Good works’ in the plural is an expression much more familiar to modern Christendom than ‘good work’. Good works are chiefly alms-giving or ‘helping’ in the parish. They are quite separate from one’s ‘work’. And good works need not be good work, as anyone can see by inspecting some of the objects made to be sold at bazaars for charitable purposes. This is not according to our example. When our Lord provided a poor wedding party with an extra glass of wine all round, He was doing good works, But also good work; it was a wine really worth drinking, Nor is the neglect of goodness in our ‘work’, our job, according to precept. The apostle says everyone must aot only work but work to produce what is ‘good’.

Religion and Rocketry

Huh. Interesting take on extraterrestrial life, etc. I’m not sure what else to say.

The World’s Last Night

There are many reasons why the modern Christian and een the modern theologian may hesitate to give to the doctrine of Christ’s Second Coming that emphasis which was usually laid on it by our ancestors.

It’s hard to believe that someone in the 20th Century could start an essay about escathology that way. But there it is, in black and white.

We must admit at once that this doctrine [of the Second Coming] has, in the past, led Christians into very great follies. Apparently many people find it difficult to believe in this great event without trying to guess its date, or even without accepting as a certainty the date that any quack or hysteric offers them. To write a history of all these exploded predictions would need a book, and a sad, sordid, tragi-comical book it would be.

I’ve read some of those books, and he describes them well.

Overall, this is a really good look at the doctrine of the Second Coming and Judgement and how we should act before then—and why we should do so.

So, what did I think about The World’s Last Night?

I liked this more than some of what I’ve read by Lewis this year, but it doesn’t hold a candle to him at his best. There are moments of brilliance. Moments of spiritual insight and wisdom. Some moments of wit and common sense (which should never be sneezed at). Some moments where you wonder why he has impacted so many (including myself) in such a strong and lasting way.

Still, it’s worth the time—not just for completistis, either. Just know going in that not every essay is going to wow you.

I’m tempted to give it 4 Stars just for the first essay, but let’s not get carried away by such a strong start.

3.5 Stars

REPOSTING JUST CUZ: How Not to Be an *SS by Andrew J. Bauman: Essays on Important Topics, That Fall a Little Short

By HCNewton

On August 17, 2025

In Non-Fiction, Theology/Christian Living

How Not to Be an *SS:
Essays on Becoming a Good & Safe Man

by Andrew J. Bauman

DETAILS:
Publisher: Brave Books
Publication Date: December 31, 2021
Format: Kindle Edition
Length: 192 pg.
Read Date: February 20, 2022

What’s How Not to Be an SS* About?

This is a collection of essays* built around the idea that men who are an *ss (the asterisk is courtesy of Bauman, not me) can change and become a good and safe men.

* Plus a couple of poems. Entirely skippable poems (your results may vary).

Bauman calls men to an authentic, Biblical masculinity—one built on humility, kindness, and service. While offering concrete ways to set aside patterns of abuse and neglect.

Good and Safe Men

Bauman’s description of Good and Safe men is maybe filled with a few too many buzzwords. But when you get past that, I really appreciated what he had to say, and I wish I heard more things like that coming from Reformed and Evangelical men.

His definition of “*ss”

A lot of the time he’s talking about an *ss, he’s talking about something worse. Something like a felon (perhaps not a convicted felon, but someone who should be charged, at least). Most of what he describes as an *ss are abusers. I think we should call them what they are.

Even if you take his *ss as a range—from “The Unaware Fool” (although by definition, some of those he considers unaware, are aware) to “The Narcissistic Coward”—he spends most of his time on “The Narcissistic Coward” when it’s the Fool that would be more open to the help and guidance.

Shortcoming

There are two that seem the most prominent. First, this is an essay collection, not a sustained argument. As a result, it’s a bit scatter-shot and hard to draw any firm conclusions about some of the material. Also, it makes some of the material too surface-level.

Secondly, it’s focused too much on the abusive man, on ways to he can improve. But earlier on, it seemed to be a book for those who weren’t abusive, but are wanting to be better, safer men. Now, don’t get me wrong—I’m all for the former. But I got the impression when I bought the book (and in the early essays) that it was about the latter.

So, what did I think about How Not to Be an SS*?

I’m not sure that what I’ve said here is that helpful without digging in deep into his arguments and suggestions—and to do that is beyond what I have time for here. But hopefully, there’s something useful here.

There’s a lot of good here, a lot of important resources. The theological language is a little imprecise for my taste, but none of it is a deal-breaker for me. The gold outweighs the chaff.

It’s not the book I thought I was getting, but I’m glad that I read it. I wanted more, sure, but I liked what I got.

3 Stars

This post contains an affiliate link. If you purchase from it, I will get a small commission at no additional cost to you. As always, opinions are my own.

Grandpappy’s Corner: Martin Luther by Simonetta Carr, Troy Howell (Illustrator): A Brief and Compelling Look at the German Reformer’s Life

By HCNewton

On August 10, 2025

In (Auto)Biography, Grandpappy's Corner, Non-Fiction, Theology/Christian Living, YA/MG/Children's Books

Yes, this is going to sound a lot like last week’s post about Patrick of Ireland—hard not to when you have a good, consistent writer∞you’re going to think similar things.

Martin Luther

by Simonetta Carr, Troy Howell (Illustrator)

DETAILS:
Christian Biographies for Young Readers 
Publisher: Reformation Heritage Books
Publication Date: October 25, 2020
Format: Hardcover
Length: 63 pg.
Read Date: August 3, 2025

What’s Martin Luther About?

It’s all there in the title, simply put—it’s a biography of Martin Luther written for young readers.

Carr begins with Luther’s family and education, as well as his early career, before moving into his work as a Reformer. Recounting the tumultuous days of his earliest work and time in hiding before moving on to the slightly-less tumultuous times of success and raising his own family.

This is more detailed than the Patrick of Ireland book I discussed last week, both in describing the events of Luther’s life and his teachings. This is easily explained by the fact that we have many, many, many more documents about and by Luther than we do of Patrick (particularly contemporary to him).

By Luther Himself

Carr reproduces a little bit from Luther’s Small Catechism so the reader can hear from the man himself. This must’ve taken some effort to decide what to choose. Given the audience, this is probably the best—it’s Luther at his most basic, bringing the core of his teachings to the forefront.

As it should’ve—especially for older readers—it drove me to dip into the catechism as a whole. Naturally, it has its flaws (as Luther was 1. Human and 2. Not Reformed*), but that was an unexpected bonus from reading this work. Almost always a reward to re-read some Luther.

* That’s mostly a joke

Let’s Talk about the Art for a Minute

Howell’s art is warm and approachable. While not leaning into the whole “children’s book” feel of art, it really works that way. But his illustrations would be fine in a book for older readers, too (those that use colored illustrations, anyway). It did make me go check his website and add at least one book to my to-buy list.

The rest of the illustrations are photographs of European landmarks, reproductions of contemporary depictions of some of the major players in this story. It really reminds me of the kind of things that illustrate textbooks (for children or college students, and in-between). It solidifies the impression that this is a book for children to take seriously, and not just some fluffy bit of entertainment (see below).

How is it to Read Aloud?

It’s fine. It’s not really written to be read aloud—any more than any book for children of reading age and up are. There’s nothing wrong about the text for reading to someone else, but it’s not desiged for it like books for younger children are.

It’s a little dry for that, really—possibly dry for reading to yourself, too. Which is probably good considering the aims of the book.

So, what did I think about Martin Luther?

I really enjoyed and appreciated it. Carr had a lot of material to choose from when deciding what to write about, and tackled not only the typical “main items” but also addressed some of the murkier things in his life/writing as well. I was surprised, for example, that she touched upon his late-in-life anti-Jewish writings (and relieved/encouraged that she was so clear about the problems with that). I was also not expecting her to bring forth the controversies with Karlstadt, either.

There are nuances and details she had to leave out due to space and the maturity of her audience—but she does a good job in keeping the clear details clear and laying the groundwork for reading/learning as her readers grow.

Yes, it is a bit dry. It’s not a book written to talk down to a child, or even written to appeal through a gimmick. It takes the material seriously and expects the audience to, too—I’m pretty sure that’s the point. I found this a rewarding read, and I’m eager to introduce the grandcritters to it when they’re a little older, and would recommend it to any reader 7-12 (the target range), and even older.

3.5 Stars

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Grandpappy’s Corner: Patrick of Ireland by Simonetta Carr, Matt Abraxas (Illustrator): A Brief Look at the Evangelist’s Life

By HCNewton

On August 3, 2025

In (Auto)Biography, History, Non-Fiction, Theology/Christian Living, YA/MG/Children's Books

Patrick of Ireland

by Simonetta Carr, Matt Abraxas (Illustrator)

DETAILS:
Series: Christian Biographies for Young Readers 
Publisher: Reformation Heritage Books
Publication Date: December 8, 2022
Format: Hardcover
Length: 61 pg.
Read Date: July 27, 2025

What’s Patrick of Ireland About?

Simply put—it’s a biography of Patrick of Ireland written for young readers.

It talks about his younger life, his time as a slave, his escape, and his decision to return to Ireland as an evangelist. It looks at his education, work in Ireland (and some of the controversy around him), and his lasting legacy.

Let’s Talk about the Art for a Minute

There are illustrations—mostly in paintings by Matt Abraxas—that are gorgeous. I don’t know how to describe them—but honestly, they’re things you’d easily hang on your wall. I want to say the style makes me think of a modern take on Impressionism, but I’m not convinced that I’m using the term correctly.

The rest of the illustrations are photographs of old Irish artifacts, reconstructions of them, or Irish scenery. It really reminds me of the kind of things that illustrate textbooks (for children or college students and in-between). It solidifies the impression that this is a book for children to take seriously, and not just some fluffy bit of entertainment (see below).

How is it to Read Aloud?

It’s a little dry for that, really—possibly dry for reading to yourself, too. Which is probably good considering the aims of the book.

So, what did I think about Patrick of Ireland?

It is a bit dry. It’s not a book written to talk down to a child, or even written to appeal through a gimmick. It takes the material seriously and expects the audience, too—I’m pretty sure that’s the point.

It’s a pretty good biography, with some of the ambiguity about Patrick’s education and details of his life smoothed out (although they’re acknowledged). Sure, it’s short. Sure, it’s written for children—but an adult wanting a quick take on his life isn’t going to be disappointed. (I’m reminded of hearing that James Holzhauer read children’s reference books in preparation for his appearance on Jeopardy!—this would be a good book for that kind of thing.)

I found it rewarding. I particularly appreciated the little excerpts from Patrick himself being included. I’m eager to introduce the grandcritters to it when they’re a little older, and would recommend it to any reader 7-12 (the target range), and even older.

3.5 Stars

This post contains an affiliate link. If you purchase from it, I will get a small commission at no additional cost to you. As always, the opinions expressed are my own.
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REPOST: Heaven on Earth by Thomas Brooks: A Classic Examination of and Exhortation to Assurance of Faith

By HCNewton

On July 20, 2025

In Theology/Christian Living

Heaven on Earth: A Treatise on Christian Assurance

by Thomas Brooks

eBook, 325 pg.
originally published 1654

Read: July 14 – August 11, 2019

Assurance is not of the essence of a Christian. It is required to the well-being, to the comfortable and joyful being of a Christian; but it is not required to the being of a Christian. A man may be a true believer, and yet would give all the world, were it in his power, to know that he is a believer. To have grace, and to be sure that we have grace, is glory upon the throne, it is heaven on this side heaven.

I am his. I am as sure that I am his, as I am sure that I live. I am his by purchase, and I am his by conquest; I am his by donation, and I am his by election; I am his by covenant, and I am his by marriage. I am wholly his; I am peculiarly his; I am universally his; I am eternally his. This I well know, and the knowledge thereof is my joy in life, and my strength and crown in death.

Here we have a description of assurance, and then an expression of the assured heart. Brooks’ Heaven on Earth is both an explanation of the doctrine and an exhortation to pursue it. Quotations like this are just a hint of that. Brooks is one of the best Puritans on this topic—and everything the Puritans wrote about the doctrine is head an shoulders above their Continental brethren. This is pure gospel gold.

I liked my post about it last time more than anything I’d say this time, so let me just use it (the final paragraph is new):
I just might have myself a new favorite Puritan (I’m not the only one who has a list, right?). I’m kicking myself for not getting to Brooks earlier in life. What a wonderful book—I’m looking forward to getting to read more by him.

Aesthetically, this is fantastic. The language sings—the book begs to be read aloud (and I frequently did so, interrupting whatever anyone around me was doing). You can feel the passion, the fervor throughout. A few paragraphs from different chapters illustrate this:

Divine light reaches the heart as well as the head. The beams of divine light shining in upon the soul through the glorious face of Christ are very working; they warm the heart, they affect the heart, they new mold the heart. Divine knowledge masters the heart, it guides the heart, it governs the heart, it sustains the heart, it relieves the heart. Knowledge which swims in the head only, and sinks not down into the heart, does no more good than the unicorn’s horn in the unicorn’s head.

The only ground of God’s love is his grace. The ground of God’s love is only and wholly in himself. There is neither portion nor proportion in us to draw his love. There is no love nor loveliness in us that should cause a beam of his love to shine upon us. There is that enmity, that filthiness, that treacherousness, that unfaithfulness, to be found in every man’s bosom, which might justly put God upon glorifying himself in their eternal ruin, and to write their names in his black book in characters of blood and wrath. God will have all blessings and happiness to flow from free grace.

Faith is the first pin which moves the soul; it is the spring in the watch which sets all the golden wheels of love, joy, comfort, and peace a-going. Faith is a root-grace, from whence springs all the sweet flowers of joy and peace. Faith is like the bee, it will suck sweetness out of every flower; it will extract light out of darkness, comforts out of distresses, mercies out of miseries, wine out of water, honey out of the rock, and meat out of the eater, Judg 14:14.

But beyond that, the book is sound, it is orthodox, it is Biblical—throughout Brooks points the reader to The Book and The One Who inspired it. His aim is to show “that believers may in this life attain unto a well-grounded assurance of their everlasting happiness and blessedness.” He then goes on to examine the nature of that assurance, hindrances that keep believers from it, reasons to encourage believers to seek it, and how they can go about it, the difference between true and counterfeit assurance, as well as answering questions about assurance. Examining the doctrine from so many angles, you really feel (and probably do) that you come away from this book having an exhaustive look at the doctrine.

Chapter 6—which takes more than its fair share of space, almost half of the book—is an extended detour from the point of the book, but it still serves to support the theme. He begins by saying, “In the previous chapter, you saw the seven choice things which accompany salvation. But for your further and fuller edification, satisfaction, confirmation, and consolation, it will be very necessary that I show you,” these seven choice things. Which are:

(1.) What knowledge that is, which accompanies salvation.

(2.) What faith that is, which accompanies salvation.

(3.) What repentance that is, which accompanies salvation.

(4.) What obedience that is, which accompanies salvation.

(5.) What love that is, which accompanies salvation.

(6.) What prayer that is, which accompanies salvation.

(7.) What perseverance that is, which accompanies salvation.

It is such a great chapter, and would make a remarkable little booklet unto itself that I really can’t complain too much that it’s such a departure from the rest of the book (though it did take me a little bit to get used to the notion).

Banner of Truth puts this out in paperback, monergism.com puts this out as a free e-book. Either way you go for it, this is a treasure I heartily suggest you grab.

When I read this five years ago, it struck me like a breath of fresh air, it was precisely what I needed at the time. I read it again last month, looking for the same thing. I didn’t find it—don’t misunderstand, it was very helpful, inspiring, and insightful. I was reminded and grew in my understanding of assurance. And, I collected a handful of great quotations from Brooks. But…the book as a whole didn’t sing for me. The first time, I didn’t know what to expect. This time, I probably came in with expectations that were too high. Last time I read it, I gave it 5 Stars. This time, I logged it as 3 Stars. So…let’s call it 4, shall we?

4 Stars

Category: Theology/Christian Living Page 2 of 33

What’s The Goodness of God in the Gift of Scripture About?

Bonus Material

So, what did I think about The Goodness of God in the Gift of Scripture?

What are the Tiny Hands About?

Tiny Hands Hymns, Volume II

Tiny Hands Psalmss

Tiny Hands Apostle’s Creed

Let’s Talk about the Art for a Minute

How are they to Read Aloud?

What did the Grandcritter think of Them?

So, what did I think about the Tiny Hands books?

What’s The Canvas of Creation About?

Dealing with Christians of the Past

So, what did I think about The Canvas of Creation?

What’s Becoming God’s Family About?

My Favorite Chapter

So, what did I think about Becoming God’s Family?

What’s Did Jesus Really Say He Was God? About?

The Strengths

The Weaknesses

So, what did I think about Did Jesus Really Say He Was God??

What’s The World’s Last Night About?

The Efficacy of Prayer

On Obstinancy in Belief

Lilies that Fester

Screwtape Proposes a Toast

Good Work and Good Works

Religion and Rocketry

The World’s Last Night

So, what did I think about The World’s Last Night?

What’s How Not to Be an *SS About?

Good and Safe Men

His definition of “*ss”

Shortcoming

So, what did I think about How Not to Be an *SS?

What’s Martin Luther About?

By Luther Himself

Let’s Talk about the Art for a Minute

How is it to Read Aloud?

So, what did I think about Martin Luther?

What’s Patrick of Ireland About?

Let’s Talk about the Art for a Minute

How is it to Read Aloud?

So, what did I think about Patrick of Ireland?

What’s How Not to Be an SS* About?

So, what did I think about How Not to Be an SS*?