Recently I asked the students in one of my theology classes to retell the biblical account of the fall of Jericho. They got the basics of the story ju...moreRecently I asked the students in one of my theology classes to retell the biblical account of the fall of Jericho. They got the basics of the story just fine – Israelites returning from slavery, walking around the walls and the walls come tumbling down. Pressed for more, they recalled the story of Rahab. Pushed for even more details they described just how the Israelites silently walked along the walls except on the last day. When I told them there was something still missing from their account, some students resorted to memories of a Veggie Tales videos… Not one of the students remembered that all the inhabitants of the city were to be slaughtered. Young and old, male and female – even the livestock were to die. It’s not what we want to think about. It’s not part of the story that ever made it on to the flannel board when I was a kid in Sunday School.
As good Christians we tend to ignore parts of the Bible that leave us a little uncomfortable. We don’t want to think about Achan’s family also being stoned for their father/husband’s sin. Yet, in his book Bound Together, Pastor Chris Brauns takes these accounts head-on and explains how stories such as this in the Bible actually point to a larger truth about sin and redemption.
Pastor Brauns introduces us to the “principle of the rope – the simple truth that our lives, choices and actions are linked to the lives, choices and actions of other people.” (page 25) Its an uncomfortable truth, but true nonetheless. We all find ourselves dealing with the consequences in which the actions of others have placed us. In our representative form of government, this happens all the time. I did not vote for President Obama, but his choices and actions surely have an effect on me. I did not choose the family I was born into, but the actions of my parents sure have played a huge role in my life and development and will continue down to my children and grandchildren. Today as I type this review, the entire nation is grappling with the evil plans of unknown bombers from Boston. Those in Jericho suffered the consequences of being bound together with the sinful choices of others.
We are bound together in solidarity with entire human race. We all trace our roots back to the same person standing naked in the garden with a little bit of fruit still fresh on his lips. Ever since Adam, the entire human race must struggle with the actions stemming from our shared sin nature. Though we may not have been physically present with Adam or complicit in that exact sin, we suffer the consequences as guilty people. We all suffer the consequences.
Brauns writes,
“Broadly speaking, there are two consequences to Adam’s rebellion. First, Adam and all his descendants are guilty of sinning against God, and second, all of Adam’s descendants inherit a corrupted nature. This means all human beings, including babies and small children, are not innocent victims of circumstance. They are born sinners. As David confessed in Psalm 51:5, ‘Behold I was brought forth in iniquity, and in sin did my mother conceive me.’ The problem we face as Adam’s descendants is not that we are sinners because we sin; rather we sin because we are sinners.” (Page 45)
However, there is another rope… As strong as the rope that binds to Adam and his fallen race, even stronger is the rope that binds us to Christ and his righteousness. The principle of the rope is not merely negative. The positive aspect of this principle highlights our identity in Christ Jesus. Drawing from Romans 5, Pastor Brauns shows us that though through Adam we are bound in sin and death, in Christ we are given righteousness and life. The same principle that imposes death on the human race also grants salvation to all who believe.
“The blessing of God’s love is greater than the curse of sin. The negative and positive applications of the principle of the rope are not symmetrical. Our solidarity in Christ is more powerful than our solidarity in sin with Adam.” (page 84)
The principle of the rope not only helps to see the metanarrative of Scripture is a clearer light, but it also helps us see our personal struggles and difficulties in a clearer light. In the second half of the book Pastor Chris applies this principle to issues such as marriage, families, death, and culture.
This is a book I wish I could hand to every family. As someone who works with children each day, I wish parents could see the effect their decisions have upon their children. Somehow some parents have managed to delude themselves into thinking their divorce will have no effect on their children since both parents plan to remain active. Yet, they fail to recognize their selfishness is not only seen by their children but in many ways is imitated by their children. Likewise, I wish children saw how their actions affect their siblings and even their parents.
Of course, I also greatly appreciate the strong emphasis on the local church. The principle of the rope demands that we associate ourselves with a community of believers. In fact, in the last chapter, Pastor Brauns argues the only thing that can truly combat our age of radical individualism is the local church.
This book would be a valuable addition to your library. I would urge you to get your copy and read it soon.
Disclaimer: This book was provided by the publisher for review. I was under no obligation to offer a favorable review.(less)
Chris Matthews is my favorite political writer, even though he is incredibly liberal. He has mastered the art of political story-telling. Whenever I r...moreChris Matthews is my favorite political writer, even though he is incredibly liberal. He has mastered the art of political story-telling. Whenever I read a book like this, my mind recalls fond memories of family meals at my grandparents house. As soon as the feast had been devoured, the stories would begin. There at the table I sat riveting to my Dad and grandparents as they recounted tales of political folk legends such as former Boston Mayor James Michael Curly and World War II General "Dug-out" Doug MacArthur.
In this book, Matthews gives masterfully weaves together interesting stories from the lives of politician he has had the honor of working with, folks like Tip O'Neil and Ronald Reagan. With each story we are left with the bottom-line, the moral Matthews wants us to leave with. Its an education in political thought and strategy from an insider's perspective.
Whatever your politics may be, let me recommend this book to you. It is fascinating and informative.(less)
Galatians for You is an apt title for this new commentary by Tim Keller. In this short book Keller unpacks a great deal of thought-provoking doctrinal...moreGalatians for You is an apt title for this new commentary by Tim Keller. In this short book Keller unpacks a great deal of thought-provoking doctrinal content and challenging personal application of said content. It is incredibly easy to read and can be understood by new and old Christians alike. Tim Keller, like R.C. Sproul, possesses that unique gift of having a highly-intellectual mind and the ability to communicate to the common man. This is seen best in the appendix concerning the New Perspective on Paul.
In this book in particular, Dr. Keller unpacks Paul’s epistle to the Galatians. The key issue at stake here is nothing less than the gospel itself. Anyone familiar with Tim Keller realizes his passion for this subject. Anyone who reads this book walks away with a clearer understanding of just what the gospel is.
The reader is also warned against the counterfeit gospel (which is not a gospel) of legalism. Keller defines legalism as “looking to something besides Jesus Christ in order to be acceptable and clean before God.” (page 54) In contrast, “In the gospel we discover that trusting in Christ brings God’s full and complete favor and approval. When He sees the believer, He sees Jesus (3:25-27) - and so He says to us, ‘With you I am well pleased’ (Mark 1:11). God is pleased with us.” (Page 34)
Whenever I think of Galatians, my mind goes back to a Sunday school flannel board with pieces of fruit pressed against it. These are fruits of the Spirit which I am supposed to have or cultivate if I am a true Christian. So, I especially found pages 151-157 extremely helpful in interpreting this concept of fruit bearing in light of the gospel. Keller is quick to remind us that real fruit is gradual. In other words, it grows over time. An apple doesn’t just merely appear out of thin air. The fruit of the Spirit grows as well as the Holy Spirit does His sanctifying work within us over time. Keller also reminds us, “Our approval and welcome from the Father rests not on our character or actions, but on His. We are free to acknowledge where we have given up ground to the sarx in our lives; free to confess where we have not sought to keep in step with the Spirit; free to realize where we have confused our gifts or natural abilities with the fruit of the Spirit.” (page 155)
This book is a gift to the church. Buy it; use it; give it to a friend. I think new Christians in particular will find it most helpful. But, really, anyone who is struggling with legalism and is therefore having difficulty seeing the gospel for what is would benefit from this work.
Disclaimer: This book was provided by the publisher for review. I was under no obligation to offer a favorable review.(less)
For a little while now I have been familiar with the I am Second videos. The videos themselves feature prominent Christians (politicians like Mike Hic...moreFor a little while now I have been familiar with the I am Second videos. The videos themselves feature prominent Christians (politicians like Mike Hickabee, sports stars like Tong Dungy, music stars like the former singer from Korn and models like Kathy Ireland to name just a few) explaining why God comes first in their lives. If you have not checked them out already, they are worth watching. Now, Thomas Nelson has published a 365 day devotional guide based on these videos.
The basic set-up is quite interesting in my opinion. There are a total of 12 different sessions featuring different topics , each session consisting of 4-5 weeks of particular sub-topics. You begin the week with one of the I am Second videos (internet links through QR codes) and then answering a few questions based on some Bible passages. Each other day of the week begins with a Bible passage to read and consider. Below each passage you will find the following headings: Talk with God (prayer), Live it (application) and Tell it (teach it to others).
The biggest thing this book has going for it is the use of interactive media. Not only are you watching videos, but you are interacting with others online who are going through the same sections. Each day ends with an encouragement to tweet your lessons for other to benefit from and discuss. I can think of many young people I teach who would eat this up! But this feature intrigues me not just because of the “cool factor” this may have, but because of the idea of community this promotes. Too often devotions are seen as only personal. This idea tends to lead to subjectivity without much accountability. Having and sharing your devotions with a community (even the if only the online Twitter community) does promote at least some sense of connection with other believers and may provide a little bit of push back and iron-sharpening-iron when needed.
The negative aspect of this book is its lack of depth. This is not a devotional for mature Christians wishing to draw closer to God through deeper interaction in the Word. I really was not impressed with the actual content. However, as I alluded to above, I could see how this could be used by young people are may be new to the faith. This book would help them formulate a helpful pattern of how to begin your devotional life. It does promote stability, regularity and organization.
So, while this book certainly has many positive aspects, I can’t say it has earned my full recommendation.
Disclaimer: This book was provided by the publisher for review. I was under no obligation to offer a favorable review.(less)
This book grabbed my attention from the moment I first heard its title –Stop Asking Jesus into Your Heart. Many Christians struggle with the issue of...moreThis book grabbed my attention from the moment I first heard its title –Stop Asking Jesus into Your Heart. Many Christians struggle with the issue of assurance and find themselves praying the sinner’s prayer over and over again, each time wondering if they really mean it this time or if they were sincere enough. As this book masterfully points out, the issue is not sincerity or even how sorrowful one is over their sin.
Assurance first begins with a true understanding of just what salvation really is. Jesus took our place – plain and simple. God’s wrath for sin was poured upon Christ at the cross. Thus, God’s forgiveness is not based on mercy, but justice. It is just and right for God to forgive us of our sins – not because of our sincerity in repentance – but because those sins have been atoned for. The wrath of God is absorbed in the propitiation of Christ. Jesus took our place. Our hope of salvation rests upon this finished work.
This idea is foundational not only for the rest of this book, but for how we view the issue of assurance itself. Greear suggests that some look at the moment of salvation as a certificate given by God looking back to something you have done. You have trusted enough… You have believed enough… If you have any further doubts, check the certificate looking back. However the Bible gives us a different picture, instead of looking at a certificate or a moment, you look to the Lordship of Christ and His completed work. You rest in Him, not a confession or prayer.
“Salvation is a posture of repentance and faith toward the finished work of Christ in which you transfer the weight of your hopes of heaven off of your own righteousness and onto the finished work of Jesus Christ.” (page 48)
This is probably the key passage in the book as a whole. The assurance of your salvation comes in your “posture of repentance and faith.” In other words, don’t focus on the past. It’s not a question of what you did but where you are. Are you currently trusting in Christ as your only hope of salvation? Are you currently seeking to obey Him and follow His will? If the answer is yes, then rejoice! Our eternal hope is indeed based on one moment in the past, but it’s not a moment in your life. It’s the moment Christ died upon the Cross.
There is much more to this book than I have covered in this brief review. I urge you to purchase a copy for yourself and dig your way through it mining its treasures. It’s short book that doesn’t bog you down with technical terms or theological jargon. It’s humorous and easy to understand. You can see a pastoral heart on every page. This would be a great discipling tool. In fact, that’s exactly how I am already using it.
Disclaimer: This book was provided by the publisher for review. I was under no obligation to offer a favorable review.(less)
In light of recent tragic events, there has been much focus on the mental health of our country. I think this a good step forward as we seek to minist...moreIn light of recent tragic events, there has been much focus on the mental health of our country. I think this a good step forward as we seek to minister to hurting people in need of the love of Christ. The dirty little secret is that depression is not something that happens out there in the world. Even those within the four walls of our local churches struggle with depression and bipolar disorders. We need to start this conversation and shed the light of Scripture all over this. This is why I jumped at the chance to review Good Mood Bad Mood: Help and Hope for Depression and Bipolar Disorder.
The basic premise of this book is that depression is often misdiagnosed and suffering people are facing the same problem as the woman with an issue of blood in Luke 8:43-44. This woman suffered this chronic despite the fact that she had seen many doctors. Today, suggests the author, doctors are at a loss as for the exact cause of depression and are not even sure exactly on how come to the right criteria to diagnose it properly. Often common theories such chemical imbalances do not stand up to critical analysis. However, Dr. Hodges urges us to look beyond the field of medicine and to the Great Physician Himself. God has designed the human body in such a way to use pain, suffering and even bouts of depression to mold us into His image.
I have to admit, there are parts of this book I find troubling. I am very concerned that Dr. Hodges seems to discount any physical or medical issues that may cause depression. He even suggests at one point that patients taking anxiety medication are not much better off than those using placebos. Though he does make it clear that he is not recommending anyone go off their prescribed medication and does include a short appendix in the back of the book addressing some medical conditions that may lead to depression and bipolar disorders, these seem to be downplayed.
One could also get the wrong impression that depressed feelings can be simply “gotten over.” There is very little talk of struggling and journeying through. You almost get the idea that victory in this area comes simply and quickly as soon as you recognize God’s role in your suffering. I also wandered why there was no mention of the local church. The Body ought to be bearing the burdens of the weak, weeping with those who weep – reminding each other that you are not alone in this fight.
However, there are many helpful thoughts that Dr. Hodges give us in these pages that makes this book worth reading and considering. The fact of the matter is that while there are people who may need legitimate medical treatment, we do live in an over-medicated society. Especially in the area of mental health, we are quick to look for solace in a pill rather than face some difficult realities. For example, mourning the loss of a loved one should naturally bring about sadness and even depression. We are commanded to weep at times. We also see God’s use of difficult times to test and strengthen us as part of His loving plan for our lives. And, of course, we must recognize that oftentimes depression and sadness are the result of sin and poor choices. The pain suffered during these occasions is meant to lead us to repentance (II Corinthians 7:8-11).
The book is very gospel-centered and uses the Word of God in appropriate and powerful ways. You can tell this doctor has a passion for the Lord, His Word and His people. God’s sovereignty plays a prominent role in this book and in Dr. Hodges’ counseling philosophy.
While I have my concerns with some aspects of this book, it is still worth the read. I think we all know people who struggle with depression in various forms and ways. It’s high time we started talking about this openly and make it point to reach out in love to those who are hurting. This book may be a tool you should consider reading as you seek to love your neighbor.
Disclaimer: This book was provided by the publisher for review. I was under no obligation to offer a favorable review.(less)
Finding our identity in Christ is the topic of the latest coming from Mark Driscoll. At times it seems folks like Driscoll work too hard trying mold t...moreFinding our identity in Christ is the topic of the latest coming from Mark Driscoll. At times it seems folks like Driscoll work too hard trying mold theology into a cool, trendy concept for a younger generation. Yet, this book moves beyond that imposed stereotype and addresses an issue this generation (and all generations) struggle with.
How do you identify yourself? Some are quick to mention their occupation, their hobby or their personal achievements. Yet others are trapped by memories of life-altering accidents, horrible sin or depressing tragedies. However, the good news of the gospel is that we are in Christ. Our works, our sin, our failures, our success, our regrets, our victories are erased by the all-encompassing work of Christ. As Christians we identify with the Savior and rest in His work and plan. Christ is my life.
In this book Mark Driscoll reminds us that to be in Christ means I am a saint, blessed, appreciated, saved, reconciled, afflicted, heard, gifted, new, forgiven, adopted, loved, rewarded and victorious. If you are a Christian, this is who you are. You are not known by God through your works of self-righteousness or sins of depravity – you are known through His Son Jesus Christ. What a blessing!
“As Christians, we live from our identity, not for our identity. We are defined by who we are in Christ, not what we do or fail to do for Christ. Christ defines who we are by who he is and what he’s done for us, in us and through us.” (page 17)
Each chapter of this book seeks to answer the question of “Who Am I?” by walking through the book of Ephesians passage by passage. I think Driscoll does a fairly good job of expositing the text and highlighting helpful nuances. Each chapter also features opening illustrations of individuals struggling with their past failures and finally coming to see their new life in Christ.
I must say this book was an incredible blessing to me. It was just the encouragement I needed to start the year off. I am one who struggles with the idea of acceptance and confidence so much of the content of this book really hit home.
One chapter in particular that took me off guard was 5 – “I am Appreciated.” It just doesn’t seem right to think of myself as appreciated. Sometimes as Christians, we don’t know what to do with praise, compliments or appreciation from others. We rightfully attribute anything of value we are able to do to God’s grace and strength. Yet, it is not wrong to appreciate the work of God in the lives of others nor is it necessarily a bad thing to revel in the value you have through the grace and strength of God.
Driscoll explains, “While it may sound spiritual to say that everything that happens in solely by God and that we take no credit and deserve no appreciation for anything we do, it’s unbiblical and ungrateful. The reality is that we are God’s “workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.” The word workmanship used by Paul denotes that we are God’s work of art or poem. Just as we do with works of art made by artists in this world, we can take enjoyment in, praise, and appreciate the work of the art itself while giving ultimate credit to the artist who created it.” (page 56)
There are a few things I may wince at or shake my head at a few times in these pages… While at times Driscoll’s illustrations can be graphic for my taste, I need to remember life outside the four walls of the white, suburban, upper-middle class comfortable churches and Christian organizations I am associated with can be rough. Sometimes I need to be reminded of the real needs of real people. Driscoll’s charismatic, spiritual-gift views are not where I am at, but this book is still of great value despite of my differences with him in these areas.
So, I would encourage you to purchase this book and start to study just what it means to find your identity in Christ.
Disclaimer: This book was provided by the publisher for review. I was under no obligation to offer a favorable review.(less)
Title: The Conviction to Lead: 25 Principles for Leadership that Matters Author: Albert Mohler Publisher: Bethany House Publishers Publishing Year: 2012 P...moreTitle: The Conviction to Lead: 25 Principles for Leadership that Matters Author: Albert Mohler Publisher: Bethany House Publishers Publishing Year: 2012 Pages: 224 My Rating: 5 out of 5 (1 meaning I hated the book, 5 meaning I loved the book)
There are certainly no shortage of books about leadership. Yet, in my few short years on earth, I’ve learned that whenever Al Mohler decides to address an issue, I need to pay attention. So, what does Dr. Mohler add to our public discourse on leadership? In a word – practicality. In this book, not only are we given philosophy and theology, but are given a huge dose of practicality. The 25 lessons learned in this book would be helpful for anyone in a leadership position whether it be a teacher, pastor, businessman, fast food restaurant shift manager or the regional manager of a mid-range paper company.
The premise of this book is nothing short of revolutionary, at least that is the claim Mohler makes. He suggests that this book will “fundamentally change the way leadership is understood and practiced.” (page 44 – Kindle version, as are the rest of the page numbers referenced in this review)
What sets this book apart is Mohler’s assertion that there are two basic groups into which modern leadership is seemingly divided: believers and leaders. Believers are those who are passionate about their beliefs and have given themselves over to a passionate perusal to explore, learn and defend these beliefs. Their problem is they are not read to lead. They possess great information, but lack the skill necessary to lead others in their field. On the other hand you have the leaders. They are passionate about their positions and have a strong desire to get things done and make things happen. They are men of vision, goal and strategy. However, the problem this group faces is they oftentimes lack an inward center – core beliefs. So, the purpose of this book is to merge these two concepts together to create skilled leaders driven by moral truth and conviction founded on the Word of God.
“This book is written with the concern that far too much of what passes for leadership today is mere management. Without convictions you might be able to manage, but you cannot really lead.” (page 203)
“But the starting point for Christian leadership is not the leader but the eternal truths that God has revealed to us – the truths that allow the world to make sense, frame our understandings, and propel us to action.” (pages 212-213)
The rest of the book is filled with a treasure of practical wisdom. Let me share with you a few gems:
“The most important truths come alive through stories, and faithful leadership is inseparable from the power and stewardship of that story. The excellent leader is inseparable knows how to lead out of the power of the narrative that frames the identity and mission of the people he will lead, and the leader knows how to put his own story into service for the sake of the larger story.” (page 326)
“We have to be faithful to the discipleship of the mind before we can expect faithfulness and maturity in those we lead.” (page 462)
“Like everyone else, leaders operate out of capacities such as instinct, intuition and habit. But what sets the leader apart is the commitment to bring these very things under control of active intellect and right thinking. When an organization is run well, the average person… might assume the leader has some secret and almost magical sense of direction and purpose – an instinct or inner voice that seems always to guide with accuracy. In truth, this inner voice is the achievement of devoted thinking, not a gift that simply falls into the leader’s lap.” (pages 586-2465)
“If the leader has to look for a message, his leadership is doomed. Leaders communicate because they cannot not communicate, and their message flows out of them as naturally as a geyser releases its energy. This is the essence of convictional leadership.” (page 950)
“Leadership requires a constant flow of intelligence, ideas, and information. There is no way to gain the basics of leadership without reading.” (page 1018)
“..With many people assuming that any use of the power of office to force change will be resisted. But, this is a false assumption. The truth is that people within an organization feel most secure when their leader leads.” (page 1175)
“Leaders who leave all management to others are no longer leading the organization, no matter how they may flatter themselves by pretending otherwise.” (page 1213)
“Keep this firmly in mind: Never apologize for having a message and for wanting that message to receive the widest possible coverage and exposure. That is why you are leading. You are the steward of your beliefs and convictions that your organization represents and to which you have committed your life.” (page 1717)
“Observers of leadership have long noted that leaders often overestimate what can be accomplished in a single year, but underestimate what can be accomplished in a decade.” (page 2124)
This book is well worth the purchase and I would highly recommend it. There much I have personally gleaned from these pages which have aided me as I contemplate my own leadership in light of its effectiveness and purpose.
Disclaimer: This book was provided by the publisher for review. I was under no obligation to offer a favorable review.(less)
This was typical Mike Huckabee. While I do appreciate Huckabee's moderate tone on issues like education and the environment, his theology can use a lo...moreThis was typical Mike Huckabee. While I do appreciate Huckabee's moderate tone on issues like education and the environment, his theology can use a lot more depth... Overall an enjoyable book full of home-spun wisdom, practical advice and entertaining stories.(less)
If you are looking for the effect postmodernism has had on the church, look no further. But, Bell does make a few good points along the way such as re...moreIf you are looking for the effect postmodernism has had on the church, look no further. But, Bell does make a few good points along the way such as reading the Bible in community as opposed to our modern emphasis on reading Scripture privately.(less)
If you are looking for a brief summary of the reformed view of justification - here is where you should start. At just 56 pages, its easy to get throu...moreIf you are looking for a brief summary of the reformed view of justification - here is where you should start. At just 56 pages, its easy to get through, though that is not to say the content is shallow to any degree.(less)
Its a very simple book exploring the Apostle's Creed. I would recommend this work to those who are young in their faith. Consider it an introduction t...moreIts a very simple book exploring the Apostle's Creed. I would recommend this work to those who are young in their faith. Consider it an introduction to this historic document. (less)
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