Category: Books

Before I tell yo what I though of this book, I must say that we are missionaries from the heath Evangelical Church in Cardiff. Alun Ebenezer is a member of the same church and we know each other. But having said that, the Heath, as it is called, is a big church, and we don’t know each other very well. What I remember of Alun is that he has a lot of energy and that he is great with young people. I’ve heard him speak to students before, and he is always clear and straightforward. I was given a copy of the book by the missionary committee a few months ago and left it on the shelf. But when I saw an offer to review the book, I though it was the opportunity to read it. I also received a pdf copy for review.

I haven’t quite finished reading it but I must say I’ve enjoyed this book so far. It is easy to read and accessible to young Christians. There are plenty of illustrations and pointed applications. There is no technical jargon, and Alun makes sure he explains everything. He doesn’t take anything for granted. I found it refreshing spiritually, and most chapters have led me to worship God. I’ve often read Revelations and I must admit that the imagery has often put me off. But Alun has a way to make things clear and it all seems quite straightforward.

There’s just one thing, but I could be wrong. I think that some of the illustrations may be only intelligible to people familiar to the British (Welsh?) Reformed Evangelical scene. Have you heard of Mr Higham?

It’s a great book. If you find Revelation difficult, it will help you understand its message, and hopefully will lead you to prayer and worship. It’s also a good book for young christians. Buy it, read it, give some copies away.

 

Two things caught my attention when I was given the opportunity to get a review copy of this book. First, Joel Beeke is one of the authors. I’ve heard Joel Beeke preach several times and have always been blessed by his ministry. Second, the theme of the book: the doctrine of preparation.

As a father of three boys, one of my man burden is that they will not only hear the gospel, but respond to its call. I can’t force them to believe. I do not want to manipulate them into easy believism either. In the end, only God can regenerate them and save them. But God uses means, and I must faithfully teach the gospel to my children.

This book surveys Puritan literature in order to assess their views on the preparation of sinners for salvation. It is somewhat technical, but gives some interesting perspectives on a neglected subject. Various perspectives on preparation are compared and help clarify the issues.

It’s a good book, but it is not for everyone. It is thoroughly researched and it is very informative, but not devotional. I found it hard going at times, but rewarding. It will definitely make you think through important issues.

[amazon_link id=”0852349084″ target=”_parent” container=”” container_class=”” ][/amazon_link]I have read two books in the “Bitesize Biographies” series published by EP so far. They’ve both been very helpful. So, when Cross Focused Reviews gave the opportunity to review a biography of John Newton recently published in the same series, I jumped on the opportunity. I received a review copy with no obligation to give a positive review.

I read it in one seating, on my way to a conference. I found the story gripping and fascinating. The chapters on John Newton’s Hymns and correspondence were especially helpful. Like the other books in the series, this book gives a introduction of John Newton’s life and ministry and make you want to know more about the man and his writings.

[amazon_link id=”0852349092″ target=”_blank” container=”” container_class=”” ][/amazon_link]As a Frenchman, this book caught my attention. I had never heard of Renée de France before. Who was she? I though that if EP was publishing a short biography about her, there was a good reason for that.

This is the fascinating story of a little known figure of the Reformation. Renée could have been Queen of France if the laws of the time had permitted a woman to access the throne. Instead, she married the Duke of Ferrara. Reformation ideas were making good progress in Italy at the time. Renée surrounded herself with French people, and protected many protestants refugees. She corresponded with Calvin and several other reformers.

She had to face many challenges, and her struggles have much to teach us today. I was grateful for this little book. I was sent a review copy and wasn’t required to write a positive review. It won’t take you long to read, and you will discover a real women, with fears and doubts, facing severe opposition. Many of the questions she faced are still around today, and I especially enjoyed the chapter summarising her correspondance with Calvin and what it teaches us.