In The Beginning, The Story of the King James Bible and How It Changed a Nation, a Language, and a Culture, Alister McGrath

   Another enlightening and helpful work by the brilliant scholar Alister McGrath. I'm not sure what I was expecting when I took up reading this book. The King James Bible has always held a special place in my heart. Having done extensive work in the Greek New Testament by way of exegesis and translation, I also  came to appreciate the skill of the King James translators. The more closely I examined the text of the Greek Testament and compared my findings with what the translators of the King James had given us the more convinced of their skill I became. Perhaps this is what seized my interest this McGrath installment; an honest desire to know more thoroughly the behind-the-scenes story of this giant among translations.

   And then there is McGrath's interesting subtitle, "The Story of the King James Bible and How It Change a Nation, a Language, and a Culture." Wow! Is that more for your money or what? I've read much of the history of translations, especially of the King James, but McGrath gives us so much more in 338 pages! Not only do we get the behind-the-scenes look but McGrath also documents the KJV's profound sociological impact upon western civilization. For instance, how many of us have given enough thought to the development of English as a language to know that the King James Bible and the works of Shakespeare were the two most formative to modern English?
    McGrath's account of the history of the English Bible is lively and enlightening. Of particular joy to me was his accounts of the historical/political climates in which the various translations were made. Those who hold the King James Bible to be more than a translation would do well to digest this section of the book. It would have been desirable to have learned more about the individuals who made up the translation teams. For me, it was after reading the English translation of Sir Lancelot Andrew's prayers (originally written in Latin) that I began to want to know more about the men behind the work of the King James Bible.
   As the church moves into the twenty-first century we hear less and less the melodic, majesty of the King James Bible reverberating through our church halls. Archeological discoveries and linguistic research have shed greater light upon the important work of Bible translation. These advances have yielded some new and sound translations like the New American Standard Bible, the New King James Bible and the English Standard Version and for these we heartily give thanks. But there is some level at which the linguistic beauty tempered by accuracy and supported by previous translations great in their own right, I miss. Don't misunderstand me. I am not calling for a repeal of the NASB, NKJV or the ESV. No, not at all. These notable translations of God's Word make the Bible readable for the average man or woman, boy and girl and that is the point. The people need to be able to read God's Word in there own vernacular. No, my point is that there should still be a place of prominence for this great translation of God's Word. Such excellence should never be abandoned to the collector or the museum. That McGrath published this work in 2001 and the King James Bible was completed in 1611 should shout to us the importance of the King James Bible. Scholars should still read and refer to it. Pastors should read it privately and use it in the study. Archbishop of Dublin, Richard Whately (1787-1863) may have been correct when he reminded his clergy brethren with the words, "Never forget, gentlemen, that this is not the Bible. This, gentlemen, is only a translation of the Bible." On the other hand, we should also never forget, in my opinion, that it is an excellent translation of God's Word that continues to yield much spiritual nourishment for those who read and study it.

Post tenebras lux,
Scott  

Good Idea. Now What? How To Move Ideas To Execution, Charles T. Lee

   Charles Lee has delivered what he set out to give. Thoughtful, practical, creative, insightful, systematic and refreshingly simple "Good Idea. Now What?" by Charles Lee makes good on it's promise of helping idea makers move their concepts from abstract to action! I appreciate Lee's realism about the world in which we seek to develop ideas and make them happen. I found it refreshing to read constructive criticism of pop cultural norms coupled with suggestions about how to counter (too much inspiration) productively. Too many writers in this genre simply take cues from what's "hot" and what's "not" and "ride the wave." Such none sense is trite and worthless for profound thinkers who want to initiate transformational movement. 

   Of course, this book is probably of much more value to the business community, for entrepreneurs. Nevertheless, Lee has helpful advice for all thinkers who want to actualize their ideas. Theologically, we would disagree with concepts like "the lizard brain" since it's based on an evolutionary theory of the origin of man but once you get past that laughable theory about brain development, which he picked up from another author, Lee provides some helpful bullet points about our thinking processes that are essentially NOT connected to the lizard brain thing. We might pick at some small things like this along the way but the usefulness of "Good Idea. Now What?" is not in question. 

   Furthermore, I enjoyed the brief autobiographical narratives that Lee shares with us. As a Korean immigrant to America, Lee has an inspiring spirit (sorry Charles, though not "over inspired" :) ). Lee has a knack for sharing just the right amount of bio to endear us to him. Along these lines, you will also appreciate the excellent format that Lee has adopted. The chapters stand alone and serve as work sheets. Not intended to be a pass along book, Lee expects his readers to find the book to be a reusable resource. Great idea! This is the mark of a good book - we return to it. Pass along books have their place but there is something about the concept that suggests a lack of inherent value (that's my opinion, not Lee's). Lastly, the chapters are brief (a couple of pages each) and Lee's style is very conversational. 

   I have Daine Harrell to thank for this extremely helpful book! Diane, I am so blessed that you thought of me when you and Paul happened across this book. Great read; helpful ideas; good resource! Thanks!!

Post tenebras lux, Scott