Tim Chester, Reforming Joy (Wheaton: Crossway Books, 2018), 103 pp.
Reforming Joy: A Conversation Between Paul, the Reformers, and the Church Today invites readers on a journey through the book of Galatians. Tim Chester uses the context of the Protestant Reformation as a springboard to unpack two primary themes, namely, faith in Christ and life in the Spirit. These realities provide the necessary fuel that erupts into a mighty reformation of joy.
“The Reformation,” writes Chester “was a rediscovery of joy.” As such, the author sets out to rediscover and also be reformed by the joy which is brimming in the book of Galatians.
The book is brief in length and is organized in five chapters which are summarized below:
- How to Hear God’s Voice: The Reforming Joy of Scripture Alone (Galatians 1)
- How to Know God’s Approval: The Reforming Joy of Faith Alone in Christ Alone (Galatians 2)
- How to Recognize God’s People: The Reforming Joy of Mother Church (Galatians 3-4)
- How to Enjoy God’s Love: The Reforming Joy of Adoption (Galatians 4)
- How to Do God’s Will: The Reforming Joy of Life in the Spirit (Galatians 5)
Each chapter interacts with Scripture and alerts readers to the pivotal principles of joy. The solas of the Reformation are clearly taught and celebrated. And the gospel is seen throughout. The conclusion of each chapter contains a summary and snapshot of a specific Reformer along with a pertinent citation, which helps bolster and support the given theme.
Reforming Joy accomplishes what it sets out to do. This short volume is packed with truth and life-changing theology that is certain to encourage and equip the people of God.
I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review.
Veritas et Lux 