Living By Revealed Truth: The Life and Pastoral Theology of Charles Haddon Spurgeon – Tom Nettles (2013) Part 2

1781911223_bChapter 1: Birth to New Birth

Living By Revealed Truth Begins where any biography ought to begin – at the beginning.  Spurgeon was born on June 19, 1834 and was influenced at an early age by dead writers: “The old writers, who are, by far, the most sensible – for you will notice that the books that were written about 200 years ago by the old Puritans have more sense in one line than there is in a page of our new books – and more in a page than there is in a whole volume of our modern divinity!” Spurgeon was influenced by the likes of John Owen, Stephen Charnock, and John Bunyan – men, who would inform his theological mind for the duration of his ministry.

The author unfolds the fascinating story of Spurgeon’s conversion and rise to pulpit ministry. Spurgeon reports, “Ah me, how I seemed offended against the justice of God; I was impure and polluted, and I used to say, ‘If God does not send me to hell, He ought to do it.’ I sat in judgment upon myself, and pronounced the sentence that I felt would be just.” He continues, “Then I was brought down to see my corruption, my wickedness, my filthiness, for God always humbled the sinner whom He means to save.”

Spurgeon’s testimony is remarkable, especially given the postmodern aversion to proclaiming the sinfulness of sin and the efficacy of the substitutionary atonement.  For example, Tony Crank, Senior pastor of the One Love Church recently opined, “Some churches have become the kind of place where you point the finger, and you condemn and rebuke and you’re really quick to do it, and so I think that is definitely lending itself to people not wanting anything to do with church and thinking church sucks!” Evidently the approach that Crank opposes is precisely the kind of ministry that was instrumental in Spurgeon’s entry into the kingdom of God.

The Puritan writer, Samuel Bolton, agrees with Spurgeon’s approach and opposes Pastor Crank: “When you see that men have been wounded by the law, then it is time to pour in the balm of Gospel oil. It is the sharp needle of the law that makes way for the scarlet thread of the gospel.”

Spurgeon’s conversion is instructive and his subsequent ministry informs the conscience of anyone who seeks to reach lost people.  He remarked, “To preach in this great building the self-same gospel in the same simple tones.  Sinners, look to Christ and be saved.”  Spurgeon taught a simple lesson that every pastor must heed.  Sinners must be confronted with their sin. They must understand how they have violated God’s holy law. And they must be exhorted to look to Christ, to believe in Christ, to embrace his salvific benefits that he purchased on the cross.

Living By Revealed Truth: The Life and Pastoral Theology of Charles Haddon Spurgeon – Tom Nettles (2013) Part 1

1781911223_bLiving by Revealed Truth: The Life and Pastoral Theology of Charles Haddon Spurgeon by Tom Nettles is a magnum opus if I ever saw one.  The subtitle nicely summarizes the path set before readers as they study the rich biography of the Prince of Preachers and gain insight into the theological landscape that dominated his ministry for almost 40 years.

The introduction leaves no room for ambiguity. Spurgeon was a Bible man, an uncompromising pastor who loved proclaiming the truth of Scripture. One man captures the essence of the British pulpiteer when someone inquired about the secret of Spurgeon’s effectiveness after his death: “Two things; first, he had one single object before him always, ‘to win souls for God by preaching Christ, and Him crucified and risen’; second, his own personal faith in Christ was always feeding on Christ as revealed in Holy Scripture.”

The author manages to fit eighteen marvelous chapters into this book of nearly 700 pages. Over the next several days, I intend to present the high points, noting the strengths of the book and any criticisms that may arise.  One thing is sure: Spurgeon was a towering figure in 19th-century England and he continues to wield a mighty influence on preachers in the 21st century.  His influence on this preacher has been inestimable.  His integrity, passion for truth, love of evangelism, and heart for people are a mighty boon for the soul. I’m looking forward to the journey!

Sanctification as Set Apart and Growing in Christ – Marny Köstenberger

Marny Köstenberger, Sanctification as Set Apart and Growing in Christ (Wheaton: Crossway Books, 2023), 142 pp.

“As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance, but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, “You shall be holy, for I am holy.”” Peter’s charge to the people of God in 1 Peter 1 reverberates throughout the pages of Scripture, both the Old Testament as well as the New.

Marny Köstenberger’s book, Sanctification As Set Apart and Growing in Christ helps solidify this important biblical teaching. Her work is the latest installment in Crossway’s series, The Short Studies in Biblical Theology. Students of Scripture are encouraged to trace critical themes in the biblical metanarrative.

Köstenberger begins with creation and links the doctrine of sanctification with the biblical covenants. She argues that “the story of God’s relationship with humanity is bound up with presence: God created humans to live in his presence; they transgressed the Creator’s command and consequently were expelled from his presence. God restored Israel and the people of God utilizing the biblical covenants which are summed up and consummated in the New Covenant, where the law of God is written on the hearts of his people and his presence is manifest through the indwelling Holy Spirit.

Various themes are presented with the intention of tying the doctrine of sanctification so followers of Christ may understand and be edified. The themes of union with Christ and suffering are two themes that stand out in particular.

The author is quick to point out the practical nature of sanctification. In the final analysis, she writes, “We’ve become part of God’s mission to bring his name and saving message to the ends of the earth as we witness boldly to the one who lives inside us.” May each reader be strengthened by the indwelling Spirit and may his work of grace continue unhindered in the lives of his people!

I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review.

Impossible Christianity – Kevin DeYoung

Kevin DeYoung, Impossible Christianity (Wheaton: Crossway Books, 2023), 140 pp.

There appears to be a growing confusion these days about historic Christianity. A few questions help bring this uncertainty to light:

  • Does following Jesus mean we have to change the world?
  • Do we have to be experts on every subject?
  • Are we destined to feel miserable on most days?
  • Do we need to accept spiritual failure?

Kevin DeYoung addresses these kinds of questions in his recent book, Impossible Christianity.

Dr. DeYoung addresses a critical aspect of the Christian life at the outset: “Ordinary Christians and ordinary churches can be faithful, fruitful, and pleasing to God. In short, Christianity doesn’t have to be impossible.” The central task of the book is to make the case for this assertion.

The author successfully defends his thesis in eight brief chapters. These chapters are simple enough for new Christians to understand, but “pack a punch” for seasoned believers. DeYoung is quick to dismantle the legalistic tendencies we all possess. He likewise affirms the graciousness of the gospel and the joy that should be a part of our Christian lives.

Impossible Christianity is an encouraging book that Christians should enthusiastically devour. It is a helpful antidote to the false notions of spirituality that have crept into the church.

I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review.

Apostasy from the Gospel – John Owen

John Owen, Apostasy from the Gospel (Wheaton: Crossway Books, 2023), 422 pp.

Crossway Books deserves a great debt of gratitude for republishing The Complete Works of John Owen, including his magisterial treatment of Hebrews. Lee Gatiss and Shawn D. Wright edited the series. The volumes are bound in beautiful hardcovers and include an attractive slipcover.

Apostasy from the Gospel (volume 14) is introduced and edited by Joel R. Beeke. The fitting introduction is basic enough for first-time readers of Owen, but will also satisfy Owen scholars. The volume under consideration includes thirteen chapters that draw hearts and minds to the Savior and also warn them of the sin of apostasy.

Owen begins his treatment with a rather comprehensive definition of apostasy and exposition of Hebrews 6:4-6. The message is clear: “And until the word in the heart be mixed and incorporated with faith, it will not advantage us (Heb. 4:2), and there is nothing hereof where there is a taste of the word only.”

The Puritan divine builds upon this framework and explains how various people are prone to apostasy. He highlights various causes of apostasy and admonishes readers to steer clear from an evil heart of unbelief.

The closing chapter contains several ways to safeguard ourselves from falling into apostasy:

  1. Labor for a real sense of the glory of God.
  2. Keep watch over your hearts to maintain duties and to guard against dangers.
  3. Beware of merely resting in the outward privileges or ordinances of the church.
  4. Beware of the influences of vices prevalent in your nation.
  5. Avoid the errors of professing Christians who alienate others from the gospel.

Apostasy from the Gospel is a vivid reminder to remain close to the Savior and guard our hearts from sin. It is not only a warning to stand strong but contains gospel treasures throughout.

Highly recommended!

Beauty is Your Destiny – Philip Ryken

Beauty Is Your Destiny by Philip Ryken aims to “awaken a longing for beauty and the eternal love of God that can be fully satisfied only in the face of Jesus Christ.” Ryken’s book is a timely offering as our world appears to be crumbling at the seams.

The author establishes the boundary lines of beauty in the opening chapter by reinforcing the biblical truth that God is the most beautiful Being in the universe. “Beauty” as they say, “is in the eye of the beholder.” The statement is true so long as the Beholder is God himself.

Ryken carefully builds his case by focusing on several themes from the Trinity to creation, and creatures made in the imago Dei. Each of these themes is explored in detail and biblical examples are cited.

The author also explores the beauty of purity and by highlighting Christ’s invitation for all people to life a “beautiful life – a chaste life – from this moment forward and every time we fall … When we live into the cleansing, sanctifying, justifying grace that God has for us in Jesus Christ, our lives – including our bodies – help tell the beautiful story of the gospel.”

The book cultivates acute interest and awe by exploring three beautiful realities – Christ, his cross, and his church and urges readers to look forward to the day when Christ will make all things new!

I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review.

Foundations for Lifelong Learning: Education in Serious Joy – John Piper

John Piper, Foundations for Lifelong Learning: Education in Serious Joy (Wheaton: Crossway Books, 2023), 171 pp.

Foundations for Lifelong Learning: Education in Serious Joy is designed for Christian readers who love growing spiritually. “This book,” according to the author, John Piper, “is for anyone at any age, who refuses to stagnate intellectually, spiritually, and emotionally.”

Anyone familiar with Dr. Piper’s writings will quickly recognize the emphasis on joy. And while some are quick to belittle his passion for joy, their critiques fall flat in seconds. Piper points readers to the glory of Christ and shows the tie-in with Christian education. He writes, “That is the deepest foundation in serious joy: all things were made by Christ, belong to Christ, and exist for Christ … Therefore joy, serious joy, is at the heart of Christ-exalting education.”

The book is arranged into six short chapters that emphasize lifelong learning for Christ’s glory and revolve around six habits of heart and mind. Readers are challenged:

to observe the world and the word accurately and thoroughly

to understand clearly what we have observed

to evaluate fairly what we have understood by discerning what is true and valuable

to feel with proper intensity the worth, or futility, of what we have evaluated

to apply wisely and helpfully in life what we understand and feel

to express in speech and writing and deeds what we have observed, understood, evaluated, felt, and applied in a way that glorifies the Lord

Dr. Piper carefully unpacks the six habits and helps Christians see how lifelong learning has an ultimate end, namely, glorifying Christ.

In some ways, Foundations for Lifelong Learning is a follow-up to the author’s 2010 book, Think: The Life of the Mind and the Love of God. Each book makes a solid contribution to an area that has been neglected by many Christians. My hope is that Piper’s newest release will serve as a catalyst for many people and catapult them into the stratosphere of lifelong learning.

I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review.

The War on Men: Why Society Hates Them and Why We Need Them – Owen Strachan (2023)

Owen Strachan, The War on Men: Why Society Hates Them and Why We Need Them (Washington D.C.: Salem Books, 2023), 201 pp.

The animosity toward men is heating up in the academy, the church, and culture at large. What used to be heard on the periphery is now commonplace at every turn. For this reason, Owen Strachan’s latest book, The War on Men: Why Society Hates Them and Why We Need Them has arrived at a strategic time.

Dr. Strachan’s work is both descriptive and prescriptive. First, he offers a critical analysis on the state of men – both how and why they struggle. The biblical portrait of men is clearly articulated with specific examples of men who followed God faithfully and those who failed along the way. Men who desire to obey God have much to learn from both.

True manhood is found ultimately in the person of the Lord Jesus Christ, who is presented as tough and tender, kind and gentle, and One who serves the Father and ministers to the people of God. Ultimately, this warrior-King dies for the church and rises again victoriously on the third day, conquering death, and forgiving the sins of everyone who believes. Strachan writes, “Like Christ himself, a strong man of God must be many-sided and multi-dimensional. He can only live in such a way if God works in his heart and supplies the grace for such godliness, as He does and will do for all of us imperfect and naturally weak men.”

One of the many strengths of this book is the distinction between men and women, and the high calling of men in particular. Strachan doesn’t waste time here. He tackles the important matter of manhood by expounding the biblical roles of men, challenging them to faithfully fulfill the creation mandate with wives by their side, fulfilling their God-given role as “helpers.”

While much of the book is descriptive, the author also includes helpful prescriptions for men who seek to faithfully follow the Lord Jesus Christ. The concluding chapter offers “a plan for boys and a way back for men.” The principles that Strachan offers are challenging, much-needed, and biblical. These principles fly in the face of our pragmatic-driven culture that is more geared to paganism than piety.

The War on Men is a gospel-salve for a sick and dying culture. It is a battering ram against the pagan lies of feminism and “toxic masculinity” that pervades the contemporary milieu. Strachan’s biblical wisdom and practical sensibility are a breath of fresh air in a world drowning in compromise. The message of this book cannot go unheeded or we pay a terrible price.

Drop everything now and read this book. Tell other men about it. Encourage men, both young and old to read it and re-read it. Challenge feminists and egalitarians to read this book. Gift a copy to your pastor. Read this book with a group of college-age students. Allow the message of “The War on Men” to enter and impact your theological bloodstream. The end result will benefit men and lead to spiritual health and gospel-centered obedience.

Courage: How the Gospel Creates Christian Fortitude – Joe Rigney

Joe Rigney, Courage: How the Gospel Creates Christian Fortitude (Wheaton: Crossway Books, 2023), 139 pp.

Courage has been eclipsed by cowardice in our culture. Christian courage in particular is lacking in men and women. Joe Rigney’s book, Courage: How the Gospel Creates Christian Fortitude is filled with encouragement and challenge for anyone who has ears to hear.

The author rivets the attention of his readers on three qualities that explode off the pages of Philippians chapter 1 – boldness, courage, and fearlessness. Rigney develops the cultural context in the first century and challenges readers to emulate the courage of Paul and the first-century Christ-followers.

The important principle that runs throughout the book is this: “Seeing courage spreads courage. Seeing boldness awakens boldness. Seeing fearlessness overcomes fear.” In other words, as Rigney writes, “Courage is contagious. Boldness spreads. Fearlessness is infectious. And when these virtues are caught, Christ is magnified.”

Rigney rightly says that Christians tend to preach aspects of Scripture that are agreeable to people but neglect more difficult topics. These topics, the argument goes are in the realm of “discipleship” and should be avoided in order to prevent offending anyone. (If I deposited a dime every time I heard something similar in the church, I’d be very wealthy). The author opposes this approach to the Christian life:

When we call people to repent of their sins and idolatries, we cannot avoid the ones that we know will make them angry … You can’t preach the gospel to a practicing homosexual and not call him away from practicing homosexuality. You can’t preach the gospel to contemporary egalitarian progressives and not call them away from their commitment to a false view of human nature and marriage and men and women and sex.

Courage, then, should be a regular part of the Christian life. This courage is enabled by the Holy Spirit and grows when other believers participate and encourage us to be bold, even in the face of adversity or persecution.

Courage: How the Gospel Creates Christian Fortitude is a much-needed book as believers have been marginalized and discouraged from boldly declaring the truth of God’s Word. It is a clarion call to Christians to pick up the mantle of leadership and be instilled with boldness, courage, and fearlessness.

I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review.

THE JONAH COMPLEX: Meditations on the Sovereignty of God eBook – Only $2.99

For a limited time, the Kindle version of The Jonah Complex: Meditations on the Sovereignty of God is only $2.99.

This gripping book explores a struggling man who tries to make sense of a confusing world. The Jonah Complex proclaims the unwavering sovereignty of God, exalts the Creator of the cosmos, and calls all creatures to stand in awe of his regal majesty.