Time for another round of reviews from books I recently finished and currently reading. As always, if you want to buy the book, the links are provided.
“Sanctification of the Sabbath” (Robert Haldane, Reformation Heritage Books) – A book the reinforces the Lord’s Day or Christian Sabbath. I like how the author uses some not so familiar passages in Scripture to point the believer to the importance of the Lord’s Day. Obviously and inevitably the usual Bible verses that come up when tackling this topic shine as the author dives to examine it. This may be a short book but Haldane thoroughly handles the case for Christian Sabbath. There are of course some parts that I feel either the author is being redundant or it’s just me who can’t get through the language. Whatever it is, it’s a good addition to your library when you are compelled to study the subject.
My verdict: 4 of 5
The Christian Manifesto (Alistair Begg, The Good Book Company) – I have read two books on the Sermon on the Mount (this and this) and I could say this can be placed on the second spot between the two. I also want to mention that this is my first time the Sermon on the Plain was mentioned, which at first got me confused and wanted to search the Bible where that message was recorded.
The first few pages feel like I’m reading a sermon but passing through that phase you’ll enjoy how excellently Begg uncovers this revolutionary message of Christ that resonates through time and how relevant it is still now.
For something this short dealing with the greatest sermon ever preached, Begg superbly done something that is impactful to his readers. Highly recommend!
My verdict: 5 out of 5
The Booming Baritone Bell of England (E. G. Romine, Pickwick Publications) – We know the Prince of Preacher, Charles Spurgeon with his pulpit ministry in the New Park Street Chapel and Metropolitan Tabernacle. Books about his time there as a pastor and his sermons abound. However, many forgot his experience as an open air preacher and this book examines that phase of this famous preacher. From the historical context of the Victorian era London to Spurgeon’s exegetical and hermeneutical methods all contribute to his pulpit ministry, E. G. Romine dives painstakingly building up what would be a fresh insight and addition to the ongoing Spurgeonic studies. There are surprises that were brought up in this book that will raise some eye brows but this journey to the open air preaching of Spurgeon is a must read.
My verdict: 5 out of 5
Sketchy Views (Daniel DeWitt, New Growth Press) – At first I thought this is a visual apologetics book presenting some of the sketches of the author. Turns out the title also means another thing. Sketchy meaning there is something suspiciously wrong. In this case, sketchy on how we view God. Well, DeWitt did use drawings (sketches), stories and illustrations like what he does in teaching his students. I commend DeWitt as he patiently explains points here. He slowly builds it up till you get the “mind blown” moment. Boom!There are a lot of things he unpacked here so obviously this is not a quick read affair. However, your patience will be rewarded.
My verdict: 4.5 out of 5
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Delighting Grace 