Veritas et Lux

THE MAN JESUS CHRIST – Bruce A. Ware (2013)

The Man Jesus Christ is the latest installment from the pen of Southern Seminary professor, Dr. Bruce Ware. The subtitle accurately describes the essence of the book – Theological Reflections on the Humanity of Christ. The author sets the tone for the book in the preface by reminding readers that the purpose is to examine the humanity of Christ. While never minimizing the deity of Christ, the author intends to unfold the facts of Christ’s humanity in a way that is understanding, compelling, and biblical. What follows is eight chapters of thought-provoking, Christ-exalting reflections on the humanity of Christ.

The nature of the kenosis (self-emptying) of Jesus is explained and the typical errors that surround the kenosis are confronted: “It is a ‘subtraction’ (i.e., a pouring out, an emptying) by adding human nature to his divine nature. He came, then, to become the God-man – the one whose very divine nature took on fully the existence of a created human nature.” Ware also addresses the erroneous notion that Christ’s submission to the Father began at the point of the incarnation. Much to the contrary, we find that Jesus has submitted to the Father from all eternity: “In short, the eternal Son submitted to and obeyed the will of his Father prior to his becoming incarnate.”

The author discusses the importance of Christ’s Spirit-empowered earthly ministry. Here we find that while the Spirit does not contribute anything to the deity of Christ, the Spirit does contribute to the humanity of Christ: “The only way to make sense, then, of the fact that Jesus came in the power of the Spirit is to understand that he lived his life fundamentally as a man, and as such, he relied on the Spirit to provide the power, grace, knowledge, wisdom, direction, and enablement he needed, moment by moment and day by day, to fulfill the mission the Father sent him to accomplish … At the heart of who he is, we must see him [Jesus] as coming in the power of the Spirit.” Surely, readers will not only be encouraged to gaze upon the God-man as he relies upon the Holy Spirit during his earthly ministry and seek to emulate Christ’s dependence on the Spirit.

Additionally, readers see how Jesus grew in wisdom as a man during his earthly ministry. “… His knowledge was not out of his divine nature per se. Rather, his human nature had to acquire the knowledge and wisdom that he later evidenced, whether at the age of twelve or thirty.” And as Jesus grew in wisdom, so must we – always remembering that the Spirit of God, uses the Word of God to transform the people of God.

Several subjects are explored including the impeccability of Christ, penal substitutionary atonement, and three crucial realities – the resurrection, reign, and return of Christ. Over and over again, the author reminds readers about the importance of Jesus’s humanity. For example, the author writes the following about the death and resurrection of Christ: “Just as God as God cannot die, so God as God cannot be raised from the dead. But in Jesus, the God-man, we see that God as man has died for our sin, and likewise God as man has been raised from the dead. The atoning death of Christ requires his full humanity, and the resurrection of Christ does likewise.”

One of the greatest strengths of The Man Jesus Christ is that it addresses some common Evangelical presuppositions that have been smuggled into the church. These presuppositions are graciously exposed and the biblical worldview is advanced. Dr. Bruce Ware presents a side of Christology (the humanity of Jesus) that has been neglected both in the church and the academy. Joel Beeke rightly remarks, “… Christology must affect not only the mind but also take aim at the heart” (A Puritan Theology:Doctrine for Life, 977). In The Man Jesus Christ, Ware targets the mind with scholarly precision and sets his sights on the heart with the Godward affections of a caring shepherd.

This is a book that seeks, in the final analysis, to encourage and motivate believers to live a Christ-centered life. One of the final pages summarizes these thoughts nicely: “Oh, how our obedience matters! So, how wrong it is of us to appeal to grace as license to disobey, just as it is equally wrong to appeal to our obedience as the basis for our right standing before God! … May we see that just as his relentless and perfect obedience, rendered in the power of the Spirit and in faith, brought him the full approval of his Father and the reward of his exaltation, so our obedience, rendered in the power of the Spirit and in faith, likewise, will be seen and rewarded by our gracious and benevolent God. Let us learn from Jesus that obedience matters.”

5 stars

FIRE OF THE RAGING DRAGON – Don Brown (2012)

Fire of the Raging Dragon by Don Brown is a military thriller that sends readers into a fictional battle that escalates between the United States and China. Tang Qhichen, the Chinese president sends his Navy to strike an island in the South China sea – controlled by Taiwan. At the center of the story, is a Chinese ship that is overtaken by the Taiwanese military which leads to the discovery of a serious crime (which will not be revealed in this review). The Taiwanese military requests American assistance at which point, the crime originally uncovered was more serious than suspected. American forces seize the ship in order to preserve the evidence of a crime with the hopes that the perpetrators would be brought to justice.

The Chinese counterattack by seizing a US Navy warship, a submarine that does not have sufficient weapons to defend itself. The plot thickens when the US President discovers that his daughter is aboard the USS Emory S. Land, the warship that is currently under Chinese control.

One of the central questions of the book concerns the US President: How will he respond to the Chinese? Will he capitulate since his daughter is aboard the USS Emory – 0r will his leadership reflect one who is ruled by principle instead of pragmatism.

Fire of the Raging Dragon is a good book – filled with plenty of action and warfare. But the most fascinating component involves the ethical decisions that the president faces. The book also reminds readers of the awkward political position of the United States in her relationship with the Chinese government, especially in light of the trillions of dollars of debt. Perhaps even a fictional account like Fire of the Raging Dragon would remind the federal government to review and revise policies in our relations with China.

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review.

3 stars

THE CONVICTION TO LEAD – Albert Mohler (2012)

Leadership books are “a dime a dozen” these days. More often than not, the challenge for readers is finding a book devoted to leadership that is worth reading and filled with timeless wisdom. Over the last several years, I’ve found a several books that pass this leadership test. A few that come to mind include Credibility and The Leadership Challenge by Kounze and Posner, Spiritual Leadership by J. Oswald Sanders, Seven Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey, and Leaders by Warren Bennis. A recent book to hit the shelves that should be included among the best of the best is The Conviction to Lead by Albert Mohler.

Dr. Mohler doesn’t pull any punches. He admits the agenda on the first page of the book: “Let me warn you right up front … I want to fundamentally change the way leadership is understood and practiced.” Mohler’s leadership agenda appears almost instantaneously: “My goal is to knock the blocks out from under the current models of leadership and forge a new way … I want to see a generation arise that is simultaneously leading with conviction and driven by the conviction to lead.” What follows is a brief summary of Mohler’s commitment to articulate what he calls “convictional leadership.”

It is important to understand Dr. Mohler’s background before diving into the core of book. Here is a man who was called to serve as the President of Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, the flagship school of the Southern Baptist Convention – at the ripe age of 33. Mohler’s was faced with the massive task of recovering the theological backbone and purpose of the institution. No doubt, it was a major undertaking. But Mohler succeeded in large measure due to strong leadership that was dependent upon the grace of God every step of the way. The church of Jesus Christ is the recipient of his courageous leadership. Under Mohler’s leadership, Southern Seminary equips pastors, teachers, missionaries, and lay leaders with a rock-solid education that is Reformed and stands at the center of Evangelicalism.

In the book, Mohler presents 25 principles for leadership. Each of the principles are battle-tested and grounded in Scripture for maximum impact. A sampling of quotes is included below:

“I want to see a generation arise that is simultaneously leading with conviction and driven by the conviction to lead. The generation that accomplishes this will se the world on fire.”

“Conviction is absolutely central to the faithful Christian life … The leadership that really matters is all about conviction.”

“Without conviction, nothing really matters, and nothing of significance is passed on.”

‘Convictional intelligence is the product of learning the Christian faith, diving deeply into biblical truth, and discovering how to think like a Christian.”

“Real leadership doesn’t happen until worldviews are changed and realigned.”

“Our ultimate conviction is that everything we do is dignified and magnified by the fact that we were created for the glory of God.”

“The Christian leader is, by definition, committed to living in truth.”

“The leader who makes the greatest impact will be a master teacher who trains leaders at every level in the organization to teach withf faithfulness, enthusiasm, and confidence.”

“Everything humans build will one day be reduced to ruins, but our lives and our leadership will, in Christ, have eternal consequences and impact.”

Dr. Mohler appears to summarize his thoughts on leadership in the closing chapter: “The leader’s central concern with regard to legacy is the perpetuation of conviction.” It is conviction that drives the leader. Effective leaders say what they mean and mean what they say. The Conviction to Lead is the book that many have been waiting for from the pen of Al Mohler. This is clear-headed wisdom that echoes the timeless realities of God’s Word and is sure to make a difference in the kingdom for the glory of God. May God use these leadership principles to foster strong leaders in the days ahead.

Highly recommended

5 stars

I received this book free from Bethany House Publisher. I was not required to write a positive review.

The Meaning of Marriage – Timothy and Kathy Keller (2012)

The Meaning of Marriage by Timothy and Kathy Keller is a thoughtful look at marriage through the lens of Scripture. The Keller’s pull no punches. This book is honest and transparent. They reveal some of the struggles they have overcome in their marriage and point readers to biblical solutions. The Meaning of Marriage definitely has a “Keller-like” feel to it. Much of the book is deep and serious (one of the many reasons why Keller’s popularity continues to escalate), but it is filled with practical help for newlyweds and marriage veterans alike.

The thesis of the book is that “through marriage, the mystery of the gospel is unveiled … marriage is a major vehicle for the gospel’s remaking of your heart from the inside out and your life from the ground up.”

The major strength of the book is the continual return to the gospel: “The only way to avoid sacrificing your partner’s joy and freedom on the altar of your need is to turn to the ultimate lover of your soul. He voluntarily sacrificed himself on the cross, taking what you deserved for your sins against God and others.”

The Meaning of Marriage affirms complementarianism and rejects the growing tide of egalitarianism. The apologetic for complementarianism is offered in a gracious manner and emerges in what may be the best chapter of the book (chapter six) which is authored by Kathy Keller.

My only complaint is Keller’s argument that remarriage may be an option even when a previous spouse is still living. While he does not develop his argument at length, the popularity of the Erasmian view is alarming. Readers should refer to John Piper’s work, This Momentary Marriage for the opposing view.

Overall, The Meaning of Marriage is a valuable book that should be devoured and utilized for years to come.

4 stars

THE LIFE OF GOD IN THE SOUL OF THE CHURCH – Thabiti Anyabwile (2012)

The Life of God in the Soul of the Church by Thabiti Anyabwile is a refreshing look at the inner life of a healthy functioning New Testament church. Pastor Anyabwile is lays the foundation in part one by pointing to the reality of our union with Christ. He discusses the nature and goal of spiritual fellowship and discusses the role of the Trinity and their respective responsibilities in building the church.

In Part two, the author makes direct application by making an appeal to the “one another’s” of the New Testament. Each chapter is arranged in a thematic and expositional fashion that aims to glorify God. The Life of God in the Soul of the Church aims for the heart. Anyabwile continues to make solid contributions to the local church.

KINGDOM THROUGH COVENANT – Peter Gentry and Stephen Wellum (2012)

One of the thorniest theological dilemmas in my mind concerns two systems of thought, namely, Dispensationalism and Covenant Theology. God found me and saved me by his grace in a Conservative Baptist Church that was heavily influenced by Classical Dispensationalism. With the arrival of the third pastor, I learned the distinction between the church and Israel, various dispensations, two peoples of God, not to mention the so-called carnal Christian theory. These notions particular to Classical Dispensational thought were fairly commonplace at the time and I accepted them uncritically.

My time in a well known Christian University continued to engrain dispensational distinctives into my mind. But in 1988, the theological tides began to shift. It began with the publication of a book by John MacArthur, The Gospel According to Jesus. MacArthur delivered a death nell to the so called “carnal Christian theory” and distanced himself from some of the primary tenets of dispensational theology. At the same time, MacArthur was writing as a committed Dispensationalist, what we refer today as Progressive Dispensationalism. The Gospel According to Jesus not only refuted some of the errors in Classical Dispensationalism; it also introduced readers to the Puritans and spoke in positive terms about Reformed theology – both subjects that were frowned upon by several professors in the Christian University I attended.

Kingdom Through Covenant by Peter Gentry and Stephen Wellum, is in many ways the book that I have been waiting for. The authors strive to forge a path between dispensationalism and covenant theology. Their two-fold purpose is set forth at the beginning of the book: “First, we want to show how central the concept of ‘covenant’ is to the narrative plot structure of the Bible, and secondly, how a number of crucial theological differences within Christian theology, and the resolution of those differences, are directly tied to one’s understanding of how the biblical covenants unfold and relate to each other” (p. 21).

The thesis of Gentry and Wellum is that “the covenants constitute the framework of the larger story. They are the backbone of the biblical narrative” (p. 138). As such, God would sovereignly choose Israel to be his covenant representatives, “a light to the world of what it means to be properly related to God and to treat each other properly according to the dignity of our humanity” (p. 138). But Israel failed. They did not keep the Mosaic Covenant. As a result they were cursed for their disobedience. However, the Scripture speaks of a new covenant; a day when it would be possible to keep the covenant. Jesus fulfilled prophecy and rescued Israel from the curse: “Then as King of Israel, he had to do what the nation as a whole had failed to do: bring blessing to the nations. He accomplished both by dying on the cross” (p. 296).

In presenting the via media between dispensationalism and covenant theology, the authors aim to strike a biblical balance while paying a certain degree of homage to each respective school of thought. In a pivotal moment, the authors appear to strike the necessary balance with a great deal of precision: “Contrary to covenant theology, which has a tendency to speak of God’s one plan of salvation in terms of the ‘covenant of grace,’ or ‘dispensational theology,’ which tends to partition history in terms of dispensations, it is more accurate to think in terms of a plurality of covenants, which are part of the progressive revelation of the one plan of God that is fulfilled in the new covenant” (p. 602). The authors continue add, “In contrast to the other theological views, our proposal of ‘kingdom through covenant’ wants consistently to view and apply the previous covenants through the lens of Jesus’ person and work and the arrival of the new covenant age.”

Kingdom Through Covenant is written by two godly men who are fair-minded in their approach and careful to accurately describe their theological opponents. While their proposal is fresh and bold, they in no way claim to have the final answer on this disputed matter. Rather, this 716 page tome serves as the entry point for meaningful discussion. Their approach is light years away from some of the mean-spirited polemics that took place between the proponents of covenant theology and dispensationalism in the 70-‘s and 80’s. The church should receive the work of Gentry and Wellum as a gracious gift that will spark meaningful discussion for decades to come. A fine work, indeed!

4.5 stars

THE CASE FOR CHRIST – Lee Strobel

The Case For Christ by Lee Strobel, a former atheistic journalist turned pastor, retraces his spiritual journey by interviewing thirteen leading scholars and authorities. Strobel asks penetrating questions and forces these scholars to defend their views with solid data and argumentation. He plays the role of “devil’s advocate” and asks questions that a typical skeptic might ask. The author hopes to challenge the presuppositions of the reader and force him to think through various questions that affect his eternal destiny. He drives home the point that if Jesus is to be believed, then nothing is more important than a proper response to him.

Part one examines the Scriptural record detailing the life of Jesus. Strobel examines the biographies of Christ and challenges their veracity. He determines whether the biographies of Jesus were preserved for modern readership. He searches for evidence of Jesus’ life and teaching outside the gospel accounts. And he sets out to verify whether archeological evidence exists that bolsters the claims of Christ. Despite the Strobel’s rigorous questioning of the hard data, the case for Christ emerges victorious.

Part two turns from the record of Jesus to the man himself. Strobel seeks to determine if Jesus was really convinced he was the Son of God (as opposed to films like The Last Temptation of Christ) which portray Jesus as a doubting, insecure person. Strobel interviews Gary Collins to determine whether or not Jesus maintained his sanity throughout his life. Was he a lunatic? Was he crazy? Or was he truly who he claimed to be – the eternal Son of God. In his interview with D.A. Carson, the author sets out to determine whether Jesus’ attributes really matched the attributes of God’s. And finally, the author meets with Louis Lapides a converted Jewish pastor to determine if Jesus is really the long-awaited Messiah.

Part three examines the evidence for the resurrection. Strobel’s interview with Alexander Metherell, M.D. is fascinating and convincing as they challenge the so-called Swoon theory and come to terms with the fact that Jesus really did die on the cross. Strobel questions the eminent philosopher, William Lane Craig on the evidence for Jesus’ missing body. The post-resurrection appearances is discussed with Gary Habermaas. And the circumstantial evidence supporting the resurrection of Christ is supported by J.P. Moreland.

The author draws the book to a close by challenging the reader with the evidence. He recalls his own personal story that brought him to this point: It would take more faith to adhere to atheism than trust in Jesus Christ! In the final analysis, he lays the evidence at the feet of the reader and forces him to make a decision. In light of the evidence for Christ and his unique claim to be God, a choice must be made. Strobel presents a simple gospel message and the reader is left hanging in the balance.

The Case For Christ is a terrific book. Many strengths run throughout Strobel’s fine work. First, he interviews credible scholars. These men argue the claims of Christianity with clear and passionate argumentation. The author’s selection of scholars is noteworthy. He really picks the cream of the crop. I was particularly pleased with his decision to interview D.A. Carson and J.P. Moreland. Second, the book helps skeptics to see the issues and examine all the pertinent questions. There is no hint of subterfuge in this book. Not one hint of evidence is hidden from the reader’s eyes. Third, Strobel’s book builds the faith of believers. The evidence presented only bolsters one’s faith and confidence in the written record and unique claims of Christ. Fourth, this work vividly shows the validity of classical apologetics, otherwise known as evidentialism. Fifth, the book is intensely practical. The reality of Jesus Christ and his claim to be God point to the practical effect of following him in daily life. It really does help promote devotion on the part of the believer as well as foster decision-making on the part of the lost.

I am excited about using this book in the future as I dialogue with lost people and challenge them with eternal issues. I am also excited about passing Strobel’s book to believers to build their faith and help them in the everyday challenge to evangelize the lost.

DELIGHTING IN THE TRINITY – Tim Chester (2010)

Delighting in the Trinity by Tim Chester is a welcome addition to the growing number of titles from the folks at the Good Book Company. This impressive British organization is committed to the advancement of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Their commitment is reflected in a consistent stream of solid material designed to strengthen disciples of Jesus Christ.

Chester’s book should be considered a primer on the doctrine of the Trinity. In part one, he pours the necessary theological “concrete” which gives shape to the foundation which undergird the Trinitarian formulation. Part two is a walk through church history, beginning in the second century. Part three explores practical considerations as they relate to the doctrine of the Trinity. The author explores the relationship of the Trinity to revelation, salvation, humanity, and mission.

Delighting in the Trinity is a helpful book, especially for believers who need a basic entry point to understanding this essential doctrine.

4 stars

GOSPEL WAKEFULNESS – Jared C. Wilson (2011)

In the 1746, Jonathan Edwards wrote Religious Affections (See my Review) – one of the most significant books ever written. Edwards’ thesis is plain: “True religion, in great part, consists in holy affections.” Gospel Wakefulness by Jared C. Wilson explores similar themes. His thesis is a complement to Edwards: “Gospel wakefulness means treasuring Christ more greatly and savoring his power more sweetly.” The author maintains that gospel wakefulness not an optional add-on to the fabric of the Christian life; Rather it is an essential aspect of vital Christianity. Exactly what does gospel wakefulness do? Wilson explains: “Awe. Transfixion on Christ. Confidence in him. Humility. Assurance. Transformed worship. New affections. Stronger hope and clearer peace in moments of grief and pain. Assassination of idols. Quicker conviction, quicker repentance. Acts of generosity and service. Unity with brothers and sisters. Deeper love for God and deeper love for neighbor.” In the remainder of the book, Wilson continues to unpack the beauty of the gospel diamond and presents practical ways for gospel wakefulness to become a reality in the lives of God’s people.

Wilson’s work should be celebrated for its Christocentric presentation of the gospel. He delivers a death-blow to legalism and invites Christ-followers to the radical pursuit of a holy God. He uncovers the biblical reality of progressive sanctification: “We cannot continue to treat the gospel as if it is the power of God for a conversion experience but not for total life transformation.” Gospel Wakefulness is a welcome addition to a growing number of books devoted to the gospel.

5 stars

Highly recommended

THE FORGOTTEN GOD – Francis Chan (2009)

Forgotten God by Francis Chan is an introductory book about the person and work of the Holy Spirit. The subtitle describes the essence of the book, namely – Reversing Our Tragic Neglect of the Holy Spirit. Many churches through fear or ignorance have done just Chan suggests; they have neglected the Holy Spirit. And the net results are tragic indeed.

Chan holds that many people “have an eisegetically formed concept of the Holy Spirit.” His accusation is essentially this: These people have “cut and pasted whatever verses and ideas work for [them].” So the author sets out to “present the core truths that have been revealed to believers about the Holy Spirit.”

Each chapter includes a brief explanation of the person and work of the Holy Spirit. At the end of each chapter, the author includes a short vignette of real life characters who exemplify a life led by the power of the Spirit.

Forgotten God reveals much about the author. This is solid writing that is clear and biblical. High school students and first year Bible College students will benefit greatly from Chan’s insight. This book may be the most helpful starting point for anyone seeking an introductory look at the Holy Spirit.

4 stars