RUDY: MY STORY – Daniel “Rudy” Ruettiger (2012)

I’ll never forget the first time I saw the movie, Rudy in 1993.  It stands among my favorite sports movies alongside Hoosiers, Miracle, The Rookie, and Rocky.

Rudy: My Story by Daniel “Rudy” Ruettiger is the real life story behind the film.  Ruettiger tells the tale that a two-hour movie could never tell.  He includes the heartbreaking stories of teachers who belittled him and businessmen who betrayed him.  Most important, the author chronicles the details that led him to the final twenty-seven second on the famed field in South Bend, Illinois.

The book is filled with inspiring stories and will undoubtedly lead many readers to new heights and the achievement of new goals.   As one might expect, Ruettiger’s work is loaded with antidotes that motivate and encourage.  But an unexpected twist occurs nears the end of this book.  The author is candid about his failures which occurs many years after his success on the football field.  The surprise ending is actually the most important part of the book.  Ruettiger not only spurs readers to achieve their dreams; he encourages them to persevere even in the face of failure.

It has been well over thirty years since Rudy sacked the quarterback in the final seconds of his senior year.  But readers who listen carefully, can hear the roar of the crowd, “Ru-dy, Ru-dy, Ru-dy!”

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. 

ERASING HELL – Francis Chan and Preston Sprinkle

The biblical doctrine of eternal punishment is part of the warp and woof of historic Christianity.  Prominent theologians from Augustine to Calvin and Wesley have boldly taught this doctrine.  Luther remarked, “The fiery oven is ignited merely by the unbearable appearance of God and endures eternally.  For the Day of Judgment will not last for a moment only but will stand throughout eternity and will thereafter never come to an end. Constantly the damned will be judged, constantly they will suffer pain, and constantly they will be a fiery oven, that is, they will be tortured within by supreme distress and tribulation.”  Despite the widespread support for this crucial doctrine, several writers in recent years have either discounted the doctrine of hell or denied it outright.

After the release of Rob Bell’s Love Wins (see my review), there was a huge chasm between Bell’s work and people in the pew.  The net result is a large audience who either affirmed or were sympathetic to Bell’s compromised position.  Thankfully, Francis Chan and Preston Sprinkle stepped up to the plate and not only offered a response to Bell; they also affirmed the biblical doctrine of eternal conscious punishment.

Chan and Sprinkle serve up an impressive number of arguments that bolster the case for hell and provide a rational, biblical defense of this important doctrine.  While Erasing Hell is written with the laymen in mind, it is not simplistic.  Nor is it compromised in any way.  The authors do not claim to have all this answers, which may appeal to younger readers more inclined to postmodern literature.  Rather, they merely spell out the basics of the biblical doctrine.

4 stars

JOHN KNOX AND THE REFORMATION – Martyn Lloyd-Jones and Iain Murray

Buried deep in the catacombs of church history lie heroes that deserved to be revived from time to time.  John Knox stands among several men who faithfully raised the banner of the gospel and defended the truths of the Protestant Reformation.  Martyn Lloyd-Jones and Iain Murray guide readers through the life and legacy of the great reformer, John Knox.

Chapter one is an overview of the Protestant Reformation with an emphasis on the Scottish Reformation.  A few themes that are developed include the sovereignty of God over all things, the substitutionary atonement of Christ, and justification by faith alone.  Lloyd-Jones reminds readers that “John Knox and other men risked their lives, day after day” in order to promote the aforementioned realities. The author also stresses the reformers were men of prayer and men who we faithful in the pulpit.  “Such a man was John Knox, ” writes Lloyd-Jones, “with the fire of God in his bones and in his belly!  He preached as they all preached, with fire and power, alarming sermons, convicting sermons, humbling sermons, converting sermons, and in the face of Scotland was changed …”

Chapter two is Lloyd-Jones attempt to credit John Knox as the founder of Puritanism.  The author points to several noteworthy qualities in the Scottish reformer – ability, energy, shrewdness, wisdom, originality, and courage.  But his preaching stands out: “His great characteristic as a preacher was vehemency.  Great preachers are generally vehement; and we should all be vehement.  This is not the result of nature only; it arises from the feeling of the power of the gospel.  Vehemence is, of course, characterized by power; and John Knox was a most powerful preacher, with the result that he was a most influential preacher.”  Lloyd-Jones continues, “When the Lords and others were alarmed, and frightened, and all ready to give in, Knox would go up into a pulpit and preach a sermon; and the entire situation was transformed.  One man ‘more influential than the blustering of five hundred trumpets in our ears.'”  The reader is left to determine whether or not Lloyd-Jones is successful in defending his thesis.

Iain Murray concludes with biographical overview of John Knox.  Several themes emerge including the fervent prayer life of Knox and his commitment to Reformed theology.  Murray, like Lloyd-Jones emphasizes the preaching ministry of Knox: “His authority came from the conviction that preaching is God’s work, the message is his word, and he was sure the Holy Spirit would honor it.  This was the certainty which possessed him.”  Indeed, such a certainty should possess every preacher of God’s Word.

John Knox and the Reformation is a powerful look at a potent preacher.  It is an important reminder of the need for courage in the face of adversity and faithfulness in a faithless generation.  John Knox stands as an inspiration for Christ-followers and is an exemplar for pastors who make it their aim to faithfully feed, lead, and protect the flock of God.

4 stars

CAN I BE SURE I’M SAVED? – R.C. Sproul (2010)

One of the most pressing and urgent questions that pastors receive is the title of R.C. Sproul’s book, “Can I Be Sure I’m Saved?” – No. 7 in his Crucial Questions Series.   But Sproul is quick to reassure readers that we can in fact know that we are in a state of grace.  Not only that, “we can have full assurance that we still will be in a state of grace at the time of of death.”  While the book is short (only 72 pages), it is packed with God-honoring Reformed theology that is sure to encourage anyone who struggles with doubt and assurance.

The author identifies some popular faulty conceptions of salvation at the outset.  These views, which encourage a false sense of assurance include universalism (see Rob Bell’s, Love Wins), sacerdotalism (see the dominant teaching in the Roman Catholic Church), and legalism.

Sproul  encourages readers to seek assurance and to “work out their salvation with fear and trembling” (Phil. 2:12).    He argues that developing an accurate view of election is an important step to shoring up one’s assurance.  Various views are presented but the author spends the most time on the Reformed view – the view that is consistent with Scripture.

The final chapter examines the doctrine of regeneration – a watershed doctrine for anyone wrestling with assurance.  False views of regeneration are presented and contrasted with the teaching of God’s Word.

A highly recommended resource for anyone struggling with doubt and for pastors who need a good resource to encourage the flock.

LEADING FROM THE SANDBOX – T.J. Addington (2010)

Leading from the Sandbox by T.J. Addington is a practical book that explores leadership principles for pastors and church leaders.  Addington’s concern is the formation of high-impact teams.

The sandbox metaphor is designed as a tool that communicates what truly matters in a church or organization.  The author presents four “sides” of the sandbox, namely – mission, guiding principles, central ministry focus, and preferred culture.

Practical issues are discussed such as goal setting, mentoring/coaching, and the implementation of meaningful meetings.  Leading from the Sandbox is a helpful and practical guide that should encourage leadership that makes a difference in God’s kingdom.

3.5 stars

THE CHURCH: THE GOSPEL MADE VISIBLE – Mark Dever (2012)

Over the years, I’ve grown weary reading books that relate to ecclesiology.  Recent works that focus on the church are either driven by pragmatic presuppositions, man-centered principles, or church growth techniques that compromise the essence of the gospel, not to mention the mission of the church.  Mark Dever’s newest book, The Church: The Gospel Made Visible is a totally different kind of book.  He steers clear from the usual drivel that saturates many books devoted to ecclesiology.  Indeed, the church is should be thankful for such a work.

Part One: What Does the Bible Say?

The first section focuses on the nuts and bolts of the church.  Dever leaves no stone unturned.  The nature of the church is explored, membership is reviewed, polity is discussed, church discipline is covered, among other things.  Each section is rooted in the biblical text.  The writing is clear and compelling.  The reader walks away from the first part with a clear understanding on what Scripture says concerning the church.

Part Two: What Has the Church Believed?

Part two explains the classical distinctions between the visible and invisible church and the local and universal church.  The author includes a helpful discussion on the rise of denominations.

Also included is an illuminating discussion on the history of ordinances.  A wide variety of traditions are surveyed.  And the various positions are presented for the Lord’s Supper as well as baptism.

Part Three: How Does it All Fit Together?

The final section discusses the marks of the church, namely – the faithful preaching of God’s Word and the faithful administration of the two ordinances.  Dever includes a helpful section on church membership.  He writes, “Churches that submerge difference of age, race, status, background, or employment give witness to the power of the gospel.”

One of the most helpful chapters is devoted to developing a biblical leadership model.  Dever’s holds to an elder led/congregationally affirmed leadership structure.  He adds, “The most coherent way to understand the New Testament’s presentation of local church polity is to recognize the role of both individual leaders and the congregation as a whole.”  He does not minimize the role of the congregation.  Dever writes, “The congregation is not in competition with the elders.  The congregation’s authority is more like an emergency brake than a steering wheel.  The congregation more normally recognizes than creates, responds rather than initiates, confirms rather than proposes.”

In the final analysis, “a right ecclesiology matters for the church’s leadership, membership, structure, culture, and even character.  Ultimately, a right ecclesiology touches on God’s glory itself … Therefore, getting the doctrine of the church right becomes a benefit to the people, as the truth about God and his world is more correctly known, taught, and modeled.”

The Church: The Gospel Made Visible should receive a wide readership and will be a tremendous tool in the hands of faithful pastors and shepherds!

4.5 stars

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE BORN AGAIN? – R.C. Sproul (2010)

The Crucial Questions Series by R.C. Sproul is a series of books that address the basic concerns of the Christian life.  What Does it Mean to Be Born Again? discusses what is in my mind,  one of the most misunderstood doctrines in Scripture – regeneration.  To be frank, many people confuse conversion with regeneration.  Sproul does a masterful job at “cutting through the fog” and not only alerts readers to the necessity of regeneration; he delineates the finer points of the doctrine as well.

Sproul argues in simple terms that sinners must be born again.  He points readers to the famous exchange between Nicodemus and Jesus; a conversation that unfolds the necessity of regeneration.

The remainder of the booklet is packed with essential information that concerns regeneration:

  • Regeneration is a mystery
  • Regeneration is the beginning
  • Regeneration is a sovereign work of God
  • Regeneration is immediate
  • Regeneration is permanent

Readers are encouraged to study these essential points and delight in this glorious doctrine.

GENESIS IN SPACE AND TIME – Francis Schaeffer (1972)

Great thinkers throughout the course of history have queried, “Where did it all come from?  Who made the cosmos?  What made the cosmos?  What or who holds it all together?  What is the meaning of life?  What is the basis of knowledge?  Where are we heading?  And where do we go when we die?  For those who reject a personal Creator – the questions posed above become totally unanswerable.  For all those who reject a personal Creator, there is a hopelessness that lies under their dogmatic certainty.

Genesis in Space and Time by Francis Schaeffer examines the flow of Biblical history.  The book of Genesis sets the parameters and helps articulate a Christian worldview that includes a personal God.  “He is there and he is not silent” as Schaeffer remarks in another book.  At the core of the book stands the belief in a personal Creator.  Affirming macroevolution or denying a personal Creator stands behind the hopelessness among the unbelieving world.  Schaeffer adds, “It is either not knowing or denying the createdness of things that is at the root of the blackness of modern man’s difficulties.  Give up creation as space-time, historic reality, and all that is left what Simone Weil called ‘uncreatedness.’  It is not that something does not exist, but that it just stands there, autonomous to itself, without solutions and without answers.”   The proliferation of the so-called new atheism is vivid proof that Schaeffer articulated almost forty years ago.

Schaeffer maintains that one must understand the book of Genesis in order to develop a workable approach to metaphysics, morality, and epistemology.  Genesis in Space and Time continues to be relevant as many evangelicals back away from a literal interpretation of Scripture and a six-day creation week.  Genesis in Space and Time is prophetic, bold and relevant.  It is a powerful antidote for postmodern skeptics.

 

THE TRUTH ABOUT LEADERSHIP – James Kouzes and Barry Posner (2010)

What two names are automatically associated with the word “leadership?”  Answer: Kouzes and Posner.  Their landmark works, The Leadership Challenge and Credibility stand head and shoulders above other leadership books.  Their latest book, The Truth About Leadership continues to encourage principle-centered leadership.

Patrick Lencioni rightly says, “This book cuts through the clutter and reminds us of what really matters.”  Kouzes and Posner immerse their readers in to fundamental leadership truths:

Truth # 1: You make a difference

Truth # 2: Credibility is the foundation of leadership

Truth # 3: Values drive commitment

Truth # 4: Focusing on the future sets leaders apart

Truth # 5: You can’t do it alone

Truth # 6: Trust rules

Truth # 7: Challenge is the crucible for greatness

Truth # 8: You will lead by example or you don’t lead at all

Truth # 9: The best leaders are the best learners

Truth # 10: Leadership is an affair of the heart

Once again, the authors are quick to point out the necessity of credible leadership that empowers and inspires people.  I cannot recommend this book high enough.  However, my encouragement is to read Kounzes’ and Posner’s earlier works before tackling this one.

Highly recommended!

THE WORD OF THE LORD AND THE RELUCTANT PROPHET

“Now the word of the LORD came to Jonah the son of Amittai, saying, “Arise, go to Nineveh, that great city, and call out against it, for their evil has come up before me.”” (Jonah 1:1–2, ESV)

It must have hit Jonah like a load of bricks.  It’s not as if it came out of the blue, for Jonah was a prophet of God.  But when the word of the Lord came to Jonah on this day, his job was especially challenging.  God told Jonah, “Arise, go to Nineveh, that great city, and call out against it, for their evil has come up before me.”  Note three crucial realities that concern this word of the LORD.

First, the word of the LORD is divine speech

The word of the LORD is a sacred edict; it is a precept; indeed it is a royal mandate.  Since this word comes from Yahweh, it carries divine weight; it is laden with divine authority.  Four characteristics mark this divine speech:

1. It is non-negotiable.  The Psalmist says, “Forever, O LORD, your word is firmly fixed in the heavens” (Ps. 119:89).  One might argue, “Did not Abraham negotiate with God?  Did not Moses try his hand at the sacred bargaining table?”  Clearly, there are examples of biblical characters who took turns at negotiating with God.  However, who wins in the final analysis?  Who gets the final say?  Yahweh always has the final word.  Therefore, the word of the LORD is non-negotiable.

2. It stands the test of time.  My late Grandfather, V.W. Steele used to say, “Men and movements die.  But the word of the LORD remains forever.”  Fads fade, ideology wanes, and the collective zeitgeist washes over culture like waves on the seashore.  But the word of the LORD stands eternally.  “The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God will stand forever” (Isa. 40:8).  The word of the LORD stands the test of time.

3. It is dependable.  “The sum of your word is truth, and every one of your righteous rules endures forever” (Ps. 119:160)

4. It fulfills the plan of God.  The word of the LORD is uniquely qualified to perfectly fulfill the intentions of a sovereign God.  “So shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and shall succeed in the thing which I sent it” (Isa. 55:11).

Second, the word of the LORD is God’s appointed way of communicating his character and commands

Herein lies the importance of propositional revelation.  Francis Schaeffer reminds us, “He has spoken, in verbalized, propositional form, and he has told us what his character is.”  Simply put, God uses words to tell us what he is like and what he expects from us, namely – he reveals himself to us.  Let us never forget that the unbelieving world rejects this propositional revelation.  For instance, the evolutionist who believes in the uniformity of natural causes in a closed-system rejects propositional revelation.  It is bunk.  It is nonsense.  This man is autonomous.  He’s not listening.  And this kind of irreverent thinking is tantamount to cosmic treason!

Third, the word of the LORD demands a response

Our response to the word of the LORD should be unconditional, unhindered, and enthusiastic.  In short, people everywhere are required to obey the word of the LORD.  When one receives a word from the LORD, one must remember who the word comes from .  Our response should be rooted and grounded in who we know the LORD to be:  “Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one” (Deut. 6:4).  “This is a confession of lordship,” argues John Frame.  “Therefore, he deserves all our love and allegiance.”

The prophet, Jonah struggled with obeying the word of the LORD.  Oh, the Christ-followers everywhere would learn the lesson of Jonah and respond favorably to the word of the LORD.  He is worthy our unfettered obedience!