The Complete Works of Francis A. Schaeffer, A Christian Worldview

If I were a theology prof at a seminary, I would make this required reading! I cannot recommend this set more highly. Schaeffer is much help when it comes to discerning these times through a biblical text. His writings may be more fitting today than when he first took up his pen. Currently, I'm reading vol. 5, A Christian View of the West.

The Life of Arthur W. Pink, Iain H. Murray

What a blessing this book is! Iain Murray has given us a stirring and balanced account of what little is known about this man of God. It is fitting that Pink wrote one of the most profitable books in print on Elijah because the two men shared faithfully the Word of God in a day when not many treasured it. I must admit this was my second reading. The first was stopped short some fifteen years ago for reasons long forgotten. Pink circled the globe preaching the gospel when ships were powered by wind or steam! He preached to crowds of hundreds, sometimes thousands, before turning completely to the ministry of the pen. You'll be enriched by this little book but read it when your encouragements are high because Pink's story is not one of glamour, not glory but of faithful perseverance in the ministry of the Word. Don't let that discourage you from taking up this read though - it's worth it! October 2014

How God Became King, The Forgotten Story of the Gospels, N.T. Wright

My take on this book...coming soon!

I read this back in 2012 when it was hot off the press. Immediately I formed some opinions. In the two year interval between then and now, I've continued to give careful and respectful consideration to this book and to N.T. Wright. I've decided to reread the book before I post anything here so that I can know that I've given it all due consideration.

Jonathan Edwards, A Life, George M. Marsden

Marsden has provided a well researched new biography of Edwards. It is filled with what life was like in New England during Edwards' time. I was excited to receive this volume in the mail and waited with anticipation for my reading schedule to move around to it. I am sad to say though, I was disappointed. Forgive me if I am too hard on Marsden. I do respect his works but it seemed that his great attention to the Edwards' family and their influence and his many personal idiosyncrasies were intended to lower the reader's opinion of Edwards. Marsden even answers the reader's silent question early in the book when he discusses, "What do I think of Edwards?" I must admit that by that time I was already thinking, "He doesn't think much of Edwards." For me, this book was a let down. It doesn't help that I've already had a friend, referencing this book, say, "Well Edwards had his issues too. He was constantly complaining about his pay." This may not have been Marsden's intent, to diminish our estimation of Edwards, but one has to wonder if that has been the result. Today movie stars, music artists and comic book characters are assuming god-like status in culture. shouldn't we question the wisdom of emphasizing the flaws of good men, men who readily admit that they are but clay? March 2014.

Bonhoeffer, Eric Metaxas

Once past Metaxas' gushing in the first three chapters, I loved this book. Over all it is written in a very pleasant style. Following the story and keeping up with Metaxas' thought line is pretty easy. My only problem is that Metaxas fails to discuss Bonhoeffer's neo-orthoxy. Francis Schaeffer discusses some misappropriation of definitions that Bonhoeffer is prone to in vol. 1 of Schaeffer's Complete Works. Not to impugn the man in any way, but with Bonhoeffer one must keep this in mind. December 2014.

Too Wise to be Mistaken, Too Good to be Unkind, Cathy Steere

Almost a journal, Steere's book offers much insight for Christian parents who are struggling with rearing a child with autism. Having two children who are on the spectrum, I found much comfort and wisdom in this book. March 2014.

The Sacred Trust, Sketches of the Southern Baptist Presidents, Emir and Ergun Caner

Slightly disappointing for several reasons. First, as the cover indicates, these are sketches which makes it hard to relate to the person being written about. Secondly, I think the sketch format makes for uneventful reading. It is sad because such a book is very much needed. Southern Baptist have not given enough attention to the study of the men whom God used in the development of our denomination. March 2014.

Taliban, Ahmed Rashid

This is a brief account of the origin and rise of the terrorist group, the Taliban. Though often cumbersome, this book is worth the read and yields lots of helpful insight. January 2014.

House Blessings, June Cotner

A nice house warming gift, this little book offers some thought provoking prayers and blessings for the Christian home. Perhaps a bit too light hearted at times. It never quite meets its potential which is sad since dedicating our homes to the Lordship and gospel of Christ has all but been forgotten among Evangelical and Reformed Christians. But, may this will serve as inspiration for us to think more carefully about living all for the glory of God. June 2014

Letters to a Young Pastor, Calvin Miller

What! I'm still young-ish! Well, I may not be as young as I once was but I found much blessing in this little book. I must confess to going back and forth in my agreement in this book. having appreciated Miller's writings over the years I must say that his philosophy of ministry seemed to me to be a little disjointed. All in all, I appreciated his sage advice. Young men headed for ministry would not go wrong to read this book. July 2014.

The Path of Celtic Prayer, Calvin Miller

Over the years I've found Celtic Christian prayers to be a source of warm, biblical devotion to Christ. Calvin Miller agrees. This is not a scholarly work. It wasn't intended to be. Miller simply encourages believers to rediscover the beauty of trinitarian praying, of psalter praying, of joyful praying. I enjoyed every page.

August 2014.

Being a Dad Who Leads, John MacArthur

Easily read over a good cup of coffee or for a men's prayer/study group. A great gift to any man. It is exactly what you've come to expect from John MacArthur. September 2014.

Ordinary, Sustainable Faith in a Radical, Restless World, Michael Horton

I cannot say enough good about this book. First, let me say that it is NOT written with the contentious spirit that one may think. Horton has actually written an excellent book on discipleship for the modern/postmodern era. Even if you are a "dyed in the wool" Platt appreciator (just being funny - no ill will intend) you should read this book. Horton does not argue against Platt. Horton argues for perseverance and biblical moderation in all things. Trust me; you will appreciate this book. It's bigger than the denominational squabbling. Thank you Michael Horton for this gift to our age! October 2014.

Treasuring God in Our Traditions, Noel Piper

We Evangelicals often miss the power of vibrant traditions. Scripture never denounces tradition. On the contrary, it establishes tradition. Scripture denounces godless and empty traditions that elevate and manipulate men, women and children. Biblical traditions that honor God and promote Christ and gospel love are truly life restoring and faith building. Read this one for fresh perspectives on how to redeem tradition in your home and life.

August 2014

Building a Godly Home, A Holy Vision for a Happy Marriage, William Gouge

This classic is worth every minute. I want to read all of the reprint volumes. I love the new format. They are nicely bound too. Prepare to do a lot of underlining. The warmth of Puritan theology is often missed (or misrepresented) but it is on full display in Gouge's teaching. Oh, that I may be a godly husband like Gouge describes. Don't worry; Gouge is thoroughly Scriptural. His exposition and application are masterful and filled with holy love for Christ and each other. April 2014.

The Story Factor, Annette Simmons

N.T. Wright has encouraged us to consider again the role of story in learning and transformation. Really we shouldn't have been surprised by his findings. Close observation of many of the sermons in Scripture (Psalms, Peter's message at Pentecost, Stephen's message are just a few examples) reveals that the common format of communicating God's truth to His people was through retelling the redemptive storyline, making specific applications to the concurrent event. I found that my preaching and teaching ministry was more lecture format (not to belittle that). This is an excellent book to help you think through how to speak in story rather than in raw unconnected facts. The second half of the book is not as helpful as Simmons seems now to practice what she has been preaching. The problem is not her method, which is quite good, but her message. The liberal, feminist agenda begins to come through loud and clear in part two. This was another 2013 read. 

Reading Magic, Why Reading Aloud to Our Children Will Changer Their Lives Forever, Mem Fox

If you have small children or work with children or teach children or pass one on the street skip lunch and buy this book! This is one of those rare books that makes you wish you had been handed this just after the doctor cut the umbilical cord at the birth of your first child. I'm not kidding! I mean it...stop laughing at me...and get this book! After I read this book early in 2013 I offered to buy it for any member of my extended family that wanted a copy. If you love the children of your family, you'll probably do the same when you've finished this book.

Limited Church: Unlimited Kingdom, Uniting Church & Family in the Great Commission, Rob Rienow

All I can say is, "Thank You Rob!" This book will revolutionize ministry. What is so great about it is that the premise is a return to Scriptural ministry and NOT a "new and improved" ministry model. You may not agree with Rob completely but you will not be sorry that you rediscovered a VITAL relationship in gospel living & ministry. I actually read this in 2013 but felt impressed to share it anyway. 

What Is A Family, Edith Schaeffer

A thought provoking expose on family that covers the topic from fresh and helpful angles. I highly recommend this book. Mrs. Schaeffer's contribution in this book fits perfectly with her husband's theological writings. Though a bit wordy, her thoughts are worth the effort. Husbands and wives should invest some time in reading this book. I'm glad I discovered it, by chance, at a local Good Will. This was part of my July reading.

The End of the Modern World, Romano Guardini

This is NOT about prophecy. Guardini is concerned with the problems that face our current epoch and with how we approach the next. Though some will find fault with Guardini simply for being a Catholic, I found his assessment of the modern collapse of Western civilization very astute. His observations regarding "power" and it's becoming the driving force in the coming epoch are salient. I also found merit in his application of the Christian faith to the issue compelling. His theology, though not evangelical per se, has depth. Very insightful and enlightening reading. I finished this book in August.