EXPERIENCING THE TRINITY – Joe Thorn (2015)

a trinityWhat do you get when you combine passionate spirituality, gospel-saturated writing, and the best of Reformed theology? Answer: A book that every Christ-follower should read, absorb, pray over, digest, and re-read.

Experiencing the Trinity by Joe Thorn is a combination of honest reflection and soul-searching which is informed exclusively by the Word of God. Imagine the contemplative musings of A.W. Tozer, the insight of C.S. Lewis, and the theological precision of J.I. Packer mixed together in one short book. The end result is Experiencing the Trinity.

Over twenty years ago, I was introduced to the notion of “preaching the gospel to yourself.” Jerry Bridges was my instructor and his guidance has served me well.  This biblical principle has been a gigantic source of encouragement in the Christian life. Joe Thorn picks up where Bridges left off by guiding readers through 50 short essays that put “meat on the bones” and show what it truly means to “preach the gospel to yourself.”

The book is arranged in three sections – Father, Son, and Spirit, respectively. The author writes in the first person and aims gospel promises to the head and heart with clarity, honesty, and gospel-centered resolve.

This is a book the dead guys would be proud of. It would certainly attract the attention of godly men like John Owen, Richard Sibbes, Jonathan Edwards, and John Bunyan. One of the advantages of Thorn’s work is that he casts aside the “wordiness” that the Puritans were famous for. Instead, he encapsulates a doctrinal reality in a few short pages but never at the expense of biblical truth.

Experiencing the Trinity is a short book. But this little gem is packed with gospel promises, gospel power, and fuel for Christ-followers who are struggling with fear, doubt, anxiety, or temptation.

My hope is that Experiencing the Trinity receives a wide reading; that thousands of Christians will be strengthened, edified, challenged, and equipped to continue the race – all the way to the Celestial City. And may many who have yet to embrace the promises of the gospel find refuge in the Triune God who alone grants forgiveness and peace to everyone who turns from their sin and casts all their hope and future in the Lord Jesus Christ!

Highly recommended!

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

CONTAGIOUS DISCIPLE MAKING – David Watson and Paul Watson (2014)

0529112205_bContagious Disciple Making by David and Paul Watson is a practical and readable guide to obeying the Great Commission.    The book is arranged in two parts, the mindset of a disciple-maker and the practices of a disciple-maker.

Part One: The Mindset of a Disciple-Maker

The first section describes some of the philosophic presuppositions that a person should embrace which will enable him to carry out Christ’s mandate to make disciples.  The authors present eight principles to that end:

  1. Disciple-makers embrace lessons taught by failure.
  2. Disciple-makers deculturalize, not contextualize the gospel.
  3. Disciple-makers plant the gospel rather than reproduce their religion.
  4. Disciple-makers realize how hard completing the Great Commission will be for strategies and organizations built around branded Christianity.
  5. Disciple-makers realize the structure of the community determines the strategy used to make disciples.
  6. Disciple-makers realize their culture and religious experience can negatively influence their disciple-making unless they are very careful.
  7. Disciple-makers understand the importance of obedience.
  8. Disciple-makers make disciples, not converts.

Part one contains some important biblical principles that readers should read, digest, and reflect upon.

Two specific critiques are worth noting.  First, there are some negative feelings toward denominations that I take exception with.  The authors maintain that “the denominational education and indoctrination process make it impossible to fulfill the Great Commission.”  The statement is a land mine which is never supported with facts.

Second, the chapter on contextualization is an overreaction and needs adjustment to be adjusted.  In addition, the concern with “doctrine-centered” discipleship is disturbing and also needs to be adjusted.

Part Two: The Practices of a Disciple-Maker

The second half of the book is geared more to people in the trenches who are actually making disciples.  The authors stress the need for prayer, engaging lost people, finding a person of peace, discovery groups, establishing churches, leadership, and mentoring.

While much of this material is valuable, the section on finding a person of peace is especially worth reading: “The Person of Peace is the one God has prepared to receive the Gospel into a community for the first time … This person may be from any walk of life, but he or she will welcome you, listen to your message, help you with your livelihood, and allow you to stay in his or her home and influence his or her family and the community for the sake of the Gospel.”  Such an approach has been fruitful around the world and will serve disciple-makers well.

Contagious Disciple Making is a worthwhile read that has minor bumps along the way.  It is a journey worth taking.

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

3 stars

 

 

THE DARING MISSION OF WILLIAM TYNDALE – Steven J. Lawson (2015)

DAR05BH_200x1000American people have the right and the freedom to criticize military movements in a foreign theater.  This kind of deplorable behavior makes freedom loving Americans cringe – for the freedom to criticize is actually secured and maintained by the very soldiers “under the gun” of critique.  In like manner, Christians have become quite adept at either criticizing their theological heritage or downplaying the importance of church history which subtly undermines the heroes of the Christian faith.  This mind-numbing, soul-shrinking language that discounts the pillars of church history only strengthens the assertion that R.C. Sproul often makes: “We live in the most anti-intellectual period in all of church history.”

Yet, church history is making a comeback.  Church history is rising from the ashes and is beginning to shine once again.  The heroes of the Christian faith who have been sidelined are making their way back onto the “field.”  Calvin, Luther, Edwards, Whitefield, Knox, and Spurgeon are returning to the collective consciousness of the church – especially in the younger generation.  In my own Christian pilgrimage, I give most of the credit to R.C. Sproul for rattling the cage of my mind and shaping my hard heart in order to not only appreciate church history – but to actually love it!

Another important contributor to this resurgence in the study of church history is Steven Lawson.  In 2007, he introduced the series entitled, A Long Line of Godly Men.  The first volume, The Expository Genius of John Calvin introduced readers to the Genevan theologian and sought to “raise the bar for a new generation of expositors.”  Since that time, several new volumes have been released that survey the lives and ministries of Jonathan Edwards, Martin Luther, John Knox, C.H. Spurgeon, Isaac Watts, John Owen, and George Whitefield.

The newest installment in the series, The Daring Mission of William Tyndale summarizes the life of brave Brit, credited with the first English translation of the Bible.

Lawson presents the high points of Tyndale’s life and guides readers on a step-by-step tour which culminates in the martyrdom of a courageous and godly man.

Tyndale’s theological convictions are summarized in five monumental sections:

  • Radical Corruption
  • Sovereign Election
  • Particular Redemption
  • Irresistible Call
  • Preserving Grace

Lawson is quick to alert readers to the Calvinistic piety of Tyndale, a man who stood shoulder to shoulder with the other giants of the Christian faith.

The Daring Mission of William Tyndale is yet another gift to the church from the pen of Steven Lawson.  Young and old will be challenged, emboldened and encouraged as they read about a man who lived what he preached and died for a worthy cause.

Highly recommended!

5 stars

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

CALVINISM IN THE LAS VEGAS AIRPORT – Richard Mouw (2010)

acI am a Calvinist.  Since I paid a visit to the Las Vegas airport a few weeks ago, I felt compelled to read Richard Mouw’s book, Calvinism in the Las Vegas Airport.

The author is interested, as the subtitle suggests, in “making connections in today’s world.”  Mouw rightly notes that some Calvinists are stuck in the Netherlands and have a difficult time reaching out and relating to postmodern people.

The Basics of Calvinism

The author admits upfront that he believes that Calvinism is essential to the gospel.  Such an admission caught my attention – so I read on.

Ultimately, Dr. Mouw seeks to answer one basic question: “How can I best be a Calvinist in the twenty-first century?”  The question is well-placed and deserves an answer.

Part of the answer involves a basic explanation of the historical origins of the theological system that has been labeled, “Calvinism.”  The author rightly adds, “But unlike other traditions, Calvinism rigorously guards this emphasis on divine sovereignty by refusing to allow any other theological point to detract from it.”  Mouw continues by providing a biblical rationale for the five points of Calvinism.

The Blunder in Las Vegas

The tone of the book is warm, the discussion is thought-provoking.  And the discussion that concerns Calvinism is helpful.  Yet a problem begin to surface as the author appears to be sympathetic to inclusivism.  He speaks about unbelievers who will “bow in worship, acknowledging that Jesus is the One whom he should have named all along … and that the Savior will welcome him into the eternal kingdom.”

The author refers to another unconverted friend and wonders out loud: “Is it possible that in this process of surrendering her will to her ‘Higher Power,’ she has, at some level of her being, reached out to accept God’s offer of salvation through Jesus Christ – even though she is present psychologically incapable of articulating her experience in those terms?”

So the book takes a turn that I never expected.  Yet the author laments, ” … I can be sure that I have not wandered too far from the Calvinist path.”

At the end of the day, we find the reality of unconditional election being pitted against God’s generosity, what the author refers to as “divine stinginess.”

Mouw argues for a kinder and gentler Calvinism.  This is commendable and should be encouraged.  But compromising truth for the sake of kindness is not only wrongheaded; it fails to glorify God and in the final analysis.  Compromising truth fails to love others and serve them well.

Calvinism in the Las Vegas Airport is a worthy idea that takes off well but ends up making a crash landing on the wrong runway.

2 stars

Scary Close – Donald Miller

aI admire Donald Miller.  I admire his courage.  I admire his tenacity.  And I admire his ability to tell a story.  Make no mistake – this guy can write!  Admiring Don Miller, however, does not mean I agree with everything he believes.  There’s a good deal I disagree with.  Yet I appreciate his gifts and insight.  Such appreciation is expressed in an earlier review on Miller’s book, A Million Miles in a Thousand Years.  For me, reviewing a Don Miller book is like walking a tight rope.  On one hand, I have conservative friends who question why I even read the guy.  But Miller fans label my critique as “narrow” or “too evangelical.”

Scary Close addresses the subject of relational intimacy.  The book includes some ideas that are commendable and will be of help to many people.

Strengths in Scary Close

1. It is filled  with a stunning degree of transparency.

Miller opens up like never before.  He is quick to confess some of his previous relational blunders.  He admits his propensity to generate applause.  Yet in a moment of unfettered honesty, he admit that “applause is a quick fix.  And love is an acquired taste.”  This kind of openness and honesty sets the stage for the book and never lets up.  Miller shares his heart in a way that is noteworthy and encouraging.

2. It cherishes authenticity and rejects hypocrisy.

Scary Close is packed with moments of authenticity which help readers get to the very heart of the story.  The subtitle accurately conveys what Miller is after, namely – “dropping the act and finding true intimacy.”

At an important juncture, Miller discusses the toxic nature of judgment, that is, being judged unfairly by other people – for being ourselves.  The author suggest that this poisonous habit has invaded many relationships which “keeps us from connecting with other people.”  Ultimately, Miller does a good job at identifying some of the relational land mines the hinder genuine intimacy.

3. It celebrates human relationships.

The most memorable thing about Scary Close is that it celebrates human relationships.  The author discusses his most important relationships, the chief of which is his wife and shows how true intimacy develops.  Miller is to be commended for his willingness to share from the heart and allow readers to see how his heart operates.

Weaknesses in Scary Close

Strengths considered, there is a missing ingredient in Scary Close.  That ingredient is the gospel of Jesus Christ.  Yes, the author confesses his allegiance to Jesus.  And the author refers to God and finding rest in him.  This much is true.  But the road to authentic intimacy (which is a necessary path to travel) is paved with psychological tips and therapy which is not grounded in Scripture. Such a critique is bound to draw fire from Miller fans.  Yet Miller himself urges readers to avoid being careful, a practice which led to a temporary bout with “writer’s block.”  I apply that well-placed advice when offering critique.

So while there is much to commend in this book, in the final analysis it falls short by jettisoning the gospel.  Since the essence of the book is about reconciliation, it is disappointing to bypass the promises of the gospel which offers reconciliation with people  and reconciliation with God through his Son, the Lord Jesus Christ.  Indeed, resting in one’s relationship with God through Jesus is the key to wholeness which leads to relationships which are known for authenticity, health, and intimacy.

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

RUNNING SCARED – Edward T. Welch (2007)

aRunning Scared by Edward T. Welch is a book for all people.  The author is quick to point out the struggle that people have with fear:

Fear and worry run deep in us all.

Fear and worry have meaning.  They say something.  

Fear and worry say that the world is dangerous.  

Fear and worry reveal us.  They reveal the things that we love and value.

Dr. Welch explains fear, isolates fear, and exposes this cruel task master.  Fear is examined in light of God’s Word which includes a penetrating answer for anyone willing to look carefully at God’s promises and embrace the hope held out in the gospel.

Running Scared contains over 300 pages of help for people who battle fear.  My advice: Run quickly to your computer and order a copy of Running Scared!

4 stars

OUR SOVEREIGN SAVIOR: THE ESSENCE OF THE REFORMED FAITH – Roger Nicole (2002)

a sovereignRoger Nicole is a new name for many people in the church.  But in the academy, he is a well-known name and one of the key defenders of the Reformed faith.

Our Sovereign Savior: The Essence of the Reformed Faith is a collection of articles that explain and defend the primary tenets of the doctrines of grace.  The author explores the doctrine of the Trinity, Calvinism, and specific aspects of salvation – reconciliation, propitiation, justification, and sanctification.

Nicole’s approach is typically gracious and is grounded by careful scholarship.  The book is simple enough for a beginning theology student but should not be neglected by more advanced readers.

On December 11, 2010 Dr. Nicole went to be with his Savior.  He was a gift to the church and will be missed.  But his legacy lives on as a man who was committed to articulating the Reformed faith with faithfulness and precision.

Semper Reformanda!

THE TRUE EXCELLENCY OF A MINISTER OF THE GOSPEL – Jonathan Edwards

Jonathan_Edwards_engravingIn this masterful sermon, Jonathan Edwards sets forth what sets apart
a minister of the gospel.

He establishes his doctrine at the beginning of the sermon:

‘Tis the excellency of a minister of the gospel to be both a burning and a shining light.

Six propositions guide the doctrinal assertion:

  1. I would show that Christ’s design, in the appointment of the order and office of ministers of the gospel is, that they may be lights to the souls of men.
  2. I would show what is implied in their being “burning lights.”
  3. I would show what is implied in their being “burning lights.”
  4. I would show that it is the proper excellency of ministers of the gospel to have these things united in them, to be both burning and shining lights.
  5. I would apply these things to all that Christ has called to the work of the gospel ministry, showing how much it concerns them earnestly to endeavor that they may be burning and shining lights.
  6. Show what ministers of the gospel ought to do that they may be so.

The sermon shines brightest in the first proposition as the Puritan divine explains the three-fold use of light, namely – to discover, to refresh, and to direct.

Indeed, pastors have a weighty responsibility, especially in the preaching task to show forth the light of the gospel in ways that are understandable, and in keeping with the truth of God’s Word.