The Conscience of a Conservative, Barry Goldwater

     This post is not a political endorsement. I read The Conscience of a Conservative because I had heard so many people mention or quote Barry Goldwater especially in political forums. Some referred to him negatively and others positively. Not willing to simply accept what I'm told to think about a person, I decided to read his main work for myself. I admit readily that apart from this book and the popular news media references I know very little about Barry Goldwater as a person or politician. On the other hand there seemed to be, as I collated people's references to him, evidence that this is someone who deserves a hearing. 

     The Conscience of a Conservative is  actually quite brief in presentation which was a surprise to me. Volumes on political philosophy tend to be hefty and exceedingly verbose. Not so with Goldwater. He is concise, clear and yet his thoughts are complete. Nothing of value is left out. He expounds a clear conservative approach to all of the critical points of government without being wordy or caustic. In fact, Goldwater is quite winsome in the book; mostly because of his intentional simplicity. The only drawback is the binding. It is cheaply bound but you know me, I'm old school on the issue of binding :).  If you are looking for a clear, concise and yet convincing explanation of conservative government philosophy then you might want to give this book a shot. 

Post tenebras lux, 

Scott

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

Cornelius Van Til, Reformed Apologist and Churchman, John R. Muether

   Another installment from the series, "American Reformed Biographies," "Cornelius Van Til, Reformed Apologist and Churchman" is a very real contribution to understanding  one of the founders of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church. Other than quotes contained in other works I'd not read much of Van Til until a good friend of mine mentioned how much he appreciated him. Knowing my friend's devotion to sound doctrine I figured Van Til would have to be worth my time and after reading this book, I haven't changed my mind.

   In the long view it will most likely be proven that Van Til's Dutch heritage was a rich resource for faithful theological reflection, though some thought otherwise during his life. Not having read Van Til's works I cannot personally defend them but after reading this biography I immediately added all of the works of Van Til to my Amazon wish list. So, I hope to be reading them one day when the Lord provides book money :). 

   John Muether has done a good job of walking that middle ground between being too scholarly for the average Christian and too popular to have lasting value. Although, if you are thinking about purchasing this book you need to be aware that this is a biography about a theologian, a complex theologian. As a result you will be reading about the main ideas that he put forth and the counter ideas of those who challenged him. But if you are willing to learn there is much to be gained from Van Til's works and godly devotion. This  is the second biography from this series that I've read and I confess, I'm hooked. I can't wait to read the remaining three about Dabney, Hodge & J.P. Boice. In fact, I'm having trouble convincing myself not to order the next installment. I'm also looking forward to a time when I commit to digging into the mind of Van Til, a man that plumed the depths of philosophy and held it to the authority of God's Word and Jesus Christ. Thanks Justin for turning me on to Van Til!!

Post tenebras lux, Scott

How The Irish Saved Civilization, The Untold Story of Ireland's Heroic Role from the Fall of Rome to the Rise of Medieval Europe, Thomas Cahill

   A perfect example of why truth is better than fiction. "How The Irish Saved Civilization" was simply a fun read. It was also a message of hope, considering our times.

   "From the fall of Rome to the rise of Charlemagne - the "dark ages" - learning, scholarship, and culture disappeared from the European continent. The great heritage of Western civilization - from the Greek and Roman classics to Jewish and Christian works - would have been utterly lost were it not for the holy men and women of the unconquered Ireland. ... Thomas Cahill takes us to the "land of saints and scholars," the Ireland of St. Patrick and the Book of Kells..."

   Okay so, yesterday was St. Patrick's Day which compelled me to share this book with you. I know, that's corny; but it would do us well to relearn the Christ Patrick preached. The civilization that grew after the fall of Rome and Constantinople grew largely out of the ashes and ignorance that remained when all that was noble and stable had collapsed.

    As we ponder what a post-modern world will look like, as we more and more gaze into the fierce face of the philosophies of power, we will be served well to remember that true greatness is to be found in simple humility. Neither Patrick nor the monks that followed him were empire builders. Their labors were not for power or greatness but for Jesus Christ and the quest for truth in Him.

  Cahill's closing words should grip the heart of every Westerner, "The twenty-first century, prophesied Malraux, will be spiritual or it will not be. If our civilization is to be saved - forget about our civilization, which, as Patrick would say, may pass 'in a moment like a cloud or smoke that is scattered by the wind' - if we are to be saved, it will not be by Romans but by saints."

Post tenebras lux, Scott

The Cross In The Shadow Of The Crescent, An Informed Response to Islam's War with Christianity, Erwin Lutzer with Steve Miller

   First, a confession is in order; my appreciation for Dr. Erwin Lutzer is long standing. While working my way through college and grad school as a third shift night auditor at a Days Inn I discovered the radio program, "Songs In The Night." Many was the night that his rich voice and keen spiritual insight fed the soul of a sleepy seminarian. 

   Later I discovered that he was the pastor of the historic Moody Church of Chicago. As a result I came to appreciate "The Moody Church Hour" and "Running To Win" from time to time. Over the years I've profited from reading many of his books as well. Though I met him only once, it is with a certain selfish sadness that I watched the video of the announcement his retirement last January. I feel an indebtedness to him (as well as a few others) for my own spiritual growth. 

   Having said all that, I supposed current events have conspired to peak my interest in this book. "The Cross In The Shadow Of The Crescent" was shuffled to the back of my stack for many months. Most likely, the reason for my hesitation was that I had just recently read another book on Islam and although the book was over all favorable toward the growth of Christianity in Islamic regions the subject is not at the top of my list. 

   I'm certainly no expert on the subject but my impression is that Pastor Lutzer has done the church of Jesus Christ a tremendous favor by writing this. It is at times hard to persevere through the accounts of Islamic atrocities that have been committed. On the other hand, the message of the book is powerfully motivated to equip believers to pursue deeper faith in Jesus. I heartily encourage everyone to read this book as soon as Amazon or Barnes & Noble can get it to your door. 

Post tenebras lux, Scott

Brothers, We Are NOT Professionals, A Plea to Pastors for Radical Ministry, John Piper

Have you noticed that Hollywood has no idea what to do with ministers? Next time you find yourself watching a movie or TV program that happens to have a preacher in it observe how he is portrayed. Either he will be performing a wedding, a social do-gooder, a social outcast, a religious hypocrite, a religious weirdo or simply part of the background. I call this last one, which often includes him performing a wedding, "window dressing." In such cases the minister of the gospel plays no significant role in the movie. He is simply there to look nice for the wedding. He's a prop, part of the furniture. For years I thought this was simply a coincidence; that it had no real significance. Then it occurred to me one day that there was significance. Oh, I am not saying that this was necessarily intentional, though I'm not ruling that out either in some cases. No, I believe that at least part of the significance comes from the nature of the calling of the gospel minister. The world, simply put, just doesn't know what to do with him. Is he an executive? Is he an educator? Is he a social organizer? a community's conscience? A scholar? a prophet? Scripture might say he is all of these and much more. Hollywood, it seems to me, captures the world's confusion about the gospel minister. 

Now, you ask, what does this have to do with anything? Unfortunately, Hollywood not only reflects culture, it often influences it as well. Don't get me wrong. I'm not on a rant against Hollywood here and neither is Piper. In fact, Piper's book doesn't make the observation that I just made. Piper seeks to correct another misunderstanding about the office and work of the gospel preacher but this one has somehow arisen from within there own ranks. Piper writes to challenge his fellow preachers to stop viewing themselves as professionals and to return to the New Testament definition of pastoral ministry. The hard truth is that the world, by and large, sees us pastors wrongly because we see ourselves wrongly. We have not sought the be preachers, shepherds and prophets but have too often behaved as professionals.
Piper's tone in the chapter, "Brothers, Sever The Root Of Racism," is unfortunate. Maybe "tone" is not the right word. Perhaps, it is with the assumptions that seem to be latent within this chapter that I take issue. The argument seemed to take the liberal media's word completely about the state of race relations in this country. This saddened me because I am used to more objectivity from Piper. Piper writes as if there have been little to no progress made in this nation in this regard when there is much evidence to the contrary. After all, there are many black leaders in this nation who laud the American people for how much ground has been made. We have a black president who is in his second term. I know that he was not president when this book was written but neither did the American people make such a turn so quickly. Of course, we agree with the premise that racism must be severed but it is doubtful a continuation of the liberal media narrative is of any help in this regard.  

John Piper has done the church of Jesus Christ a profound service by writing this book. The better part of four shelves in my library are filled with books on the pastoral ministry; Brothers We Are Not Professionals is one of my favorites. I have actually read it twice now. 

If you are a pastor or minister of the gospel, you will be challenged and sharpened by this book. As for seminary students, it should be required reading in pastoral theology. If you are layman, do not dismiss this book. It would do every minister well to have a congregation filled with spiritually minded people who understand his calling and encourage him in it. You could also purchase him a copy but be sure to include a personal note of appreciation for him and his service to Jesus Christ and His church. 

post tenebras lux, Scott