This was such a great book. To write too much about it would not do it justice. It is a calm and unhurried narrative and meditation on fathers and sonThis was such a great book. To write too much about it would not do it justice. It is a calm and unhurried narrative and meditation on fathers and sons (of many generations and types) and the ways they bless or refuse to bless one another. Take up and read....more
Really great reflections on the Psalms of Ascent with an emphasis on how these ancient songs shape Christian discipleship. There are a few more clunkyReally great reflections on the Psalms of Ascent with an emphasis on how these ancient songs shape Christian discipleship. There are a few more clunky chapters but the others more than make up for that....more
If you've never read the confessions and catechisms before, you're missing out. They are not old, musty, theological statements. Instead, they are vibIf you've never read the confessions and catechisms before, you're missing out. They are not old, musty, theological statements. Instead, they are vibrant and relevant confessions of biblical Christian faith. The Westminster Larger Catechism, for example, will teach you God's grace in Christ and how to respond in gratitude with obedience, prayer, and worship. Read this book!...more
This is a great book of daily prayers (morning and evening) from an early-mid 20th century theologian and leader in the Church of Scotland. Some of thThis is a great book of daily prayers (morning and evening) from an early-mid 20th century theologian and leader in the Church of Scotland. Some of the prayers verge on the wishy-washiness of theological liberalism, but most are incredibly helpful and biblical guides to daily prayer....more
This book is a really excellent biblical, theological, and practical introduction to what the church should be in a post-Christian culture. I'm a littThis book is a really excellent biblical, theological, and practical introduction to what the church should be in a post-Christian culture. I'm a little biased because the author was the senior minister of my home church and the outline of the book is basically that church's mission statement. Still, it is an accessible and comprehensive portrait of a biblically healthy church. I can see this book being great for officer training or for a new member's class. ...more
This is a great collection of essays from, in my opinion, one of the best contemporary writers and Christian thinkers alive today. The essays that I tThis is a great collection of essays from, in my opinion, one of the best contemporary writers and Christian thinkers alive today. The essays that I thought I'd enjoy the least ended up as those I enjoyed the most. If you're interested in Harry Potter, trees, dictionaries, biblical interpretation, or Christianity and culture, read this book. It is delightful and enlightening....more
There is a reason this story has been adapted into so many movies. It's a great Christmas book that is worth reading annually.There is a reason this story has been adapted into so many movies. It's a great Christmas book that is worth reading annually....more
This book is, by far, one of the best books about C.S. Lewis out there. Jacobs is a skilled writer who steers a balanced course between hagiography anThis book is, by far, one of the best books about C.S. Lewis out there. Jacobs is a skilled writer who steers a balanced course between hagiography and debunking. He obviously loves C.S. Lewis, warts and all. Definitely read this book if you are hoping to learn more about a wonderful writer and thinker....more
This is the epitome of a great summer book! It is a non-fiction book that is filled with suspense, colorful (nearly unbelievable) characters, and fascThis is the epitome of a great summer book! It is a non-fiction book that is filled with suspense, colorful (nearly unbelievable) characters, and fascinating insights on the science and anthropology of running. This is one of the most engaging books I've read recently!...more
Charles Hodge may have had to wait a century between biographies, but Paul Gutjahr's work was well worth the wait. If you have no idea who Charles HodCharles Hodge may have had to wait a century between biographies, but Paul Gutjahr's work was well worth the wait. If you have no idea who Charles Hodge is, read this book. If the name "Charles Hodge" provokes visions of a rigid and cold Calvinist, read this book. As a Presbyterian, even I had my doubts about Hodge based on many of the caricatures that prevail today. Reading this book completely changed my mind. Though this book is scholarly and rigorously researched, it is also well-written and, dare I say it, a page turner. After reading it, I felt as though Charles Hodge had become a friend and mentor. There were several passages that brought me close to tears (manly tears, of course). By all means, read this book!...more
Everyone should read this book. I have some quibbles with liberation theology and some of the slams on capitalism, but Paul Farmer and Partners in HeaEveryone should read this book. I have some quibbles with liberation theology and some of the slams on capitalism, but Paul Farmer and Partners in Health are a great model of active care for the poorest of the poor....more