THE GOSPEL FOCUS OF CHARLES SPURGEON – Steven J. Lawson (2012)

Steven J. Lawson’s latest installment in the Long Line of Godly Men Series is a breathtaking look at the life and legacy of the Prince of Preachers, Charles Haddon Spurgeon. 

The Gospel Focus of Charles Spurgeon begins by surveying the short but memorable life of one of the most effective preachers of all time.  Lawson provides a clear summary of Spurgeon’s birth, conversion, entry into pastoral ministry, and some of the controversial waters he was forced to navigate.

The author describes the theological “rebar” that helped shape this unique British pastor.  Most notably, Spurgeon was a five point Calvinist.  He famously said, “It is no novelty, then, that I am preaching no new doctrine.   I love to proclaim these strong old doctrines, that are called by the nickname Calvinism, but which are surely and verily the revealed truth of God as it is in Christ Jesus.”  Instead of hiding his theological presuppositions (like many evangelicals today), Spurgeon revealed them clearly, bravely, and decisively.  Doctrine mattered to this man – and doctrine helped drive his ministry; a ministry that would flourish in nineteenth century England.

But Spurgeon was not only a committed Calvinist; he was also convinced of the authority of Scripture.  Indeed, his strong belief in the authoritative Word of God was the central thrust of his pastoral ministry.  Lawson adds, “Spurgeon was thoroughly convinced that in every page of Scripture is found the absolute truth of God.  When the Bible speaks, Spurgeon believed, God speaks.”  His confidence in Scripture was manifest in his preaching ministry; a ministry that has touched and continues to influence literally millions of lives.

Perhaps the most helpful section of the book is Dr. Lawson’s discussion of Spurgeon’s commitment to the doctrines of grace.   The author carefully describes the five pillars that emerge in Spurgeon’s theological infrastructure:

1. Total Depravity

2. Unconditional Election

3. Definite Atonement

4. Irresistable Grace

5. Preserving Grace

Spurgeon notes, “The old truth that Calvin preached, that Augustine preached, that Paul preached, is the truth that I must preach today, or else be false to my conscience and my God.  I cannot shape the truth, I know of no such thing as paring off the rough edges of a doctrine.  John Knox’s gospel is my gospel; that which thundered through Scotland must thunder through England again.”  And this gospel did in fact thunder throughout England.  This same gospel must be preached from pulpits in America!

Dr. Lawson rightly portrays Spurgeon as a pastor who was deeply committed to evangelism.  He carefully forged a path between the grievous errors of Arminianism and hyper-Calvinism and paid a steep price for his convictions.  But the primary take-away is his love for the gospel and his heart for sinners.

The Gospel Focus of Charles Spurgeon is a much-needed antidote in a church that downplays theology and especially has a nasty habit of misrepresenting historic Reformed theology.  It reminds pastors of the need for courage and conviction.  It reminds pastors to stand for the truth no matter what the cost.  It is a rebuke to the tepid theology that is being promoted in many American pulpits.  Here is a book that pastors need to read and digest.  It is time to open the Book and preach with the passion and fervor of Charles Haddon Spurgeon.

5 stars

A CROSS-SHAPED GOSPEL – Bryan Loritts (2011)

I am grateful for an resurgence in gospel-centered books that have been published lately from the likes of Greg Gilbert, Kevin DeYoung, and C.J. Mahaney.  Bryan Loritt’s adds fuel to the gospel blaze in his new work, A Cross-Shaped Gospel.

The thesis: “We need a two-part gospel – a holistic gospel, a gospel that loves both the Father and His Son, the Redeemer Jesus, and at the same time declares that love as it seeks the souls of the lost.”  The author maintains, we must be sure to balance the vertical beam of the cross by calling sinners to be reconciled with a holy God through the work of his Son, the Lord Jesus Christ.  But we must also emphasis the horizontal beam of the cross by reaching out in our communities and engaging people where they live.

The author stresses the need for diversity in the church – but never at the expense of the gospel.  He adds, “Biblical community has always celebrated diversity, but because of the centrality of the gospel, diversity does not become a rallying cry … Race never becomes the focal point in Christocentric community; Jesus does.”  So again, the author strikes the proper balance.

A Cross-Shaped Gospel is both refreshing and challenging.  It steers clear from guilt motivation and lures readers toward gospel-centered obedience.  One only hopes this work will receive a wide reading in the days to come.  The church will grow stronger and communities will be transformed because the followers of Christ incarnated the gospel.

4 stars

THE JOY OF CALVINISM – Greg Forster (2012)

The title of Greg Forster’s book will prompt one of two responses: People will mutter inappropriate words under their breath or they will rejoice in the truthfulness on the cover.

The Joy of Calvinism is meant to be a buffer to the traditional arguments that have ransacked Calvinistic theology for decades.  And Forster accomplishes his task with a great deal of skill.

The thesis: “Real Calvinism is about joy.”  But the author essentially argues that Calvinism has been poorly explained and even misrepresented – especially in the twentieth century.  An example is the acrostic, TULIP which he rightly notes is not a formulation of the famous Synod of Dort (1618-1619).  Rather, it is more of an expression that was popularized by Lorraine Boettner in his book, The Reformed Doctrine of Predestination.  While Forster’s argument is a bit overstated, it carries a certain amount of weight.  He suggests a new formulation as outlined below:

State of man before salvation: wholly defiled

Work of the Father in salvation: unconditional choice

Work of the Son in salvation: personal salvation

Work of the Spirit in salvation: supernatural transformation

State of man after salvation: in faith, perseverance

The book responds well to the classic arguments that emerge from  Arminian and Roman Catholic perspectives.  Forster’s writing is humble, thought-provoking, challenging, and affirms historic Calvinistic theology with warm-hearted enthusiasm.  It is a welcome addition to a growing number of books that eagerly promote Calvinism – what Spurgeon called, “a nickname for biblical Christianity.”

4 stars

PERIL AND PEACE: Chronicles of the Ancient Church (Mindy and Brandon Withrow) – 2007

Mindy and Brandon Withrow came up with a great idea a few years ago – Write a series of books for children that chronicle the history of the church in readable prose that will actually prompt folks to read church history.  Their idea is paying off because people are reading these books.  And the audience is not limited to children.  Adults are devouring these books and delighting in church history!

The first volume, Peril and Peace: Chronicles of the Ancient Church introduces readers to the first six hundred years of church history.  A helpful timeline is presented at the outset to provide the overall historical context.

Each chapter begins with a short explanation of the subject at hand.  The authors proceed to write what one might call “historical fiction.”  A better description might be “church history with a sanctified imagination” to borrow a phrase from one of my Seminary professors.

Volume 1 presents key figures of the first six hundred years of church history, including the Apostle Paul, Polycarp, Justin, Athanasius, Augustine, Chrysostom and others.

Three cheers for the Withrows.   Their book is readable, enjoyable, accurate, and should prompt readers of all ages to dive in and discover the roots of historic Christianity.

THE TRANSFORMING POWER OF THE GOSPEL – Jerry Bridges (2012)

I’ve been reading Jerry Bridges since the early 80’s and I’m continually amazed at the depth and breadth of his writing and his ability to make profound truths simple to understand.  The Word of God is never diluted or compromised.  For some reason, Bridges reminds me of a modern-day John Bunyan.  He just has a way of articulating the truth of God’s Word in a winsome and compelling way.

Bridges continues his winning ways in his newest book, The Transforming Power of the Gospel.  The foundation of his approach is the holiness of God.  Building upon this sure foundation, Bridges carefully constructs a framework that accurately reflects the gospel – a gospel that truly transforms lives.

The author is quick to admit that many of his reflections are borrowed from the English Puritans and the Reformers.  And so we learn about Luther’s “great exchange” and John Owen’s treatment of the Holy Spirit’s work in the life of the believer.  In many ways, The Transforming Power of the Gospel is a re-casting of the truths that emerged out of the Protestant Reformation.

The Transforming Power of the Gospel should be read by new and seasoned believers alike.  It will introduce new believers to the fundamentals of the faith and will remind long-time Christians that the gospel is still for them.  Indeed, we all need to be “preaching the gospel to ourselves” as Bridges as famously stated.  My prayer is that Bridges’ latest work will receive a wide reading and that the church will strengthened as a result of his faithful work.

4 stars

SWITCH: HOW TO CHANGE THINGS WHEN CHANGE IS HARD – Chip Heath & Dan Heath (2010)

Leadership books are a dime a dozen these days.  But whenever a good buddy recommends a book, I’m eager to dig in.  Especially when that friend is a time-tested leader.

Switch is a book about change.  We all know how difficult it is to motivate people to change.  The Heath brothers present a basic strategy for instilling change in the life of an organization.  The principles are backed with credible research and are supported with real life examples.

The most helpful ingredient in Switch is the central truth, namely – leaders must engage both the rational and emotional sides of people in order for change to be implemented in a way that benefits an organization.

3.5 stars

THE MASCULINE MANDATE – Richard Phillips (2010)

Richard Phillips raises the bar of biblical expectation for men in his latest work, The Masculine Mandate.  He is not intimidated by the deceptive roar of the egalitarian lioness.  Nor is he distracted by worldly models of masculinity.

Of particular importance is Phillips’ rightly placed critique of John Eldredge’s book, Wild at Heart.  The sum of is argument is simple: “The basic approach to masculinity presented in Wild at Heart is almost precisely opposite from what is really taught in the Bible.”  So with biblical precision, the author not only warns readers of faulty approaches to masculinity – he prepares them to receive God’s mandate that emerges in the pages of Scripture.

The author wastes no time in setting forth the agenda of the book, namely, the Masculine Mandate: “To be spiritual men placed in real-world, God-defined relationships, as lords and servants under God, to bear God’s fruit by serving and leading.”

Phillips develops the thesis in part one.  The theological framework is developed by pointing readers to God’s intent in the garden of Eden.  Man who is made in God’s image has a special mandate.  He must obey God by “working” and “keeping” (Gen. 2:7-8).  He adds, “Here is the how of biblical masculinity, the mandate of Scripture for males.”  To work is to serve and to keep is to exert leadership.

Part two summarizes the practical application that flows from the theological foundations.  The author explores God’s design for marriage.  Strong exegetical arguments are set forth from the book of Genesis.  The original thesis is applied not only to marriage – but also informs how a God-centered man approaches work and parenting.

The Masculine Mandate is a breath of fresh air.   The biblical “oxygen” that the Richard Phillips offers is the cure to the polluted air of egalitarianism that is plaguing the church.  It offers strong encouragement for Christian men who are serious about obeying God, loving their families, serving their churches and making a difference in their world.

4 stars

 

EXCELLENCE: The Character of God and the Pursuit of Scholarly Virtue – Andreas J. Kostenberger

I have been reading a lot of Andreas Kostenberger lately.  I am very impressed by his heart for God and precise scholarship.  His latest work, Excellence: The Character of God and the Portrait of Scholarly Virtue is a fine addition to his growing body of Christian writing.

Kostenberger begins by laying the foundation for excellence by appealing to the character of God.  Indeed, “the character of God is the grounds of all human excellence.”  He continues, “Excellence starts and ends with God and is first and foremost a hallmark and attribute of God.  Without God as our starting point and continual frame of reference, our discussion of excellence would be hopelessly inadequate.”

The author builds his case for pursuing excellence by pointing readers to God’s Word which demands excellence (2 Pet. 1:3).  The imperative is clearly rooted in God’s glory and excellence and motivates believers to do everything  with God’s glory in mind (1 Cor. 10:31).  He rightly argues, “Mediocrity and sloppy scholarship never glorify God.  Christians must strive for excellence – including, and especially, in pursuing their scholarly calling.”  Effective Christian ministry is the result of pursuing excellence.

The aim of the book is to “identify, describe, and encourage those virtues that are essential to fulfilling a specific call to glorify God by pursuing excellence in Christian scholarship.”  Kostenberger achieves his goal as the book unfolds.  The remaining sections deal with vocational excellence, moral excellence, and relationship excellence.

No stone is unturned in this superb work.  Excellence should be required reading for every Christian student entering the University or Seminary.  It strikes the necessary balance and clearly outlines the kind of personal godliness and scholarship that is mandated in Scripture.  Excellence is a much needed tonic in an age characterized by slopping thinking and shoddy work habits.  It is sure to make a difference in the life of anyone who has the courage to read it.

5 stars

The Reason For God: Unbelief in an Age of Skepticism – Tim Keller (2008)

Some have compared Tim Keller to C.S. Lewis.  Other believe he is the C.S. Lewis for our generation.  One thing is for certain though – Keller’s book, The Reason for God is a terrific read.  I read Keller’s apologetic treatise when it first hit the shelves in 2008.  The second read was even better!

The title of the book is revealing.  The author aims at the heart at mind of the skeptic.  And he’s good at it.  He has a way of peeling off layer upon layer of unbelief.  His strategy is simple.  First, seven typical arguments are presented which appear to militate against the historic Christian faith:

1. There Can’t Be Just One True Religion

2. How Could a Good God Allow Suffering?

3.Christianity is a Straitjacket

4. The Church is Responsible for So Much Injustice

5. How Can a Loving God Send People to Hell?

6. Science Has Disproved Christianity

7. You Can’t Take the Bible Literally

Careful reader immediately notice that Dr. Keller gently unravels each of these arguments.  And this is what makes The Reason for God  such a compelling read.  Honestly, Keller’s arguments against skepticism are quite devastating.  But his approach is gracious and humble.  His knows how to interact with skepticism in a winsome way – without compromise, all the while instructing Christians to do the same.

Part two contains the heart of the book.  The author presents seven reasons for faith:

1. The Clues of God

2. The Knowledge of God

3. The Problem of Sin

4. Religion and the Gospel

5. The (True) Story of the Cross

6. The Reality of the Resurrection

7. The Dance of God

These reasons are soaked in Scripture and come face to face with real life.  Keller argues that there are sufficient reasons for believing Christianity – what he calls “critical rationality.”  Again, he reasons gently.  His arguments are convincing and compelling.  But he refuses to steamroll the unbeliever.

Keller is quick to criticize religion and prop up grace: “Religion operates on the principle ‘I obey – therefore I am accepted by God.’  But the operating principle of the gospel is ‘I am accepted by God through what Christ has done – therefore I obey.”  He continues, “It is only grace that frees us from the slavery of self that lurks even in the middle of morality and religion.  Grace is only a threat to the illusion that we are free, autonomous selves, living life as we choose.”  Herein lies the biggest strength of Keller’s work – the emphasis on grace and the gospel.  While the arguments are most helpful, his emphasis on the saving redemptive work of God in Christ make the book a must read for skeptics and believers alike.

4.5 stars

STEP UP – Dennis Rainey (2011)

Stepping Up: A Call to Courageous Manhood by Dennis Rainey encourages men of all ages to fulfill their God-given role.  They must as 1 Corinthians 16:13 says, “Act like men.”

Rainey’s challenge to men is presented in five movements:

The First Step: Boyhood

The Second Step: Adolescence

The Third Step: Manhood

The Fourth Step: Mentor

The Fifth Step: Patriarch

Each section includes strong biblical rationale and real life stories which serve to motivate men to live with Christ-centered resolve.  Stepping Up is a breath of fresh air.  So many books devoted to men are in the final analysis, man-centered.  But real men are God-centered and their lives reflect the glory of a great and awesome God.  Rainey’s timely advice is sure to encourage men to step up and make a difference in God’s kingdom.

4 stars