Category: Theology/Christian Living Page 6 of 28

DETAILS:
Publisher: Cruciform Press
Publication Date: April 3, 2021
Format: eBook
Length: 146 pg.
Read Date: December 24, 2023

What’s The God of the Mundane About?

So I wondered. I wondered about the great majority I have known and know, the great majority living fairly ordinary lives.

Is there a God, for instance, for those who are not changing anything but diapers? Is there a God for those who simply love their spouse and pour out rarely appreciated affection on their children day after day? Is there a God for the mom who spends what feels like God- forsaken days changing diapers and slicing up hot dogs? Is there a God for the man who hammers out a day’s work in obscurity for the love of his wife and kids? Is there a God for just and kind employers? Generous homemakers? Day-laborers who would look at a missions trip to Romania like it was an unimaginable vacation?

Is there a God for the middle-class mom staving off cancer, struggling to raise teenagers, and simply hoping both Mom and Dad keep their job? Is there a God for the broken home with a full bank account but an empty bed? Is there a God for grown children tending to the health of their aged parents?

Is there a God who delights in the ordinary existence of the unknown faithful doing unknown work? Is there a God of grace for those who live out their faith everywhere but do not want to move anywhere?

Is there a God for those who have bigger homes than me? More money than me? Nicer cars than me? Better health than me?

Is there a God for the mundane parts of life, the small moments? Is there a God of kind smiles, good tips, and good mornings? Is there a God of goodbye hugs and parting kisses? What about firm, truthful handshakes and grasps of frail fingers in sanitized hospital rooms?…

Is there a God of the mundane?

Does this God I worship care about mundane people and moments?

The answer to this question is, obviously, yes. In fact, almost every believer, Redmond argues lives the kind of quiet life that most contemporary preachers ignore—quiet, faithful, mundane. Ordinary. (Redmond limits his arguments to New Testament believers through the present. He could’ve/should’ve gone back to Genesis if you ask me).

There’s some gentle critique of contemporary Evangelical preaching and the kind of striving for the monumental it encourages—calls for, but largely this is a positive book. Redmond is primarily focused on saying, “Your ordinary life is good. It’s nothing to be ashamed of if you’re being faithful.”

Horton’s Ordinary

It’s been nine years or so since I read it, but this book felt a lot like Michael Horton’s Ordinary: Sustainable Faith in a Radical, Restless World. I do think that Horton did a better, or at least, more thorough job of looking for the quiet, unremarkable life. And people who read and gained from Redmond should hunt Horton’s book down.

But every time I started to say something comparing the two in my notes, Redmond would say something in a way that caught me off guard. A way of framing his argument that raised my eyebrows, an illustration that made the point so clear.

So I’m not going to make any other comparisons between the two, I’m just going to say that these two are singing from the same hymn book and I hope their tribe increases. If you liked one, read the other.

So, what did I think about The God of the Mundane?

missed the obvious: the apostles are writing to normal people. Most of them are nameless. They are Jew and Gentile, yes. But they are also not apostles. And most are not pastors. They are carpenters, farmers, traders, sailors, fishermen, shepherds, guards. They are mothers and fathers and children. Compared to the life of an apostle, their lives are probably mundane. These are ordinary men and women believing an extraordinary story…

But he never asks them to stop being who they are. He never challenges them to go anywhere. We don’t even get hints that he is making them feel guilty for living with comforts he doesn’t enjoy. That’s weird. It’s weird because this is so common in our pulpits and in conferences held for zealous college students.

I’ve cut so many things from the outline I dashed out before starting this post—basically, I was going to end up providing a compressed paraphrase of this entire book as a disguise for talking about it. I don’t want to do that. But it’s tempting.

I do think that Redmond makes some of the same points too often. That’s not a crime in books, obviously, but in 146 pages, that kind of thing stands out. He could’ve added a little variation to some of his arguments, etc. to keep the text fresh. But his writing is clear, convincing, and engaging. You can easily see yourself getting this advice from a trusted friend across the table at a coffee shop or diner.

This isn’t classroom wisdom or what an Ivory Tower will come up with. It is pulpit wisdom. It’s like an application of everything the Preacher says in Ecclesiastes—and is almost as wise. It’s also the wisdom of someone who’s been around a while, has seen a lot, and has learned from that—and then coupled that experience with what the Scriptures say. (also, I just said the same thing three times in different ways) As such, it’s something we should at least hear out.

I didn’t mean to buy this book, I’d meant to put it on a “think about this later” list, but a slip of the finger later, and I had another ebook to read. I’m glad I got this, it’s not quite what Ross means when he talks about happy little accidents, but it works for me. This was encouraging to me. It was a reminder of principles I’ve tried to live by—and who doesn’t need a good reminder like that from time to time.

Do I think it could’ve been a better book? Yes. Do I think it’s a little surface-level, and frequently redundant? Sure. But when it’s good—it’s really good. It would’ve taken doubling (at least) the length of the book for it to be the kind of “better” I want—and would almost certainly leave it as the kind of thing that so many who need to read it won’t bother with. And frankly, a good message, wise words, or however you want to put it, means more than a good book any day.

But I say: Be nobody special. Do your job. Take care of your family. Clean your house. Mow your yard. Read your Bible. Attend worship. Pray. Watch your life and doctrine closely. Love your spouse. Love your kids. Be generous. Laugh with your friends. Drink your wine heartily. Eat your meat lustily. Be honest. Be kind to your waitress. Expect no special treatment. And do it all quietly.

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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Grandpappy’s Corner: Saint Nicholas the Giftgiver by Ned Bustard: The Making of a Legend

By HCNewton

On December 24, 2023

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

Yeah, this is a quick return to this author. But after the post a couple of weeks ago, I had to give this one a shot, too. And it seemed fitting to tackle it now. I’ll get back to “grown up books” next week, D.V.

Saint Nicholas the Giftgiver:
The History and Legends
of the Real Santa Claus

Written and Illustrated by Ned Bustard

DETAILS: 
Publisher: IVP Kids
Publication Date: October 12, 2021
Format: Hardcover
Length: 29 pg.
Read Date: December 17, 2023

What’s Saint Nicholas the Giftgiver About?

This is all in the title and subtitle, really. This is a Picture Book Biography of Saint Nicholas, covering both the history we have and some of the legends that arose about him to the point he became our Santa Claus.

He covers the life of Nicholas from birth to death pretty well—working in Diocletian’s persecution and how Nicholas was freed by Constantine, a hint of the Arian Controversy, and Nicholas’ work overall—including some of the legends that grew about him during his lifetime (that probably had a basis in truth).

Then he turns to the stories that have grown up about Nicholas as he transformed into Santa Claus with the magical reindeer—with Bustard trying to tie in even that idea of Nicholas to the work of the Savior. How successful he was I’ll leave to the reader to decide.

The Slap

No, I’m not talking about a certain actor at the Oscars in 2022. I’m talking about the legendary time that Nicholas struck (in some form) Arius at Nicea. Bustard skipped it. The most he said was:

he did all he could
to stop that bad pries.

Now, I was curious to see how he’d address it—if only because I think it’d be a real attention grabber for the target audience. But it’s probably wise to skip it, you don’t want to encourage younger readers to start assaulting people.

But c’mon, if you heard that some kid had been inspired by a Picture Book to slap a kid in Sunday School who kept giving bad answers—you’d laugh. You’d feel bad and repent after, but you’d laugh. I’m getting off the point, though.

Let’s Talk about the Art for a Minute

First, I really liked the way he made Nicholas have the skin tone of someone who was from Türkiye. Especially as white as Santa is usually depicted (and certain news programs insist on), that was a refreshing choice.

The use of mice throughout was a nice touch (and is explained in Bustard’s author’s note). But the best part was the subtle transformation of his clothing and appearance throughout to more and more look like a figure worthy of being an illustration alongside Clement Clarke Moore.

Basically, everything I’d say about the art is what I said when I talked about his Saint Valentine the Kindhearted book two weeks ago. Feel free to go check that.

There are a couple of Second-Commandment violations that naturally trouble me. But they don’t call attention to themselves and can be glossed over if that’s how you’d like to proceed. I’m honestly not sure if I’ll do that, or consign this one to the “we don’t read that one” pile.

How is it to Read Aloud?

A couple of the rhymes are…well, let’s go with imaginative. I will admit I stumbled on a them as I read it to the Grandcritter. But…other than that, it was fun.

There’s some decent rhythm to it, and the sweetness of a lot of it comes out better when you read aloud. Or maybe that was just me. Anyway, it works really well as a read-aloud.

So, what did I think about Saint Nicholas the Giftgiver?

I liked this—I do think Bustard improved his writing with his next two books, but the promise is there. Some lines—several lines—are great and made me smile. As I said before, the art is great. The two together make this a winner.

For me, I’d have appreciated it more if he’d given us a little more history and a little less explanation of the legend around Nicholas. But I’m not sure he’d have been able to do as nice of a job explaining the legend as he did had he devoted less time to it.

Which does make me think—given the age of the audience for this book, it’s a little risky to wade into anything about Santa Claus for some people. I think he handled that as well as he could, and readers who don’t understand everything about Santa the way that grown-ups do should be okay.

I do have a couple of misgivings about this book, but I’m maybe thinking about this more than I should. I don’t think so, but I imagine others will tell me I am. It’s good enough to think about getting and reading—just know that of the three books that Bustard has written so far, it’s the least successful.

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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Regeneration and Redemptive History by Scott R. Wright: Recalibrating Our Understanding on an Important Distinctive

By HCNewton

On December 17, 2023

In Non-Fiction, Theology/Christian Living

Regeneration and Redemptive History:
A Biblical-Theological Consideration of Regeneration

by Scott R. Wright

DETAILS:
Publisher: Reformed Forum
Publication Date: September, 2023
Format: Paperback
Length: 214 pg. 
Read Date: November 19-December 2, 2023

What’s Regeneration and Redemptive History About?

Not too surprisingly, this book shares the outlook outlined in the booklet I talked about a few weeks ago, Unfolding Redemption: Exploring the History and Order of Salvation, and can be seen as an example of the kind of thinking and theological investigation set forth there. In this particular case, Wright looks at the doctrine of regeneration from both the historia salutis and the ordo salutis perspectives.

He begins with a historical survey of the development of the doctrine from the Reformation to the present and then surveys a particular Redemptive Historical outlook on the doctrine. Continuing the surveys, he then considers the Biblical witness to regeneration in the Pentateuch, the Wisdom literature, the Prophets, the Gospels, and then the Epistles. From those surveys, he offers some conclusions, titled “The Eschatological Character,” before moving on to apply this to some practical areas–theology, preaching/teaching, worship, and so on.

What’s the Point?

Why should anyone care about this?

The historia salutis perspective I mentioned before focuses on the objective work done by the Lord Jesus Christ to redeem his people, the eschatological significance of regeneration, and so on. The ordo salutis perspective focuses on the work of the Spirit to apply Christ’s work to the individual believer and what changes come from that.

There’s a shift in the way that Reformed teachers and writers talked about Regeneration around the time of the Synod of Dordt–largely necessitated by the response to the Remonstrants at the Synod, and it came to characterize Reformed soteriology. This shift prioritized the ordo salutis consideration over the historia salutis (in some cases eliminated the latter). This shift would be well and good if the first generations of Reformers had their emphasis wrong, and (particularly) if the Scriptures shared the priority.

Wright talks about it in terms of scope–from a broad view of the changes wrought in regeneration to a narrow, individualistic perspective. That’s probably the best way to summarize things.

Wright’s Historical Survey establishes that shift (although most people who’ve read a decent amount of pre- and post-Dordt will have noticed) and then his Biblical Surveys will either demonstrate that the Scriptures don’t prioritize the ordo over the historia on this point or will at least call into question that idea.

Wright is careful–and (in my view) correct–to not discount what the Reformed church has taught on the ordo salutis aspects of Regeneration. But his concern is that we’ve lost sight of the richness of our inheritance from Scripture and the Reformers. If nothing else, we shouldn’t let detractors focus our energies the way they have. This is why we should care–if he’s (at least largely) correct, we need to work on adjusting our understanding of the scope of Regeneration.

Wright is not alone in this, he draws from and builds on the work of Vos, Ridderbos, Gaffin, and others as they’ve tried to re-emphasize historia salutis in general, and his debt to them is evident.

So, what did I think about Regeneration and Redemptive History?

I think it’s tricky to convey what I think about this book. Maybe I’m wrong, but it feels slippery in my mind. Let’s see what comes out when I try, shall we?

Let’s start with some positives: I am so glad to see a book-length treatment of the idea–and it answered some questions I had on the topic (nothing pressing, and it turns out I was on the right track with my assumptions–or at least Wright’s track). It will be a fantastic resource for myself and many others–if nothing else, it’ll be a good reference/review, particularly in regard to the surveys. The historical material, the conclusion, and the “Theological Implications” chapter had some really good material that I know I’ll draw upon.

The downsides, on the other hand, are hard to ignore–every chapter should’ve been 30-50% longer. He really needed to develop some of his ideas a bit more thoroughly. “Needed” may have been too strong there, but I think it’s appropriate. I think his writing is clear enough that the reader can take the next few steps on their own, feeling confident that they’re headed in the same direction–but it’d have been helpful if he’d provided a little more for us. This isn’t (just) my typical greed for more of what I like, I think it’d serve the material better.

But the big downside for the purposes of this blog–because I want to talk about the book as an experience–this book is too dry, and the prose is a little clunky. Yes, this a revised version of Wright’s dissertation, and that’s probably the root of it. I’ve read other dissertations turned into books and have run into this before (I’ve also, thankfully, run into authors who’ve spent more time revising their books to make them pleasant reading experiences). Does this make or break the book for me? No–because the meat is there and it’s good and valuable. It just means that there’s a lot of gristle to this steak.

Do I recommend this book? Heartily. Just go into it with open eyes, knowing you’ll benefit from it, but you won’t particularly enjoy the read.

3.5 Stars

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Grandpappy’s Corner: Saint Valentine the Kindhearted by Ned Bustard: …Violets are Blue, I Liked this Book, and You Will, Too.

By HCNewton

On December 10, 2023

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

Saint Valentine the Kindhearted:
The History and Legends of
God’s Brave and Loving Servant

Written and Illustrated by Ned Bustard

DETAILS: 
Publisher: IVP Kids
Publication Date: January 16, 2024
Format: eARC
Length: 32 pgs.
Read Date: October 5, 2023

What’s Saint Valentine the Kindhearted About?

Why do we call our celebration of love on February 14th (St.) Valentine’s Day? Why do we use February 14th, for that matter?

Ned Bustard brings us another picture book Biography to teach young readers about Valentine, who was martyred under Claudius on February 14.

Granted, we don’t know a lot about Valentine and his work, but we have enough to fill this book (and, as I recall from wordier historical treatments, not much more). We get a touch of his early life, a look at his ministry (and the Roman culture), a notable miracle that’s ascribed to him, and a bit about the events leading to his martyrdom. All told in a child-appropriate rhyme.

Let’s Talk about the Art for a Minute

Bustard’s cartoon-y art is as great here as it was in his Saint Patrick the Forgiver. The thing that stands out to me is his inking. (at least that’s what we called it back when I was really into comics and talked about the art, hopefully, it still counts). The way he uses bold lines around his character’s faces/bodies (particularly Valentine’s), really makes them pop off the page and almost look like wooden puppets. (that’s the best I can do as far as describing the pictures)

He’s also able to convey a certain amount of unpleasantness and threat with Roman soldiers without changing the overall feel of the story and its appropriateness for young readers.

Now, in the Patrick book, he worked in a lot of Celtic knots and whatnot to give it a more Irish feel. Here he goes for a lot of differently colored hearts all over the pages. It didn’t even occur to me while reading the book to pay attention to that—it fit the overall Feb. 14th vibe. I should’ve known better—thankfully, he explained it in “A Note from the Author,” so when I read this with the Grandcritter I can seem more knowledgeable. He works in these hearts in different colors to represent the four types of love (eros, storge, philia, and agape) from ancient Greek thought (and a pretty good book by C.S. Lewis), showing how Valentine displayed and interacted with these types of love in various episodes in the book.

You can check out the Publisher’s site for a glimpse at the art and layout as a preview. This will probably give you a better idea than anything I tried to convey.

How is it to Read Aloud?

It’s a nice little bit of rhyming text, and starting off with “Roses are red,” as often as he does, you’re going to get right into the rhythm reflexively, which is a nice touch. Some of the rhymes feel like a stretch to me*, but when you’ve got a good head of steam going as you read you probably won’t notice.

* “ago” and “van Gogh”, really? Also, that only works if you use the American pronunciation—sorry, British readers.

So, what did I think about Saint Valentine the Kindhearted?

I enjoyed this. I do wish we had more history to draw from for Bustard to use here (and, well, other historians writing for older audiences, too), just to fill out some of the details reliably. But this is a good introduction to the figure that’s had such a cultural impact so that even younger readers can know there’s basis to the celebration beyond chalky candies and silly drawings.

I don’t have a lot to say about this beyond that. It’s a fun read for the little folks, it has details and layers that older readers can appreciate and use to talk about bigger ideas with the little ones, too. Color me impressed yet again by Bustard and I’m eager to see what holiday/figure he picks next. Anyone trying to bring Early Church figures to the attention of the pre-K crowd deserves some applause and I’m happy to keep giving it, while gladly recommending you jump on board.

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

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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The Holy Spirit: An Introduction by Fred Sanders: A Vital and Needed Work

By HCNewton

On December 3, 2023

In Non-Fiction, Theology/Christian Living

The Holy Spirit:
An Introduction

by Fred Sanders

DETAILS:
Series: Short Studies in Systematic Theology
Publisher: Crossway
Publication Date: October 3, 2023
Format: Paperback
Length: 157 pg. 
Read Date: October 15-November 12, 2023

This book introduces Christians to the Holy Spirit, which is a cheeky thing to do.

By definition, every Christian must already know the Holy Spirit in the most important way, since “anyone who does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him” (Rom. 8:9). So to publish a book for Christian readers under the title The Holy Spirit: An Introduction is to take on a peculiar project: introducing readers to somebody they already know. That is exactly what this book does. It presupposes that its readers are already engaged with the reality of the Holy Spirit and invites them to a theological encounter with that person.

What’s The Holy Spirit: An Introduction About?

It’s kind of summarized there in that last sentence: it’s an introductory work on the theology of the Holy Spirit assuming that the reader knows Him already, but needs to understand Him, His identity, and His work more fully.

As it’s an Introduction (like all the books in this series), and therefore accessible which is nice—but it does a thorough job of talking about things like the Doctrine of the Trinity and how it is informed by and informs our Theology of the Spirit.

Sanders’ Approach

Rather than try to paraphrase or summarize Sanders, let me just let him describe the design of the book:

But my approach in this book is, as I said above, indirect, which is why I began by highlighting the paradoxical character of studying the Holy Spirit. I hope to treat the paradoxical character of pneumatology not as a hindrance to be lamented but as a help to be cherished. If knowledge of the Holy Spirit is, in the ways described above, deflective, reflexive, and connective, then an introduction to the Holy Spirit might deliver a great deal of insight by arranging itself in a corresponding way. Think of the implications that follow from the work of the Spirit being deflective, reflexive, and connective. Deflective means that when you try to think about the Spirit, you find the Spirit himself changing the subject to the Father and the Son. Reflexive means that when you try to think about the Spirit, you find the Spirit himself requiring you to think about yourself and about thinking. Connective means that when you try to think about the Spirit, the Spirit himself draws you out into the full scope of all theology. But these things are all beneficial! To study the Holy Spirit according to his own characteristic way of working means to be personally engaged in a total Trinitarian encounter with the truth of God, We will engage the deflective character of pneumatology.

Many books about Him focus on things like how the Spirit acts in the world today, the gifts of the Spirit—what that phrase means and how one obtains them—the role of Pentecost and how it can/if it can be duplicated today, and so on. Sanders eschews that—focusing on more primary issues (which isn’t to say he doesn’t get into some of that). He starts looking at the Trinity, then he considers the Spirit in relation to the Father—and how by doing so we can gain a better understanding of them both. Then he moves on to the Spirit in relation to the Son—how that’s similar and how that relationship is different than the previous. The final chapter considers the Spirit Himself—yes, addressing some of the same information, but from a different angle.

Bonus Material

As with many (sadly, not all) of this series, this comes with a nifty-looking Further Reading list—one I fully intend to use.

But the additional material I want to talk about is the Appendix, “Rules for Thinking Well about the Holy Spirit.” These are 27 brief rules that so usefully summarize the material in the book—and related ideas—for believers to bear in mind as we read Scripture or theology while working through doctrines/ideas about the Spirit. These rules are the kind of thing that students would do well to pin a copy of onto their wall/somewhere in easy reach.

So, what did I think about The Holy Spirit: An Introduction?

The Holy Spirit makes himself known to us in a way that is better than we could have expected or imagined for ourselves. He is the prevenient person, always already at work, never Father-free or Sonless in his being or in his work, closer to us than our own breath, and making known to us in the depths of our selves the deep things of God.

This is definitely one of my top 3 books in this series—possibly the best thing in it so far.

Sanders’s tone is certainly engaging—he never loses sight of the importance of what he’s talking about, and the necessary reverence. But he’s okay with being chatty and a little witty with the reader. He’s able to break down some complicated and technical points in a way that the reader can find them understandable and compelling.

I really appreciated his approach—both in the way he focused on what he chose to and those things he didn’t seem that interested in writing about. I’m sure others would disagree with me, but it looks like he majored on the major issues and didn’t bother with the minor ones.

I’m not sure that this will supplant Ferguson’s The Holy Spirit in my own use and reference when it comes to pneumatology—but I can’t see me looking into Ferguson’s without looking into this next.

Get your hands on it, and be introduced to Someone you’re already close to.

4 1/2 Stars

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REPOSTING JUST CUZ: Faithful Theology: An Introduction by Graham A. Cole: Basics for Building a Theological Method

By HCNewton

On November 26, 2023

In Non-Fiction, Theology/Christian Living

I’m supposed to be posting about the latest book in this series tonight, but I just don’t like the way the post turned out. So I’m taking another crack at it (which almost never works, but I have to try). So here’s a rerun while I try to remember how to string sentences together.

Faithful Theology: An Introduction

by Graham A. Cole
Series: Short Studies in Systematic Theology

Paperback, 106 pg.
Crossway, 2020

Read: June 27, 2021
Grab a copy from your local indie bookstore!

…faithful theology is a human project that arises from wise reflection on the self-revelation of God. Because it is our reflection on God’s revelation, it is always to be reformed and corrected by that revelation…it is one thing to have an evangelical’s high view of Scripture. It is quite another to know how to derive teaching (doctrine or theology) from Scripture.

Cole’s purpose in this is to give his readers a method to use in “doing faithful theology.” Moving from Scripture to doctrine. Trying to balance orthodoxy, orthokardia, and orthopraxy (right opinion, right-heartedness, right practice of life), Cole organizes his approach through five elements, exploring each in a chapter. The first element is the foundation on which the others are built—God’s self-revelation in Scripture. The second is reflecting on the witness of the theology and practice of the Church through history—not on an equal footing with Scripture, but it should inform how we approach doctrine. The third element is realizing our context as we do theology—we’re in a fallen world, yet we are redeemed and are awaiting the return of Christ. Our thinking, our theologizing needs to be done fully aware of what that means. The fourth is centered on wisdom. We need to be wise in our application of the previous. The last element puts all of the above together and focuses it in a doxological direction—our theology should be a service to God.

Throughout, Cole uses examples of these principles applying to Christological and Trinitarian thought. There are some other examples, too, Which is a tremendous help—if for no other reason than they’re bedrock doctrines on which there should be no disagreement. He brings up baptismal practices at one point as an example of something where there’s an opportunity for a divergence of opinion, standing in contrast to Trinitarian dogma.

So, what did I think about Faithful Theology: An Introduction?

This is an easy read, full of solid, useful advice. I found it a little wanting, a little…uninspired? A little basic? I’m not sure precisely what word I want but it’s somewhere in that vicinity. But it’s supposed to be basic—it’s an introduction. It’s a tool to be used as someone begins working on their theology. So, what do I know?

The for Further Reading and books/articles suggested in the footnotes are helpful, but I didn’t feel inspired to track any of them down right away, but they seemed like solid and useful recommendations.

The last chapter, where he brought all the ideas together and gives a great example of how to use his elements in shaping our Trinitarian dogma is great. It makes all the rest of the book worth it.

It’s good stuff, I think it’ll be helpful to a lot of readers. I just wanted a bit more. I think Swain’s book on the Trinity left me with higher expectations. I’m looking forward to the next book I get in this series to see which of these first two are more representative of the series as a whole.

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.

BOOK PREVIEW: Glorifying and Enjoying God: 52 Devotions through the Westminster Shorter Catechism

By HCNewton

On November 19, 2023

In Non-Fiction, Theology/Christian Living

Okay, I got this book last week and know it’s going to be a while before I can talk about it intelligently—maybe in June, if not December of next year (possibly January 2025). And that seems too long to wait—also, this seemed like a good excuse to flip through it.

Book Details:

Title: Glorifying and Enjoying God: 52 Devotions through the Westminster Shorter Catechism by Victoria Williamson
Publisher: Reformation Heritage Books
Release date: October 16, 2023
Format: Hardcover/ebook
Length: 229 pages

About the Book:

For centuries, the Westminster Shorter Catechism has helped Christians young and old to know their “chief end.” Now, authors William Boekestein, Jonathan Landry Cruse, and Andrew J. Miller value this venerable catechism and winsomely introduce a new generation to its powerful message. Dividing the catechism into 52 brief devotions, they explain and apply each question and answer in a year’s worth of Lord’s Days. This valuable new resource is great for individual and family use for all who desire to “glorify and enjoy God forever.”

Read a preview here.

About the Authors:

William Boekestein is pastor of Immanuel Fellowship Church in Kalamazoo, Michigan. He and his wife Amy have four children.

Jonathan Landry Cruse is pastor of Community Presbyterian Church (OPC) in Kalamazoo, Michigan, where he lives with his wife and three children. He is the author of several books, including What Happens When We Worship.

Andrew J. Miller is the Regional Home Missionary for the Orthodox Presbyterian Church in central Pennsylvania, where he lives with his wife Rebekah and their five children.

My Initial Thoughts:

I’ve seen a handful of attempts over the years to break the WSC down into 52 weekly increments—in some sort of Heidelberg Catechism envy. This looks like a workable version of that—nice topical divisions, easy for discussion.

I’ve skimmed a few chapters here and there throughout the book—they seem to average about 4 pages long with a hint of depth, some good review of the subject, and some practical applications. There are references to and quotations from hymns, historical figures from several eras, and other statements of faith, too—with some handy footnotes. Given the length of the book (and the nature of “brief devotions”), that hint of depth is about as much as someone could expect. But it appears to be a decent way to review the catechism questions.

For the last couple of years, I’ve been reading the Heidelberg Lord’s Day by Lord’s Day—and wonder a little bit what adding this to the mix is going to do to me as the two catechisms are organized differently. But I’m pretty sure I’ll come out unscathed. The WSC was my first real exposure to a catechism, and is what I raised my kids on, it’ll be nice to get back to it.

Anyway, if you’re looking for an easy devotional for 2023, you might want to give this a peak—it promises to be worthwhile. It also would probably make a decent gift if you’re looking for that kind of thing.

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Unfolding Redemption by Camden M. Bucey & Lange G. Tipton: I’ve Looked at Salvation from Both Sides Now

By HCNewton

On November 12, 2023

In Non-Fiction, Theology/Christian Living

Unfolding Redemption:
Exploring the History and Order of Salvation

by Camden M. Bucey & Lane G. Tipton

DETAILS:
Publisher: Reformed Forum
Publication Date: October, 2023
Format: Booklet
Length: 52 pg.
Read Date: November 5, 2023

Many well-meaning Christians view salvation in Christ exclusively through a personal and subjective lens. They perceive salvation as an intimate process of divine intervention, manifesting in transformative experiences, feelings, and changes in our lives. While salvation certainly includes a personal experience, the Bible teaches an objective and historical foundation for such salvation in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Accordingly, before we can speak meaningfully about our individual salvation experience, we must first understand that salvation, at its heart, is an accomplished reality. It is rooted in real, historical events that took place long before our personal experience of salvation. This accomplishment of salvation, carried out by God through Jesus Christ in the unfolding of covenant history, sets the stage for the personal application of salvation in our lives.

Essentially, before salvation can be applied to us subjectively, it must be accomplished objectively. It is this accomplished work of God, historically embodied in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, that is the basis for the salvation we experience. Jesus Christ himself is the wellspring from which flows all the benefits of our salvation: justification, adoption, sanctification, and eventual glorification. To understand truly the richness and depth of our personal salvation experience, we must first grapple with the historical accomplishment of salvation—the foundation upon which our subjective experiences are built.

What’s Unfolding Redemption About?

This booklet is essentially an unpacking of that opening quotation. Following the Introduction which will introduce the thesis of the book, introduce and define some terms, and so on, the opening chapter examines the historic, objective work “historically embodied in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ,” what the authors (and many others) would summarize as the historia salutis.

The second chapter looks at the subjective application of that work to us and our lives—the ordo salutis.

The Significance of Pentecost

Rather than beginning with Genesis, the Prophets, or even the Gospel accounts to look at the historia salutis, Bucey and Tipton start at Pentecost—from this vantage point they can look back at Genesis-Malachi as well as the Gospels for a look at that work of Christ and how it was foretold/foreshadowed and what he accomplished in His life, death, resurrection and ascension—leading to the outpouring of the Spirit at Pentecost as part of what they term “the Irreversible Progress of Redemption.”

Union with Christ

As we’re united with (or in) Christ, those elements of the work He accomplished can be applied to our hearts and souls, our minds, and our lives. They’re applied through justification, adoption, sanctification, forensic and redemptive benefits, and finally through glorification.

The individual aspects here are all touched on with a degree of depth, but they’re very brief (the booklet itself is 52 pages long, everything is brief). But you don’t feel short-changed, which is pretty impressive for 1-4 page discussions.

So, what did I think about Unfolding Redemption?

Understanding what has transpired in Christ breathes life into our understanding of our individual spiritual journeys. Recognizing our faith within the progressive and organic climax of redemptive history in the person, work, and kingdom of Jesus Christ helps us understand our place within his grand design and enhances our communion with Christ. In this context, our salvation becomes not just a personal experience but part of history of special revelation that finds its center and substance—its goal and telos—in the crucified and glorified Son of God—the church’s “hope of glory” (Col. 1:27).

I really appreciate the emphasis on the two ways of looking at redemption—accomplishment and application. What was done on our behalf and how it changes us. It’s too often overlooked and/or confused by the American Church today, and we need to get it straightened out.

Overall, I liked Unfolding Redemption—I wasn’t blown away by it (partially, because I’ve read everything they point readers to for more depth), but it’s asking a lot for a booklet of this length to blow anyone away.

I did think that this is a handy thing to hand out to people who are new to Reformed soteriology—or who are curious about it, and can think of a handful of people I wish I had copies for right now. The whole point of this booklet is to be a starting point—one that points in a direction for further inquiry/study. And it does a great job of doing that.

On those terms, I feel like I’m short-changing it on stars. On the other hand, these are about my reactions–which were I liked it. So, I’m sticking with that. Although, I halfway expect those I had in mind to hand it to will react far more positively. Basically, your results may vary, and probably will.

3 Stars

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The Atonement: An Introduction by Jeremy Treat: A Wider Vision than is Typical for this Doctrine

By HCNewton

On November 5, 2023

In Non-Fiction, Theology/Christian Living

The Atonement: An Introduction

by Jeremy Treat

DETAILS:
Series: Short Studies in Systematic Theology
Publisher: Crossway
Publication Date: August 22, 2023
Format: Paperback
Length: 158 pg.
Read Date: September 24-October 1, 2023

Here is my approach to the atonement in a nutshell: The death of Christ is a multidimensional accomplishment within the story that begins in the garden and culminates in the kingdom. While the achievements of the cross (forgiveness, victory, adoption, and so on) are unending, the heart of the cross, out of which everything flows and finds its coherence, is Christ dying in our place for our sins. The atoning work of Christ not only reconciles sinners to God but also to one another, calling us into a life of taking up our crosses as we follow our King. In other words, we need a kingdom-framed, substitution-centered, multidimensional, integrated, communal, life-changing approach to the doctrine of atonement.

A Quick Confession

I really wasn’t that interested in this volume. I got it because I’m a completionist—the rest of the topics in this series so far (and those I’ve heard are coming) intrigued me. This seemed too narrow a topic, honestly, maybe one that would fit better under a larger topic like the Work of Christ—a companion piece to The Person of Christ: An Introduction.

It took me very little time to realize that I really appreciated Treat’s approach to and Treatment of the subject and that I was very glad I’d bought this. It’s easily one of my favorites in the series (something I’ll be repeating soon when I talk about The Holy Spirit: An Introduction, I have to admit).

Now that I’ve set the bar low for the rest of this, how about we move on to:

What’s The Atonement: An Introduction About?

Atonement theology, especially at the popular level, has been plagued by reductionism. Whether limiting Christ’s work to a purely spiritual salvation or only focusing on one of the dimensions of his work, many have truncated the breadth of Christ’s atoning death. A kingdom framework gives a comprehensive view of salvation, encompassing the renewal of heaven and earth while embracing the many dimensions of the atonement.

Treat definitely doesn’t take a reductionistic approach to his subject—but he doesn’t try to spread it too far, either. What he does do is take a panoramic look at the subject—trying to take in the scope of the doctrine, even if this introduction can’t get into the nitty-gritty details. I feel silly putting it this way, but the book really is a systematic/dogmatic introduction to the Doctrine of the Atonement—exploring what it is and why it matters.

Treat quickly points out that he has no desire to promote any of the various and popular theories regarding the Atonement so popular over the last century or so. He doesn’t care to deal with theories when it comes to this, he wants to focus on what we do know about the doctrine—and sure, as he admits, what he’s saying sounds a lot like the Penal Substitutionary Theory, but it also sounds like the Moral Influence Theory and Governmental Theories—because he’s trying to make sure his doctrine of the Atonement takes in and accounts for all the data.*

* I’d note that every Reformed expositor/defender of the Penal Substitutionary Theory that I’ve encountered over the last couple of decades would have the same understanding of Governmental and Moral Influence, So it’s not revolutionary—as much as Treat’s disdain for the ideal of “theories” may be unfamiliar.

He attempts to keep things focused on the eschaton, and the Atonement’s role in it, as well as a Kingdom-wide understanding—so that the reign of Christ is seen in view of his Atoning work. The last couple of chapters focus on the effects of the Atonement on the Church and believers.

An Added Bonus

Treat cites—at least in the epigraphs of each chapter, but generally more frequently—”majority world scholars.” “[S]ince the atonement is a global accomplishment, it will be best understood from a global perspective.”

That’s probably true of most of the topics in this series on Systematics—if not more of Christian dogma. But I appreciate Treat focusing on this and bringing in teachers/writers from all over the globe into his presentation in this book.

Trinitarian Focus

Early on in the book, Treat quotes Hans Urs von Balthasar, “The events of the cross can only be interpreted against the background of the Trinity.” This forms a substantial part of his position, and it’s something he covers well and thoroughly.

While the doctrine of atonement is centered on Christ, we cannot think of Jesus as an independent individual but as the Son of the Father who is empowered by the Spirit. Atonement is a work of the triune God through and through. On the cross, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit were at work together for the salvation of sinners.

Failure to acknowledge or stress this is part of the reductionism that Treat tries to battle throughout the book. While I applaud this battle each time he engages in it—but his stress on the Trinitarian nature of the Atonement is perhaps my favorite part of the book. It’s so often overlooked or skimmed past—but Treat doesn’t allow the reader to do that—and we’re rewarded by that.

So, what did I think about The Atonement: An Introduction?

While early Christians were mocked for their belief in the cross, Christians today have often domesticated the cross to make it more palatable for a modern society. Whether placed on a calendar in a Christian bookstore, tattooed on an arm, or elevated above a city skyline, we have tamed the cross and turned it into a decorative pleasantry. But only when we see the horror of the cross will we be ready to understand the glory of the cross.

I already gave that away, didn’t I? This really impressed me, changed my mind about the use of a book like it, and helped me refocus my understanding of the doctrine’s place—it also helped me be able to reframe things around the various “theories” of the atonement.

It’s not the easiest read in this series—but it’s by no means difficult. Treat writes in a compellingly clear way, but not one that doesn’t require thought to interact with. I found his style engaging and careful—a great combination when you’re considering the essential doctrines of the Faith.

This isn’t a book that spends any time on things like the “extent” of the Atonement—it’s about the purpose, means, and end of Christ’s great work. Sure, that has implications for questions about the extent, but that’s not what Treat wants to focus on here.

I won’t say the book is perfect—but I can’t think of any substantial problems at this point, and didn’t make any notes expressing concerns. I’m sure I—and most readers—would find a point or three to quibble with or push back against. But those are going to be so minor as to make no real difference in the overall estimation of the book.

Careful, challenging, encouraging, and centered on the great storyline of the Bible, with a focus on the eschatological promises and glories—exactly what we need more of. The Atonement: An Introduction is definitely one I recommend.

4 1/2 Stars

Reformation Sunday Repost: The Freedom of a Christian by Martin Luther, Translated by Robert Kolb: A Pastoral Gem from the Reformer

By HCNewton

On October 29, 2023

In Non-Fiction, Theology/Christian Living

It’s Reformation Sunday–a totally made-up holiday (but which one isn’t?) to commemorate the day in 1517 when Martin Luther inadvertently started a revolution/reformation/revival. So, hey, while I continue to fight off this cold, let me repost this about one of my favorite of Luther’s works:

The Freedom of a Christian: A New Translation

by Martin Luther, Translated by Robert Kolb Carl R. Trueman (Foreward)

DETAILS:
Series: Crossway Short Classics Series
Publisher: Crossway
Publication Date: February 21, 2023
Format: Paperback
Length: 86 pg.
Read Date: February 26, 2023

Some Thoughts on the Series as a Whole

The point of this series is to take classic short works—sermons, tracts, articles—package them attractively, edit a bit (modernize language, eliminate footnotes, tweak grammar, etc.), and make them widely available. Each is given a short introduction to help the reader get the context and a bit of information about the author.

They published seven books in this series last year, and I discussed them here. Two have come out this year (so far), but I’m hoping for more.

What’s The Freedom of a Christian About?

A Christian is a free lord of everything and subject to no one.

A Christian is a willing servant of everything and subject to everyone.

This is Luther (early in the Reformation) laying out his vision for good works for the believer–how they are to be performed, why they are to be performed, and their place in the life of the believer. I’m sure there’s more to say, but that’s basically it.

That quotation gives his two theses–the rest of the book is his working out the thinking behind them. It’s penetrating, it’s convicting, and it’s inspiring to watch him work. Whoops, I seem to have stumbled into the next section.

So, what did I think about The Freedom of a Christian?

From all of this comes the conclusion that a Christian lives not in himself but in Christ and in his neighbor, in Christ through faith, in the neighbor through love. Through faith he rises above himself in God, from God he descends under himself through love, and remains always in God and in divine love. It is as Christ said in John 1[:51]: “You will see heaven standing open and the angels ascending and descending over the Son of Man.” Behold, that is the proper, spiritual Christian freedom, which liberates the heart from all sins, laws, and commands. This freedom exceeds all other freedoms, as high as heaven is over the earth. May God grant us that we truly understand that and retain it.

I wasn’t sure about reading this–it’s one of those works I’ve read so much about. I’ve seen it cited, heard descriptions of it in lectures, and read about it, but I haven’t gotten around to reading it. A lot of the times I read something that I know about like this, it doesn’t work out (I’ve never been able to get past page 40 of Postman’s Amusing Ourselves to Death, for example). But this is exactly what it should’ve been.

Martin Luther being pastoral is just great. Luther coming alongside those believers so often neglected in the Church and saying, here’s what to do–free of burden, free of guilt, free to live and love as they ought, as they’ve been called to.

This little read is a gem. I’m glad I took the chance on it and so glad that Crossway’s series brought it to us.

4 Stars

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