Review: The Gospel According to Jesus: What Does Jesus Mean When He Says “Follow Me”?
The Gospel According to Jesus: What Does Jesus Mean When He Says "Follow Me"? by John F. MacArthur Jr.
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I was aware this book was surrounded by controversy, but not informed as to the exact nature of the controversy. I read it on a recommendation from a friend and am glad I did. I appreciated the highlighting of the lordship of Jesus in the Gospel. This truth is emphasized far too little in our day. This book reveals the true picture of Jesus who is Lord and what that means. Many will be offended who prefer their own imagination to Scripture truth. I recommend you read it prayerfully.
Review: God’s Passion for His Glory: Living the Vision of Jonathan Edwards
God’s Passion for His Glory: Living the Vision of Jonathan Edwards by John Piper
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is really two books in one. The second part is Jonathan Edward’s work, The End for Which God Created the World. The first part is John Piper’s thoughts, experiences, analysis, and explanation of Edwards’ work. The Edwards text is dense and should be read carefully. They have preserved the text but added some things, such as paragraph numbers, headings, definitions, and footnotes. These editorial additions serve to make the text more readable.
Edwards labors some in the first part of his treatise where he pushes out his reasoning to conclusions. The latter part of his work turns more to the Scripture for foundation and is frankly easier to follow. Edwards first part is important, but the second part is the real meat. It is worth the labor for the section near the end where he gives the scriptural scope and meaning of God’s glory.
Piper’s introductory work helps us understand Edwards more quickly and fully, particularly if you are not familiar with Edwards or with working through such dense material. This is not light reading. It is substantial and weighty, but it will pay dividends again and again in your life. I recommend it.
Review: The Attributes of God
The Attributes of God by Arthur Pink
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Excellent brief book. This is not exhaustive on the subject (Charnock comes to mind), but is very good. Pink always uses many scripture references and the format makes it useful for devotional reading or as a study. This book serves as an introduction to a biblical view of God, which is a high view. It is quite a contrast from the man-centered ramblings so prevalent today. I highly recommend it.
Review: The Plot That Thickened
The Plot That Thickened by P.G. Wodehouse
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Aptly titled. I didn’t find Monty Bodkin the most sympathetic of Wodehouse characters, but it was still a fun read. It won’t stand up to the best of the Jeeves books. The ending seemed abrupt and little anticlimactic. There were certainly a few good twists and, as always, some great turns of phrase.
Review: Death And the Hereafter
Death And the Hereafter by Milburn Cockrell
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book is a collection of sermons about death and the hereafter. The book prompts solemn and sober meditations about the subject. I read it again after the death of my dear grandmother and again found it profitable. The book also includes a good, brief defense of the trichotomy of man as taught in the Bible. I highly recommend it.
