C is for Creation by Crystal Bowman

C is for Creation
by Crystal Bowman, Teri McKinley

ISBN-13: 9798400510441
Hardcover: 28 pages
Publisher: Tyndale
Released: September 8, 2026

Source: ebook review copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
C is for Creation is a children's hardcover picture book that tells the events of creation, from Day 1 to Day 7


My Review:
C is for Creation is a children's hardcover picture book that tells the events of creation, from Day 1 to Day 7. It included bits of theology, like God always existed and that God created everything by His mighty power. Each page is alphabetical, with the letter up top and a cartoon-style picture around the letter illustrating the text. A rhyming verse is below that describes events in chronological order. Bible verses are included below each rhyme to show where the events or concepts can be found in the Bible. Overall, I'd recommend this children's book as a way to teach young kids about biblical Creation.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.

Beloved by Francis Chan

Beloved
by Francis Chan

ISBN-13: 9780830789054
Hardcover: 160 pages
Publisher: David C Cook
Released: October 7, 2025

Source: ebook review copy from the publisher through NetGalley. Plus I bought a copy.

Book Description from Goodreads:
Despite pastoring for decades and reaching thousands of people through his books and preaching, Francis wrestled with deep-seated insecurity. He understood God’s love conceptually, but struggled to actually experience it. This resulted in a life that was far from the thrilling and peaceful life God saved us for. Francis prayed fervently for God to intervene, and asked his friends and family to do the same. The result was a fresh revelation of the depth of God’s love and affection. This brought about newfound freedom and enjoyment of God that only continues to grow.

As Francis shared this journey with others, he realized that many in the Church are burdened by the same insecurity, and God is zealous to change this. In Beloved, Francis Chan gives biblical insight our restlessness and striving is a symptom of our disbelief of God’s love and Satan’s schemes to keep us trapped in doubt and insecurity. Discover abiding in our identity as God’s beloved children and how God’s love overflows to a life of radical obedience and joy. God longs for His children to rest securely in His holy love. It’s what we were made for, and it is this inward confidence that causes us to be light unto the world.


My Review:
Beloved is about focusing on God's great love for us and how it can free us from the burden of trying to earn God's approval. The book "was written primarily to those who tend to focus on their own failures rather than His mercy, grace, and love." The author pointed out verses describing how much God loves us. He explained why we may not accept this and ways that Satan can keep us distracted from God's love and looking at ourselves. He described things you can do that will help you focus on God's love and counteract Satan's deceptions. He also looked at if we serve God out of our overflow of God's love or to try to earn God's love.

There were many good points, but my favorite quote was about how John called himself the beloved disciple and how "John was expressing faith in Christ's love, not in his own lovability." The book was written in a causal, conversational tone, and it was easy to follow his points. Overall, I'd highly recommend this book.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.

The Promised Presence by Jenny Randle

The Promised Presence
by Jenny Randle

ISBN-13: 9780830786213
Paperback: 224 pages
Publisher: David C Cook
Released: June 3, 2025


Source: ebook review copy from the publisher.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
Today, as in biblical times, God holds the power to transform, heal, and deliver. This Bible study through Luke and Acts reminds us that God can turn messes into miracles through the supernatural activity of Holy Spirit. In The Promised Presence, Jenny Randle shares topical Bible teaching, her own faith journey, and practical application to help understand the Spirit’s influence on the early church and in our lives today. Discover biblical answers to common questions about Holy Spirit and His work and grow in understanding spiritual gifts. Engage in reflective journal prompts for personal spiritual growth.

The Promised Presence uses a four-week format (five lessons each week) with a bonus fifth week for those studying the book in a group, plus accompanying video teaching and thought-provoking questions. For individual or group use.


My Review:
The Promised Presence is a Bible study on Luke and Acts looking at God's power to transform, empower, and heal. This Bible study lasts for 4 weeks, with each week having prompts for the group meeting and video clip (available online), a lesson introducing that week's theme, and 5 days of lessons in the book for you to do on your own time. Each day's lessons are about 5 pages long. They start with a short prayer, then you read a few verses from the Bible and her commentary, and end with a few questions to answer. There are often lists to make or charts to fill out as a part of the questions section. The book ended with a section covering common questions about the Holy Spirit.

The first week looked at some miracles in Jesus' ministry and how the Holy Spirit empowers His people. The second week explained that believers have been given the Holy Spirit, and He dwells within us when we accept Christ. The lessons pointed out that there's a supernatural realm and good and evil spiritual forces. The third week talked about baptism in the Spirit and being filled by the Spirit. The author appears to hold a classic Pentecostal view about this, though she did briefly mention other denominational views. She stated "Being baptized in the Spirit means the believer's life becomes fully immersed in the power and presence of God" and is a one time event separate from salvation. The Holy Spirit also "brings subsequent fillings enabling us to do our tasks in obedience to the will of God." The lessons also looked at verses about casting out evil spirits. The fourth week covered the fruit of the Spirit and spiritual gifts, with mention of roles in church ministry and participating in the work of God. The lessons also looked at praying for healing. She stated, "When we ask the Holy Spirit to fill us, we're asking a supernatural God to be naturally present in a discernible way."

Quotes: "We're not called to rescue ourselves or be perfect; we're called to acknowledge the One who is the perfect rescuer." and "If life were painless, we'd stop looking for the Promised One who carries peace."

The author said many good and true things in this study, but she assumed that how things happened just after Jesus ascended into Heaven is still how things happen. The situation was unique back then because some people believed in Jesus' saving work yet the Holy Spirit hadn't been sent to believers yet. We both agree that believers have the Holy Spirit seal them and dwell within them at salvation. However, the author believes that you then need to be immersed (baptized) in the Spirit, and she talked like you can run out of the Holy Spirit (like gasoline) and need to request fresh fillings of the Holy Spirit.

Keep in mind that the Greek word for 'fill' in this context also means 'imbue, influence, supply.' I believe that the Bible teaches that the Spirit comes to dwell within you, and you can surrender and let Him fill your house (life) and cooperate with the renovations He's carrying out or you can resist or grieve the Holy Spirit. You can stuff the Holy Spirit into a small closet and ignore Him a lot or you can pay attention to what He's saying and doing. He'll fill/influence your life as much as you allow Him to. It's more about a steady presence of the Holy Spirit in every aspect of your life than doing it on your own, running out of steam, and requesting a new sensational experience to jazz you back up again. But I think we both agree that it's about listening for His voice and often requires surrendering what you want or think is best.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.

Christ Crucified by Thomas R. Schreiner

Christ Crucified
by Thomas R. Schreiner

ISBN-13: 9781433581304
Paperback: 176 pages
Publisher: Crossway
Released: August 27, 2024

Source: Review copy from the publisher through Amazon Vine.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
In a time marked by confusion and change, the pathway to salvation for the Galatians seemed unclear. While the false teachers contended for circumcision and obedience to the law as necessary for justification before God, Paul presented the truth of the gospel and redrew the lines of salvation around the cross of Jesus Christ.

In this addition to the New Testament Theology series, scholar Thomas R. Schreiner addresses the conflict between Paul and his opponents in Galatia, examines the gospel itself, and shows what it looks like to live out the truth of the gospel in the new era. After examining the dominant biblical-theological themes of Galatians, readers will be reminded of the gift of grace Christ offers through his death on the cross—the only possible path to salvation and true unity among believers.


My Review:
Christ Crucified discussed the theology found in Galatians. Each chapter examined a topic found in Galatians, like: Paul's apostolic authority, how to treat circumcision or the law in light of the gospel, justification by faith, who makes up Abraham's linage, etc. The author provided verses from other biblical books to help give background to the debate and looked at things like grammar and word meanings. The tone was scholarly, but I didn't have any trouble understanding his arguments. I'd recommend this book to those who'd like a deeper look at the arguments made in Galatians.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.

The Moody Handbook of Messianic Prophecy edited by Michael Rydelnik, Edwin Blum

The Moody Handbook of Messianic Prophecy
edited by Michael Rydelnik, Edwin Blum

ISBN-13: 9780802409638
Hardcover: 1440 pages
Publisher: Moody Publishers
Released: October 1st 2019


Source: ebook review copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
As Jesus walked the Emmaeus road, he showed his companions how the whole of Scripture foretold his coming. Yet so often today we’re not quite sure how to talk about Jesus in the Old Testament. How do you know what applies to Jesus? And how do you interpret some of the strange prophetic language? Get answers and clarity in this authoritative and reliable guide to messianic prophecy from some of the world’s foremost evangelical Old Testament scholars.

In this in-depth, user-friendly one volume resource you get essays from scholars on the big ideas and major themes surrounding Messianic prophecy, a clear and careful commentary on every passage in the Old Testament considered Messianic, and insights into the original Hebrew and helpful analysis of theological implications. Watch the Scriptures come into full color as you see new meaning in familiar passages and further appreciate God’s masterful handiwork in preparing the way for Jesus, the long-awaited Messiah.


My Review:
The Moody Handbook of Messianic Prophecy is a collection of academic essays on the topic of Messiah references in the Old Testament. Each chapter is written by a different author, but they're all written in an academic tone and have plenty of end notes. The initial essays were more generalized essays about the word Messiah, where it is found in the Old Testament, and what was said of the Messiah, and things like that. Then the authors would take a group of verses and talk about context, word studies, and such showing how this is a reference to the Messiah. This book appears to be written to counter the critics claims that the Messiah is not mentioned in the Old Testament, so the essays argue the case for these verses referring to the Messiah. Overall, this huge book takes a long time to read from front to back but it gives an interesting look at the messianic verses of the Old Testament.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.

Counterfeit Grace by Joseph Prince

Counterfeit Grace
by Joseph Prince

ISBN-13: 9789811417610
Paperback: 86 pages
Publisher: Media Pte
Released: 2019

Source: ebook review copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
For there to be a counterfeit, there has to be a true and genuine grace. True grace transforms lives. It saves and liberates people. It breaks bondages and has the power to help us live a victorious, God-glorifying life. Because of this, the enemy has thrown up many controversies and misconceptions surrounding grace. Find out what true grace is, and what it is not. Delve into Scripture to uncover much-needed answers to questions like: Does grace give people a license to sin? Does grace mean everyone is automatically saved? Does being under grace mean I no longer have to confess my sins? Is holiness important under grace?


My Review:
Counterfeit Grace looks at what the Bible has to say about grace to counter wrong ideas about grace, like grace means people are free to sin. The author answers common objections to teaching about God's grace. His answers were clear, Bible-based, and didn't take long to read. This is a good book for anyone, but especially to help legalistic Christians to better understand true grace as taught in the bible.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.

Justification by Thomas R. Schreiner

Justification
by Thomas R. Schreiner

ISBN-13: 9781433575730
Paperback: 176 pages
Publisher: Crossway
Released: June 6, 2023

Source: Review copy from the publisher through Amazon Vine.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
When we see the fallenness of the world, it is often challenging to understand how sinners can stand before a holy God, but the gospel gives hope―justification that comes through Jesus Christ. This doctrine is essential to the gospel but has sparked countless academic and theological disagreements throughout church history, even contributing to the Protestant Reformation in the sixteenth century.

Thomas R. Schreiner examines the biblical and historical background of the doctrine of justification. Schreiner explores it throughout church history and analyzes both the Old and New Testament teachings. By examining the relationship between justification and other doctrines of salvation―such as redemption, reconciliation, adoption, and sanctification―Schreiner shows how it gives peace, assurance, and joy to sinners through Jesus and hope for life today.

Designed to be short and approachable, this text is an ideal resource for college students, pastors, and thoughtful laypeople.


My Review:
Justification searches throughout the whole Bible to explore what is said about justification. This is somewhat more academic in tone, but it's not difficult to follow his points. His basic premise is that we shouldn't limit ourselves to a word study on "justification" but should also look for where the concept is discussed, both in the Old and New Testament. This book isn't intended to show every example but simply shows that the concept is present throughout and what is meant by "justification." He also talked about how various Christians talked about justification during the early church period. I felt that the author clearly made his points and convinced me of his points. Overall, I'd recommend this book to Christians who want a better understanding of what justification means.

The author shows that "justification through faith alone by grace alone is not restricted to Paul, nor did it begin with Paul" (from page 41). He also demonstrated that "...it has to do with the law court, that it means that God as the judge declares sinners to be not guilty. The word 'justify' doesn't mean 'make righteous' but 'declare righteous'" (from page 73).

Also, from page 71, "All [people] sin, and thus no one can put God in their debt. No one faithfully serves God by their labor. Thus, the only hope is for God to justify the ungodly, and he does so for those who put their faith in Christ Jesus, and Jesus's atoning death satisfies God's justice and holiness. Justification is a gift, but it is based on Christ's sacrifice where he takes the wrath of God on himself for our sake and our salvation (Rom. 3:25-26)....If righteousness is obtained through keeping the law, then salvation is no longer based on God's promise and faith is emptied of its significance and distinctiveness....Works call attention to what human beings achieve, but faith looks to what God in Christ has done....Righteousness doesn't come by achieving but believing, not by doing but by resting in God's promises, not by performing but by trusting in Christ."


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.

Worthy by Sinclair B. Ferguson

Worthy: Living in Light of the Gospel
by Sinclair B. Ferguson

ISBN-13: 9781433583179
Paperback: 128 pages
Publisher: Crossway
Released: May 3, 2023

Source: Review copy from the publisher through Amazon Vine.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
While Jesus offers forgiveness for believers who sin, Scripture makes it clear that Christians are to pursue obedience and holiness. So what does it mean to walk in a manner that’s “worthy of the gospel of Christ” (Phil. 1:27), and how should that look in the life of a Christ follower?

In this short, accessible guide, theologian Sinclair Ferguson explains the importance of living worthy of the gospel, why the principle is often forgotten, and how it’s cultivated. Clarifying the difference between biblical obedience and legalism, Ferguson exhorts believers to pursue Christlikeness, offering practical examples from Scripture.


My Review:
Worthy talked about how we live in response to the good news of the gospel. From page 3, "So the gospel teaches us we are unworthy. We are saved by grace, not by worth. Yet Paul prioritized our responsibility to live in a worthy manner" (page 3).

The author started by explaining why this doesn't mean legalism and that the original word translated "worthy" in Phil. 1:27 means "in keeping with." "Such a life takes on a character that reflects the character of the Lord Jesus Christ" (page 8). And "...knowing Christ as Savior and knowing him as Lord can never be separated; nor can justification and sanctification" (page 7). He talked about how people in the USA hear his Scottish accent and know he's not from around here. Likewise, "...their real citizenship was in the kingdom of God; they should live that out....and if they did, people...would find themselves asking: 'Where are you really from? There's something about you...'" (page 13).

He also looked at Greek grammar and showed how we often get the fact and the command backwards. In the Bible, we're given a fact and the command flows from that fact. Not 'do your best' (command) leading to 'then God will save you' (fact) but the fact that "'Christ died for our sins' (1 Cor. 15:3), leads to the command, "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved' (Acts 16.31)" from page 25. Anyway, I found that part very interesting and not difficult to follow, though it's hard to summarize. Overall, I found it very easy to follow the points that the author was making, and it's in a conversational tone. I'd recommend this to anyone interested in pursuing Christlikeness.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.

He Is Not Ashamed by Erik Raymond

He Is Not Ashamed
by Erik Raymond

ISBN-13: 9781433579349
Paperback: 178 pages
Publisher: Crossway
Released: June 14th 2022

Source: ebook review copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
In He Is Not Ashamed, Erik Raymond takes a close look at the "family portrait" of God--filled with imperfect people throughout Scripture--and shows that God is not repelled by anyone's shameful past, but delights to redeem and receive those who believe in him. Studying Hebrews 2:11 and other passages in both the Old and New Testaments, Raymond shows that Jesus's heart is bent toward those who have an embarrassing history, feel far from God, or struggle with sin. By studying God's abounding love for undeserving people, Christians learn to accept his grace and confidently embrace their place in God's family portrait.

This book walks through stories from the Bible, including Jacob the deceiver, Rahab the prostitute, and the "sinful woman" in the book of Luke to reveal patterns of God's grace and helps Christians reject shame and have a greater sense of Christ's mercy.


My Review:
He Is Not Ashamed dug into the Bible on the topic of God's amazing love for sinful people. Much of each chapter looked at accounts in the Bible where a sinful person was embraced by God, like the sinful women who are mentioned in Jesus' own genealogy. The author summarized what happened to each person and how God showed redeeming love toward them. The author also spent some time exploring the theology of Jesus' love and His not being ashamed. He took verses from both the Old and New Testaments to show what is taught in the Bible.

The author looked people who have a sinful past, who opposed Jesus (like Paul), who are little valued or are social or religious outcasts, those who are weak or have nothing to give, and those who struggle with sin (like pride). I felt like the author made excellent points and did a good job of illustrating (with the Bible) the theology taught in the Bible about these topics. The theology parts weren't dry or difficult to follow. Overall, I'd recommend this book.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.

The Mission of the Triune God by Patrick Schreiner

The Mission of the Triune God
by Patrick Schreiner

ISBN-13: 9781433574115
Paperback: 192 pages
Publisher: Crossway Books
Released: January 4th 2022

Source: Review copy from the publisher through Amazon Vine.

Book Description, Modified from Amazon:
Some claim that the theological heart of Acts is the spirit, others the Word, others the church, and others Jesus. This book explores Luke's theological emphasis.

The book of Acts is unlike any other in Scripture; it has no rival in terms of a book spanning so many different lands. Written by a Gentile, it recounts the birth of the church age and the lives of early Christians that serve as lasting examples for the church today. When believers see how these events worked together to fulfill God’s promises, they gain a better understanding of the Trinitarian heart of Acts.

In The Mission of the Triune God, author Patrick Schreiner argues that Luke’s theology stems from the order of his narrative. He shows how the major themes in Acts, including the formation of the church, salvation offered to all flesh, and the prolific spread of the gospel, connect. Through Schreiner’s clear presentation and helpful graphics, readers follow the early church as it grows “all under the plan of God, centered on King Jesus, and empowered by the Spirit.”


My Review:
The Mission of the Triune God shows that the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit were all behind the events that occur in Acts. The writing is academic (in a good way) without being dry or difficult to understand. It's very readable, and the author showed Old Testament connections and how other New Testament verses tied in to events in Acts. These verses provided insights into the events in Acts and brought out some points that Luke was making to his original audience. It helped me to better understand why Luke focused on certain events and how our Triune God was at work. Overall, I'd highly recommend this interesting study of Acts.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.

The Deity of Christ by John F. MacArthur Jr.

The Deity of Christ by John F. MacArthur Jr. ISBN-13: 9780802415110 Paperback: 224 pages Publisher: Moody Publishers Released: January 3rd 2017

Source: review copy from the publisher through Amazon Vine.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
Almost two Millennia ago, Jesus asked his disciples, “Who do you say that I am?”—and people have been asking the question ever since.

Many answering the question today have a decidedly different view than Peter offered in his faithful response. In the early days of the church, Gnostics balked at Jesus’ humanity. Today, it’s his divine nature that’s under attack. It seems almost monthly that new bestselling books appear detailing how alternative gospels portray an earthly Jesus, devoid of divinity. Theories proliferate online that Jesus’ deity was concocted during shadowy closed-door councils by power-hungry church leaders.

The Deity of Christ by John F. MacArthur is a biblical defense of Jesus’ deity and a clarion call for believers to rise up and defend this core doctrine. Both new and seasoned Christians will benefit from MacArthur’s clear take on the relevant Bible passages. They will come away with rock-solid assurance that Jesus was indeed the unique son of God and a deeper, more profound appreciation of Christ’s love for them.


My Review:
The Deity of Christ is an in-depth Bible study on the deity of Christ. The author focused on verses that are attacked by cultic groups and skeptics. He examined New Testament passages that talk about different proofs of Jesus's deity – his authority over demons, sin, disease, and so forth – and Jesus's claims to deity as well as the apostle's claims that Jesus was God. He took each passage and provided verse-by-verse commentary (including word studies). The tone was formal and somewhat academic rather than casual. The commentary was very focused on what Scripture has to say about Christ. Overall, I'd recommend this Bible study to those interested in what the Bible says about this topic.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.

The Power of the Cross by Tony Evans

The Power of the Cross by Tony Evans ISBN-13: 9780802411181 Hardcover: 208 pages Publisher: Moody Publishers Released: February 2nd 2016

Source: Review copy from the publisher through Amazon Vine.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
The cross is an historical event that can bring us to heaven, and a current event bringing heaven to bear on us. In The Power of the Cross, Tony Evans applies Christ’s work to life today. In three parts, he systematically and pastorally explains three aspects of the cross:

Its Person: What makes Christ unique, and how He is the center of salvation history

Its Purpose: What was accomplished on it, and how it is to be the centerpiece of our lives

Its Power: The stability and deliverance it provides in our everyday living

We wear crosses around our necks, but do we apply it to our lives? Jesus’ work holds incredible power for us. It’s time we embrace it, for God’s glory and our joy. Read The Power of the Cross to find out how.


My Review:
The Power of the Cross looked at how properly understanding what Jesus Christ did on the cross brings transformation to your life. The author started by talking about Christ and what makes him unique. He then talked about what Christ accomplished on the cross (and in his resurrection) and how this impacts how we live our life. He then talked about how understanding these things brings powerful transformation to our lives.

The author was easy to understand, and he used good analogies to help the reader to understand his points. I know some people will say that what he is teaching here is basic Christianity, but I agree with the author that many Christians don't seem to fully understand it yet. Therefore, I would highly recommend this book to any Christian. Even if you already understand, it never hurts to be reminded of these powerful, basic principles of Christianity.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.

Worship by A.W. Tozer

Worship by A.W. Tozer ISBN-13: 9780802416032 Paperback: 144 pages Publisher: Moody Publishers Released: August 1st 2017

Source: review copy from the publisher through Amazon Vine.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
Few subjects invigorated A. W. Tozer like the topic of worship. He saw it—like the church has traditionally—as the sole reason for which creation exists. Worship: The Reason We Were Created features collections from the beloved spiritual writer on this important topic. The church's current worship is emaciated; its thoughts of God are too low. Here is a compilation to raise those thoughts high once more, and provoke the church to true, spiritual worship.


My Review:
Worship is a collection of 11 writings or sermons by the author. The chapters do not build on each other but were done at a separate times, so there was a lot of repetition. Much of each chapter was spent critiquing Christians for not focusing on worship or valuing it. He'd then talk about why we should value worship, but only a little time was spent on what worship is and how to do more of it. While much of this book does remain relevant today, it was originally written over 50 years ago and sometimes shows its age. I was disappointed that this book did not focus more on worship and God rather than on critiquing and condemning people.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.

Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners by John Bunyan

Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners by John Bunyan ISBN-13: 9781610458238 Audio Book Publisher: Christianaudio Released: November 1st 2013 (first published 1666)

Source: free audiobook.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
In Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners, John Bunyan recounts his inner thoughts as he grappled with his faith. Bunyan takes us through the struggle of his own sin and how grace led him from a conflicted conscience to a powerful preacher of the gospel. Modern readers will find encouragement in Bunyan’s remedies for his own troubled conscience, as well as hope that God has used so greatly a man who struggled so deeply.


My Review:
Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners is a short autobiography about John Bunyan's life, with the focus on how he came to Christ. The poor man was tormented by doubts about if he could be saved and later about if he had committed the unforgivable sin. He talked about his doubts, why he doubted, and what finally convinced him that those fears were incorrect. It was written like he hoped to help people with similar doubts to see the truths that he found. He only very briefly talked about how he became a preacher and was put in prison.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.

High King of Heaven by John F. MacArthur Jr., etc.

High King of Heaven by John MacArthur, Mark Dever, Albert Mohler, Miguel Nuñez, Ligon Duncan, etc. ISBN-13: 9780802418098 Hardcover: 320 pages Publisher: Moody Publishers Released: March 6, 2018

Source: Review copy from the publisher through Amazon Vine.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
High King of Heaven is a series of reflections on Christology, one of the church’s central doctrines. It contains essays from over twenty well-known pastors and theologians, including John MacArthur, Mark Dever, Albert Mohler, Miguel Nuñez, and Ligon Duncan. Each essay in this collection not only elucidates an aspect of Christ’s person and work, but also demonstrates how it applies to the life of the church. After reading High King of Heaven, readers will have a deeper understanding of Jesus’ nature and redemptive work, be inspired to worship Christ with greater passion and reverence, come away motivated and equipped to defend the orthodox view of Christ, be equipped to better teach and preach about Jesus’ divinity and humanity, and be conversant with current challenges and debates in the area of Christology.

There are some subjects you can never out-study, and Christology is one of them. Any Christian who wants a greater appreciation for the work of our Lord and Savior, who wants to worship Him in spirit and truth, and who wants increased confidence in the church’s historic confessions concerning Him will delight in High King of Heaven.


My Review:
Psalms is a collection of 23 essays by different authors on topics about Jesus the Messiah and Son of God. While several of the authors assumed the reader is a pastor or in ministry, many of the essays were easy to understand even though they dealt with theology. There were a few essays that were very academic in tone, though. Some of the essays were purely informative while others were arguments against more liberal positions on the topic. Many brought up cultural background or linked verses from various parts of the Bible to bring out deeper insights.

The essays covered topics like Jesus's "I am" statements, the virgin birth, how Jesus is both fully God and fully human, what it means in Philippians when Jesus is said to have emptied himself, the atonement, the resurrection, the ascension, the second coming, proof that Jesus did intend to have his teachings written down and passed on, how to properly see Jesus in the Old Testament, suffering for Christ, and Christ in Revelations. Overall, I'd recommend this book to Christians who like to dig deeply into the Bible.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.

The Whole Armor of God by Iain M. Duguid

The Whole Armor of God by Iain M. Duguid ISBN-13: 9781433565007 Paperback: 128 pages Publisher: Crossway Released: August 13, 2019

Source: ebook review copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
The Christian life is a battle. We are in a daily struggle against the world, sin, and Satan. But God didn't leave us to fend for ourselves. He gave us his own armor--armor that Jesus has already worn on our behalf all the way to the cross. The same power that raised Christ from the dead is now at work inside of us. This book unpacks each of the pieces of spiritual armor Paul describes in Ephesians 6, inviting us to take up the armor each day, all while resting in the finished victory of Christ and the assurance that our strength for the battle comes from him.


My Review:
The Whole Armor of God examines the pieces of spiritual armor found in Ephesians 6. The author was easy to understand even though he dug deep into what the different pieces of armor were and how to use them. He drew in references to this same imagery in the Old and New Testament to help gain insight into the spiritual armor. He also pointed out how Jesus used this same "armor" and how that should encourage us. He ended by also talking about prayer and how prayer pulled all these pieces of spiritual armor together. I gained new insights into Ephesians 6. Overall, I'd highly recommend this interesting, encouraging book.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.

The Power of Jesus' Names by Tony Evans

The Power of Jesus' Names by Tony Evans ISBN-13: 9780736960670 Paperback: 256 pages Publisher: Harvest House Publishers Released: May 7, 2019

Source: ebook review copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

Book Description from Goodreads:
“Who do you say I am?” Matthew 16:15. In his insightful follow-up to the bestselling book, The Power of God’s Names, Dr. Tony Evans introduces you to Jesus in ways you may have never seen Him before. Jesus is anticipated from the very beginning of the Bible and is mentioned many times up until He finally arrives on the scene in Bethlehem—yet never in the Old Testament is He called Jesus. Rather, He has many names that reflect all the different aspects of His character. And there are even more names in the New Testament to explore as well!

Both in-depth Scripture research and Dr. Evans’ signature storytelling style make The Power of Jesus’ Names a fascinating journey—you will get to know Him as Immanuel, King, Lamb of God, Great High Priest, Son of God, and more. As you study the life and character of Jesus, you will enter into a deeper understanding of who He is and what He came to do for—and in—your life today.


My Review:
The Power of Jesus' Names focused on 12 names used for Jesus found in the Old and New Testament: Immanuel, Alpha and Omega, our King, the Mighty Lamb, Great High Priest, Sovereign (and the other names from Isaiah 9:6 – wonderful Counselor, mighty God, eternal Father, Prince of Peace), I AM (plus I am the bread of life, the light of the world, the door, the good shepherd, the resurrection and the life, the way, the truth, and the life, the true vine, I am he), Lord, Jesus, Christ, Son of God and Son of Man, and the Word.

The author looked at the verses where each name is used (including places where the same or similar names are used for God in the Old Testament). He talked about the significance of these names and used analogies relevant to today to help illustrate their significance. He also explained how understanding these names for God is meaningful for and impacts our lives today. Overall, I'd recommend this book.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.

Ephesians by Joyce Meyer

Ephesians by Joyce Meyer ISBN-13: 9781546025993 Hardcover: 176 pages Publisher: FaithWords Released: March 5, 2019

Source: ebook review copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
Paul's letter to the Ephesians is a well-loved book of the Bible that teaches some of the most important lessons of faith: who you are in Christ, how you are to live as His follower, and how to gain victory in the spiritual battles you face. In this study tool, Joyce Meyer takes a close look at the meaning of those beloved verses, identifying key truths and incorporating room for personal reflection.

Joyce's first-ever biblical commentary series provides teachings that will help you develop a stronger relationship with God. As you take the time to study His Word, you'll see how much He loves you and who you are in His image. Change will come, and your life will bear the good fruit that God intends!


My Review:
Ephesians is a Bible commentary on Ephesians that can be used for personal Bible study or even as a devotional. The author provided an amplified version of the verses, doing one to seven verses at a time and working her way through Ephesians. She talked about each group of verses and brought out insights to improve our understanding. She stayed focused on the verses rather than telling funny stories, but it wasn't highly academic or difficult to follow. It's written at a layman's level and contained short enough sections that it could be used for daily devotional reading. She included questions for personal reflection along with space to write in your answer. I have read several commentaries on Ephesians lately, and this is one of the better ones, in my opinion. Overall, I'd recommend this to anyone wanting to better understand Ephesians.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.

Suffering Is Never for Nothing by Elisabeth Elliot

Suffering Is Never for Nothing by Elisabeth Elliot ISBN-13: 9781535914154 Hardcover: 128 pages Publisher: B & H Books Released: Feb. 1, 2019

Source: ebook review copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
Elisabeth Elliot (1926-2015) was a Christian author and speaker. She, having lived through great loss, taught on God’s grace in the midst of hardship. In her final book, Elisabeth Elliot describes how it is often through the deepest suffering that God teaches us the deepest lessons. As we trust Him through our trials, we come to a greater assurance of His love and sovereignty—even as He works all things together for the good of those who love Him.


My Review:
Suffering Is Never for Nothing is lightly edited from a talk that Elizabeth Elliott gave at a conference. She talked about some of the things she has suffered through and what she's learned about suffering from those experiences. The overall idea is that we more deeply come to know God through suffering and learn to depend on Him and His love and sovereignty. The focus was not so much on detailed theology as it was advice on how to get through suffering. Overall, I'd recommend this book.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.

Sola by Jason K. Allen

Sola by Jason K. Allen ISBN-13: 9780802418739 Paperback: 128 pages Publisher: Moody Publishers Released: Jan. 1, 2019

Source: ebook review copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
Five Latin phrases have defined Protestantism for those 500 years, but why do they matter today? To my church? For my life?

Sola scriptura-Scripture alone
Sola fide-Faith alone
Sola gratia-grace alone
Solus Christus-Christ alone
Soli Dei Gloria-To the glory of God alone?

Sola is a winsome, inspiring introduction to these five pillars of the Reformation, showing not just what they are but why they’re important for the Christian life today. Edited and compiled by Jason Allen, Sola will illuminate these core truths that have been reforming the church all along. And it may just get you excited about nerdy Latin phrases too.


My Review:
Sola is about the five solas of the Reformation. A different author wrote about each sola, so the writing style varied, but it's more preaching style than academic. While anyone can learn from the essays, several authors talked about how understanding the solas impacts the church so the intended audience may be the church leadership. For each sola, the author talked about what the phrase means, where the principle is found in Scripture, what prompted Luther to include the idea in his writings, and how these truths make a difference in our churches and lives today. It provided a good introduction to the solas, and I'd recommend this book to anyone who is interested in an overview of them and their impact.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.