A Place of Springs

Marauder - Mickey Thomas

2012-02-11T08:45:00.000-08:00

A slew of classic rock covers from the voice of Starship

Marauder

Artist: Mickey Thomas (www.mickeythomas.com)

Label: Gigatone

Length: 16 tracks/70:15 minutes

If you are a fan of The Beatles, you will most likely enjoyMarauder by Mickey Thomas. He coversthree Beatles’ songs and one each by Paul McCartney (“Maybe I’m Amazed”) andGeorge Harrison (“Wah Wah”). “Rain” and “Across the Universe” have more heftbut retain a touch of psychedelia and have brief nods to a couple of otherBeatles’ songs. “Rain” is one of the best cuts. “Oh! Darling” is pushed furthertoward the ‘50’s sound that it was intended to honor. Like several songs it hassome brass accompaniment. The piano runs on “Maybe I’m Amazed” are a delight.The notes are pristine.

In this collection, much of it classic rock but alsocontaining more recent hits, Thomas faithfully recreates the originals whileenhancing them in subtle ways. One that changes a little more is the opening“Gimme Shelter,” which is given a swampy blues treatment. It is decidedlyacoustic but still has plenty of grit and works well.

One of the most poignant moments is Snow Patrol’s“Chasing Cars.” Thomas sings it beautifully making it as moving as ever.

He consistently shows his versatility in being able tosing in a variety of styles. You could call him a musical marauder for being ableto plunder different genres and making them work. On the longest track, Oasis’“Champagne Supernova,” he is in the anthem rock mode. Whether it is ballads,pop or singing to heavier accompaniment as on “Supermassive Black Hole” and“Voices,” he does it well.

One advantage of a collection like this is that you getsongs you might not have in your library. Here you get two solid back to backclassics, Leon Russell’s “Delta Lady,” made famous by Joe Cocker, and BobSeeger’s “Hollywood Nights.” The changes are slight making these likeablesubstitutes if you don’t have the originals. Thomas does such an admirable jobthat you can almost forget that these are covers.

Thomas is best known as the voice behind ElvinBishop’s “Fooled Around and Fell in Love,” and the Jefferson Starship/Starshiphits “We Built This City on Rock and Roll,” “Sara” and “Nothing’s Gonna Stop UsNow.” Though nothing here quite matches the emotional intensity achieved onthose heights, Thomas’ voice is strong, and these are interesting and funversions, which makes for enjoyable listening. Beatles’ fans in particular canbe thankful for such fab versions of their songs, and all of these tributes aretastefully done. Praise is due for mostly strong song selection and theexcellent support from long-time friend, producer, keyboardist and aceguitarist Jeff Tamelier.

Saying Grace - Geoff Moore

2012-02-11T06:30:00.000-08:00

Moore continues his solo career with some of his best work.

Saying Grace

Artist: Geoff Moore (http://www.geoffmoore.com)

Label: Simpleville Music

Length: 10 tracks/41:43 minutes

I never knew Geoff Moore during his days of fronting TheDistance, but I am glad to know him now. Aside from appreciating the music, myfondness for verse is rewarded on SayingGrace. As on his last outing, Speakto Me (2007), he offers seasoned perspectives on life. On “The Story ofLove,” he wonders about his legacy, recognizing that his best moments arebeyond his control, “Cause the sweetest moments of my life appear unexpectedly/ And the reason they take my breath away have nothing to do with me.” Gentlewisdom like this is sprinkled throughout these ten songs.

This perspective is hard won, coming with age and theunexpected. But far from being morbid, Moore looks with hope toward that daywhen it will be over: “And when the sun finally sets / May I be free of allregrets.” He then emphasizes, “No regrets.” He may be reminding himself, but itis also something that he wants listeners to get. He reminds us too on “Loved”that God’s love for us never changes. It is constant, whether we rise up orfall down. Not even our worse days can separate us from it.

Moore’s sentiments are alternately adorned with folk/popstyles and rock; the latter hearkening back to the days of his former band. Acase of the latter is “The Long Way,” where the music complements the sense ofabandon. It opens with, “How ’bout we empty out our pockets / How ’bout we cuta few strings / I think a lighter load might be what this journey needs.” Theverses on this track are consistently good, one of my favorites being, “ButI’ve discovered when I am honest / That’s when my faith is most alive.”

Whether he rocks or sings like a lone troubadour, the executionis excellent. I find him most compelling when he leans toward Americana. Thisis where his musings run the deepest. Plus, there are lovely accents likemandolin and pedal steel. Don’t be put off by thought of the latter. The twangis absent, and when employed it is beautifully blended. In general, thisrelease has a judicious mix of electric and acoustic elements.

“The Wonder ofKindness” is one of the most intriguing tracks. Is Moore singing of human ordivine kindness or both? Is the care of others reflective or an extension ofGod’s consolation? Regardless, it is Moore at his most tender and delicate.Once again the mood is expertly conveyed not only in the words but the music.

Moore ends quietly with “Made to Love,” a song of worship.The keyboard-driven, pensive melody frames the chorus: “I was made to love You/ I know this for sure / And as surely as I love You / I know this is what Iwas created for.”

Seasoned artists like Moore are often not at the height oftheir popularity, which is unfortunate, since they have the maturity that comeswith experience. Here he is reflective, but also energetic. Moore is asongwriter and musician who should not be overlooked. Saying Grace is time well-spent.

Telling Time - Tanya Godsey

2012-02-11T06:02:00.000-08:00

Godsey shows that if you leave room for God, He still writesthe best stories.

Telling Time

Artist: Tanya Godsey (www.tanyagodsey.com)

Label: Independent

Length: 10 tracks/45:35 minutes

Theartistry in Tanya Godsey’s Telling Timesets it apart. It is a thoughtful engagement with life befitting a Christianartist. Truth and grace, struggle and hope are expressed in subtle butrewarding ways. Some of these treasures were gained in the darkness, which givesthem more luster. The excellence found throughout adds to the beauty and makes thisa pleasure to hear.

Godseydeserves credit for great writing, which includes a few co-writes. She alsogets the best possible support with musicians like Jerry McPherson, BlairMasters and Chris Donohue, studio players with long resumes. It helps too whenyou have Scott and Christine Dente of Out of the Grey and Chris Rodriquezsinging background vocals. Scott Dente also plays acoustic guitar and sharesthe producer credit with Ken Lewis. Together they are known as Global GeniusProductions.

Theconcept of story played a part in this release. In the fall of 2009, Godsey andher husband Jake read Donald Miller’s AThousand Miles in a Million Years, which suggests that the elements in agreat story also make for a well-lived life. Overcoming adversity to attainsomething is a familiar theme in the best dramas. Thankful for theircomfortable life, but challenged by Miller’s thoughts, Godsey and her husbandbegan praying for opportunities to live a better story not knowing what wouldcome. A series of circumstances reinforced her calling to music but it alsoincluded a time of sickness, suffering and loss. It’s where lines like thefollowing in “How to Be Thankful” come from: “Before I go to face my father'sgraves oh I pray ... Your storms would stay ... till they take what they camefor ... take what You came for ... is this what you came for ... well take whatyou came for.” That maturity, which wants God to accomplish His purpose in thestorm, informs the lyrics on this release.

Thesame confidence is found in the music. The opening “White Page” with its warmpiano notes and snappy production sounds like a Top 40 song. It was the fourth track,“Daylight,” that took me by surprise. The tension in the stanzas is beautifullyresolved on the chorus. Here and on the title track she sounds a littlecountry, reminding me of Susan Ashton.

Thisrelease brings a new sound to the Christian market. The style and production ison par with the best mainstream recordings. You could hear these songs on theradio and not know they were by a Christian artist unless you were paying closeattention to the lyrics. Ironically, there is more depth here than releasesthat have more explicit spiritual references.

Thereis not a bad song in the bunch. Hopefully, this will get the attention that itdeserves even though Godsey is not well known and her last release, Nothing Less Than Everything (2005), wassix years ago. If she qualifies, she deserves consideration for best newartist.

Godsey’slife experiences have given her plenty to share. No blank white page here. Godhas written some precious things that she shares in way that will appeal to abroad spectrum of people.

Lutheran Theology - Steven D. Paulson

2012-02-10T13:32:00.000-08:00

Martin Luther’s theology discerns between law and gospel.

Lutheran Theology

Author: Steven D. Paulson

Publisher: T & T Clark International (www.continuumbooks.com)

Pages: 292

The emphasis on our standing before God makes Lutheran Theology by Steven D. Paulson asignificant book. “Luther said the ‘sum and substance,’ of Paul’s letter to theRomans ‘is to pull down, to pluck up, and to destroy all wisdom andrighteousness of the flesh’” (1). Paulson goes on to state: “The second task ofall theology is to make way for a completely foreign, new righteousness thathas no law in it at all―‘we must be taught a righteousness that comes completelyfrom the outside and is foreign. And therefore our own righteousness that isborn in us must first be plucked up’” (2). The goal or meaning of life becomesa person, Christ (3). It goes beyond just imitating Christ. “It is a new lifeoutside the legal scheme without law at all. It means to have a new lifeoutside one’s self who is dead according to the law, and in Christ exclusively”(3).

Paulson goes on to make a valuable point: “The key to anytheology, especially done the Lutheran way, is to ask what role the law playsin its system” (4). Distinguishing between law and gospel is a major theme inthis book, which is organized as a commentary on the book of Romans. The focusis on key verses and ideas rather than a verse-by-verse explanation, whichPaulson elucidates from a Lutheran perspective. Even so,

Paulson’s outstandingscholarship makes this a unique and valuable commentary. His breadth ofknowledge is evident in frequent references to historical events, the writingof others, and his understanding of Scripture.

In relation to the latter, he is not afraid of controversy.Chapter 1 starts with the appropriate subtitle, “The Bombshell.” Predestinationis central to Lutheran theology. “There is no free will, no choice, nodecision, no acknowledgement, acceptance or any other verb you could try togive the human in relation to the Creator” (20). Presumably, this thought isdrawn in part from Luther’s famous book on the subject, The Bondage of the Will.

Along with this idea, when the author repeatedly states that“everything happens by divine necessity,” (19) he not only puts a potential stumblingblock before readers, he leaves me wondering how that relates to tragic eventsthat occur. Does this mean that God was behind the terrible events of 9/11? Aslearned as Paulson may be and as skillful as he is with the Scriptures, Icannot help wondering about a doctrine that seems to imply that God causeshorrific events. As controversial as this may be, it is educational to seePaulson’s defense of this teaching and to consider what is true. If you can getpast this, there is much to appreciate in Paulson’s thought, but this doctrineis foundational to what he teaches in the rest of the book.

Though Paulson might in some ways be wrong on the issue, Iappreciate how often his insights go deeper than what you typically find inchurches, Bible studies and popular Christian books. Consider his thoughtsabout what Luther learned about faith: “Luther had discovered what made humanshuman―itwas not thought, or will, or even love; it was faith alone. He learned that theheart is not made for itself; it is made to go outside itself and cling to thatwhich speaks to the heart. Humans are therefore ‘hearing’ creatures whose heartis always clinging to some word or other. Unfortunately, words from thepreacher are easily drowned out by other voices, and especially imaginaryvoices of what one sees or feels internally. Faith alone is what justifies us,but faith is never a virtue or attitude of a person, or some instrument orpower which the person possesses. Faith goes outside itself, since faithrequires something to believe in, andthat something is God’s word as a promise―or else what faith grasps endsup being an accusing law” (57).

Typically, Luther is associated with thoughts like these andin particular the idea of being made right with God through faith. Reading thisbook helped me to realize how much more there is to Luther. His depth ofinsight is evident as Paulson walks us through Luther’s thought in relation tothe entire book of Romans.

Paulson points out that Luther recognized that God’s faithfulnessis central to Romans. “For Luther the key teaching in Paul’s letter to theRomans is the certainty of faith. Faith is certain precisely because it is nota power of humans, but depends upon God’s faithfulness to the promise―preciselywhile the recipients are unfaithful. Hope does not yet see its glory, but faithalready has Christ so salvation is secured inre―infact” (220).

Lutheran theology is a theology of the Word. “The preached Word makesthe church, which word is solely authorized by the law and promises ofScripture. Justification and church depend utterly on God’s faithfulness tothat Word: ‘That thou mayest be justified in Thy words (deum justificare)’” (238). This is why Lutherans view the office ofpreacher as the highest in the church.

It is also why preaching is foremost in the signs of a truechurch: “Signs of (a) true church are therefore all acts of preaching: sermonsthat distinguish between law and gospel, baptism, Lord’s Supper, Absolution,the calling of a public minister from among the Royal priesthood, and sufferingfor the gospel―the exact opposite of any sign of glory or power in the world”(239). I appreciate the thought that suffering is the norm for this life (exaltationcomes in the next), which challenges believers to cling to the promises despiteseeing evidence that would seem contrary to them.

LutheranTheology is but one in a series of books. The other titles and authors inthe series are as follows:

Catholic Theology – Matthew Levering

Anglican Theology – Mark Chapman

Reformed Theology – Michael Allen

Methodist Theology – Kenneth Wilson

Baptist Theology – Stephen Holmes

If this book is indicative of the scholarship in theseries, any of these volumes would be worth reading.

N. T. Wright for Everyone Bible Study Guides: Luke

2012-02-09T16:54:00.000-08:00

Let one of the world’s finest theologians lead you in astudy of Luke.

N. T. Wright for Everyone Bible Study Guides

Luke: 26 Studies for Individuals and Groups

Author: N. T. Wright with Patty Pell

Publisher: IVP Connect

Pages: 142

One of my earliest memories as a new Christian wasanswering questions in a bible study book. Back in the late seventies, brandingof popular Christian authors was not what it is today where you have amultitude of bible studies tied to high-profile Christians. Nevertheless, myplain-looking booklet, covering the basics of the Christian life, accomplishedthe same purpose as its fancier modern-day relatives. It forced me to read andponder the texts of Scripture that I might know and apply the meaning.

I wonder how many make use of this kind of resource? Mostof the teaching we get is given to us without requiring much effort on ourpart. The potential payback of using a bible study guide is high. Finding truththrough your own diligent study is meaningful and memorable. There is joy indiscovery, and thoughts of what you learn linger.

Today there are a host of competent study guides that canbe chosen. Each one will have some of the author’s distinctives, which is notnecessarily bad but something to keep in mind. No person’s judgment isinfallible. It is helpful, however, to learn from an experienced teacher,recognizing that what they see or highlight might be different from anotherteacher. This is why it can be beneficial to go through a study with others andeven consult additional resources like a bible dictionary or commentary. It canserve to more fully bring out the meaning and possible applications of a text.

N. T. Wright’s Lukeas the subtitle indicates is appropriate for individuals and groups. Each ofthe 26 studies starts with a creative open designed by Wright to get the readerthinking along the lines of the lesson. This is followed by a study sectionthat includes questions and space for writing answers. Like a modern-dayscribe, his questions lead readers to new discoveries. Along the way heinterjects small bits of commentary. As a practical consideration, it may beeasier to use a notebook or legal pad for writing and taking notes. Suggestionsfor prayer close each study.

Those who appreciate Wright’s ability to convey thelarger picture will not be disappointed. His kingdom perspective that rightlysees Christ and His salvation as the continuation of one long story is aninfluence. Wright’s interest in how Scripture relates to history and socialjustice is also felt.

Wright has studies covering most of the New Testamentbooks with the last four study guides forthcoming.

You can’t go wrong with a resource like this. If you canappreciate the scholarship of one of the finest theologians of our day, availyourself of this or one of his other studies. It is helpful to let a favoriteauthor, minister or teacher lead you in a study of Scripture.

Message in a Body - Joseph Anfuso

2012-01-25T07:00:00.000-08:00

A life lived on the forward edge

Message in a Body (www.messageinabody.com)
Author: Joseph Anfuso

Publisher: Pediment Publishing

Pages: 247

The much-loved Baptist minister and prolific author, F.W. Boreham, wrote, “The man whose biography is not worth writing has never yetbeen born.” While I agree with the sentiment, most people will probably neverget past the thought of such an undertaking. I do not want to discourage anyonefrom the attempt, myself included, but few can tell their story as eloquentlyas Boreham in My Pilgrimage. In Message in a Body, Joseph Anfusoapproaches that rare company. He provides a beautiful account of his life andin the process imparts grace to the reader.

It is a gift that is hard to resist. I was well intoanother book when I started Message in aBody. The former was no small source of pleasure, but once I began Anfuso’sbook, it quickly became a contest, each vying for my attention. They bothseemed to beckon from the table, “Choose me.” Wanting to be fair-minded, Idetermined to give them equal time. But my resolve began to wither as theAnfuso book drew even and then quickly overtook the other. Seeing that the racewas lost, I gave in to the delight of reading Message and finished it in a matter of days.

I had forgotten how inspiring a biography could be. I frequentlyread and delight in books on doctrine and theology, but this reminded me of thepleasure that comes from reading a salvation story. It recalls an incident inthe life of the famous London preacher, C. H. Spurgeon. Let me quote from hisown words, “‘Leaving home early in the morning,’ he says, ‘I went to the vestryand sat there all day long, seeing those who had been brought to Christ by mypreaching of the Word. Their stories were so absorbing to me that the hoursfled without my noticing how fast they were going. I may have seen some thirtyor more persons during the day, one after the other, and I was so delightedwith the tales of divine mercy they had to tell me, and the wonders of graceGod had wrought in them, that I did not know anything about the passage oftime.’” “Their stories were so absorbing,” Spurgeon said. Similarly, I wasfascinated by Anfuso’s journey to find the truth. It was so engrossing that Icontinually looked forward to reading it. It was like discovering a losttreasure.

I marveled at Anfuso’s quest. He was genuinely searching,and even references those named in the following lines from The Who song, “TheSeeker”:

I asked Bobby Dylan
I asked The Beatles
I asked Timothy Leary
But he couldn't help me either

They call me The Seeker
I've been searching low and high

Such was Anfuso’s earnestness and futility that this songcould serve as a soundtrack for part of his life. The hours fled as Spurgeon foundhimself lost in tales of divine mercy. The pages flew by as I lost myself inone seeker’s journey toward the truth.

This story is told with remarkable honesty and grace.Those who have a hard time with organized religion will have no troublerelating. This is someone who resisted the idea of Jesus being the only way.You could say he was determined to discover that there was more than one way toGod.

Anfuso provides just the right amount of detail. It neverbecomes sordid, and Anfuso is charitable in his outlook toward others and theevents that transpired. He never casts a shadow on other people.

I can even see God’s hand in the timing of thispublication. If Anfuso had his way, this would have been published shortlyafter his conversion to Christ. Had that happened the story would have beenincomplete because the latter part of the book chronicles the formation ofForward Edge International (www.forwardedge.org/),a ministry that he founded, which is changing our world one life at a time.

Originally, geared toward short-term mission’smobilization, Forward Edge has expanded to “long-term, need-meeting” projects.In fact, the book opens with the compelling saga of how one long-term projectwith a far-reaching impact began to take shape. I was immediately captivated byunbelievable squalor but borne along by the hope that pervades this volume.

This reviewer had more than a little interest in thisvolume because of my experience with the author and his ministry. I had theprivilege of going on one of the first Forward Edge teams. My group went to Birmingham,England to participate in the Billy Graham Mission England outreach in 1984.For one week we worked with a local church inviting people to come. The week ofthe meetings we rode on a bus with those who came to hear Graham. The third weekof our trip was a trek through the rest of the UK. I am grateful for theopportunity that this gave me to explore my interest in missions. Withoutreservation, I recommend Forward Edge for any who are looking for anopportunity to invest their time, talents or treasure in projects that aremaking a difference.

Lastly, the title of this book intrigued me. Having livedwith Anfuso through part of his story—for many years I was part of a homefellowship group that he led in a church that we attended―Ithought it had something to do with the importance of being involved in acommunity of believers. As foundational as that is in his life, the titlerefers to Anfuso’s lifelong battle with feelings of inferiority that stem inpart from his smaller stature as compared to his twin brother, Francis. Godused this difference and his subsequent struggles to repeatedly affirm his lovefor Joseph at critical junctures and as a means of communicating His call forJoseph to be a servant.

One of my fondest memories of Anfuso is the humility thathe exhibited in his teaching and leading of worship in our home group, oftenopening by gently strumming his guitar, humming the melody, and beginning to prayand/or sing as we all joined in. Until recently connecting through Facebook, ithad been more than 20 years since I had contact with Anfuso and his wife,Karen, but I know from years spent in close proximity, they are humble servantsof the church.

By the way, this isn’t just a story of God’s pursuit of aman who sought to resist the claims of Christ. It’s also a beautiful love storyof how God brought Joseph and Karen together. I relished that part, especiallysince I met them shortly after they married. I enjoy learning how couples meet,and Anfuso wonderfully recounts the budding and blossoming of their love.

This is a story that I did not want to end, andthankfully, it continues on in the work of Forward Edge and in the lives of theAnfuso family. In Christ, we are part of a never-ending story. There willalways be more to tell, and I imagine that throughout eternity we will beabsorbed in the wonder of God’s marvelous salvation. In the meantime, I will bedelighted if Anfuso puts pen to paper again to tell more of the extraordinarythings that God is doing through ordinary people. Even if he never does, heinvites us to write our own story by living life on the forward edge.

Tennessee Christmas - Amy Grant & Wexford Carol - Jeff Johnson

2011-12-26T13:38:00.000-08:00

Tennessee Christmas – Amy Grant

What constitutes a Christmas classic? Whatever thecriteria, “Tennessee Christmas” by Amy Grant makes the grade. I have noconnection to the State, but I feel an instant bond with the song. The acoustictones and the harmonizing make it warm and inviting. It exudes a goodness whoseultimate source is the Father of lights (James 1:17).

Wexford Carol – Jeff Johnson

“Wexford Carol” by Jeff Johnson is in a world all itsown. I imagine the stark and rumbling sounds echoing between snow-coveredhills. Trees like sentries stand silently as the notes soar above a landscapeuntouched by all but the Divine. It makes me think of eternity and one “whosecoming forth is from of old, from ancient days” (Micah 5:2 ESV).

It is the final track of Centerpoint: Poetry and Music for Christmas (1990). The short originalintro serves as background for a poetry reading before transitioning into aninstrumental folk song. On the Johnson produced Christmas sampler, Spirit of the Season (1994), you get thesounds without the poetry.

In this and other Christmas recordings Johnson manages tocapture something of the beauty, wonder and mystery of the season.

A Way to See in the Dark - Jason Gray

2011-12-25T16:01:00.000-08:00

“Jesus is speaking but it’s so hard to hear when discipleswith swords are cutting off ears.”

A Way to See in the Dark

Artist: Jason Gray (www.jasongraymusic.com)

Label: Centricity

Length: 12 tracks/47:28 minutes

I listen to Jason Gray for the same reason that peoplemight listen to Bob Dylan. He has a way with words. They take unexpected turnsand are poetic. They are revealing and vulnerable.

It is what makes the music of Rich Mullins such adelight. It is a combination of spiritual insight, literary sensibility and a quirkinessthat get yours attention. I relish it wherever I find it. I hear it in Christianartists like Randy Stonehill, Bob Bennett, Steve Bell, Carolyn Arends and AndrewPeterson to name a few.

I relate to it because it often springs from brokennessand humility. However one might define a victorious Christian life, it is not astate of perfection. One of my favorite phrases comes from the book of James,“We all stumble in many ways” (James 3:2). Artists like these convey grace andtruth, something that I will always need.

It’s why I find a song like the opening “Remind Me Who IAm” so endearing. “When I lose my way, and I forget my name, remind me who Iam,” Gray sings on the opening line. “In the mirror all I see is who I don’twant to be, remind me who I am.” The Official Music Video remindsus that we often fail to grasp a truth that is greater than our brokencondition. Grace changes not only how God sees us but how we should seeourselves.

The longing that you hear is coupled with music that hassomewhat of a rustic quality. It reminds me a little of The Band. A synthesizerthat sounds like an accordion (or is it an accordion that sounds like asynthesizer?) comes in on the chorus. This is the Jason Gray that I like thebest—acoustic,stripped-down production with yearning rumination.

On the track that follows, “The End of Me,” he soundsmore like Coldplay, even down to the falsetto, not that this is bad. The chorusis an interesting derivative of the hymn, “It is Well with My Soul.” Skip totrack three, and the power chords on “No Thief Life Fear,” may be fitting, butI find them less appealing than Gray just strumming his guitar.

“Without Running Away” is my favorite. The memorablelines like the following just keep coming, “Jesus is speaking but it’s so hardto hear when disciples with swords are cutting off ears / Broken and bleeding,waiting for healing to come.” The rural sound and sparse production are aperfect complement to Gray in his Dylan mode.

I favor his folksy, storytelling side. When he moves moretoward rock, it’s less compelling. Generally, it’s the quieter mid-tempo songswhere I lose myself in the words and sound. It makes me feel more alive andless alone. That’s part of what good art does to me.

One of the most poignant moments is “Nothing is Wasted.”This is the song to hear when you feel like your life is a wreck and pastredemption. It mentions Jesus by name. It wasn’t too long ago that there was acontroversy over how often Christian artists used (or did not use) the name ofJesus. A song might be judged by whether you heard (and how often) Jesus’ name.Hopefully, that kind of thinking is long gone, but because so many artistsbegan to refer to God with personal pronouns and vague references, I notice whenthat name is used. Gray does it here on at least three songs, and it almostseems counter-cultural. I like it because I never want to lose sight of Christ.

A Way to See in theDark by Jason Gray contains some of the best songs that he has ever done.If you like singer/songwriters, especially those mentioned previously, checkout Jason Gray. He has become one of the finest writers in Christian music. Hischildlike faith will help him and the rest of us find our way in the dark.

The IVP Introduction to the Bible

2011-12-18T11:13:00.000-08:00

If you could only have one book to go with the Bible,this is an excellent choice.

The IVP Introduction to the Bible

Editor: Philip S. Johnston

Publishers: IVP Academic (www.ivpress.com/academic)

Pages: 292

If background and context are crucial to understandingthe meaning of Scripture, The IVPIntroduction to the Bible is an excellent quick reference for discoveringit. Various contributors from the US and UK provide overviews of all the majorsections and all the individual books. Among the scholars are Desmond Alexander,Tremper Longman, Howard Marshall, Brian Rosner and Mark Strauss. Each writes intheir field of expertise.

Their work is equal to or greater than the notes found inthe best study Bibles. There you have space constraints, which require smallertext and abbreviated subject matter. One thing you do not get is detail onindividual verses, which is where study Bibles have an advantage in that theydo provide some commentary. However, the best source for exposition ofindividual verses remains one-volume or multi-volume commentaries.

This book provides clear and concise presentations that containa wealth of distilled scholarship for anyone wanting to grasp themes andsubject matter. The insights are highly relevant. On the inspiration ofScripture, Mark Strauss writes, “Though the Holy Spirit who inspired Scripturemay be perfect and precise, the vehicle of transmission (human language) issubject to ambiguity and imprecision. Our comprehension of divine revelation istherefore always partial and incomplete (1 Cor. 13:12)” (3).

The views are current and conservative, avoidingcontroversy, though readers may disagree with some conclusions. Traditionally,the author of Revelation has been identified as John the son of Zebedee, one ofthe twelve apostles. Carl Mosser writes, “John the son of Zebedee became anapostle, but little in Revelation supports identifying its author with one ofthe apostles. He never calls himself an apostle, and gives no indication thathe is among the twelve apostles written on the New Jerusalem’s foundations(21:14), or is among the twenty-four enthroned elders, probably the twelvepatriarchs and twelve apostles (4:4, 10; 5:8; 11:16; 19:4). So it seemsunlikely that the author was John the son of Zebedee but we cannot determinehis identity more than that” (265-266).

Returning to the beginning of the book, Mark Strauss’definition of terms is valuable. He explains the difference between plenary and verbal inspiration, “Plenary means ‘full’ and refers to the factthat all Scripture is equally inspired. Verbal means that the words themselves,not just the ideas, are inspired by God. Here we must be cautious, however,since words are arbitrary signs which indicate conceptual content. It is the meaning of these words ―the message which they convey — which is ultimately inspired by God.In this way a translation of Scripture which accurately represents the meaningof that text remains God’s Word” (3). Some may disagree with that last thought,but this careful, reasoned analysis of every aspect of Scripture is foundthroughout, which makes this a great addition to any personal or institutionallibrary. Ministers and teachers will find it helpful in sermon or lessonpreparation.

Every section is interesting, but because it is lessfamiliar to me, I especially enjoyed reading “Between the Testaments.” CarlMosser takes readers through a fascinating account of the 400 year periodbetween the end of the Old Testament and the beginning of the New Testament.

Two of the best features come at the end of each section.There is a short synopsis that discusses each book’s relevance for Christians.This is especially helpful in the Old Testament, where believers sometimeswonder what applies. This highlights the importance of context, which this bookconsistently provides. In “Introducing the Old Testament,” we find this aptsummary statement, “The basic rule of thumb for Christian interpreters of theOT is that the moral law, governing ethical behavior, continues in effect forthe Christian, not as a means of salvation, but as a code ―based in God’s character — by which to live. By contrast, while we can learn fromthe civil and ceremonial laws, we are not directed by them in the same way”(45).

The other helpful feature is a further reading section,which shows where to turn for more detail. The list provides the bestscholarship on the subject with short comments from the author.

The layout is pleasant to the eyes and the text easy toread.

Do you need help in understanding and applying the Bible?Maybe you just want a reliable reference to keep you on track. Look no further.If you could only have one book to go with the Bible, this is an excellentchoice.

Collage - The Katinas

2011-12-18T10:37:00.000-08:00

The Katinas’ favorite recording is a blend of manyinfluences.

Collage

Artist: The Katinas (www.thekatinas.com)

Label: Destiny

Length: 11 tracks/49:30 minutes

Listening to “L.O.V.E.” and “Collage,” the opening trackson Collage by The Katinas, you mightfeel like you had wandered into a club setting. The electronic beats andprogramming may catch you by surprise. The intent is to keep the music fresh,and this willingness to experiment carries over into the rest of the recording,which must have made this fun for these five brothers from American Samoa. Ifdance and synthesized sounds are not what you like, don’t give up on this CD. Theother tracks have a more familiar sound.

In their 21 years together, the brothers realize that nomatter how much they vary the music to stay relevant, the message is mostimportant. That is especially the case on “Home,” which they have performedduring altar calls at the “Harvest Crusades” conducted by evangelist GregLaurie. The chorus is an invitation to every prodigal, “Whoever you are,wherever you’ve been / It don’t matter to Him / This is love / Turn around /Come on home.” Watch them sing it on the Official Music Video.

This strong vertical focus is maintained throughout.“I’ll Wait” is about yielding to God’s timing no matter how long it takes, learningto find peace in being still.

“Jehovah,” a lovely worship-oriented song, includesstrong guest vocals from CeCe Winans. TobyMac, Jeremy Camp and B. Reith addtheir talents and vocals to other songs.

The band puts their own subtle stamp on enjoyableversions of David Crowder’s “How He Loves” and Delirious’ “Majesty.” Given the strengthof the compositions and the reverent treatment here, it is easy to enter into aspirit of worship as you listen.

Among the pleasant surprises are two back-to-back feel-goodtracks. “Every Single Bit of You,” written with B. Reith, is a sprightly lovesong. It’s followed by “La’u Pele Ea,” which has a tropical sound and sung, Ipresume, in the brothers’ native language.

Since loving God and our neighbors summarizes the wholeLaw, a song like “Love People” that repeats this refrain is a welcome reminder.TobyMac and B. Reith share the songwriting credit with The Katinas.

John Katina, one of the brothers, calls Collage the bands’ favorite recording.It’s easy to understand why with its smooth blend of diverse music influencesand strong spiritual focus.

Love Enough - Laura Kaczor

2011-12-06T11:50:00.001-08:00

Personal renewal is a theme on Kaczor’s national debut.

Love Enough

Artist: Laura Kaczor (www.laurakaczor.com)

Label: Universal-Fontana/EMI CMG

Length: 10 songs/40:48 minutes

On Love Enoughby Laura Kaczor (kuh-ZURE) it is quickly apparent that her music is easy tolike, which is no small thing. I am all for artistry, but unbridled creativity canmake for a difficult listen. That is not a problem here. Whether it’s an up-tempoanthem or an introspective ballad, these are well-crafted songs that arepleasing to the ears.

Kaczor co-wrote nine out of the ten tracks, which areanimated by an obvious heart of worship. This is not, however, what might becommonly thought of as a praise and worship recording, though it does includethat element. It tends more toward the singer-songwriter style. Rather thancontaining songs for congregational singing, this is an individual extollingGod in the face of brokenness.

“Renew My Life (To Worship)” is a good example. It isplea for God to restore, a theme that in various forms weaves its way throughmuch of this recording. A simple but mesmerizing chorus is accented by a maleharmony vocal. The soothing sound draws in the listener making it easy to identifywith the petition.

This contrasts nicely with the two opening songs, which arefull of energy and have monster hooks. Kaczor has a sure voice regardless ofstyle. It may be the most powerful on slower tunes like the title track, where sheadds weight to the opening lines: “How do I end up where I don’t want to be? /On the right path but just off a degree / A few bends in the road and before Iknow it / I’m miles away from you.” I appreciate the emphasis that even when wego astray God seeks us. He remains faithful even when we are not.

You find a similar idea on “When Grace Calls You Out,” withthe mellotron-like (think “Strawberry Fields Forever”) sounds that set themood. “When grace calls you out into the open / Takes everything that’s broken/ And makes it beautiful / Step into the light and see if you don’t find /Healing as the walls come down,” she sings, contrasting emptiness with God’ssufficiency and suggesting that there is no need to hide or pretend with grace.

“Sacred Bride,” with mid-tempo music and breezy vocals,bears eloquent testimony to the wonder of this relationship: “You call mebeloved / Your sacred bride / Though I’ve been unfaithful / And I’ve tried tohide / Your forgiveness is deep / And your mercy is wide / You call me beloved/ Your sacred bride.” It is a fitting summary near the end of the CD.

Occasionally, the arrangements and production sound alittle dated. This is more evident on the inspirational tracks. It’s lessnoticeable on the material that moves toward pop/rock. These faster songs haveyouth-oriented appeal but overall this is more adult-contemporary andinspirational. It’s reminiscent in style and content to Shannon Wexelberg,Sheila Walsh and Annie Herring.

This is a national debut for Kaczor even though it’s herthird recording. The first two, one being an EP, were independent releases.

Born and raised in Pennsylvania, Kaczor served for seven years as a worship leader at Jesus Fest. No surprise then that a desire to worship and encourage others is evident. Combined with her emphasis on renewal, she might be a good addition to a Women of Faith conference.

re:creation - Steven Curtis Chapman

2011-11-18T06:05:00.001-08:00

God again brings good out of tragedy, and listenersglimpse it here.

re:creation

Artist: Steven Curtis Chapman (www.stevencurtischapman.com)

Label: SparrowRecords/Chordant Music Group

Length: 14 tracks/55:14 minutes

If Beauty Will Rise(2009) was the dark night of the soul, re:creation(2011) is like the dawn that grows brighter till the full light of day. This isthe sound of hope rising: the winter is past; the time for the singing of birdshas come.

The tragic loss more than three years ago of theChapman’s adopted daughter, Maria, put me in touch again with Steven CurtisChapman and his music. After Heaven inthe Real World (1994), I drifted away, but the Chapman’s season of grief caughtmy attention.

What the enemy may have wanted to use for evil purposes,God has used for good as re:creation isa reinvention of Chapman’s music. It has a welcome roots feel, a solid acousticbase with crisp production that enhances sometimes lighter but creative percussion.

This is not to say that Chapman sounds radicallydifferent. The changes are incremental, so that he is not departing from thestyle that makes “Do Everything” his 46^th number one single. Thecartoonish Official Music Video adds to thequirky vibe, but this is vintage Chapman, whose skill as one of Christianmusic’s most accomplished writers is plainly evident.

We are tempted to wonder if what we do matters at all.Chapman answers that it all matters, as long as we do everything to God’sglory. It gives us God’s perspective on significance.

“Long Way Home” is the first song Chapman wrote with aukulele. This instrument, which is becoming more popular, adds to the comfort ofthe song.

Along with the ukulele, a parade of acoustic sounds,including hammer dulcimer, banjo, harp, piano, cello, strings and vibes, makesubtle but delightful appearances. It makes me wish that he would go furtheralong these lines.

Chapman does an excellent job of reimagining eight of hisgreatest songs in an acoustic vein, but as impressive as they are, the five newsongs plus the cover of the hymn “Morning Has Broken” may be the best of all. Itis partly because they are new, but also because Chapman sounds even moreenergized on this fresh material. Some, like the aforementioned “DoEverything,” pack more of a punch, which will appeal more to those who are lessinclined toward the acoustic.

Along these lines is “All That’s Left,” which by virtueof its catchy sound and its affirmation of the preeminence of love, couldbecome another number one song. “Meant to Be” reminds me of God’s sovereigntybut also the movie classic It’s aWonderful Life. What would the world be like if we were not here doing thethings that God designed for us to do? God put us here to be a unique expressionof Him. We can enrich others through our contribution.

The last two songs, which are joined together, are afitting conclusion. Chapman and son Caleb sing alternate stanzas of the classic“Morning Has Broken.” It’s a new day in the Chapman household. Their night ofweeping is receding; the new morning brings joy. The hymn segues into “SingHallelujah,” a short benediction that ends the recording on a note of triumph.

What a privilege to reconnect with an invigorated Chapman.God again brings good out of tragedy, and listeners glimpse it here.

First Leaf EP - Eden's Bridge

2011-11-06T05:49:00.000-08:00

Eden’s Bridge opens the book of nature and draws spiritualparallels.

First Leaf EP

Artist: Eden’s Bridge (www.edensbridge.net)

Label: Independent

Length: 5 tracks/30 minutes

Scripture provides the order: first the natural, then thespiritual (1 Cor. 15:46). The apostle Paul makes this point in his discussionof the resurrection of the dead. The natural body, which comes first, is raiseda spiritual body.

Similarly, Psalm 19 depicts God’s two books: the book ofnature (vv.1-6) and the book of Scripture (vv.7-11). God reveals himself inboth, though more specifically in the latter. The psalmist moves from thenatural to the spiritual.

On The Winter Singsand First Leaf, Eden’s Bridge looksinto the book of nature, focusing on the winter and spring seasonsrespectively, highlighting spiritual parallels. They provide a welcome sense ofdiscovery as they move from the natural to the spiritual.

Their remarkable insights drawn from God’s two books areexpressed in subtle ways both lyrically and musically, putting these releasesamong the most artistic statements the band has ever made. It buildsanticipation for the two forthcoming EPs, covering summer and fall, and a full-lengthrelease in 2012.

The music covers a broad spectrum and is often layered,which combined with the thoughtful lyrics provide a depth not as evident onearlier recordings. Don’t expect popular covers or a praise and worship chorus.This is more sophisticated with a variety of sonic and literary textures justwaiting to be explored.

Despite the complexity, a song like “Unfreeze” is builtaround simple chord changes that the band adds and subtracts from, creating ebband flow. The title track starts with bleak sounds from an electric guitar,which depicts the dying gasps of winter. A magical swirl of sounds then ushersin that first leaf of spring. The music conveys the change from the barrennessof winter to the new life of spring.

These songs contain more contrast than the first EP.“Tipping Point” is built around intricate percussion reminiscent of a timepiece. This is broken-up and elongated by sweeping rock riffs that fill thechorus.

There is a buoyancy in the opening “Arise to Life” thatsees in spring a metaphor for Christ’s resurrection.

These new releases may not be as accessible for those wholike the simplicity of some of the band’s earliest work. Patient listeners,however, may find this more satisfying. These first two EPs hold up well torepeated listens, rewarding on the surface but also containing treasures forthose who want something more. It was worth the wait to get the original Eden’sBridge back, making the best music of their career.

The Winter Sings EP - Eden's Bridge

2011-10-29T09:17:00.000-07:00

Eden’s Bridge is back, showing what it means to be white assnow.

The Winter Sings EP

Artist: Eden’s Bridge

Label: Independent

Length: 5 tracks/22:40 minutes

For the first time in seven years Eden’s Bridge is backwith their original lineup. After recording NewCeltic Worship (2005), a one-off project for Maranatha! Music, the bandtook a break. To my dismay, it looked like they might not record again.

What joy to learn that The Winter Sings is the first of four EPs, each representing adifferent season of the year, to be released in 2011. Plus, the band is at workon a brand new studio recording to be released in 2012. To hear Eden’s Bridgetell it, this is the best writing that they have ever done. That’s how it allstarted, a trio of songwriters in 1993 deciding to take the next step.

They are on sure footing with The Winter Sings. They capture the feel of winter while retainingtheir familiar sound, a mix of Celtic, pop, rock, worship, and improvisationalong with Sarah Lacy Bird’s lovely voice. Some music, like the title track,builds like a steady snowfall before it quietly subsides. On “Northern Dawn”you can almost the feel chill of winter with the lonely opening sounds.

Some past releases were praise and worship oriented. Herethe band continues to grow as artists both lyrically and musically. Thespiritual element is here but it’s subtle. On “White” the covering of snowbecomes a metaphor for the forgiveness of sins: “My eyes are searching anexpanse of floor / But there is no trace of what has gone before.” This is themost buoyant track and my personal favorite.

Those who appreciate poetry will find this rewarding. Thewriting is consistently beautiful:

“It is the way of all things / That the sap that lifts /The leaves into the light will see them fly.”

Even when the tone is somber, there is a ray of hope. Threetracks refer to a child: “And the Winter sings a diff’rent song / Of a smallchild and beginnings.” It’s something that you can miss if not listeningcarefully. The lyrics are not included in the packaging but can be found at www.edensbridge.net.

“The Herald Angels” is much more obvious. This is thefamiliar Charles Wesley hymn with a new arrangement. Some people might not likea new melody, but this works for me. It takes something that is overly familiarand makes it new.

This closes with “The Difference.” With just piano andvocals, and stately lyrics and melody, it has the feel of a hymn.

The CD is hand-numbered and packaged in DVD-sized cardboardwith original artwork. Three cards show the days for January through March.It’s a collector’s item, but the best reason to have this is the strong returnfor Eden’s Bridge.

Friending: Real Relationships in a Virtual World - Lynne M. Baab

2011-10-29T08:53:00.000-07:00

Baab gives careful thought to friendship and technology.

Friending: Real Relationships in a Virtual World

Author: Lynne M. Baab (www.lynnebaab.com)

Publisher: IVP Books

Pages: 185

Something like disapproval crept into my heart when anout-of-town family member announced on Facebook that they were done using it asa means of communication. It was not the decision to abandon it that botheredme; someone might do that for legitimate reasons. It was the implication that Facebookis a superficial form of interaction that has little value.

Not being comfortable with phone calls to this person, theFacebook posts provided a means for me to have some contact. I am often morecomfortable communicating by email than by phone. One thing that makes Friending by Lynne Baab so praiseworthyis that she encourages readers to recognize and respond appropriately todifferent communication preferences.

She rises above seeing communication changes in terms ofgood and bad: “Making blanket critical statements about the technology used tocommunicate today is pretty easy to do, while discussing ways to reflect loveand compassion with various new forms of communication requires morecreativity. The latter is urgently needed today” (49).

Throughout her wonderful meditation on the larger themeof friendship, Baab avoids the extremes of outright rejection of new technologyand uncritical acceptance. She sees the potential benefits, “These means ofcommunication can do much more than put relationships in a holding patternuntil a visit happens. Like letters in years past, they can actually buildrelationships and nurture intimacy” (48).

As someone who cares deeply about relationships, and isintentional about cultivating them, Baab continually shows through the use ofScripture, personal experience, and interviews with a broad spectrum of people,just how good it can be. In particular, 1 Corinthians 13 and Colossians 3 arelike frameworks that she uses to make numerous applications.

This is an excellent resource on relationships, and notjust on the human level. It includes our relationship with God and how thefaith that comes through him is worked out in our daily interactions. This bookis a keeper for any who desire more meaningful connections.

Aside from offering a wealth of wisdom gained throughexperience and knowledge, Baab often inspires and writes beautifully. Inwriting about initiative, she observes, “Love carries its own reward. When weact in love, when we take initiative to show kindness and compassion, we aremirroring the character of God as shown to us in Christ Jesus. Every time we dothat, we are participating in God’s work of transformation in us. Even if ouract of kindness isn’t received very enthusiastically, we will be blessed if wetrust that God’s love is shaping us into the people we were created to be”(100).

The book is by the author’s own admission not anexhaustive treatment on the subject. However, she does cover numerous subjects,some that seem quite novel to me. I don’t think I have ever read about rhythmand pacing in relationships. This looks at the frequency of our contacts. Itincludes knowing when to pull back or end a relationship. In such cases,“Keeping compassion and kindness on the front burner, even when making adecision to step away from a friend, limits engagement in destructive practiceslike gossip” (149). This is important because friendships sometimes blossomagain.

In the latter part of the book, Baab makes liberal use ofa study contained in the 1992 book by William K. Rawlins titled Friendship Matters. The study explorescontrasting components of a relationship, such as instrumentality andaffection, or independence and dependence. For example, “William Rawlinsbelieved that a friendship with a strong component of affection will bestronger than a friendship focused primarily on function (instrumentality)”(139). On the other hand, Baab reminds us of a point made by C. S. Lewis “thatshared interests can function as a foundation for friendship” (139). These andother dialectic comparisons make for fascinating exploration.

Each chapter concludes with helpful questions forreflection, journaling, discussion and action. The appendix includes more ofthe same, grouped by category, on topics not covered in the book.

It shows what a vast subject this can be and an importantone. Relationships, as mirrored in the Trinity, are at the heart of theChristian faith.

On the Altar of Love - Downhere

2011-10-09T17:02:00.000-07:00

As wise master builders, Downhere return to thefoundation and fill the breaches.

On the Altar of Love

Artist: Downhere (www.downhere.com)

Label: Centricity

Length: 12 tracks/47:13 minutes

“‘If the foundations are destroyed, what can therighteous do?’” (Psalm 11:3 ESV). On theAltar of Love, Downhere goes back to the foundations of the Christianfaith.

It starts appropriately with “Only the Beginning,” a songthat encourages listeners to “press ahead, forget what’s behind” for Godfulfills his promises. The chorus of “Rest” comes from Matthew 11:28: “Come tome, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (ESV). AsOswald Chambers, author of My Utmost forHis Highest, said, “The questions that matter in life are remarkably few,and they are all answered by the words— ‘Come unto me.’ Not ‘do this, ordon’t do that’; but—‘Come unto me.’” This truth makes the song special, forthe Christian life is a continual “coming to Jesus.” The comfort and hope inthese first two songs are found throughout the recording.

Like Nehemiah in the Old Testament, Downhere not onlyrestores the foundation, they build the walls with the wisdom that comes from workingout their faith. “Living the Dream” recognizes that often expectations don’tfit reality: “Well this is not what I imagined, but this is real, life in thetrenches.” The lyrics are wrapped in a whimsical tune that even includes horns,reminiscent of the Downhere song, “Christmas in our Hearts.”

“Let Me Rediscover You” is a cry to know God, which Goddesires: “But let him who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knowsme, that I am the LORD who practices steadfast love, justice and righteousnessin the earth” (Jeremiah 9:24 ESV).

I appreciate the mature, at-odds-with-the-worldperspective of “For the Heartbreak”: “Thank you for the heartbreak / Thank youfor the pain / Thank you for sadness on the gloomy days of rain / Thank youthat the hard times have a reason and rhyme / Thank you that the healer makesthe beauty shine.”

This release also highlights Downhere’s diversity.“Seek,” with its punk rock, early U2 sound, is one of the surprises. It mightseem a little out of character, but I like it because it is unique. The titletrack features a violin, which gives it a country/bluegrass flair. This conveysthe rustic and rural feel of the album cover. I wish they had done more alongthese lines.

The variation continues with “Glory by the Way of Shame,”a gorgeous ballad and one of the best songs. “Holy,” is a worship anthem thatreferences the entire Trinity. Poetic images abound on “For Life,” where theband opens the book of nature to give thanks.

Downhere is working on a building whose architect is God.His people, like living stones, are being built together into a holy dwellingfor His presence. As wise master builders, they return to the foundation andfill the breaches.

Sanctuary of the Soul: Journey into Meditative Prayer - Richard Foster

2011-09-14T17:15:00.000-07:00

This introduction to meditative prayer is more helpful than harmful.

Sanctuary of the Soul: Journey into Meditative Prayer

Author: Richard J. Foster

Publisher: IVP Books

Pages: 166

The need for discernment has never been greater. With so many winds of doctrine, one can easily be tossed about like the waves of the sea.

Having heard frequent warnings from some Christian circles about contemplative prayer, I decided to review Sanctuary of the Soul by Richard J. Foster. In an old song, Amy Grant sang, “She's got her Father's eyes, / Her Father's eyes; / Eyes that find the good in things, / When good is not around.” Pointing out error is valid, especially if it is flagrant, but my hope was to find some good. Bible teacher Derek Prince likened it to eating fish; eat the flesh, spit out the bones. It seems that some prefer to completely reject any teaching or person that they deem wrong. There may be a time when that is warranted, but I prefer like Ruth in the Old Testament to glean, collecting what I can use. I’m not against pointing out error, but in this case, I will leave that to others if they feel it necessary.

As I began to read, I immediately enjoyed Foster’s excellent writing. He is concise and adorns his prose with thoughtful quotations and stories. With all the foreboding storm clouds that I had imagined, this was like a refreshing summer rain. Devotional writing is my favorite, and though this is instructional, there is plenty of inspiration.

The subject made me a little anxious. I wondered if Foster would add to my burdens. My fears were relieved by Foster’s humility and gentle encouragement. His kindness was like that of Boaz towards Ruth.

I welcome Foster’s highlighting of biblical meditation, which may be a lost art or at least neglected today. It’s the contemplative prayer aspect that some find troubling. Near the back of the book in “A Potpourri of Questions,” Foster offers the following definitions: “Prayer in general is the interactive communication that transpires between God and ourselves. Meditative prayer in particular is the listening side of this communication.” One problem with this view is that you must learn to discern when it is God speaking. Since this is an introductory book, the author writes broadly about a number of issues and does not go in depth on this aspect but points the reader elsewhere. Good News for Anxious Christians (see my review) by Phillip Cary is a recent resource for those who want an opposing view of this type of hearing from God.

I like the book’s emphasis on quieting ourselves before God. Foster sees distraction as the primary spiritual problem of our day. In writing about modern worship services, it’s easy to agree with Foster despite his cynicism, “Today, for the most part they have become one huge production in distraction. Worship meant to draw us into the presence of God has become little more than an organized way of keeping us from the presence of God.” In another place, he tells of a different kind of experience at “Quaker Meadow,” the name of a camp where he participated in a retreat for 150 college students. This is one of three detailed personal experiences that end each of the books’ three sections. They are used to illustrate and expand on the subject matter.

The Quaker Meadow meeting reads like a genuine account of a move of God, one where the participants are being led by the Spirit and are caught-up with a sense of the presence of God. Initially, it was marked by silence followed by spontaneous hymn-singing with different ones leading out. A time of confession ensued. After this, “Songs of praise and thanksgiving began to erupt spontaneously.” Foster wisely does not hold this out as the ultimate experience, one that should be copied. “It is not wise for us to hanker after such heights,” he writes. “Worship can be fully valid when there are no thrills or flights of ecstasy. The group, just like the individual, must learn to endure spiritual weather of all kinds with serenity of soul.”

Having become more interested in poetry, I was delighted to find Foster encouraging a selective use of it in a section titled “Words Dancing with Beauty.” He points out three ways it can useful in settling our minds. “First, poetry startles us with its economy of words and beauty of language.” Second, understanding a poem often requires multiple readings, which helps to calm minds down. “Third, the mind is often captured by the metaphor of a poem.” The book was worth the read just for this small section.

I’m not against a creative use of imagination, but my most uncomfortable moment was Foster’s sample meditation experience for dealing with a wandering mind, which included picturing Jesus in the room, etc. This is intended as a helpful example, but the images are a little odd.

I never want to be undiscerning in relation to mysticism and contemplative prayer. There have been obvious excesses and abuses, and they should be avoided. In the past, even evangelicals like A. W. Tozer and Alexander Whyte, who are both referenced among others in the book, were more willing to learn from the mystics, adapting the good they found for their own purposes. That attitude no longer seems to be in vogue. That is unfortunate, since Foster’s insights are useful in cultivating a closer relationship with God.

Foster is practical, and his candor is surprising. The book does not leave you feeling condemned. Foster keeps it simple, which makes it easy to follow. I found the book to be more helpful than harmful. Even so, the need to be discerning remains: “test everything; hold fast what is good” (1 Thessalonians 5:21 ESV).

Ancient Christian Texts: Greek Commentaries on Revelation - Oecumenius and Andrew of Caesarea

2011-08-17T11:29:00.000-07:00

“There is such a thing as glory and there are hints of it everywhere” (Rich Mullins).

Ancient Christian Texts: Greek Commentaries on Revelation
Authors: Oecumenius and Andrew of Caesarea
Publisher: IVP Academic
Pages: 212

Lately, a new thought has occupied my mind when reading the book of Revelation. Instead of focusing on its meaning, I want to see glory. Where else can you find such a monumental array of angels, supernatural beings, signs, wonders, dramatic events and views of God in such a condensed narrative?

A Christian friend once remarked that God seemed conceited by requiring praise and worship. Might God be too self-absorbed? That was the implication, but how could that possibly be true? Even though I knew it to be misguided, the thought troubled me. How could I justify the adoration due God? I suspect that the inability to reconcile this has a lot to do with God’s thoughts and ways being so far beyond our own. Witness Job when he realizes of what little account he is in comparison to God: “I despise myself, and repent in dust and ashes” (Job 42:6 ESV).

It brings me back to this idea of glory, which by definition is something weighty. I want to feel the weight of just how great, glorious and worthy of honor is God. In the book of Revelation, I have the opportunity to see it through the lens of God’s terrifying judgments and the way all of creation reacts to his pronouncements and works. I suspect that if I just catch a glimpse of God’s glory, I will better understand why those who surround Him continually fall before his throne in worship.

I’m not downplaying the importance of understanding Revelation with all of its symbols and imagery. The entrance of knowledge is light, which is another aspect of glory. Commentaries like this provide instruction that help me see more of the nature of God. Glory! I imagine that if we could know God now as we will one day know Him, thoughts like the one expressed by my friend will not even come to mind. We would more likely react like Job.

Scripture tells us that we cannot even imagine all that God has prepared for us. That same imagination cannot begin to grasp the awesome wonder of His being, but we can still aspire like Moses to see God’s glory however fleeting the glimpse this side of eternity.

This commentary is part of the Ancient Christian Texts series, not to be confused with the Ancient Christian Commentary series, which brings portions of commentary from multiple sources into one volume. This book publishes the complete text of two of the earliest known commentaries on Revelation, and this alone makes it valuable.

Oecumenius, “a layperson of high imperial rank” and “respected as a person of intellectual capacity,” probably wrote his commentary sometime between 508 and 518. This and the commentary by Andrew of Caesarea, dated to the first years of the seventh century, provide readers with a glimpse into what the earliest Christians believed about the book of Revelation. This is even more true of Andrew, who the translator notes is “governed by traditional and accepted opinions, and very little of his commentary could be called original.”

One of the distinctives of Oecumenius, which is endearing, is that he “takes every opportunity to emphasize the beneficence and kindness of God.” His conviction “that God is essentially good, merciful and beneficent tempers throughout his interpretation of the judgment scenes in Revelation.”

One place where Oecumenius is hard to follow is his unique interpretation of the opening of the seven seals. Rather than depicting something in the future, to him they represent different aspects of historical events in the life of Christ. This is where Andrew becomes helpful. In a gentle and subtle way, he often offers an alternative to Oecumenius. We could benefit by following his example of how to disagree with someone in an inoffensive way. This is one of the benefits of reading these two authors. Their thought is rich in grace.

How they write is a reflection of their time. It is not as simplified and clear as writing today, but it nevertheless conveys a godliness that is praiseworthy. They don’t go into great depth, instead choosing to give the general sense of each passage.

This is best as a supplement to one’s own study alongside modern commentaries. Reading it as a book, which I have done for review purposes, is rewarding, but it is not an easy read. Much more can be gained from interacting with the biblical text first and then gleaning from this commentary and others.

I would not recommend this as a sole source on Revelation. There are better commentaries available, but this stands out because of its early outlook and influences. Though today we may see areas where we disagree with one or both texts, they offer insights not found in modern commentaries. The manner of expression and thought is refreshingly original, which gives this a hint of glory.

I Will Praise You - Rebecca St. James

2011-08-04T16:16:00.000-07:00

A mature Rebecca St. James returns with a solid collection of mostly original worship songs.

I Will Praise You
Artist: Rebecca St. James
Label: Beach Street Records/Reunion Records/Essential Records
Length: 10 tracks/42:46 minutes

I Will Praise You is a mature Rebecca St. James, which is reflected in the dignified photos on the CD artwork. It carries over into the words and music of each song.

Newly married after a long and public wait to meet the one to become her spouse, St. James returns with a worship recording, after focusing for several years on writing and acting. She has authored eleven titles and acted in nine films. There has not been a studio release of new material since If I Had One Chance to Tell You Something (2005). St. James is no stranger to this format. Worship God (2002) is one of her highest charting recordings.

St. James co-wrote many of the songs. There is only one well-known cover, Matt Redman’s “You Never Let Go,” and to use baseball terminology since it’s the middle of summer, she knocks it out of the park.

It’s been said that it is the life that prays. In other words, a life that is pleasing to God, not only makes prayer credible, but is like a prayer. St. James exhibits a life dedicated to God, which is an expression of worship and makes a recording like this a natural and reasonable choice. It would not disappoint me to see her continue to aspire to fresh, creative expressions of devotion.

On this release she surrounds herself with a stellar band of studio musicians that include Stu G of Delirious? and when she uses strings, John Catchings. They execute a near perfect blend of artistry and accessibility. Even the programming sounds good, which gives it that Euro flair that I associate with St. James.

In a recent interview with ChristianityToday, Matt Redman said that his aim as a songwriter is “simple but not shallow.” This recording is successful in that regard. The simplicity makes it easy to underrate, but it’s what makes it possible to sing these songs in a congregational setting. On the other hand, there is enough depth to provide substance, both lyrically and musically.

“The Kindness of Our God” sounds like a Celtic Keith and Kristy Getty hymn. A personal favorite is the closing ballad, “You Make Everything Beautiful” that adapts the first few lines of the serenity prayer.

I wonder sometimes if artists try too hard to be inventive and relevant. If so, they might benefit by following the example here, which by being well-crafted and winsome makes for pleasant and rewarding listening.

I tend to have low expectations of worship recordings because, at least in the past, they tended to be so monotonous. This was a delightful surprise. Rebecca St. James has ever reason to be satisfied.

Jesus, Paul and the People of God: A Theological Dialogue with N. T. Wright - Nicholas Perrin & Richard B. Hays (Editors)

2011-07-16T19:07:00.000-07:00

This discussion of N. T. Wright’s theology is essential reading for those following his work.

Jesus, Paul and the People of God: A Theological Dialogue with N. T. Wright
Editors: Nicholas Perrin and Richard B. Hays
Publisher: IVP Academic
Pages: 294

Jesus, Paul and the People of God: A Theological Dialogue with N. T. Wright serves as a valuable reminder that we all have our limitations. In appraising Wright on justification, Kevin Vanhoozer offers this concluding thought, “No single voice can speak the whole truth. If no one Evangelist could say everything that needed to be said about Jesus Christ, then it should come as no surprise that no one New Testament scholar can do so either. Yes, Scripture is the supreme authority for the church’s life and thought. But Wright is not the first to attend to its meaning. No one person, even one with Wright’s energy and prodigious intellectual gifts, can work a paradigm revolution single-handedly. He needs to win not more battles, but more allies.”

As much as I applaud N. T. Wright, I must remember that not even he can be right on every detail. When I become enamored by some teaching, I might be tempted to think that it is all I need. May I ever be mindful that the whole counsel of God often comes through a multitude of counselors. What I receive needs to be informed and supplemented by those who might see different facets of the same truth or offer needed correctives.

This book brings together nine biblical scholars who not only admire N. T. Wright, but as faithful stewards of their own gifts, assess his theology for the benefit of Wright and the whole church. Wright was one of the participants at the 2010 Wheaton Theology Conference, which was the setting for the dialogue that serves as the basis for this book.

Wright gives brief responses to each essay and also contributes two substantial essays on the state of historical Jesus and Pauline studies. The book is worth having just for these two individual essays.

The discussion about Wright’s work highlighted for me distinctives that I sometimes missed or glossed-over. One slight drawback is analysis that can get tedious. I was tempted to lament that theology, which I enjoy, gets complicated at times. This book is published under the academic arm of IVP for good reason. It’s not a volume that I will be giving to my mother, though I might wish that all Christians would wrestle more with the finer points of doctrine.

If you have any doubt about the importance of theology, read Wright as he ponders how to sustain the united community he sees as being at the center of Paul’s worldview: “How can such a fellowship keep going, when living in a world from which the normal symbols that define the various constituent communities have been taken away? The only way this community can be sustained, I believe, is through what we call theology. I believe when we are reading Paul we are seeing the birth of a discipline, which we now call Christian theology.” He believes that theology must grow to take on a new role: “The prayerful, wise contemplation of who God really is, and the reflection on and invocation of this God, has to be undertaken in quite a new way, in order that the united community, through its own worship and prayer and witness, can be rooted in this God and so sustained in its common life.”

Wright’s emphasis on knowing who God really is reminds me of what F. W. Boreham wrote at the age of eighty-six, after authoring more than fifty-five books, 3,000 editorials and preaching countless sermons over a span of almost seventy years: “If I could have my ministry over again, I would talk more about God. Not about God’s works or God’s ways, God’s power or God’s bounty. But about God’s very self—God’s omnipresence, God’s omniscience, God’s omnipotence; God’s unutterable goodness, God’s ineffable holiness, God’s splendor, God’s glory, God’s love. For if I could make people very sure of God, they would soon hurry to that divine Savior who is able to save to the uttermost those who come to God by Him.”

The community of God’s people which Wright points us toward is nurtured and sustained by an expansive view of God himself. It’s these big, bold vistas, which come from Wright, that keep me reading.

The irenic tone makes this a pleasant read, despite any tediousness and disagreements. The conversation is respectful with an absence of hostility. This kind of humility is welcome and needed today, and the book is an example and encouragement toward that end.

It is not as enjoyable as the books where N. T. Wright is the sole author, but it’s a valuable tool in understanding and evaluating his theology. Critiques combined with responses provide clarification and suggest areas for further study. This is an essential addition to any N. T. Wright collection of books.

1 Peter: The IVP New Testament Commentary Series - I. Howard Marshall

2011-06-30T17:48:00.000-07:00

If I could only have one commentary on 1 Peter, I would be well-served by this one.

1 Peter: The IVP New Testament Commentary Series
Author: I. Howard Marshall
Publisher: IVP Academic
Pages: 184

The biblical book of 1 Peter is a letter for our time. I. Howard Marshall conveys that with astute observation in 1 Peter, his commentary.

He believes the readers were “people who were discriminated against rather than being actually persecuted. The discrimination arose out of the unwillingness of Christians to take part in societal life associated with idolatry. The theme of the letter is not persecution as such but rather the situation of Christians in society and their consequent responsibilities. This accents the good behavior that they should practice and maintain despite malicious attacks.”

Written in 1991 when the book came out in hardback, but now published for the first time in this paperback edition, these words have striking relevance for our own time, as Christians face increasing discrimination and pressure to conform to today’s societal norms.

This book received the Christianity Today 1992 Critics’ Choice Award, and it’s not hard to understand why. Marshall’s succinct writing and levelheaded exposition remind me of reading John Stott’s classic, Basic Christianity. Precise, with no wasted words and a minimum of personal illustrations, he continually uncovers the original meaning with the intent of discerning what it means for Christians today.

What helps him and the reader in this pursuit, is Marshall’s wide reading of past scholarship, which he frequently references, pointing out where others may be right or wrong. Several pages of bibliography are included in the back.

Practical applications abound: “Christian conduct is an important ingredient in evangelism … alongside the actual preaching of the gospel to non-Christians, which Peter assumes to be taking place as a matter of course.”

The author wonders if Christians today have become short-sighted: “Have we lost the future dimension from the life of the individual Christian and of the church? Have we grown used to a situation in which the coming of Christ and the revelation of salvation do not fall within our expectations? True, we believe in the future hope in principle, but has it lost its importance as a factor in our daily living? And as a result, do we lay too much stress on salvation now, both in our lives and in the life of the world, and too little on what Christ has yet to bring?”

A cause for concern is Marshall’s references to the Church replacing Israel. In the “Notes” section on page 35 he writes, “Peter’s use of inheritance further exemplifies the typology that occurs so often in this letter, which draws a parallel between the experiences of the people of God in the Old Testament and the new people of God. This implies that the church replaces Israel as the recipient of God’s promises—that the promises of a ‘spiritual land’ are the real promises.” He does not explain this position as that is not the focus of his analysis. But it can leave the impression that God is finished with Israel, an idea that cannot be justified from Scripture. It would be unwise to spiritualize all the promises made to Israel.

Aside from the few references to this subject, 1 Peter by I. Howard Marshall reads like a classic. If I could only have one commentary on 1 Peter, I would be well-served by this one. Its brevity is more of an asset than a problem for those who want to quickly get at the heart of a message that is as needed today as when it was first written.

Good News for Anxious Christians: 10 Practical Things You Don’t Have to Do - Phillip Cary

2011-06-15T15:43:00.000-07:00

Lighten your burdens here

Good News for Anxious Christians: 10 Practical Things You Don’t Have to Do
Author: Phillip Cary
Publisher: Brazos Press
Pages: 197

Good News for Anxious Christians by Phillip Cary reminds me of Decision Making and the Will of God by Garry Friesen and J. Robin Maxson. The latter challenged what the authors called the traditional view that God has an “individual will,” a specific plan for each life that a person must discover through prayer, reading the Bible, getting counsel, considering circumstances, etc. I read it early in my Christian life, and though it was Scripturally-based, I found it troubling because I believed the more common view. Back then I thought the will of God was like a steep precipice, difficult to reach and with little room to stand, but these two books picture it more broadly like a plain bounded by the truths of Scripture.

Good News references Decision Making and builds on it. The subject matter is more diverse, but like its predecessor it challenges widely-held views. Both books help Christians to become responsible for their decisions by acting wisely.

Cary believes that a “new evangelical theology” has infiltrated the church. It’s his name “for a set of supposedly practical ideas about transforming your life that get in the way of believing the gospel. They are the result of a long history of trying to be ‘practical’ in evangelical theology, which has now thoroughly adapted itself to consumer society.” This critique is his opportunity to preach the gospel to Christians. He writes that the “understanding of the gospel that has shaped my reading of the Scripture was articulated most famously in Martin Luther’s little treatise The Freedom of a Christian ...” Cary is Anglican, but someone who believes that Luther was right most of the time. This influence, with its emphasis on faith in Christ rather than what we do, is refreshing.

A prime example is when he writes about how God changes us, “The inward transformation of our hearts … happens not through anything we try to do but through faith in the gospel, because that’s how we receive Christ. He is the one who really change us.” This emphasis “frees us from anxiety” and “makes us cheerful and glad.” He continually exalts Christ, “What the gospel of Christ does is give us Christ, and that is enough. We can let everything else be what it is—hard work, worthwhile work, works of love, and the heartaches that come with all of that. And we can let our feelings be what they are, whatever that may be. What matters is Jesus Christ, and the gospel tells us that all is well on that score: that we are our Beloved’s and he is ours.”

To his credit, Cary encourages readers to judge what he has written, “To everyone who reads this book, I say: don’t believe any of this just because I’m saying it. Please do think critically—and that includes thinking critically about what I say in this book. Above all, search the Scriptures to see if these things are so, like the Jews and Gentiles who first heard the gospel in Berea (Acts 17:11).” He makes it easier by providing careful analysis based on the Scriptures and his own experience.

Where he may miss the mark is in the motives that he ascribes to those teaching or practicing the new theology. On the part of leaders, he sees it as a means of control and a way to build bigger churches. From my experience, I think people genuinely believe in the validity of the practices. Sometimes it takes someone like Cary who stands on the outside to get people to examine if something is true. It’s unwise to assume wrong motives when ignorance and/or deception can be involved.
Another reviewer of the book found himself agreeing and disagreeing with Cary’s critique, which may be a common reaction. The book makes you evaluate what you believe, and can lead to a helpful desire to know the truth.

Cary starts by challenging the whole notion of hearing God in your heart, advocated by Dallas Willard in the book, Hearing God: Developing a Conversational Relationship with God. How can you be sure that the voice you are hearing in your heart is God’s? According to Cary, you can’t be sure because the voices that you hear are your own. “The revelation of God comes in another way,” Cary writes, “through the word of God in the Bible, and this is something you can find outside your heart.” He shows here and in other practices, that Christians are left looking within, whereas in the Bible revelation comes from without: the Scriptures, counsel, corporate gatherings, etc. He’s not saying to disregard the voices from within. When shaped by wisdom and experience these voices, which are our own, can be helpful.

One might ask about the impressions experienced by Christians that seem inexplicable apart from God. Cary writes about this in Chapter 2, “Why You Don’t Have to Believe Your Intuitions are the Holy Spirit.” But what are we to make of a verse like Acts 16:6? “And they went through the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been forbidden by the Holy Spirit to speak the word in Asia. And when they had come up to Mysia, they attempted to go into Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus did not allow them” (ESV). Through some means the Holy Spirit gave these believers specific direction. Cary might argue that it was something outside of themselves, a prophecy or some other sign, but isn’t it possible that they were redirected through an inward monitor?

In the book In Pastures Green, F. W. Boreham recognizes the danger of impressions, especially when they harmonize with our desires. Nevertheless, he shares a personal experience that is hard to explain apart from God’s guidance, “I set off one afternoon on a round of visits. I knew exactly in which direction I was going, and had made a list of the homes at which I intended to call. On my way to the tram I suddenly thought of a home in an entirely different direction. No visit to that home was due, and there was, so far as I knew, no reason why my mind should turn that way. But as I drew nearer to the tramline the impression deepened, and, absurd as it seemed, I decided to abandon my program and make my way to that home. To my astonishment, the door was answered by Dr. Player, a medical practitioner whom I knew well. ‘Oh, thank God you’ve come!’ he exclaimed; ‘Mr. B------ has just died very unexpectedly on my hands; Mrs. B------, whom I came to see, is ill in bed; there’s nobody else in the house, and there’s no telephone!’”

How do you reconcile an example like this with what Cary has written? Regardless, more often than naught I found myself agreeing with Cary, and I appreciate his wisdom and experience. This is a worthwhile read even if you have to wrestle with the ideas that you find here.

The book title is a winner as is the cover drawing showing an umbrella shielding from the rain. Wise teachers can protect Christians from teachings that can be like an oppressive rain. The right focus (Christ) provides its own uplift, and this book has it.

Just As I Am: The Hymns of Ira Sankey - The Hymn Makers

2011-06-06T10:36:00.000-07:00

Sankey’s light shines through these hymns

Just As I Am: The Hymns of Ira Sankey
Artist: The Sheffield Celebration Choir, conducted by Jackie Williams
Label: Kingsway
Length: 14 tracks/49:17 minutes

In the firmament of song leaders, Ira Sankey is one of the brightest stars. What Cliff Barrows and George Beverly Shea were to Billy Graham, Ira Sankey was to the great evangelist Dwight L. Moody. This selection comes from the 1,200 published in Sankey’s Sacred Songs and Solos, which is still in use today. If these are indicative of his relationship to God, Sankey is to be admired for his affinity with so many classics that include “Trust and Obey,” “What a Friend We Have in Jesus” and “It Is Well.”

With so many beloved lyrics, the focus is rightly on the words and singing. The music is understated throughout, most often carried by piano and embellished with strings, and occasional marching drums and trumpet calls. The acoustic orchestration gives this a timeless feel. The arrangements are traditional but imbued with subtle creativity.

I enjoy modern interpretations of hymns, but I like these simple and straightforward renderings, which are one of four CDs released by the label at the same time.

It’s rare to find songs that cover such a wide variety of theology in just a few stanzas. You don’t often hear the triumphant note sounded in “Marching to Zion,” “O Happy Day” and “Stand Up for Jesus.”

“Just as I Am” sounds just like the moving version that ended so many Billy Graham meetings. One of the most fun songs, partly for its childlikeness, and for the way men and women alternate on ascending and descending scales is “Count Your Blessings.”

“Have You Been to Jesus” searches the heart and is evangelistic. You may know it by the common refrain, “Are you washed in the blood of the lamb?”

“Shall we Gather at the River,” strongly affirms the future hope for every Christian. Most of the verses are sung by a soloist, which makes the chorus all the more powerful as the choir sings it forcefully.

There is also the dignity and majesty of “Rock of Ages,” here sung acappella, and the comfort of “It is Well.”

Concentrate on the words to these songs, though occasionally they are hard to make out, if you are not familiar with this style of singing. Give yourself a chance to acclimate to what might be a foreign environment to your ears. It can take time to appreciate something different, but the potential rewards are here. If nothing else, you get inspiration and thought that is unique to our contemporary context.

Worship and Bow Down - John Michael Talbot

2011-06-05T13:12:00.000-07:00

The Mass brings out the best in John Michael Talbot.

Worship and Bow Down
Artist: John Michael Talbot
Label: Troubadour for the Lord (http://www.johnmichaeltalbot.com/)
Length: 17 tracks/54:46 minutes

John Michael Talbot’s Worship and Bow Down recalls 1979’s The Lord’s Supper. After converting to Catholicism, Talbot released the latter’s unique musical adaptation of the Mass, intending for it to be his goodbye to the music world. Instead, its well-received reception launched his new career, following in the spirit of St. Francis as a modern day troubadour for the Lord. His discography is now more than 50 recordings plus a number of books.

Worship and Bow Down, which has a CD release date of 6/21/11, but was released as a digital download on Easter day of this year, finds Talbot once again adapting the Mass using the new translation of the Roman Missal into what he calls the “Mass of Rebirth.” There are new settings for every element of the Mass (Kyrie, Gloria, Angus Dei, etc.) and for the Hail Mary, the Jesus Prayer and a portion of the Lectio Divina. Many of these songs will be included in the new hymnal published by Oregon Catholic Press (OCP) this fall. Talbot teamed with OCP for this release.

“Hail Mary” is already one of the new concert favorites and it’s not hard to understand why. Talbot sets it in a minor key that adds a beauty and solemnity that is characteristic of a number of compositions found on his recordings. It’s moving even if you are not Catholic. Some non-Catholics might object to some of the lyrics, but Talbot is just taking the existing prayer and setting it to music. I have no problem here and on his other recordings overlooking the occasional reference that I might disagree with from a theological standpoint. Such instances are few and far between, which is why Talbot has an appeal beyond Catholic believers. It’s worth being able to hear such sacred music.

Talbot is truly an artist. He forged his own way, which led him away from the contemporary trend that characterized (and still does) so much of Christian music. He’s unlike anyone else and continues to make relevant and meaningful music.

One prime example on this release is “Hind’s Feet on High Places,” a title that many protestants might recognize from the classic book by Hannah Hurnard. This approaches his best work. It starts with a reference to Psalm 91:7 “A thousand may fall at your side, ten thousand at your right hand, but it will not come near you” (ESV). From there Talbot leads us to Habakkuk 3:17-18, (though) “the flock be cut off from the fold and there be no herd in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the LORD” (ESV). This takes us to the triumphant chorus: “The LORD God is my strength, and he will make my feet like hinds’ feet, and he will make me to walk upon mine high places” (Habakkuk 3:19 KJV). Multi-tracking John Michael’s voice on the chorus (here and elsewhere), along with soaring music, that both end on a high note make this an exhilarating track. Any future collection of Talbot’s best songs should include this.

Talbot’s trademark acoustic guitar style is mixed throughout with superb orchestration. The only exception are the non-musical tracks 10-16 (the “Mass of Rebirth” section), which consists of a series of short acapella chants, and calls and responses.

Artistry and beauty are evident on every track, though the encouragement toward contemplative practices in tracks 7-9 may not be quite as aesthetic lyrically but is still well done.

Among his output in recent years this has to rank as one of his best efforts. He unplugged for this one; the electric guitars and drums were shelved in favor of the acoustic and organic sound, but it’s not sleepy. This is something to wake up to on Easter day or any other, for every day is like a resurrection day for the believer in Christ.

Something about the Mass brings out the best in John Michael Talbot.

As for Me and My House - John Waller

2011-05-23T16:30:00.000-07:00

Tearing down idols

As for Me and My House
Artist: John Waller (http://www.johnwallermusic.com/)
Label: City of Peace Media
Length: 11 tracks/47:16 minutes

The first two songs on As for Me and My House by John Waller are bold battle cries. “Spirit of death you have no place here, I command you to leave in Yeshua’s name,” Waller sings over Middle Eastern sounds on “Our God Reigns.” It’s the opening salvo in a war against the ills that plague humanity. “Our God reigns here,” Waller declares in the chorus. “We claim this ground in Yeshua’s name … the battle’s won, have no fear, because God reigns here.” This and the closing “Bless Us and Keep Us” reference Israel, which is a nod toward the parallels Waller sees between the Christian life and the children of Israel, particularly in the areas of bondage and freedom, and spiritual warfare and dominion.

The next song, “As for Me and My House,” finds Waller in a declarative mode – something he is known for –, but making it personal. “I’m done building my own kingdom,” he sings. A key part of the triumphant chorus is the mention of “idols raised, tear them down.” Prior to this recording, Waller was struck by the realization that he was motivated by a strong desire for recognition in the Christian music industry. He tore that and other idols down after an intense time of seeking God. Words from the William Cowper hymn convey the idea: “The dearest idol I have known / Whate’er that idol be / Help me to tear it from thy throne / And worship only thee.”

Toward the end there is a bridge where Waller is joined by a chorus of children singing, “We will cross over Jordan / We will claim what you promised.” Waller gets the motif right. Jordan has often been likened to heaven, but the Promised Land is the life that we enjoy through laying hold of the promises. Waller knows that it’s a fight, which is why the song is like a trumpet call to Christians, encouraging them to make Joshua’s pledge their own: “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord” (Joshua 24:15 ESV). This is the recording’s foundation.

The aggressive stance translates into music that often carries a punch. The chorus of “Yes” is similar in sound to a fist-pumping Bon Jovi anthem. Waller continues to rock on “Because God is Good,” co-written by Mac Powell of Third Day and producer Jason Hoard.

It does not slow down until track five, “Somebody Else’s Story,” a winsome song that blends a pure desire to help others with mandolin-accented acoustic music. You find a similar sound on “The Marriage Partner,” which is a tender duet between Waller and his wife Josee.

“Man of the Valley” is a mid-tempo song that opens by describing the mountaintop experiences in the Christian life. “It’s so beautiful way up here / Where the air’s so crisp, and I just wish I could stay / On this mountain where all is well,” Waller sings. Then comes the funny realization: “But I’ve looked around and nobody else / Seems to live here.” As much as one might enjoy euphoric experiences, most of our lives are lived in the valley, which is where God refines us and most of our learning takes place. The delicate female harmony on the chorus is a beautiful touch to a memorable song.

Waller is a skilled singer/songwriter, who occasionally slips into the modern worship mode as on the song “Fallen.” He continually weaves in Scripture from a variety of places – often in the same song – without it sounding wooden, giving the songs added power.

This is John Waller’s third recording. A song from a previous release, “While I'm Waiting," has the distinction of being the only track played in its entirety in the movie Fireproof, the No. 1 independent film of 2008.

You can check out the title track video here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jjRiNL1HKns.

Luke: The Gospel of Amazement - Michael Card

2011-05-11T18:22:00.000-07:00

Amazing commentary is a delight to read.

Luke: The Gospel of Amazement
Author: Michael Card
Publisher: IVP Books (www.books.ivpress.com)
Pages: 284

In Luke: The Gospel of Amazement Michael Card is a scholar. I have known him for years as a singer/songwriter, and more recently as an author, but more than ever this book shows how learned he is in the Scriptures.

Luke continually writes that people were amazed and in awe of Jesus. Card amazes by making the text come alive. Thanks in part goes to his late mentor, William Lane, who told him, “I am going to teach you how I read Scripture.” Lane’s approach is to read with “informed imagination.” It’s engaging the Bible with both heart and mind. It’s asking the right questions to find out what the text means.

Card starts with an astute introduction to Luke the person, which I immediately recognized as Card’s most insightful analysis and best writing. He moves on to major themes before making each chapter of Luke a chapter in the book.

Card describes one of Luke’s themes as “when those who should don’t, and those who shouldn’t do.” The least expected get the message while those who should understand reject it.

Reversal is a key concept in Luke. The blind see. The lame walk. The poor become rich through the gospel. The first are last, and the last first.

Card’s love affair with words, namely untranslatable ones like hesed, becomes apparent. It’s a word that God uses to describe himself. The best translation Card has found takes an entire line: “When the person from whom I have a right to expect nothing gives me everything.” The New Testament equivalent is normally translated “grace” or “mercy.” Card continually draws the reader’s attention to examples of its use.

Luke’s interest and eye for detail enables us to see more of the prayer life of Jesus. I also love how Luke shows Jesus’ concern and care for the marginalized, particularly his tender treatment and elevation of women, some of whom were his closest followers.

That is something this commentary is geared toward producing: faithful followers. Card is excellent at providing a clear, concise sense of the meaning of a passage, which is essential for personal application. He gives us a highly readable, imaginative and informed account of the life and ministry of Jesus. Even though the commentary is brief, the depth of it becomes even more apparent when he gives his reasons for occasionally departing from conventional wisdom. Plus, he does an excellent job in showing how the other gospel accounts differ and harmonize with Luke.

Aesthetically, the book is pleasing to the eye from the cover to the layout on each page. It clearly surpasses the ordinary fonts and styles found in most commentaries. The entire text of Luke is included and italicized to distinguish it from the commentary. Imaginative but simple outlines precede each chapter.

Aside from exceptions, the Scripture text is from the Holman Christian Standard Bible.

The chapters are short enough to be read in 15-20 minutes. Reading a chapter a day from Luke while following along in the commentary makes for a great devotional exercise.

This is the first of four books (one a year beginning this year) from Card that will cover each of the four gospels. A collection of songs based on each gospel will be released with the publication of each book and available separately (see Luke CD review).

If you are a fan of Michael Card’s music, Luke: A World Turned Upside Down is what you would expect: thoughtful reflections from Luke with acoustic guitar and piano led music. His special guests include Matthew Ward (2nd Chapter of Acts).

I enjoyed this book even more than some of his others that I have read. The scholarship is impressive, the meaning is clear, and it is well-written. It does not go into as much depth as more traditional commentaries, but it makes a great supplement to that kind of volume.

Many people rightly think of a commentary as a reference book to be used as a resource. This is meant to be read from cover to cover. It’s not written for the academic, which makes the content accessible to anyone who wants to know more about the life of Christ as seen through the gospel of Luke.

Luke: A World Turned Upside Down - Michael Card

2011-05-04T18:52:00.000-07:00

Commentary on Luke inspires Card’s latest

Luke: A World Turned Upside Down
Artist: Michael Card
Label: Covenant Artists, Distributed by InterVarsity Press
Length: 11 tracks/42:11 minutes

Few can turn Scripture into song as well as Michael Card. His lyrics cover every book in the Bible, but his new CD focuses on the gospel of Luke.

This collection is associated with Luke: The Gospel of Amazement (see separate review), which is the first of four commentaries on the gospels in Card’s Biblical Imagination Series. A commentary and CD on the remaining gospels will be released in each of the next three years.

Card is currently hosting Biblical Imagination seminars across the country teaching how to “engage with Scripture at the level of the informed imagination.” Judging from the quality of the commentary, and the response that he is receiving from the seminars, these events are worth attending.

Those who know Card’s music recognize that it has always been informed by the Scriptures, but with the release of his new commentary, it’s apparent that he is a scholar, having been mentored by the late William Lane.

His exposition of Luke provides the basis for these songs, which cover the life of Christ from beginning to end. For those who appreciate nativity songs, there are three that cover: the Magnificant (“What Sort of Song?”), Christ’s birth (“A King in a Cattle Trough”), and His dedication in the temple (“Simeon’s Song”). Jeff Taylor’s gentle accordion beautifully ties all three together.

Acoustic guitar and piano predominate making this a mellower, more folk-oriented offering than some earlier releases that had more pop and rock influences. It’s relaxed, mature and inspiring.

He employs banjo and uilleann pipes on an instrumental (“A Little Boy Lost”) and on the last song (“Seven Endless Miles”). His banjo playing is not fast, but steady and strong, and the interplay with the pipes is a delight. It gives these songs a Celtic feel.

“The Pain and Persistence of Doubt,” set between the crucifixion and the resurrection, is just piano and strings at their most mournful. It captures a mood of melancholy, since Christ’s followers were not expecting him to rise. The somber tone has a beauty of its own.

Community is important to Michael Card. He sees the creative muse springing from collaboration rather than solitude. Three of his four children contribute, along with Matthew Ward (2nd Chapter of Acts), Kirk Whalum, Scott Roley and others. Matthew Ward and Kirk Whalum (saxophone) are featured on the opening standout track (“A World Turned Upside Down”), and Ward also sings on “A Breath of a Prayer,” which is a combination of the Jesus Prayer and the Lord’s Prayer. Matthew Ward’s contribution drew me to this release, and though he and Card have been singing for many years, their voices remain strong.

On “Freedom,” Card starts off singing, “I am lost and I am bound / And I am captive to the shame that keeps holding me down.” With just piano, strings and vocals he succeeds in capturing the heart’s cry to be free from the burden of sin. I also appreciate that he continually points to Christ as the answer. He is our freedom. He is the bread and wine. Card doesn’t get any better than this for me. Each of his recordings has a gem like this that resonates deeply.

Ironically, this is the only song that is not directly tied to a passage in Luke. Perhaps it says something about the challenge of adapting scripture to song, which can make it sound wooden. More likely, “Freedom” is a favorite because the lyrics are personal and vulnerable, making them highly relatable to all of us who feel the burden of being human in a broken world.

I welcome scripture songs like the ones found here for the truth and life they contain. It’s not hard to appreciate how artful Michael Card is with these texts. Best of all, he fashions them in such a way that they point to Christ. He is the way, the truth and the life.

The Gospel of John: When Love Comes to Town

2011-04-04T16:03:00.000-07:00

A new type of commentary

The Gospel of John: When Love Comes to Town
Author: Paul Louis Metzger

Publisher: IVP Books (http://www.ivpress.com/) Pages: 302

The Gospel of John: When Love Comes to Town, which is part of the new Resonate Series of commentaries, is “a hybrid commentary where the best in biblical scholarship is coupled with theological reflection of the text that is accessible to the lay person.”

This is written for the non-academic. Instead of a verse by verse exegesis, author Paul Louis Metzger breaks the gospel of John into sections of thought that he makes into easy to read essays.

What makes this fun are frequent references to popular culture. Each one is done with an eye toward making scriptural truth relevant to everyday life. Occasionally, some readers may find the modern analogies tiresome, but Metzger uses them judiciously with dignity. Those who are averse to having U2 or other cultural icons invade their sacred space may want to skip this.

This makes an excellent companion to the standard commentary in the same way that a modern translation of the bible is a compliment to a more literal translation. Both are helpful for study.

Those who favor inspirational and application-oriented material will be well served. Most sections are short enough that they can serve the same purpose as a daily devotional.

It’s unique to be able to read a commentary like a book. Most commentaries are not written in an essay style. Don’t be surprised if this becomes a forerunner for others, and that’s not bad.

There are plenty of formal commentaries, with more being written all the time. There is a real need for making scholarly learning accessible and relevant to Christians outside the academic community without compromising the truth of Scripture.

The author succeeds admirably. I welcome the other volumes in the series. Church leaders and teachers will find them useful for sermon and lesson preparation, but again, they are written for Christians and even seekers who may not be schooled in the world of Scripture.

Indicative of the author’s humility, and a favorite essay, is “Doormats and Red Carpet” on John 13. “I like being called a servant leader,” Metzger says, “until someone treats me like one.” The red carpet refers to the triumphal entry in John 12 where a crowd rolls out the red carpet for Jesus. But Metzger sees Jesus rolling out the carpet, “Unlike most people for whom red carpets are rolled out, Jesus rolls out the red carpet for us because of his love for us and not because of our performance. If merit and performance were the criteria, we would get the doormat treatment instead.” Christ gave us an example by washing the feet of his disciples. “Now we are to roll out the red carpet for one another, even if that means becoming doormats for our brothers and sisters.”

Metzger illustrates by sharing the story of someone who lives out John 13. It’s not someone who is part of the “CEO church culture that prizes hierarchy and status and national platform.”

Gavin, who suffers from diabetes, is ordinary by the world’s standards. Many people might just see him as a doormat, but when Gavin volunteered to help Metzger move to a new home, Metzger saw something else. After all of the other helpers had gone home for the day, Gavin, despite having to taking breaks to recuperate and replenish because of his condition, insisted on staying until the work was done. Metzger and his wife wondered, who is this guy? They could not have completed their work that day if it had not been for Gavin.

This marked the beginning of a long-term relationship, one in which the author, has seen Gavin lead by his example of sacrificially loving and caring for others. Gavin gets that “Jesus has laid down his for him, rolling out the red carpet on the night of his passion so that Gavin can journey home to the Father’s house (Jn. 14:1-4). The more we experience Jesus’ red carpet treatment, the more we’ll lay ourselves down as doormats for others and live out the full extent of Jesus love….”

I wonder if humility is an overlooked attribute in biblical exegesis. Who we are determines in part how much we see. Metzger’s humility serves the reader well. His openness and honesty enable readers to get to the heart of the matter. He sees what is important.

In “Burnout” (Jn. 15:1-8) he writes, “It’s not how much I do, but how dependent I am on him and his word as I relate to others that makes the biggest impact, bears the most abundant fruit to the glory of God and shows that I am Jesus’ disciple (Jn. 15:7-8).”

It would be easy to provide more examples of the author’s rich devotional thought. This is a wonderful supplement to more formal commentaries. It’s not just something new and fresh; it’s a worthy addition to the growing body of scriptural exegesis. It’s an excellent resource for relating timeless truths to today’s world. Metzger is professor at Multnomah Biblical Seminary in Portland, Oregon and director of its Institute for the Theology of Culture: New Wine, New Wineskins (http://www.new-wineskins.org/).

A Place of Healing - Joni Eareckson Tada

2011-03-19T10:36:00.000-07:00

Joni’s swan song?

A Place of Healing: Wrestling with the Mysteries of Suffering, Pain and God’s Sovereignty
Author: Joni Eareckson Tada
Publisher: David C. Cook
Pages: 214

In A Place of Healing, Joni Eareckson Tada writes “in the midst of my experience, in the violence of a firefight, in the crush of circumstances, and in the vice grip of unrelenting pain,” which brings an immediacy to the entire book.

As hard as it is to live for more than 40 years as a quadriplegic in a wheelchair, Joni had become somewhat acclimated to it all. This book chronicles her agonizing battle with a season of unrelenting pain. This is prior to her more recent breast cancer diagnosis and subsequent treatment, which continues to this day.

Joni’s season of suffering, which she details in these pages, leads her to revisit questions about healing, suffering and God’s sovereignty. Having been exposed to popular and theological views on healing over the course of years, I found this to be one of the best and most balanced presentations that I have ever read.

There are repeated references and quotations from the book Miraculous Healing by Henry Frost, which has profoundly shaped her views. She articulates wisdom from this source and her own experience.

Regardless of where one falls on the theological spectrum, this is a valuable work that deserves a place in any theological library. The greatest value though will be to those who are personally wrestling with these issues. It’s biographical, transparent, winsome, encouraging and practical.

By the end, Joni is thanking God for her wheelchair. If God had healed her after her accident in 1967, none of her subsequent ministry (speaking, writing, broadcasting, singing, distributing wheelchairs, painting, etc.) would be in existence today.

One of the most moving chapters is filled with stories of people around the world who have received wheelchairs through Joni’s Wheels for the World ministry. It’s easy to see the hand of God in these accounts.

It’s a little hard reading about how much Joni has been suffering, but that is not the focus. She writes to bring glory to God and give hope to others. She is like a bird singing in the dark, waiting for the break of dawn. Her eyes are forward-looking, and she takes readers with her.

If she never writes another book, this is a fitting swan song.

At the Edge of Imperfection - Joseph Henschel

2011-03-18T16:42:00.000-07:00

Creativity spreads like wildflowers on worship recording

At the Edge of Imperfection
Artist: Joseph Henschel (http://www.josephhenschel.com/)
Label: Independent
Length: 12 tracks/53:02 minutes

Thankfully, we may have reached a stage where artists that create worship music are paying nearly as much attention to form as content. In earlier days a simple chorus and straightforward music garnered mass appeal. Artistry seemed to be secondary, with much of it sounding the same and not appealing to those with more refined tastes.

I see progress in recordings like At the Edge of Imperfection by Joseph Henschel. Sure, there are similarities with other recordings in the genre, but commonalities are inescapable. Some originality is what makes this a little different.

“Prelude” starts with the sounds of an old, scratchy vinyl record followed by the lone sounds of a piano made to sound like some forgotten recording. Though I have heard this before, it’s just one among several examples of the little touches sprinkled throughout this CD.

The song continues with acoustic guitar strumming that intensifies, building anticipation as Henschel repeats, “I was born to love you.” A crescendo followed by a solitary rhythmic electric guitar kick it up another notch, followed by the addition of drums. This is just the introduction to “Born to Love,” the second track.

The variation between acoustic sounds mingled with more modern ones works well. Just when “Ruler of My Heart” seems over, the last 30 seconds contain a quiet reprise of the lyrics accompanied by piano. Toward the end, “Awake the Day” has all the drive of a Coldplay song, but not unlike this influence who mix tranquil moments with rock, the last minute is a beautiful interplay of acoustic guitar, piano and angelic voices. As much as I like modern rock, these reprieves of quiet are my favorite moments.

Henschel deserves the credit. He produced and engineered this second release (he debuted with Capture Me on {L}istener Records) in such a way that like wildflowers bits of artistry pop up unexpectedly. The sound is clean and crisp and not over-produced.

The subject matter is what you would expect on a worship recording with alternating praise, declarations and pleas. He sings with obvious passion to music that matches his intensity.

One of the curiosities is the length of the title track, which is under two minutes. I should not be surprised. It’s another quiet, imaginative interlude that exudes the spirit of worship.

Don’t miss the hidden track at the end of “Beautiful Light.” It’s a fitting close, with nothing more than Henschel baring his soul to the strumming of his guitar.

If you download this and transfer it to a CD, don’t make the mistake of leaving a few seconds gap between tracks. Many of the songs are seamless (another creative plus), with the end of one being the beginning of another.

You can find At the Edge of Imperfection at Henschel’s website (see Artist listing above) and iTunes.

Beyond Opinion: Living the Faith That We Defend - Ravi Zacharias (Author and General Editor)

2011-02-14T18:10:00.000-08:00

Preparing heart and mind to defend the faith

Beyond Opinion: Living the Faith That We Defend
Author and General Editor: Ravi Zacharias
Managing Editor: Danielle DuRant
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Pages: 360

Normally, I would never recommend starting a book by reading the last chapter. Beyond Opinion is the rare exception. In the conclusion, Ravi Zacharias summarizes basic considerations and saves his acknowledgments to contributors for last. This serves as a fitting guide and a wonderful foretaste of the expertise to be found here.

Aside from this being an essential handbook for the 21st century apologist, I was struck by the quality of the contributions, which come from a multitude of individuals associated with Ravi Zacharias International Ministries. Those familiar with Zacharias know that he is one of the foremost Christian thinkers of our time. Reading these chapters, it is readily apparent that his associates are of the same spirit and write with the same competence and integrity. I am tempted to give Zacharias credit for assembling such an outstanding team, but I am sure that he would rightly give the glory to God. If Zacharias was to part from the scene today (God forbid!), his ministry would be in good hands and be a vital force to serve the Church for many years to come.

Apologetics is all about defending the Christian faith. It seeks to provide answers to seekers and skeptics alike. This is not a Josh McDowell Evidence that Demands a Verdict type of book that outlines what Christians believe and provides the evidence. It’s geared toward preparing the heart to engage the world with a vibrant faith that is seen as well as heard.

It does, however, delve into different belief systems. There are excellent overviews of postmodern belief, atheism, youth culture, Islam, eastern religions and challenges from science. But right from the start Zacharias identifies the biggest challenge: “As I have said many times, I have little doubt that the single greatest obstacle to the impact of the gospel has not been its inability to provide answers, but the inability on our part to live it out.”

Alister McGrath identifies this as an important factor in the rise of atheism, “One of the fundamental factors leading to the rise of atheism is a perception that belief in the divine does not lead to a morality that is clearly superior to that offered by secular culture.”

Again, the same theme emerges in a different light where Alison Thomas, in writing “Challenges from Youth,” quotes Nancy Pearcey, “In a world of spin and hype, the postmodern generation is searching desperately for something real and authentic. They will not take Christians seriously unless our churches and parachurch organizations demonstrate an authentic way of life—unless they are communities that exhibit the character of God in their relationships and mode of living.”

The importance of community is highlighted in different places throughout the book. This relational side of the Christian life comes into focus in L. T. Jeyachandran’s fascinating “The Trinity as a Paradigm for Spiritual Transformation.” God is a relational being. Taking that as a starting point, Jeyachandran makes the argument that “our emphasis on devotion to God tends to be an individualistic one and, in more than one unfortunate sense, is no different from the pursuits of Eastern religions. Religious showmanship today is often taken to be a sign of true spirituality. Against this backdrop, I submit that in the exercise of spiritual disciplines of every sort, we need to give to and receive from one another and thus, truly reflect the Trinitarian God whom we worship. Further, the Bible presents the understanding of true virtue as relational—summed up by the simple word love (1 Cor. 13; 2 Peter 1:5-7; 1 John 4:7-12, 16), which cannot be actualized except in relationships.” This corrective may not be new, but it cannot be emphasized enough in our highly individualized society.

This is one among many examples of how practical each writer makes the subject matter. It’s no less true for Zacharias in tackling the challenge of evil and suffering. He quotes one of his favorites, Malcolm Muggeridge, to show the importance of perspective, “Contrary to what might be expected, I look back on experiences that at the time seemed especially desolating and painful, with particular satisfaction. Indeed, I can say with complete truthfulness that everything I have learned in my seventy-five years in this world, everything that has truly enhanced and enlightened my existence, has been through affliction and not through happiness, whether pursued or attained…. This, of course is what the cross signifies. And it is the cross more than anything else, that has called me inexorably to Christ.”

Zacharias follows another favorite, F. W. Boreham, in his line of reasoning. Regardless of where he starts, he ends at the cross. The simple reason is that it explains more than many realize. I struggle to understand all the implications, but I’m challenged to see more as Zacharias points out, “What emerges from all of these thoughts is that God conquers not in spite of the dark mystery of evil, but through it.”

Reality is seen through the vantage point of the cross. Danielle DuRant provides a healthy dose of it in her perceptive analysis of idolatry, denial and self-deception. Stuart McAllister shares a trying personal experience that brought him to the end of himself as he explains the role of doubt and persecution in spiritual transformation. Zacharias brings the final words as he shares on the role of the church in apologetics and the development of the mind.

The contributions are uniformly excellent. They stimulate the mind, convict the conscience, and challenge the heart.

Surprised by Hope: Rethinking Heaven, the Resurrection, and the Mission of the Church - N. T. Wright

2011-01-30T07:06:00.000-08:00

Hope of the early church

Surprised by Hope: Rethinking Heaven, the Resurrection, and the Mission of the Church
Author: N. T. Wright
Publisher: HarperOne
Pages: 332

Surprised by Hope by N. T. Wright feels like one of the most significant books that I have read. This may put me on thin ice with my evangelical, pre-tribulation rapture friends who might be aghast at Wright’s take on the subject.

Wright sees the rapture as a misunderstanding of two scripture passages attributed to the apostle Paul: 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 and 1 Corinthians 15:51-54. Wright’s brief analysis is plausible but not necessarily irrefutable. I appreciate his reasoning even if I am not sure if he is correct. I knew there were Christians who didn’t believe in the rapture, but this is the first time that I can see why.

There are scholarly books on each side of the debate, but logic leads me to believe that two contradictory views cannot both be correct. The rapture will either occur or it will not. Reading Wright made me want to find an expert on the subject who could give me a definitive answer. There are two sides to an argument, and sometimes the first seems right until we have heard from another.

Fortunately, one’s belief about the rapture will not determine one’s destiny. I am glad that the deciding factor is our relationship with Christ. When we are reconciled to God through faith in Christ, our future is secure. Just as Christ rose from the dead, so we too will one day rise, which is what this book is all about.

The rapture debate is just a side issue. Wright believes in the second coming of Christ. He emphasizes that the Scriptures speak of God coming to us, rather than us going to Him. The separation between the physical and spiritual realms will be done away at Christ’s appearing. In His wake will be the new heavens and the new earth.

The bulk of the book is about the hope of the early church being a physical, bodily resurrection and how that relates to us today. Wright convincingly supports the idea that the earliest Christians had their hopes set on a physical resurrection from the dead. This is the substantive teaching of Scripture as opposed to just an immaterial existence in heaven, the belief that you go to heaven when you die. Wright acknowledges that to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord, but this is an in between state while we wait for the resurrection of our bodies.

I could not help wondering why in my 30 plus years of being a Christian I was taught so little about this. This hope caught me by surprise because so often the focus has been on receiving Christ so that you can go to heaven when you die. I would never want to minimize the importance of putting one’s faith in Christ for eternal life, but as Chuck Colson states in Christianity Today (December 2010), this is not the whole picture: “He (Jesus) was talking about the eschatological certainty that in the end, God’s reign will be made manifest. His message is teleological; it is to the world. It is not just to us as individuals: ‘Come to the cross and you can be saved.’ As wonderfully significant as that is for every one of us, and as grateful as I will always be for the night that Christ came into my life, it’s all part of a much larger purpose. I am being saved from my sin so that I may serve him in the building of his kingdom, the establishing of his rule. The really good news is that the gospel isn’t just about you or me. God has saved us as part of a larger plan, the coming of his kingdom.” Colson is arguing that the Good News has often been reduced to a personal self-help story.

One reason I enjoy Wright is because he expounds a gospel that is immense in scope, reaching to the world, encompassing Old and New Testaments, and revealing the breadth, length, height and depth of God’s story. It’s such a pleasure to gain an all-encompassing view through his scholarly and practical analysis that can appeal to academic and non-academic.

I can see from reading a recent article about the differences between what Jesus and Paul preached that Wright’s perspective is colored more by Christ’s preaching on the kingdom of God than Paul’s emphasis on justification by faith. I am sure that Wright would agree that these two perceived distinctives are not at odds, but it’s interesting to note some Christians tend to emphasize one or the other.

Wright’s emphasis is not to be confused with a “kingdom now” theology where Christians take over the present world. It’s more along the lines of making visible in myriads of small, practical ways the kingdom that Christ has inaugurated. Each act of love, every expression of truth, the creation of beauty and the rendering of service in His name are like signs pointing to this reality, which is becoming more visible in this world. Colson again provides a similar perspective: “In the interim, while we personally cannot usher in the kingdom (only God can do that), we can faithfully live as citizens of the kingdom to come. The Beatitudes, for example, give us a pattern of life for that coming kingdom that we can aim to live out now.”

I like how Wright emphasizes that nothing is wasted in God’s economy. We don’t have to look at the state of the world and think that there is nothing that we can do. It’s not a matter of just waiting idly until Jesus returns. We have the privilege of being ambassadors for a kingdom that began when Christ rose, will be consummated when He returns, but is even now breaking into the world as we live out, “your will be done on earth as it is heaven.”

2011-01-16T05:57:00.001-08:00

Like fall, the colors are exquisite

When I’m With You
Artist: JJ Heller (http://www.jjheller.com/)
Label: Independent
Length: 10 tracks/35:42 minutes

With the world as her medium, JJ Heller creates with beautiful colors on When I’m With You. Warm and vibrant tones characterize love songs like the title track and “Boat Song.” “Tell It Again” and “Until You Came Along” had me wondering if God was the subject or her husband. It is the latter, but there is plenty here for those who savor relationships, both the human and divine.

This recording is a great antidote for the times in which we live, where good is bad and bad is good. It exudes goodness and childlike wonder. There is a gentleness that makes me “believe in love.” Boats and sky, trees and birds take their place in honoring love that blossoms. To employ the language of the psalmist, “Steadfast love and faithfulness meet; righteousness and peace kiss each other” (Psalm 85:10 ESV). Heller’s relationship with God holds these things in harmony.

These whimsical sketches had me thinking of Katie Herzig. The rich spectrum of musical tones brought to mind the early work of The Innocence Mission. The thoughtful lyrics reminded me of Sara Groves. If I didn’t know it was Heller, I would think Groves was performing “Olivianna,” the story of one who has gone to a better place.

Theologian N. T. Wright has written often on the future to come, when all shall be made new. I think he would appreciate “Kingdom Come,” which expresses these things so succinctly. It is the theme of several of his books. Here it is a simple, worshipful look toward the future.

What adds to the beauty is the uncluttered production of Mitch Dane and Ben Shive. It’s an understated collection of pop with folk and rock influences. Heller’s voice is strong and clear, making it easy to hear the words.

Songs like “Control” and “No Fight Left” are an engaging look at an old theme: surrender. Even the cooler tints feel warm.

Heller has become a new favorite with this recording. Like the fall season, the colors on display are exquisite, enriching my life.

Heller gained national attention when her song, “Your Hands,” from Painted Red (2008) was used by a contestant auditioning for the FOX TV show, “So You Think You Can Dance?” A radio station manager, who happened to be watching, decided to play the song for his audience. The station was inundated with calls from listeners who resonated with what they heard. The song was picked-up by nearly 60 Christian adult contemporary stations, including K-LOVE, the largest Christian radio network in the US.

“Your Hands” stayed on Billboard Magazine’s Christian Songs chart for 24 weeks, peaking at #13. Painted Red peaked at #12 on Billboard’s Folk Albums chart.

Outlaw - Mark Chesnutt

2011-01-04T19:01:00.000-08:00

A tribute to country music outlaws

Outlaw
Artist: Mark Chesnutt (http://www.markchesnutt.com/)
Label: Saguaro Road Records
Length: 12 tracks/45:41 minutes

On Outlaw, Mark Chesnutt pays tribute to the songs that “brought him to the dance.” “I cut my teeth on this kind of music,” Chestnutt said. “It’s an opportunity for me to pay tribute to some of my biggest heroes in country music.”

This Texan enjoys a special kinship with some of the performers and writers who made these songs popular. Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson and Kris Kristofferson, along with songwriters Billy Joe Shaver and Guy Clark, all come from Texas. Rather than permanently move to Nashville, Chesnutt chose to keep Beaumont, Texas as his hometown.

The tracks are a mix of Chesnutt’s neotraditional style that alternates between honky-tonk and ballads. The lyrics may not be as familiar, but the chorus on Kristofferson’s “Sunday Mornin’ Comin’ Down” is immediately recognizable. It’s an impressive song that Chesnutt performs to perfection. He gives Neil Young’s “Are You Ready for the Country” (recorded by Waylon Jennings) a grit that Young’s version never had. Another standout is “A Couple More Years,” previously done by Willie Nelson, and recorded here as a duet with Amber Digby.

The production, musicianship and vocals are impeccable throughout. The songs live up to the album title with plenty of stories about women, partying and a hard lifestyle. That’s not to say that this doesn’t have its tender moments. Kristofferson’s “Lovin’ Her Was Easier” and “Freedom to Stay” (recorded by Waylon Jennings) are beautifully rendered love songs.

Chesnutt can honky-tonk with the best, but his reverent interpretations of classic ballads moved me the most. You can hear the pathos in the closing “Desperados Waiting for a Train.”

Outlaw is Chesnutt’s fourteenth studio recording. Along the way, he has earned four platinum and five gold albums plus fourteen #1 singles. This modern-day outlaw shows no signs of slowing down with this heartfelt work.

Kerrie Roberts

2011-01-02T16:55:00.000-08:00

Soulful, ministry-minded pop

Kerrie Roberts – Self-titled debut (http://www.kerrieroberts.com/)
Label: Reunion Records
Length: 10 tracks/39:43 minutes

Kerrie Roberts’ self-titled debut is a ministry-minded collection of soulful pop. Don’t get the wrong idea. These are well-crafted songs that don’t suffer from being message-driven. Roberts gets excellent support from talented producers and musicians. It’s just that Roberts, who has a hand in writing every track, has a heart to console and encourage those weighed down by life. Encouragement may be an overlooked ministry, but it has never been more vital.

Hope gets expressed in thoughtful ways. It’s a little like taking the lyrics of Cindy Morgan and combining them with the vocals of Jana Long (Avalon) and Nicol Sponberg (formerly Selah). All three of these women could serve as wonderful mentors.

The music varies. “No Matter What,” released as a single, has a programmed hip-hop rhythm, which works well. There are hints of this elsewhere, but Roberts also uses pop, rock, soul, gospel, inspirational and even club music. Speaking of the latter, “Outcast,” is a sassy dance song about self acceptance in the face of being rejected as not good enough by the in-crowd. Cindy Morgan shares writing credits.

“Love Comes Down,” produced by Brown Bannister, has a small gospel choir that gives it extra punch. The closing, “Savior to Me (Sing Glory),” is a song of worship.

Lyrically, the words are subtle enough to appeal to non-Christians and could serve as a bridge to faith. The encouragement to never, never, never give up (as John Wesley put it) is universally appreciated.

This pastor’s daughter succeeds in her stated purpose: “I want every song to leave people with a sense of purpose – a call to action, a realization of truth, a promotion of hope and healing.”

Wonder - Michael W. Smith

2010-12-28T19:01:00.000-08:00

Still creating wonder

Wonder
Artist: Michael W. Smith (http://www.michaelwsmith.com/)
Label: Provident Label Group
Length: 12 songs/53:54 minutes

Michael W. Smith’s Wonder, his 22nd album, combines the best elements of his recent releases: passionate worship, heartfelt pop and a touch of classical and orchestral arrangements (a la Freedom).

The opening song and first single, “Save Me From Myself,” makes it clear that this is not a praise and worship recording. It blasts from the start with a massive guitar-driven sound. The three songs that follow, however, are on par with his recent praise-oriented recordings. The downside is that the atmospheric, arena rock sound, common to artists like Hillsong, has become almost too prevalent.

Smith gets more personal on “Forever Yours” and “You Belong to Me,” which are beautifully penned and performed odes to Smith’s wife Debbie. The former is similar in content to “I Will Be Here” by Steven Curtis Chapman. Both highlight fidelity to one’s spouse. They also feature Smith’s piano playing, always a delight to hear, and his proficiency as an arranger.

“Welcome Home” wonderfully balances the grief of losing someone with the joy of knowing that they have entered their rest. The lovely melody keeps this from being overly melancholy, which makes this an ideal song for a memorial or funeral service. It exudes hope in sadness.

The title track is a whirlwind of synthesizer-led pop holding forth God’s nearness and all-sufficiency. This and many of the songs convey encouragement while acknowledging harsh realities. “I think this record can bring healing,” Smith said in an interview with Charisma. “Times are tough, and I personally believe it’s a record for our time.”

This is especially true on “One More Time” where affirming words float on a bubbling melody. Smith comes along side saying, keep on reaching … keep on moving.

At first “Leave” is like the dark side of one of the Psalms. The instrumentation is sparse, a lone acoustic guitar helping to paint a bleak picture. A young person struggles with abuse at home. If that isn’t bad enough, outsiders give conflicting advice including, Why don’t you just kill yourself? It’s from that place of brokenness that he reaches upward for help, hoping and then believing that God is there. Because it’s so different, it may be my favorite.

This recording is one of the first to use a new technology that allows songs to be cut direct to tape instead of digital, providing additional warmth and depth. “Sonically I think it’s the best thing I’ve ever done,” Smith said.

The album closes with “Take Me Over” a worshipful orchestral pop tune.

Smith’s skill as a music composer (his greatest strength) is what impressed me from the earliest days of his career. Even though he is somewhat constrained by the limitations of pop and praise songs, his brilliance still shines through. Smith’s creative flourishes keep me listening.

Christmas on Highway 101 DVD - Highway 101

2010-12-21T17:04:00.000-08:00

Excellent country versions of classic Christmas songs

Christmas on Highway 101 DVD
Artist: Highway 101
Uptone Pictures and Pure Flix Entertainment (www.pureflix.com/highway101)
Running time: Approximately one hour

Christmas on Highway 101 by the country music group Highway 101 features excellent pop renditions of classic and inspirational Christmas songs. These are highly accessible versions of “Joy to the World,” “Little Drummer Boy,” “The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire,” “Deck the Halls,” “O Holy Night,” “Six Gold Coins,” “Away in a Manger,” “Let it Snow,” “We Three Kings,” and “Jingle Bells.”

This production has the band miming studio recordings at the Great Wolf Lodge in Concord, North Carolina. The only exception is a brief live version of “Let it Snow” performed around a piano. “Six Gold Coins” is an original song that tells a story, which is fleshed-out by actors in a music video. The setting for the other songs is the lodge, which is beautifully decorated with lights, trees and ornamentation.

In between the songs, band members share brief and humorous Christmas recollections. Old home movies and scenes of Christmas lights are also woven into the stories. The tone is upbeat throughout. The band members are relaxed and clearly enjoying the opportunity to do this project.

The studio recordings sound superb, but watching the band perform to the tracks can be slightly distracting if you notice any syncing that is off. It’s well-done, but I wonder if playing the songs live would have been better.

The content does not delve much into the spiritual side of the holiday aside from the songs, which speak for themselves. It’s definitely family-friendly, suitable for all ages.

Wynonna Judd makes a curious cameo (she is seen for just a few seconds) and does not sing.

Highway 101 has been together for over 22 years, winning two CMA Awards and two ACM Awards for Vocal Group of the Year along the way. They have been on Billboard’s Country Chart more than 15 times. Best of all, they make these Christmas songs instantly likeable with a country flavor that sounds fresh.

A Place for Truth: Leading Thinkers Explore Life’s Hardest Questions

2010-12-21T16:47:00.000-08:00

Discovering truth in a university setting

A Place for Truth: Leading Thinkers Explore Life’s Hardest Questions (http://www.veritas.org/)
Editor: Dallas Willard
Publisher: IVP Books (books.ivpress.com)
Pages: 326

Despite all the advances in knowledge, universities, with their reliance on science, at best deal uncomfortably with questions about truth and meaning. In 1992, inspired by Harvard’s motto, Veritas (truth), a small group of Harvard Christians led by Chaplain Kelly Monroe hosted a weekend of lectures and discussions at the university that explored some of life’s most important questions. That first Veritas Forum was the impetus for more than 100 universities in the US, Canada, the UK, France, and the Netherlands for holding their own forums.

Being hosted by Christians, their purpose, as summarized in part of their mission statement, is no surprise: “We seek to inspire the shapers of tomorrow’s culture to connect their hardest questions with the person and story of Jesus Christ.”

The book features presentations on a range of topics from leading Christian thinkers with varied backgrounds. The late Richard John Neuhaus, Os Guinness, Timothy J. Keller, Alister McGrath, Hugh Ross, N. T. Wright, Dallas Willard and Ronald J. Sider are among the contributors. Each chapter identifies the forum location, date, subject and speaker(s). Sometimes the format is a debate that provides a Christian and a secular position. Pete Singer represents the latter in debating, “Does Atheism or Theism Provide the Best Foundation for Human Worth and Mortality?”

This volume brings together the best Veritas lectures. It’s a delight to read such highly developed and civil arguments. Non-Christians open to a faith perspective will most likely appreciate the winsome tone and the thoughtful basis for Christian conviction. Since the presenters were addressing general audiences, the material in most cases is easy to follow and not too technical.

The openness and frankness is astonishing. Where else in our society can you find this kind of dialog? It’s a shame that rational discussion about these topics is generally not tolerated in public settings.

The Veritas Forums are obviously meeting a need in our culture that secular institutions are unwilling or unable to address. The campuses serving as hosts deserve credit for facilitating these valuable events.

Some of the speakers include their personal stories of conversion, which provides context for their thought. One of the more dramatic is given by Mary Poplin in her talk, “Radical Marxist, Radical Womanist, Radical Love: What Mother Teresa Taught Me about Social Justice.” Her quest for meaning led her to India to work alongside Mother Teresa. What this radical professor learned gave her the desire to become a Christian.

One may not agree with all of the ideas. Francis Collins supports a non-literal reading of Genesis in his attempts to reconcile creation and science. Ronald J. Sider’s holistic approach to the gospel is a challenge to find the right balance between evangelism and social action. Regardless of one’s persuasion, communication of the logic and reasoning behind the various views makes this rewarding.

Pilate famously said to Jesus, “What is truth?” However he may have meant it, this book is an excellent resource for wrestling with that question and all its implications. More often than not, it succeeds in pointing the way toward personal discovery.

Might this book even encourage a love of the truth? That is something that all can aspire to gain. If this book like the forums that it represents nurtures that in the hearts of readers, it will provide a valuable service.

Bethlehem Skyline 2 - Various Centricity Music artists

2010-12-16T09:15:00.000-08:00

Some great new Christmas songs

Bethlehem Skyline 2
Various Centricity Music artists
Label: Centricity Music (http://www.centricitymusic.com/site/)
Length: 14 tracks/53:47 minutes

Bethlehem Skyline 2 is worth having for the new Christmas songs created by a variety of Centricity Music artists. This is a follow-up to the original Bethlehem Skyline (2006).

With the exception of High Valley and Andrew Peterson, who each contribute one track to this CD, the other artists have two songs: a traditional Christmas song and an original composition.

The best cover is “Away in a Manger” by High Valley. The country trio fill it with warm acoustic sounds that include a Dobro. How can you not like a song with Dobro?

My favorite original is Andrew Peterson’s folksy “Long, Long Ago.” Of course, I might be a bit biased since Peterson is one of my favorites.

“Starving Artist Christmas” by Lanae’ Hale may be the best written humorous Christmas song that I have ever heard. The Downhere songs are two of the best from How Many Kings: Songs for Christmas (2009). All of the other songs appear to be unique to this release.

Me in Motion’s opening “Give It Away” is terrific. It exudes the same vitality and creativity heard on their self-titled release. Expect to hear more from this band.

Jason Gray’s “Love Has a Name” is another winner for him. He is a recent discovery for me and continues to be a favorite. I think highly of the entire Centricity roster. It’s hard to lose on one of their releases.

The covers are good but don’t move me like the new songs. The latter are so well-done, I would have enjoyed an album of all originals, but I recognize what a challenge it is for the artist. They all deserve credit for creating such great new songs.

Authentic Communication: Christian Speech Engaging Culture - Tim Muehlhoff and Todd V. Lewis

2010-11-14T17:39:00.000-08:00

Integrating biblical truth with communication theories

Authentic Communication: Christian Speech Engaging Culture

Authors: Tim Muehlhoff and Todd V. Lewis
Publisher: IVP Academic (www.ivpress.com)
Pages: 219

Authentic Communication by Tim Muehlhoff and Todd V. Lewis is written for students majoring in communication studies, but it has something to offer to any Christian interested in the subject.

This book is part of the Christian Worldview Integration Series, which is designed to show how Christian convictions relate to the issues and ideas in a college major, career or the culture at large. The authors admirably demonstrate how biblical concepts and communication theories can work together to produce a more effective witness.

One need not look past the Series Preface, written by Francis J. Beckwith and J. P. Moreland, to find practical applications. One point that has largely been overlooked in our day is the value of Christians becoming familiar with subjects outside of the Bible. The editors reference an address by John Wesley, who admonished ministers to know logic, metaphysics, natural theology, geometry and the ideas of important figures in the history of philosophy. Wesley saw that study in these areas (especially philosophy and geometry) sharpens the mind to think precisely, which is a great asset for theology and Scripture. He saw it as a means of growth and maturity, recognizing that we can learn from those who are outside the faith.

Part one of the book deals with components: definitions, perspective taking, the use of words, and the art of persuasion. One of the key points of this section is summarized in a chapter conclusion: “If the term Christian was originally intended to mean ‘little Christ,’ then perhaps we should ask God to make us into the kinds of people who sound and act more like Christ, and less like highly predictable pseudosaviors with our own selfish motives driving our persuasion efforts. I’d love for someone to say to me, ‘He sounds like he’s been with Jesus!’ ”

Part two focuses on application. It begins with an excellent Christian perspective of conflict management. Here, and elsewhere, the reader may occasionally long for greater depth, but that is outside the scope of this introductory study. On the plus side, the book does provide a broad overview of each area with sufficient detail and analysis. A chapter on communicating forgiveness follows.

The remainder of the book is the most stimulating. These chapters touch on how Christians should relate to popular culture. The authors summarize the basic premise: “We must guard against merely copying secular social networks for Christian fellowship. Instead we should embrace the more difficult task of engaging the popular culture with our faith-driven worldviews offered in reasonable and civil responses.”

The authors use William Wilberforce to introduce the idea of a counterpublic, who work to change the publics’ perception. “Counterpublics operate within mainstream culture to challenge the dominant culture’s understanding of their beliefs and the message they advance.” Beginning in the late 1700s, Wilberforce worked hard to change political and public opinion leading to the abolishment of slavery in the British Empire. Against the idea of being “treasonous revolutionaries,” Wilberforce portrayed abolitionists as “reformers who wanted to help the existing government be righteous in the eyes of God.”

A crucial point, one which has applicability to other disciplines, is made by media-ethics scholar Clifford Christians, “Unless we come to grips with our field’s core – its intellectual life – our impact will be partial and ineffective…. We need a powerful stream of Christian thinking that academia as a whole cannot ignore.” This is reinforced by a thought from C. S. Lewis when he writes that what “we want is not more little books about Christianity, but more little books by Christians on other subjects – with their Christianity latent.” This is what this book and others in the series are trying to foster – integrating biblical scholarship with the finest academic knowledge of our day.

One example is found in the second to the last chapter, “Abnormal Communication.” It addresses the following questions: “Is there a communication strategy we can employ that would bring honor to Christ? Specifically, what do we do when encountering people who not only disagree with us but are hostile?” Christians are guilty of adopting the adversarial tactics of our culture. This continues degenerative communication spirals and hardens opponents in their position. Philosopher Richard Rorty identifies what we need as abnormal discourse. This occurs when someone entering a discourse is unaware of established patterns of communication or deliberately chooses to set them aside. One form of this places “dialogic civility over conquest.” The authors provide biblical examples using Jesus, Paul and Peter. “The end result may not be agreement, but it will at least be respect and civility – a communication goal highly valued by the writers of these ancient proverbs.”

The book closes with the chapter, “Social Justice: Speaking for the Marginalized.”

This is an excellent primer, integrating biblical truth and communication theories.

Ancient Christian Texts: Incomplete Commentary on Matthew (Opus imperfectum)

2010-11-09T19:17:00.000-08:00

Early commentator gets voice at the table

Ancient Christian Texts: Incomplete Commentary on Matthew (Opus imperfectum)
Author: Kellerman, James A. (Translator and Author of Introduction and Notes)
Publisher: IVP Academic (www.ivpress.com)
Pages: 213

“Tradition means giving votes to the most obscure of all classes, our ancestors. It is the democracy of the dead. Tradition refuses to submit to the small and arrogant oligarchy of those who merely happen to be walking about,” writes G. K. Chesterton in this well-known quotation from Orthodoxy. What the Ancient Christian Texts commentary series does is bring classic Christian writings to the table so that they too have a voice in the exposition and application of Scripture.

Like the unknown author of this incomplete commentary on Matthew, who was steeped in an early exegetical tradition, their style and content differ from modern commentators. They see things that those of us who are walking around might miss.

That’s not to say that this particular volume doesn’t have its deficiencies. It’s missing Matthew 8:14-10:15, 14-18 and 26-28. The text consists of 27 homilies covering the balance of the passages and an index.

Theologically, the author has “one of the milder forms of Arianism that survived in the fifth century.” A handful of passages reflect the author’s understanding that the Son is inferior to the Father. The author also has views that have been characterized as Pelagianism, but may be more indicative of an asceticism that may seem Pelagian. The translator explains it like this: “holiness and sanctification receive far more attention than grace and forgiveness, and there is a greater emphasis on the power of the human will to resist evil and to choose good.”

Marriage is seen as something that “ceases to be sin, nonetheless it does not deserve to be called righteousness.” The commentator believes that Joseph never knew Mary after Jesus was born, “Joseph saw that she remained a virgin after her birth…. But after he (Joseph) learned that she had been made the temple of the only-begotten God, how could he have taken possession of this temple?” The attentive reader will encounter other questionable thought. Additionally, some of the allegories are tedious.

Like the previous commentary that I read in this series, what makes this worth reading are the devotional insights, which obviously stem from the devout lifestyle of the commentator. He lifts up a standard of holiness that is challenging. There is much that edifies.

It springs from the author’s practical orientation. This is highlighted in his views on teaching: “Teaching was invented not so much for the sake of revealing obscure matters as much as for the sake of stirring up the heart and spirit…. Let him who teaches be an example of his own words so that he might teach more by his actions than by his speech, as the apostle said to Timothy, ‘Set the believer an example.’”

His devout outlook also lends beauty to his writing: “When the sun is getting near its rising point, before it appears, it sends out its rays and makes the east grow light, that the dawn that goes before it may show the coming of the day. So when the Lord was born into the world, before he appeared, he illumined John (the Baptist) by imparting the splendor of his Spirit to him, that he might go before him and announce the coming of the Savior …”

Rather than read this like a book, which can be wearisome, it’s better to use this as a resource to supplement your own study of Matthew. If one’s heart is focused on what can be gleaned, you can easily pass over the chaff to find what will be beneficial.

The ancients still speak and their voice is still heard. It will be worthwhile to have all the volumes in this series.

2010-10-21T14:23:00.000-07:00

Caught-up in a wave of worship

A Beautiful Exchange
Artist: Hillsong Live
Label: Sparrow
Length: 13 tracks/75:14 minutes

A friend who has been a fan of Hillsong Live recordings expressed his disappointment that recent ones seemed to feature Darlene Zschech a little less than earlier recordings. On A Beautiful Exchange she leads two songs (“Greatness of Our God” and “Believe”), which are among the best on this release.

The reason why she isn’t spotlighted more may be twofold: the presence of equally-talented songleaders (they deserve an opportunity to use their gifts), and perhaps the desire to keep the focus on God rather than any one person, since this series is all about worshipping Him.

The male vocalists lead songs that have more of a rock edge, and the more that I listened, the better the songs sounded. The rock never gets too heavy, which gives this broad appeal. The songs are often atmospheric and anthem-like, building to a crescendo like a cresting wave, receding and sometimes coming back again.

Brooke Fraser takes the lead on “Like Incense/Sometimes by Step,” which combines poetic stanzas with the familiar chorus written by Beaker and recorded by Rich Mullins. Here and periodically it’s great to hear the voices of all those in attendance. It’s an exhilarating experience to be surrounded by thousands of people worshipping God in song. Aside from the CD, you can share these moments by picking up the DVD release of this title. I did not have a copy to review, but judging from past DVDs, it’s the next best thing to being there.

After so many CD and DVD releases over the years, what works against Hillsong is that their songs tend to be similar-sounding. The mix can also be a little muddy because it’s live, and there are multiple musicians playing similar instruments. The radio version of “Forever Reign,” a studio cut, at the end is a pleasant change-up, even if it lacks some of the energy of the live version.

In writing new songs, there is always the danger of inadvertently using clichés that creep in here and there. Hopefully, Hillsong will rise to the challenge of drawing on those fresh springs of inspiration. It’s not that they don’t do it here; I like what they have done, but I hope they can somehow reinvent themselves a little in the future.

I give them credit for continuing to modernize their sound in small ways (compare this with past releases), and they may do live worship as well as any. Fans won’t be disappointed.

As long as you are not adverse to contemporary styles, it’s hard to listen to this and not feel the spirit of praise.

Counting Stars - Andrew Peterson

2010-09-30T19:25:00.000-07:00

Lost in wonder at these stars

Counting Stars
Artist: Andrew Peterson (http://www.andrew-peterson.com/)
Label: Centricity Music
Length: 12 tracks/43:44 minutes

I am a huge fan of Andrew Peterson, having almost all of his releases. Counting Stars may be his best yet and my personal favorite. What is somewhat surprising is that this is a little more acoustic and folksy than some of his recent recordings that were more rock oriented. For those who favor the latter, and want to hear Peterson cut loose, this could be a slight disappointment as the songs tend to be mellower.

The two songs that are driving, “You Came So Close” and “The Reckoning (How Long)” differ stylistically from the others in that they employ more electronic sounds and percussion. They almost don’t fit, but they do provide contrast.

Most of the songs are mid-tempo and are awash in beautiful acoustic sounds. “The Magic Hour” and “Isle of Skye” are piano-driven and bathed in minimal but gorgeous accompaniment. Perhaps Peterson was signaling this intention with the opening “Many Roads,” which starts with nothing but strings.

That’s not to say that this is sparse. Produced by Ben Shive with Andy Gullahorn, who also perform on piano (Shive) and guitar (Gullahorn), there is a rich blend of sounds. The prevalence of warm acoustic tones gives this a timeless quality.

Peterson’s songwriting is as good as ever. It’s interesting that though there are no songs written specifically for “praise and worship,” this leads me to such a peaceful place that I want to look up in wonder at the stars that are too numerous to count. The lyrics are mature and poetic communicating hope and encouragement. As he typically does, Andrew weaves thoughts and stories about family life together with lofty spiritual themes.

On “World Traveler” he surprises with lines about a personal journey, “I walked the hills of the human soul, a tender girl / I’m a world traveler /She opened the gate and took my hand, led me into the mystic land where galaxies swirl / So many mysteries I never will unravel / I want to travel the world.”

His first music video, something he promised himself that he would never do, also pays tribute to his wife. Peterson said he gets emotional every time he sees the older couples dancing in “Dancing in the Minefields.” You can watch the YouTube video here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NtTa81LyuQM&feature=related. It’s so well done that I hope he does this again.

I’m sure that a lot of work went into this, but the flow makes this feel like this is more than just Peterson striving to come up with something. The Psalmist reminds us that “Unless the LORD builds the house, those who build it labor in vain” (Psalm 127:1a ESV). God must have had a hand in this because Peterson’s labor has not been in vain. It has little of the edginess heard in some previous work, but that’s part of what makes this so inviting. God’s peace runs through it like a river. This is a masterpiece of folk, pop and spiritual reflection.

2010-09-19T19:46:00.000-07:00

An artistic triumph

In Feast or Fallow
Artist: Sandra McCracken (http://www.sandramccracken.com/)
Label: Independent
Length: 15 tracks/53:39 minutes

On In Feast or Fallow, Sandra McCracken makes hymns sound old and new. The lyrics could come out of any hymnbook, though all but one, “Faith’s Review and Expectation (Amazing Grace),” are not the familiar ones so often covered. The production and electronic sounds (particularly various keyboards) give the basic acoustic instrumentation an alternative feel that is rooted in the past but also has a modern sensibility. It’s a taste of Americana with a contemporary flavor.

It’s a masterful and unique blend that combines the talents of McCracken and husband Derek Webb. The latter makes his presence known as producer and provider of back-up support without ever being intrusive. This is one of their finest moments both individually and as a couple.

This overflows with creativity. Listeners may scratch their heads wondering how a particular sound was produced. Webb’s studio wizardry provides a quirky blend of retro and slightly off-kilter sounds. Diverse notes take their place without jostling each other or thinking it strange that they occupy the same place. They harmonize to create a sound that is both earthy and spiritual.

The music is both sparse and richly textured. It’s a tapestry of sound worthy for such eloquent compositions.

This is not a run-of-the-mill hymns recording. It’s probably not for those who just want conservative, straightforward renderings. However, those who appreciate the way an artist can create as she sees it will want to give this a try.

The opening “Petition” is a precursor of things to come. It starts with an intro, a common element on this CD, consisting of spindly synthesized sounds that seemingly bounce off the walls. Simple piano chords kick-in as McCracken begins to sing. It builds with layers of sound.

As she sings, “You raise your hand to still the storms / that rage inside my head /Revive my heart with gratitude /Love quell my doubt and dread,” the only music you hear are the warm tones of an electric guitar. The rest of the music returns like a welcome friend on the chorus.

The layers go beyond the music. The words here and throughout this release plumb the depths of theology in a way seldom heard outside of hymns.

One of the more driving songs, “Justice Will Roll Down,” with its memorable chorus and vision of equity will most likely be a favorite of many. The title song, another standout, is a folk anthem with multiple vocalists.

This is one of the best and most artistic hymn recordings ever conceived. McCracken’s previous hymn effort, The Builder and the Architect, is also excellent and worth having.

I Have a Song - Shannon Wexelberg

2010-09-18T18:14:00.000-07:00

Encouragement wrapped in hope

I Have a Song
Artist: Shannon Wexelberg (http://www.shannonwexelberg.com/)
Label: Discovery House Music (www.dhp.org/music)
Length: 11 tracks/58:38 minutes

On “Jehovah Shalom” Shannon Wexelberg sings, “In the darkness Your presence wraps around me / Like a blanket of rest that covers me.” It’s a comforting thought, one of many on I Have a Song. The Biblical worldview, winsome melodies and inspirational pop provide powerful consolation.

It springs from a season of suffering. When Wexelberg began writing in the spring of 2009 (aside from a few hymns she writes all the songs), her husband had just started to recover from a terrible motorcycle accident in which he broke 23 bones and endured three major surgeries. As she applied the finishing touches in early 2010, a devastating earthquake struck Haiti on January 12th. As she pondered these events, she could not escape a bigger reality; God is faithful and full of love. Even in tragedy there is hope. There is music. There is song.

The title track epitomizes this release. The music is basic and highly accessible, tending toward adult contemporary and inspirational. The words have depth and restrained production makes them stand out. Wexelberg is blessed with a voice capable of a gentle caress or belting-out an anthem. The song ends with a stanza from “His Eye is on the Sparrow.”

The CD includes a few hymn interludes and a complete version of “’Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus.” As pleasant as these are, she shines brightest on her own material. The songwriting is excellent. “Becoming” is a stripped-down, keyboard affair that conveys a longing to be like Christ in every way. You can feel the tenderness and intimacy.

Songs with faster tempos have a fuller sound and a hint of edginess. “Boundless” rocks! It’s the kind of song that makes you want to stand and pump your fist in the air. It’s a victorious declaration of the lack of limits to God’s love.

Wexelberg varies the styles and hits the mark each time. Typical of the publisher, this strikes a cautious but wholesome balance between ministry and relevance. Discovery House Publishers is known for products that feed the soul, and this is no exception. It’s a triumph for publisher and artist.

God of the Impossible - Sarah Reeves

2010-09-17T19:25:00.000-07:00

A bright light on the horizon

God of the Impossible – EP
Artist: Sarah Reeves (http://sarahreeves.sparrowrecords.com/)
Label: Sparrow Records
Length: 3 tracks/12:10 minutes

In the firmament of praise and worship, Sarah Reeves is a bright light on the horizon. Atmospheric guitars fill the soundscape. Poetic imagery frames her importunity. One moment she leads a chorus of adoration; the next she stands in the gap as an intercessor.

On “Father’s Prayer,” she turns the prayer that Jesus taught into a compelling chorus. “God of the Impossible” puts into perspective God’s awesomeness: “My biggest storm, a drop of rain. My raging fire, a candle flame. My deepest ocean is like a puddle at your feet.” Even more amazing, He turns our brokenness into beauty.

With only three tracks, this leaves you wanting more. Reeves has yet to have a full-length release, but she has earned it with this EP and a previous one.

If her lyrics and thoughts are any indication, Reeves heart is undivided: “I love my Jesus and all I want to do is serve Him and make Him famous.” She wants to lead young people into a lifestyle of praise and worship. Despite being young, she is well on her way, sharing stages with some of the best in this genre.

Reeves is one of the featured artists in the Acquire the Fire conferences, a ministry to teens, where she will be singing these songs. Get information and tour dates at http://www.acquirethefire.com/.

Ancient Christian Texts: Commentary on the Gospel of John - Theodore of Mopsuestia

2010-08-31T06:28:00.000-07:00

Devout commentator gives the clear sense

Ancient Christian Texts: Commentary on the Gospel of John
Author: Theodore of Mopsuestia
Publisher: IVP Academic (http://www.ivpress.com/)
Pages: 172

Theodore of Mopsuestia’s commentary on John brings to mind an incident in the history of ancient Israel. The people gathered together, and Ezra the scribe read from the Book of the Law of Moses. Ezra was joined by others that “helped the people to understand the Law … They read from the book, from the Law of God, clearly, and they gave the sense, so that the people understood the reading” (Nehemiah 8:7-8 ESV).

Theodore does much the same throughout this commentary. He recites the verses and then gives the sense of the passage omitting extraneous words. He uses paraphrase to make it understandable. His commentary of John 16, where Jesus predicts persecution for the disciples, is characteristic: “(16:4) But I have said these things to you so that when their hour comes you may remember that I told you about them. ‘If I had not predicted these things,’ he says, ‘you might have lost your courage because these afflictions would have befallen you unexpectedly and you would have been unprepared. But if instead I predict what will happen to you, then, after it has happened, you will have to admire the power of the one who made the prediction, which is why you should have no doubt about the blessings I promised you.’ “

His way of using expansive thought to get at the underlying meaning seems unique. Although some of it is conjecture, most of it is plausible. He avoids being overly analytical and instead offers insight from an early era.

This was written in the late fourth or early fifth century. Theodore died in 428. His proximity to the church fathers gives him a different perspective than modern commentators. He highlights some of the erroneous interpretations of John’s gospel present in his own time. He draws attention to particulars (including refutation of heretics) in John’s writing that may be overlooked.

He makes it clear that John was writing to include those events omitted by the other gospel writers. In addition, John was concerned about the precise order of events, because, as Theodore puts it, “the others had taken no care in this regard.”

A major aspect that informs his reflections is his reverence. What one sees is a reflection of character. Jesus said, “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God” (Matthew 5:8 ESV). “With the merciful you show yourself merciful; with the blameless man you show yourself blameless; with the purified you show yourself pure; and with the crooked you make yourself seem tortuous” (Psalm 18:25-26 ESV). It’s obvious from his writing and language that Theodore’s eye was single, making his body of work full of light.

That’s not to say that he is always right. He was not without controversy. His Christology is somewhat flawed in that he sees “an excessive separation between Christ’s human and divine natures, which is due on the one hand, to the fact that an accurate definition of the unity of Christ’s nature was established only after Theodore’s death; on the other, to the fact that in his polemic against the Apollinarists he exaggerated the separation of the two natures of Christ.” This is something that the reader must keep in mind, and occasionally it makes for awkward reading, but this is no reason to skip this commentary. The editor includes helpful notes as a reminder and for clarification.

Aside from getting a clear sense of what John is all about, finding a passage like the following, where Theodore comments on Jesus’ example of service at the Passover meal, made this worth the read for me. Here we see how his reverence toward God, others and all of life informs his insight. “Humility is the principle of all virtues. It removes any conflict, division or dissension among people, planting peace and charity among them instead. And through charity humility grows and increases. Our Lord frequently desired to teach this to his disciples through his words and works."

Modern commentaries may go deeper and provide more suggestions for application, but this devout commentator succeeds in providing the basic sense of what is being said.

The Indelible Image: The Theological and Ethical Thought World of the New Testament, Volume 2

2010-08-05T15:57:00.001-07:00

A Christ-centered view of the inseparability of belief and behavior

The Indelible Image: The Theological and Ethical Thought World of the New Testament, Volume 2: The Collective Witness
Author: Ben Witherington III
Publisher: IVP Academic
Pages: 838

In volume one of The Indelible Image, Ben Witherington shows the interrelationship between theology and ethics given by Jesus and the New Testament writers. He ties the two together through the concept of God’s image being renewed in fallen human beings by the salvation that is in Christ. “Salvation involves the restoration not merely of relationship between God and humankind, but of human character so that the relationship can be both ongoing and positive rather than sporadic and broken. The aim of salvation is not merely to start a relationship, but to conform a people to the image of God’s son …“ Salvation involves both belief and behavior. Since God is loving, holy, just and good, he works to produce the same in the lives of his people. This is a constant theme throughout both volumes.

The present volume is more of a synthesis than the first. Witherington writes, “What I offer in the present volume is the distillation of what can only be called the theology and ethics of Jesus and of the various New Testament writers as it is revealed in detailed exegetical study.“ Witherington brings the voices that sang individually in the first volume together as a choir, showing how they harmonize and complement each other. He also highlights their solos, their unique contributions that make them distinct.

He eschews categories and groupings in favor of a Christological focus. First and foremost in developing a theology of ethics is seeing how the New Testament writers deal with Christology, which Witherington rightly sees as the pivotal change-event in their world. He does, however, deal with many other subjects along the way, but there is a continual recognition that Christ brings theology and ethics together. “The longer I work with the New Testament, the less satisfied I am to see theology and ethics divided from one another as if they were discrete subjects. By this I mean that the figure and pattern of Christ binds the two together and grounds both the indicative (what Christ was and did) and the imperative (what his followers should do and be).”

Witherington starts by going deeply into the symbolism and thought world of Jesus and the New Testament writers. Theology and ethics must not be stripped of its first century context. He also emphasizes the importance of narrative or story. “Story is the primary means by which the meaning of God and the divine human encounter is conveyed from the very first chapter of Genesis.” There’s no need to choose between story and history in the work of interpretation. Removing either would be like a picture without a frame.

When it comes to analysis, though Witherington may not always be right, more often than not I felt as though he was uncovering the true meaning of texts. Witherington’s extensive background and study give rise to careful interpretation. This is what kept me reading page after page, until I finished the entire book.

One of my favorite sections is an exposition of Revelation 11 and 12. If Witherington’s handling of these chapters is any indication, his commentary on Revelation is worth getting.

His purpose is to provide a sense of the character of visionary material in Revelation. I thoroughly enjoyed his thoughtful reflections on the identity of the woman clothed with the sun, the moon under her feet, and wearing a crown with twelve stars. He sees her not as Mary or Israel but the community of God’s people.

Witherington further shows the importance of precise analysis in his handling of the Pauline household codes, where Paul gives instruction to husbands and wives, parents and children, and masters and slaves. He identifies the crucial question as, “‘What does Paul do with these preexisting structures and customs?’ Does he simply endorse them, or does he modify them, and if he modifies them, what is the direction or aim of his remarks?”

He convincingly shows that Paul is ameliorating the harsher effects of patriarchy, guiding “the head of the household into a new conception of his roles that Christianizes his conduct in various ways and so turns marriage into more of a partnership and turns household management more into a matter of actualizing biblical principles about love of neighbor and honoring others.”

Witherington saves for the end one of his most thoughtful insights, which some may take issue with, but which is nevertheless worth considering. He has written in detail about the subject in a prior book, “In The Problem with Evangelical Theology one of the main points I stressed repeatedly is that the problem with evangelical theologies of various sorts is, paradoxically enough, that they are not biblical enough, and even more to the point, they become unbiblical at the precise junctures where they try to say something distinctive from the things that all orthodox Christians basically agree on. He cites as examples, predetermination, sinless perfection, the rapture, which he sees as an exaggeration of 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, and the baptism of the spirit as a second work of grace.

These issues and ones like them can be controversial and debatable, but it’s no reason not to pick up these volumes if you have a different view than the author. These issues are never the focus, and there is a wealth of solid biblical exegesis that will benefit any student of the Bible. His point about distinctives is a reminder of the need for humility. It’s not only important to subject our beliefs to the utmost scrutiny; it’s good to recognize that we can be wrong. Where disagreements persist, Christ, his person, work and words can be a unifying factor.

Witherington ends with a fitting prayer: “Lord, may we understand not only your Word but also ourselves in the light of your Word, written and incarnate, and so become what we admire, mirrors of Christ, bearers of the indelible and restored image. Amen.”

2010-07-21T19:10:00.000-07:00

Inspiration for times like these

Times Like These
Artist: Austin’s Bridge (http://www.austinsbridge.com/)
Label: Daywind Records
Length: 10 tracks/38:19 minutes

After winning a 2008 Dove award for “He’s in Control” (Bluegrass Song of the Year), Austin’s Bridge is back with their sophomore release Times Like These. The CD is produced by Jay DeMarcus of Rascal Flatts.

For those unfamiliar with the band, their music is modern country, a blend of country, pop, rock and a little bluegrass. A full sound is accented by a few chugging riffs and some piercing guitar solos. Two acoustic tracks, “There is a God” and “Hold on to Jesus” standout like a pleasant oasis. Mandolin and dobro add beauty to the former.

The middle tracks are highly motivational. “Dash Between the Dates” was probably inspired by the book, The Dash. The song highlights that it’s not the year we were born or the year we die, it’s how we live our lives in between that counts.

“Times Like These” and “Love is on the Way” speak to our current dilemmas with hope and encouragement. The former projects a resolute stability, while the latter is filled with infectious energy that complements the idea that we need “to turn this thing around.”

Mercy is personified in the first single, “Mercy Never Leaves”: “Mercy never leaves when others walk away / Mercy’s there for you so you don’t ever have to be afraid / When you’re feeling hopeless, abandoned and lost / Mercy pleads your case before the cross / Mercy never leaves.” It’s a comfort to think that mercy is always available; we need never fear. However divine these attributes might be, these are actions that we can model towards others.

“Good Time” brings this to a close with southern-sounding, swamp blues reminiscent of Lynyrd Skynyrd. It’s just another example of the slight style changes you find throughout.

Many of the musicians are well-known session players. The songs are finely-crafted coming from a variety of writers. Group members Justin Rivers and Jason Baird wrote “Hold on to Jesus” and “Good Time,” with Rivers also co-writing “Dash Between the Dates.” Their main contribution, however, and where they shine, are the vocals and harmonies. Jay DeMarcus co-wrote the title track and “Angels.”

This is a highly accessible fusion of country and contemporary Christian styles. Though it does not break new ground, it’s a near flawless production. Their talent and positive Christian message will find a receptive audience.

Jimmy Needham - Nightlights

2010-07-20T08:26:00.000-07:00

Just a nightlight against a blazing sun

Nightlights
Artist: Jimmy Needham (http://www.jimmyneedham.com/)
Label: Inpop Records
Length: 13 tracks/49:16 minutes

On Jimmy Needham’s Nightlights, soul reigns.

A funky bass line finds its groove on the gospel-flavored “Moving to Zion.” What makes this a delight is Needham’s use of allegory. It’s a tale of two mountains: Sinai (representing law) and Zion (representing grace). The former is no longer his home. It’s a strong opening.

On the lyrical side, Needham’s humility and self-deprecation is endearing. He takes his cue from John the Baptist, who said of Jesus, “He must increase, but I must decrease” (John 3:30 ESV). This priority comes through on songs like “The Reason I Sing”: “Make me a singer who is unsung / 'Cause You won’t share Your fame // 'Cause even accolades someday will fade away / Just like me.”

Needham closes with spoken word on the title track, which summarizes the theme: “Be Thou exalted over my reputation/ 'Cause applause is a poor form of soul medication.” It becomes a stinging indictment of self, which in “advancing His (God’s) kingdom” may “snag some acclaim.” “Do we not know it’s evil to love ourselves more than both God and His people?” he asks.

Needham admits that reading A. W. Tozer had a big impact. This is the verbatim source for that opening line from “Nightlights.” The rest of the quote reads, “Make my ambition to please Thee even if as a result I must fall into obscurity and my name be forgotten as a dream.” Sentiments like this are woven into different songs giving the recording a special beauty. This alone makes the CD worthwhile, but there are other fine moments.

One of the most striking tracks is “Grace Amazing,” which combines an aggressive rock riff with the work of hip-hop artist (Trip Lee). It strikes like a bolt of lightning as Needham sings of God’s resurrecting life. This is music to the wake dead.

Needham reinvents a classic pop tune with a soulful, brassy cover of “How Sweet It Is,” a song popularized by a host of artists, including James Taylor.

If the music industry had not coming knocking, Needham would have been content to remain a history teacher. This project reinforces that modesty. He recognizes that promoting Christ is more important than promoting himself, even if the latter is a foundation of the music industry.

Needham isn’t blinded by lesser lights. Addressing God, he sings, “Compared to you, I’m just a nightlight against a blazing sun.”

Luminate

2010-07-19T13:24:00.000-07:00

Strong vertical focus

Luminate
Artist: Luminate (www.myspace.com/luminate)
Label: Sparrow/EMI
Length: 6 tracks/25:17 minutes

Each track in Luminate’s six-song debut addresses God at some point if not throughout. It’s no surprise given that each of the five guys have a background in leading worship. It would be a mistake though to think of Luminate as a generic-sounding worship band. They sound more like influences that include U2, The Fray, Switchfoot and The Killers. The band conveys the passion and energy of rock through great production from Christian music veteran Ed Cash.

Tyler, Texas-based Luminate is guitar-driven, but keyboards are also part of the mix. They combine pop, rock and modern worship styles in a way similar to Delirious or Leeland. They have broad appeal with lyrics that mix brokenness, longing and adoration.

“Shine (Love Is an Action),” the first single, is an anthem that redefines love as heartfelt action. It’s a social justice song that has a vision for the world.

“Miracle” conveys yearning in word and sound. It’s the cry of the fallen who are reaching back to God. He is the miracle we need; it’s not something that comes apart from Him.

“Hear Our Cry” is propelled by an Edge-like guitar riff. The words recognize God as the source of strength.

“Fearlessly,” another standout for its introspection, offers a lifeline of hope and comfort in the chorus: “Don’t be afraid, and don’t feel ashamed / You’re one breath away from the life you’re meant to lead.” This ends the EP on a hopeful note with a picture of a life without fear.

These last three songs, which are ballad-like in varying degrees, are the most compelling.

This CD serves as a solid introduction to a band that has been together for four years.

Giving Church Another Chance: Finding New Meaning in Spiritual Practices - Todd D. Hunter

2010-07-07T12:02:00.000-07:00

Practicing anew the traditional observances associated with church life

Giving Church Another Chance: Finding New Meaning in Spiritual Practices
Author: Todd D. Hunter
Publisher: IVP Books (http://www.ivpress.com/)
Pages: 189

The title Giving Church Another Chance is what drew me to Todd Hunter’s latest book. I nearly walked away from church. I see the problems, and as much as I might want to resist, we are made to live in community. I want to love the church, and Todd Hunter has a perspective that is different than mine, so I want to learn what I can from him.

His journey is fascinating. Early mentors include Chuck Smith of Calvary Chapel and John Wimber of The Vineyard churches. He became the national coordinator and shortly thereafter the president of Vineyard Churches USA. After 12 years of ministry a crisis of confidence led to Todd’s departure.

He enrolled in a Virginia Beach seminary and sought counseling. A pivotal event came, when in an effort to reengage in some basic Christian practices, he read Richard Foster’s Celebration of Discipline. Through Richard he discovered Dallas Willard, Eugene Peterson and host of other ancient and contemporary writers “who educate and train others on the practices associated with Christian faith.”

Today Hunter is the director of West Coast church planting and a bishop for Anglican Mission in the Americas. He pastors Holy Trinity Church in Orange County, California where he and his congregation practice the principles outlined in this book.

Hunter emphasizes that being a Christian is more than believing a set of truths. It’s a way of life. He writes, “To recover their rightful place in Christian life, beliefs need to be actualized, that is, we turn them into practices that (1) change us for the better in a way that (2) those around us experience as for their good.“

In succeeding chapters Hunter walks the reader through some of the observances found more typically in liturgical or traditional churches. He starts with the “Quiet Prelude.” It is preparation intended to help individuals live a life of settled peace.

He references Archibald Hart’s Thrilled to Death: “Hart recommends Christian meditation and times of quiet contemplation and concentration focusing on the presence of God.” Why is experiencing centered peace a big deal? Hunter answers, “Centered peace implies a deep and abiding form of confidence in Jesus and his care for the whole world, including us.” Our actions and living in carrying-out the teachings of Jesus are to spring from this fertile soil.

Other chapters cover “Singing the Doxology,” “Scripture Reading,” “Hearing Sermons,” “Following Liturgy,” “Giving an Offering,” “Taking Communion,” and “Receiving the Benediction.” Hunter succeeds in making each of these subjects not only meaningful but practical.

The only place he loses me is when he writes about the Eucharist: “The Eucharist conveys to those who receive it in faith, the body and blood of Jesus, that is Christ’s life. It transmits by faith all the benefits of his broken body and shed blood, these being sacramental signs of the totality of his virgin birth, life, teachings, works, death, resurrection and ascension.” I recognize different views, but isn’t Christ’s life conveyed through faith in him? It is not faith in communion or its elements but faith in the person of Christ. I received Christ and the benefits of what he did for me the moment I believed in him.

Where Hunter succeeds admirably is in connecting faith with daily life. Spiritual practices regain their meaning.

Sixteen Cities

2010-06-16T09:25:00.000-07:00

Sunny optimism takes the chill out of winter

Sixteen Cities
Artist: Sixteen Cities (http://www.sixteencities.com/)
Label: Centricity
Length: 11 tracks/39:17 minutes

The opening “Just Wanna Dance” to Sixteen Cities self-titled debut has a wistfulness that reminds me of Owl City, best known for the song “Fireflies.” Even though the two artists are different, I see some likeable parallels: simplicity of thought, an earnest voice, electronic enhancement (though here it just adds a little style rather than being predominant), and a sunny optimism that some might dismiss for its sweetness, but which I welcome in a world that has no shortage of heaviness.

One example of the bright outlook is “Sing Along,” where vocalist Josiah Warneking declares, “I love the way the stars shine for you, and every single mountain bows down. I love the way the universe is singing your song, so I try to sing along.” This chorus is carried by soaring pop/rock led by Dustin Erhardt’s shimmering guitar.

In a time when many are discouraged, I applaud songs like “Someone’s Work of Art” and “Bleeding for You” that emphasize the worth of a person. Teens and twenty-somethings, which have been the band’s primary audience, will find this affirming, as will all who are in need of encouragement. Like Owl City, Sixteen Cities, who get their name from a passage in Joshua 19 that deals with dividing the land, conveys hope.

They share it in places that might seem the least welcoming, but where it is truly needed, the public schools. It seems fitting since these songs are radio-friendly and God-pointing, without being preachy or too heavy. They have the subtle persuasion that is appropriate for this environment. The lyrics are not always explicit in speaking of God; and the name of Jesus is not used, but it’s not hard to figure out what they are referencing. They have the potential to reach a broad audience with the message of God’s love and grace.

The songs are not all sunny and light. Some plead for being saved from oneself. One standout ballad, “Pray You Through,” is about being there for someone when words are inadequate. The CD ends on a plaintive note with a piano ballad called “Winter.” It’s about a prodigal who wonders if he can find his way home.

This debut takes the chill out of winter and points us home.

The Great Theologians: A Brief Guide - Gerald R. McDermott

2010-06-13T18:49:00.000-07:00

Wisdom in a multitude of counselors

The Great Theologians: A Brief Guide
Author: Gerald R. McDermott
Publisher: IVP Academic
Pages: 214

In The Great Theologians: A Brief Guide, Gerald R. McDermott provides “a short and accessible introduction to some of the greatest theologians – so that any thinking Christian” can “get a ballpark idea of what is distinctive to each.”

Do we need to read and study what the great minds of the church have said? McDermott answers, “Ignoring the great and godly minds of the church – who have been ruminating on God for thousands of years – when we have them at our fingertips through books and even the Internet seems to be a kind of arrogance and presumption.” He likens comparing our thoughts with theirs as iron sharpening iron (Prov. 27:17 KJV). By studying their works we can learn what theology is best.

The author chose eleven individuals who, in his opinion, had the greatest influence on the development of Christian thought. This does not mean that all of them had good theology. Friedrich Schleiermacher gave rise to liberal theology, but understanding his thought is important to comprehending the strange turns taken by modern theology.

Each chapter covers a different individual and begins with a story about the person’s life, highlighting important events. This leads to a review of the main themes in their thinking. The author then zeroes in on one theme that is distinctive to that individual and examines it in detail. He concludes each section with lessons we can learn, a brief selection from the person’s writings, questions for reflection and discussion, and a list of resources for further reading.

The author’s knowledge of the subject matter, his eye for important details, his skill as a writer and his wisdom in providing practical application make this a delight to read. Even though I had read about most of these individuals before, I gained new insights. I marvel at the wealth of useful information to ponder.

As I read about Calvin I was struck by the comfort that can come through knowing God’s sovereignty. The author writes, “If I know that a tragic event in my life was permitted by God, I can be assured that God meant it for good. I might not understand why this thing was permitted, but at least I will have the comfort knowing that in the long run things will be better because of it.”

What a surprise to learn that Jonathan Edwards, best known for the sermon “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God,” was obsessed by God’s beauty more than his wrath. McDermott summarizes Edwards’ thought on the subject: “The essence of true religious experience is to be overwhelmed by a glimpse of the beauty of God, to be drawn to the glory of his perfections and to sense his irresistible love.”

Years of experience have taught me the truth of John Henry Newman’s disciplina arcani, or “method of keeping sacred things secret.” McDermott summarizes what Evangelicals and Lutherans can learn from it: “Too often we have thrown pearls before swine in our evangelism and Christian education.… We Christians generally have been too willing to blabber the mysteries of the faith to anyone we can get to listen, forgetting that ‘the natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God … and he is not able to understand them’ (1 Cor. 2:4). We have both said too much (when we explain the intricacies of atonement and justification to unbelievers) and too little (reducing the gospel and all the Bible to justification by faith).”

In describing how Athanasius defeated the Arians, the author makes a useful observation, “Sometimes it is necessary to use an unbiblical word such as Trinity to teach properly and clearly a biblical concept.” He follows with a revealing thought indicative of his personal leaning, “This is also why theology is necessary and the Bible alone is not enough – it needs an orthodox community and tradition to interpret it.” Some Evangelicals may take issue with that last thought, but this book makes a strong case for it.

McDermott’s background as a professor of religion and philosophy at Roanoke College in Salem, Virginia, and a teaching pastor at St. John Lutheran Church have shaped his perspective. His appeal is to the collective wisdom of the church rather than to one segment. “The Great Tradition,” led by the orthodox thinkers in this book, provides a means to rightly assess the many competing ideologies that we face today.

Though all great theologians fall short in some ways, McDermott persuades readers that they have something to teach us. We see through the development of doctrine how theologians develop, supplement and correct one another. McDermott advocates learning from this heritage with humility and attentiveness that we might see our own shortcomings. This is an excellent introductory guide that is highly readable.

A History of Christianity: The First Three Thousand Years DVD

2010-06-12T14:10:00.000-07:00

A candid friend tells the story of the Church

A History of Christianity: The First Three Thousand Years DVD
Presenter: Diarmaid MacCulloch
Distributor: Ambrose Video (http://www.ambrosevideo.com/)
Running Time: Approximately 6 hours

Among other things, A History of Christianity: The First Three Thousand Years shows that seeds planted in youth flower in adulthood. This six-part series, co-produced by the BBC, the Open University and Jerusalem Productions, is hosted and narrated by Diarmaid MacCulloch, Professor of the History of the Church at the University of Oxford and a Fellow of St. John Cross College in Oxford.

When MacCulloch’s father, an Anglican minister, and his mother took their young son Diarmaid on their explorations of historic churches, they probably never realized they were sowing the seeds of his future. Diarmaid became fascinated with church history and so began his life work, of which this series is a part.

Now, instead of his parents leading the way, it is MacCulloch taking viewers through ancient structures and landmarks around the world. Ever the explorer, he searches for meaning in places that hold clues to the past, interviewing local experts and people who provide a diversity of thought.

MacCulloch is not only a well-respected historian, but an excellent narrator and a likeable guide. He unashamedly professes his fondness for the Anglican faith, he being the last of three generations of Anglican clergy. If he has a bias, it may be against the western form of Christianity as practiced by the Roman Catholic Church. He seems more charitable toward the eastern wing, exhibited in the Orthodox Church. The good news is that over the course of the six episodes shown below, he gives equal coverage to each of the major branches of the church.

1. The First Christianity
2. Catholicism: The Unpredictable Rise of Rome
3. Orthodoxy: From Empire to Empire
4. Reformation: The Individual Before God
5. Protestantism: The Evangelical Explosion
6. God in the Dock

One of the highlights is that MacCulloch tells more than just the same old story. He is not afraid to correct conventional wisdom and to bring out what might be overlooked. For example, he believes that Christianity stayed closer to its Middle-Eastern roots than many people realize. To illustrate that point, rather than initially tracing the spread of the faith to Rome, he takes the eastern road, which goes from Jerusalem to Asia, including parts of China.

In another segment, he takes us to Skellig Michael, a place that might be overlooked by many historians, but significant because this remote island was a center for the monastic life of Irish Christian monks for 600 years. Equally interesting is his account of Russian history and orthodoxy.

Filmed in HD, everything about the production is first-rate. This is no surprise given that the series is licensed by the BBC.

For all its merits, it falters somewhat in the last episode. Calling himself a “candid friend” rather than a Christian, MacCulloch asserts that the church failed to resist the Nazis. He reasons that since the Jews were considered killers of Christ and enemies of the church, the church is “implicated in the murder of Jews.”

It gets even more controversial in his interview with Rev. Nicholas Holtam of St. Martin Church-in-the-Fields, London. MacCulloch believes that questions about gender and sexuality present significant challenges to the church. He identifies himself as a gay man, and in response to an inquiry from MacCulloch, Rev. Holtam states, “The Scriptures don’t say anything about faithful, same-sex relationships and therefore, what’s condemned in Scripture isn’t what we are dealing with now.… I think the Bible’s answer is that what matters between human beings is loving, faithful, honest relationships.”

It should be noted that MacCulloch does not accept the authority of the Scriptures. He alludes to being unconvinced that the Bible is different from all other books.

Throughout the series, MacCulloch continually emphasizes that the Church has survived by its ability to adapt. He may wonder if the Church will successfully adjust to changing gender and sexual norms. Conservative Christians must be prepared to discuss these concluding ideas if they want to use this in a group setting. Unfortunately, this last segment detracts from the overall excellence of the series. Even so, this production provides a thought-provoking overview of Church history, and I give MacCulloch credit for telling it like he sees it.

ESV Study Bible

2010-05-15T16:53:00.000-07:00

May be the best study Bible available

ESV Study Bible (www.esvstudybible.org)
Publisher: Crossway Bibles
Pages: 2,750

The ESV Study Bible (2008) may be the best of its kind. The English Standard Version text, which is “essentially literal,” is a major reason. The ESV “seeks as much as possible to capture the precise wording of the original text and the personal style of each Bible writer.” It is not an exact word for word translation as you would have in an interlinear Bible, but it’s not far from it.

The ESV Bible made its appearance in 2001 with praise from a broad spectrum of evangelicals including Joni Eareckson Tada, Max Lucado, Dr. R. C. Sproul and Dr. Joseph M. Stowell. The text is a revision of the Revised Standard Version and is slightly more literal.

From my days working at a Bible bookstore, I remember a nifty handout prepared by Zondervan that showed where the different translations fell on a scale depicting their literalness. On the left side of the spectrum, you had the most literal versions and on the opposite, those that were the least. Everything fell in between the two outermost points, which in this case were the interlinear Bible and The Message.

The New American Standard Bible was in second position, followed by The Amplified Bible, and in fourth position, the ESV. The Revised Standard Version and the King James Version were next in line. For comparison, I found online an individual who had done a scholarly ranking, admittedly subjective, but nevertheless interesting. He ranked the ESV and the New American Standard as the two best for study. He had the King James Version and the New American Standard at 2½ on a scale of 1 to 10 with one being the most literal. The ESV was a 3 and the New International Version was further back at 4½.

The ESV Study Bible boasts that it is the most comprehensive study Bible ever published, and judging from all the additional material outside the Bible text, this may not be an exaggeration. All the notes, maps, illustrations, articles and other features are “new,” which probably means that they were either created for this Bible or have never been published before in this form in a study Bible. Those who purchase the print edition also get access to the ESV Online Study Bible.

The format is comparable to the New International Version Study Bible with notes filling the lower quarter or half of the page. The notes cover many but not all of the verses. These are preceded by highlighted boxes that summarize the thought of a section of Scripture. The notes on the individual verses fill in the detail.

The helpfulness and quality of the notes is impressive. Equally magnificent is a section of articles in the back breaking down major Bible themes like salvation, doctrine, ethics, interpretation, reading, the canon of scripture, the reliability of manuscripts, archaeology, original languages, and how the New Testament interprets and quotes the Old Testament. You also get a section that deals not only with the Bible’s relationship within Christianity, but how its teachings compare with those of world religions and cults. A concordance and color maps are in the back. Many smaller, colored maps are embedded in the notes. One thing this does not have is the words of Christ in red, which I know from experience is important to some people.

This was created by a team of 95 evangelical Christian scholars and teachers from various backgrounds. Their names, the institutions that they represent, and their educational attainments are listed in the front of the Bible.

Unless you prefer a study Bible with a special emphasis, as in the New Spirit-Filled Bible, which is geared toward Charismatics, or one that is more hands-on, as in the New Inductive Study Bible, which requires a great deal of discipline and marking, this is an excellent choice for use by a broad spectrum of Christians. It gives you a translation that is accurate, appealing from a literary standpoint, and places before you a large amount of scholarly but accessible reference material.

Understanding English Bible Translation: The Case for an Essentially Literal Approach - Leland Ryken

2010-05-12T19:38:00.000-07:00

The other side of the argument

Understanding English Bible Translation: The Case for an Essentially Literal Approach
Author: Leland Ryken
Publisher: Crossway (www.crossway.org)
Pages: 205

A line of reasoning from Proverbs highlights the importance of Understanding English Bible Translation by Leland Ryken: “The one who states his case first seems right, until the other comes and examines him” (Proverbs 18:17 ESV). After reading the Essential Guide to Bible Versions (2000) by Philip W. Comfort, I was persuaded about the merits of the translation method known as dynamic equivalence or functional equivalence. Eugene Nida defines this as “the reproduction in a receptor language [i.e. English] of the closest national equivalent of the source language [i.e. Hebrew or Greek] message, first in terms of meaning, and second in terms of style (italics added).”

The difference between dynamic equivalence and the essentially literal philosophy advocated by Ryken is the former seeks to translate “meaning” while the latter is concerned with translating “into something that corresponds to or is identical with the words of the original (subject of course to the changes required by translation from one language into another.)” Whereas the former finds meaning in phrases (thought-for-thought translation), the latter is concerned with preserving the meaning found in the actual words (word-for-word translation).

This may seem rather technical, but it marks a significant change in translation philosophy. As Ryken points out, “The mid-twentieth century saw a paradigm shift in the theory and practice of English Bible translation.” Prior to this, the publication of the King James Version, marked “the culmination of nearly a century of profuse Bible translation activity in England.” Not only did the KJV translators build upon previous work, they “strove to find an English equivalent for the actual words of the original Hebrew and Greek texts.”

Thankfully, the author does not assume a King-James only position, but he does extol it as one of the finest examples of an essentially literal translation. Though it is not the author’s primary intent, this is the best defense of the King James Bible that I have read.

The shift in theory from translating words to translating meaning is the foundation of many modern Bibles. What makes this book essential reading is that Ryken shows clearly and convincingly what is lost. It stems from what dynamic equivalent translators do, “consisting of such things as changing syntax and word order, adding exegesis and interpretive commentary to the text, simplifying the content of the original text, removing figurative language from sight, producing a colloquial style for the English Bible, and adapting the translation to the expectations of a target audience.”

Ryken does a masterful job of concisely going into detail. His arguments are scholarly but readable. He illustrates changes with specific examples.

He is also charitable to the point of recognizing common ground and recognizing that dynamic equivalent translations have value as commentaries.

This should be required reading for translators and all in Christian leadership. Anyone interested in this subject will profit from this volume. If those on the other side want to defend the thought-for-thought theory of translation, they must convincingly answer the issues raised here.

This has given me new respect for the King James Version and other essentially literal translations. I also see the limitations of translations based on functional equivalence. I welcome the opportunity to read further on this important and fascinating subject, remembering the importance of weighing both sides of an argument.

The Challenge of Easter - N. T. Wright

2010-04-29T14:06:00.000-07:00

Leap for joy

The Challenge of Easter
Author: N. T. Wright
Publisher: IVP Books
Pages: 64

In Luke’s gospel we see the angel Gabriel announcing to Mary that she would become the mother of Jesus. Not long afterwards, Mary visited her relative Elizabeth, who was six months pregnant with the child that would become John the Baptist. When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, Scripture tells us that the baby leaped in her womb. Being suddenly filled with the Spirit, she exclaims, “Behold, when the sound of your greeting came to my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy” (Luke 1:44 ESV). Someone might rightly wonder what this prelude to the Christmas story has to do with The Challenge of Easter by N. T. Wright?

Obviously, without the birth of Christ there would be no Easter story, but that is not my reason for reminding us of the joy surrounding two historic births. As I read this slim volume, and especially as I progressed into the practical applications of Christ’s resurrection, which Wright rightly sees as the beginning of God’s new order—along with the crucifixion, a pivotal event in history—my spirit like the baby in the womb was leaping for joy.

Why is it that reading N. T. Wright can make me leap for joy on the inside? Let me use his own words where he describes our work as Christians to provide somewhat of an answer: “Your task is to find the symbolic ways of doing things differently, planting flags in hostile soil, setting up signposts that say there is a different way to be human. And when people are puzzled at what you are doing, find ways—fresh ways—of telling the story of the return of the human race from its exile, and use those stories as your explanation.” In his books, Wright models this idea of expressing the truth in fresh ways. This, along with a winsome blend of wit, wisdom and his expansive views when I sometimes fail to see the big picture, is what I find so endearing about his writing.

In this book, it all starts with a look at the resurrection as a historical problem. Wright shows that from the beginning Christianity was not just a kingdom of God but a resurrection movement. He then goes into Paul’s theology of the resurrection as a two-stage movement: “The Messiah first, then finally the resurrection of all those who belong to the Messiah.” From there he moves to the gospel accounts where “John tells us quite plainly Easter day is the first day of the week…. Easter day is the first day of God’s new creation. Easter morning was the birthday of God’s new world.”

The last two sections deal with the practical outworking of it all. Being in the middle of “the beginning of the End and the end of the End, should enable us to come to terms with our vocation to be for the world what Jesus was for Israel, and in the power of the Spirit to forgive and retain sins…. We are like the musicians called to play and sing the unique and once-only-written musical score.”

Wright concludes by unpacking what it means to be “kingdom-announcers” and “crossbearers” as we model a new way of being human. Concerning the latter my spirit rejoiced at these words: “God forgive us that we have imagined true humanness, after the Enlightenment model, to mean being successful, having it all together, having all the answers, never making mistakes, striding through the world as though we owned it.”

In answer to the challenges of our day, he shares a beautiful way forward: “The gospel of Jesus points us and indeed urges us to be at the leading edge of the whole culture, articulating in story and music and art and philosophy and education and poetry and politics and theology and even, heaven help us, biblical studies, a worldview that will mount the historically rooted challenge to both modernity and postmodernity, leading the way into the postpost-modern world with joy and humor and gentleness and good judgment and true wisdom.”

This book is excerpted and adapted from The Challenge of Jesus: Rediscovering Who Jesus Was and Is.

Thinking about this book reminds me of a popular worship song that includes the thought that nothing is the same; everything has changed. Christ is risen! A new order has dawned. The path of those who through faith in Christ have become God’s children grows brighter and brighter till it reaches the full light of day. When I hear about Christ, the resurrection and all that entails, especially when it is expressed in fresh ways, my spirit leaps for joy.

Christianity & Western Thought: A History of Philosophers, Ideas & Movements (Volume 3 – Journey to Postmodernity in the 20th Century)

2010-04-29T13:53:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the world of philosophy

Christianity & Western Thought: A History of Philosophers, Ideas & Movements (Volume 3 – Journey to Postmodernity in the 20th Century)
Authors: Alan G. Padgett & Steve Wilkens
Publisher: IVP Academic
Pages: 388

As I read volume three of Christianity & Western Thought by Alan G. Padgett and Steve Wilkens, I was haunted by a thought similar to the one that F. W. Boreham had when he shared a train ride with a well-known actor. Reflecting on his companion’s occupation, he writes, “Now if there was a world of which I knew absolutely nothing at all—a terra incognito—a realm that I had never invaded it was the stage.” Here, in this volume, I invaded the world of the philosopher and felt like a stranger in a strange land.

Though the authors serve as the most excellent of guides—incredibly conversant and at home in the world of philosophers and their thought—at times it was as if they were giving voice to ideas in a foreign language. It’s not their own words or thoughts that can be hard to decipher—they write clearly—; it’s the subject matter that can be challenging.

Fortunately, in their survey of philosophers in the march to postmodernity, they tell the story of their subjects, including a summary of their major works, which I found quite engaging. Even so, this works best as a reference that can be repeatedly consulted. As the authors continually show, western thought in the 20th century is widely divergent, which makes it hard to stay on track when reading this straight through.

This book, the third and final volume in the series, will be much easier for academics and those schooled in philosophical thought. Written from an unashamedly Christian perspective, but with scholarly detachment, this is not a book that will take the average Christian by the hand and make philosophy plain and simple. This is not a criticism of the authors, nor is it intended to discourage non-academics from giving this a try. It’s just an acknowledgement of the complexity of the material. The authors have done an excellent job of making it accessible. The patient reader of any background will find it rewarding.

I don’t know how many would share my perspective, but theology almost seems like child’s play compared to philosophy. It may be that I am just more wired for the former, and yet, one can quickly get over their head in theology and feel like they are in the outside looking in. This book focuses on philosophy and only touches on theology, but the two are far from strangers. The authors introduce individuals and thought that seek to answer vital questions and have implications for both disciplines: How can philosophy be scientific? What is human being? What about language and meaning? What about postmodernity?

Though some voices may seem nonsensical, it’s helpful to remember that each, in their own way, is trying to making sense of the world we inhabit. It’s important that Christians understand different worldviews if we hope to engage them meaningfully.

If like me you have an interest in books and search for them in places like thrift stores and garage sales, you will most likely come across books by Karl Barth, Emil Brunner, Rudolf Bultmann, Reinhold Niebuhr and Paul Tillich, and wonder who are these people? The thought of these influential figures is explored in detail in a chapter that delves more deeply into theology. The authors use the term “dialectical theology” to represent their movement, which registered “its discontent with theological systems that attempt to reduce Christianity to a series of timeless, logical truths about God.” Whatever one’s views of these men and their thought, this provides an account of their influence.

Is there such a thing as Christian philosophy? This argument is found in another chapter, which goes into Thomism, the thought derived from Thomas Aquinas.

Perhaps a little of the everyday applicability of philosophy can be seen in the authors’ summary of one philosopher’s thought on play and art: “When we are caught up in a great play, a musical performance or a moving film, we encounter the play of the artist in making a ‘world’ for us to experience; this is the manner in which art discloses the truth to us. In the play between the world created by art and our world, we see our life in a new way. The meaning of art, and so the truth that it mediates, come out of the dynamic play between art and spectator/audience.” Philosophy then can be a friend of theology when it helps, either directly or indirectly, to clarify meaning, mediate truth and enable us to see ourselves in new and better ways.

Even though I may get a little lost in the world of philosophical thought, anyone with an interest in this discipline will be well-served by this volume, and the series, if this volume is any indication.

Evil and the Justice of God - N. T. Wright

2010-04-24T13:16:00.000-07:00

All shall be well

Evil and the Justice of God
Author: N. T. Wright
Publisher: IVP Books
Pages: 176

Evil and the Justice of God by N. T. Wright reminds me of the series of talks about Christianity that C. S. Lewis gave on BBC radio between 1941 and 1944. This began as a series of five lectures given at Westminster Abbey on the cross and the problem of evil. After 9/11 and talk about evil from George W. Bush and Tony Blair, “evil” became a hot topic. Wright later summarized his thesis on a television program that aired in the U. K. on Easter Day 2005.

Wright like Lewis, in this expanded version of his original lectures, is addressing a broader audience than just Christians. As a consequence, this is not a Bible study or a scholarly analysis of specific texts, though there is a little of that here. This is more of a philosophical treatise that tries to make sense of a difficult topic from a Scriptural point of view without getting too technical.

Having read a book by Wright previously, I appreciate his ability not only to recognize distinctions but to never lose sight of the big picture. He does not let the reader get lost in the details. Evil is a multi-faceted problem, but contrary to how it may seem, God is doing something about it. What He has done and is doing through his people is what Wright unpacks.

Unlike those who may come at the subject from a purely secular stance, Wright acknowledges, though he realizes the potential barriers in doing so, that there is a “supra-personal, supra-human” aspect to evil. Somewhat unconventionally he refers to the devil as “the satan,” which in Hebrew is Ha Satan, meaning “the accuser.” Wright prefers to use the “term ‘subpersonal’ or ‘quasi-personal’ as a way of refusing to accord the satan the full dignity of personhood while recognizing that the concentration of activity (its subtle schemes and devices) can and does strike us as very much like that which we associate with personhood.” Fortunately, Wright maintains a healthy balance; avoid the extremes of not taking this aspect of evil into account or being overly fixated with it.

You see this too in his refusal to define evil between different groups of people. Rather, he rightly sees that “the line between good and evil runs through us all.”

Wright sees that evil finally meets its demise at the cross of Christ. In all its various forms and manifestations, it climaxes in the death of Jesus, only to find itself exhausted through what was the pivotal event in God’s dealing with evil. “On the cross Jesus has won the victory over the powers of evil.” The full outworking of it has yet to be seen, but Wright enumerates the ramifications throughout the rest of the book.

Wright is excellent about making personal applications. “‘The problem of evil’ is not simply or purely a ‘cosmic’ thing; it is also a problem about me. And God has dealt with that problem on the cross of his Son, the Messiah.”

Where does this leave us? Wright summarizes it beautifully, “The call of the gospel is for the church to implement the victory of God in the world through suffering love.” The cross is not only the means but the model for what God wants to do by His Spirit in the world. “To imagine a community of beauty and healing is to take a large step toward seeing in our mind’s eye the world which God intends to bring about through the death and resurrection of Jesus. This is the world toward which we are to direct our Spirit-given energies.”

He goes on to suggest five different ways or areas that we can be working to advance the signs of the new world:

1. Prayer
2. Holiness
3. Politics and empire
4. Penal codes
5. International disputes

The last three in particular, as may be obvious by the category names, involve furthering justice and serving to make the world a better place.

Phantom Tollbooth readers might appreciate what Wright has to say about the role of art, which includes the realm of music. “Art at its best not only draws attention to the way things are but to the way things one day will be, when the earth is filled with the knowledge of God as the waters cover the sea. And when Christian artists go to that task they will be contributing to the integration of heart, mind and soul which we seek, to which we are called. They will be pointing forward to the new world God intends to make, to the world already seen in advance in the resurrection of Jesus, to the world whose charter of freedom was won when he died on the cross. It is by such means as this that we may learn again to imagine a world without evil and to work for that world to become, in whatever measure we can, a reality even in the midst of the present evil age.”

Lastly, Wright deals extensively with the importance of forgiveness. Forgiveness brings into the present what we are promised in the future, “namely that in God’s new world all shall be well, and all manner of thing shall be well.” He draws much on insights contained in Miroslav Volf’s Exclusion and Embrace, which helps makes sense out of how it can be right for God to bring about a situation where all is genuinely well, granted all that has happened and continues to happen. Again, the answer lies in evil being overthrown at the cross and “God’s creation of a new world which will bring healing rather than obliteration to the old one, under the stewardship of the redeemed. God’s offer of forgiveness, consequent upon his defeat of evil on the cross, means that God himself, the wise Creator, is at last vindicated.”

The Historical Jesus: Five Views - James K. Beilby and Paul Rhodes Eddy

2010-04-01T13:51:00.000-07:00

Is the Jesus of history different than the Christ of faith?

The Historical Jesus: Five Views
Authors: James K. Beilby and Paul Rhodes Eddy
Publisher: IVP Academic
Pages: 312

For those unfamiliar with the phrase, “the historical Jesus,” James D. G. Dunn, one of five scholars sharing their views on the subject, offers a simple definition: “ ‘The historical Jesus’ denotes Jesus as discerned by historical study. Those engaged in the quest of the historical, those at least who have sought to clarify what the phrase ‘the historical Jesus’ denotes, have usually made the point that the term properly denotes the life and mission of Jesus as they have been ‘reconstructed’ by means of historical research.” This is a historical approach to Jesus rather than a faith approach.

Since the five scholars come from diverse backgrounds, and seek to use historical methods to discover what can be known about Jesus, the results vary widely, and can even be confusing and disconcerting, especially to evangelicals used to seeing Christ primarily through the eyes of faith. Again, believers have to keep in mind that this is an attempt to reconstruct Jesus through purely historical means.

The book starts with an excellent introduction by the authors on the history of this study. I thoroughly enjoyed their forty-five page overview that traces the beginnings of this quest to the present day.

“Jesus at the Vanishing Point,” written by Robert M. Price, a member of the Jesus Seminar, is easily the most controversial article. At the outset, Price tells readers that after having been a pastor of a Baptist church for half a dozen years, he is now a happy Episcopalian, rejoicing “to take the Eucharist every week and to sing the great hymns of the faith.” No problem there. What he never explains, in all of his argument for the “Christ-Myth” theory, is how he reconciles his religious practice with the idea that Jesus never existed. To be fair, it is outside the scope of his analysis, but I could not stop thinking about the implications. If Christ never existed, then He never rose from the dead. If that is the case, the apostle Paul tells us that our “faith is in vain.” Furthermore, Paul says, “If in this life only we have hoped in Christ, we are of all people most to be pitied.” In other words, if the resurrection is a myth, which it would be if Christ never existed, and if all we have is this life, Christians are strongly deluded.

How can Price celebrate a faith whose founder never existed? This is not to say that he fails to present arguments in his defense. He provides plenty of analysis, but I found it unconvincing.

My intention is not to denigrate Price or John Dominic Crossan, a cofounder of the Seminar and another contributor to this book. However, I want to address one of his thoughts. In relation to Jesus’ view of the imminence of God’s kingdom, he writes, “Jesus watched, learned and changed his vision of God.” In another place, where he partially quotes another author, he writes, “If ‘the future, definitive, and imminent arrival of God’s kingly rule was central to Jesus’ proclamation’ (p. 398), then Jesus’ central proclamation was quite simply wrong and misguided.” It would be better to recognize that his inability to reconcile a seeming contradiction does not mean that Jesus was wrong. If history can show that Jesus thought of himself as divine, how can Crossan imply that He was wrong, or that He needed to change his vision of God? Jesus could not be God if he was wrong about anything. I think history, rightly known and understood, will prove Jesus right.

On the positive side, I appreciated Luke Timothy Johnson’s thoughts on the limits of historical analysis, especially as applied to Jesus. Similarly, James D. G. Dunn’s discussion of oral history is helpful. Darrell L. Bock, from Dallas Theological Seminary, presents and defends evangelical views.

As for the format, each scholar has an essay, which in turn is critiqued by the other four. All of them are obviously well-versed, and they show no disrespect toward each other. Finer points are sometimes hard to follow because the analysis gets technical. Having the counterpoint arguments provides an additional opportunity to understand the main points. It also helps to separate the wheat from the chaff, which can be a challenge for the reader.

Christians have nothing to fear from historical inquiry, or any other type of inquiry. Sometimes the Christ of faith is obscured by religious dogma and our own blindness. “For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face” (1 Cor. 13:12a ESV). A quest like this can serve a useful purpose when it helps us to know more of the truth and see Christ better. There should be no disparity between the Jesus of history and the Christ of faith.

In reading a book like this, it helps to have already settled that the Bible is God’s Word. Otherwise, one can easily become confused and even misled by what is wrongly considered to be true. Being able to apprehend truth by faith can guard one from wrongly interpreting historical data. None of this should be taken to mean that Christians have a faith that can’t be verified in any way by factual knowledge. There is sufficient evidence to support that the Scriptures are true and reliable. Any investigation that actually gets at the truth will serve to confirm or enhance our understanding of what God has revealed in His Word.

Hold on Tight: 3oth Anniversary Edition - Sweet Comfort Band

2010-03-24T09:08:00.000-07:00

Hold to Jesus and the music he inspired

Hold on Tight: 3oth Anniversary Edition
Artist: Sweet Comfort Band
Label: Retroactive Records (http://www.retroactiverecords/)
Length: 11 tracks/39:51 minutes

I welcome the opportunity to acquire early Christian music. Maybe it’s because it was the soundtrack for my beginning as a believer back in August 1976.

The Jesus music of the late seventies was part of a move of God among the counter-culture. Chuck Smith and Calvary Chapel were part of it. Sweet Comfort Band (SCB) was featured on some of the early Maranatha Music (Calvary’s label) collections.

Unlike many of their contemporaries who developed a folk-rock style, SCB also incorporated elements of funk, jazz and R&B. Those familiar with Bryan Duncan’s solo career can hear the roots of it here, as he wrote and sang lead on many of these songs.

Randy Thomas, who would go on to a career with the Christian band Allies, and later co-write the mega-hit “Butterfly Kisses” with Bob Carlisle (also former Allies), is another major contributor.

SCB released a total of six albums, five of them now available through Retroactive Records. If you like SCB or early Christian music, get them while you can. Judging from past reissues of Christian music, they may never be found again, unless they become available on iTunes. By the way, some of the early Jesus music not previously available, like The Way, Paul Clark, Gentle Faith and more, can now be found at iTunes.

Last month, Derek Walker, a fellow Phantom Tollbooth writer reviewed SCB’s Breakin’ the Ice. Check out the review as he did an excellent job of briefly summarizing how the five SCB reissues compare. I defer to his judgment that Hold on Tight, which followed Breakin’ the Ice, was a low point among the band’s releases. The latter being a high point.

Though Hold on Tight may have been less dynamic, there is plenty to like. “Don’t Tell Me You Love Me” is classic Bryan Duncan. It has that feel-good R&B vibe and lyrics that recall the words of the prophet Isaiah: “This people honor me with their lips, but their heart is far from me” (Matt. 15:8 ESV). It’s written from God’s point of view: Don’t sing me your songs and tell me you love me, if you won’t give me your heart.

Several tracks including the aforementioned contain horns from Seawind, another early Christian group, and even strings. This, along with the style and musicianship, make this more mature musically then many of the early Christian recordings.

The harmonies and vocals are great. Three of the four band members contribute. Richie Furay sings background vocals on “Carry Me,” another highlight, and has the first guitar solo.

Early Christian music could sometimes suffer artistically from being too message-driven, but that emphasis can also be endearing. Jesus music artists were foolish enough to believe that God could use the lyrical content of their songs; their pointed messages are a refreshing contrast to the vagueness that has become more prevalent. Some of the songs on this CD are aimed at those searching for the truth; others encourage perseverance and not letting go of faith, as in the title track, “Hold on Tight.”

There is a simplicity and first-love kind of spirit in early Jesus music. Some of that spirit animates these songs. It’s worth hearing, and perhaps those of us who are Christians can consider how we can recapture some of that childlike faith and wonder, if we have let it slip away. I’m glad to have this early document from one of Christian music’s most popular bands.

Go Tell Somebody (Limited Edition – Remastered) - Commissioned

2010-03-10T16:44:00.000-08:00

Timeless truths make this still relevant today

Go Tell Somebody (Limited Edition – Remastered)
Artist: Commissioned
Label: Retroactive Records
Length: 8 tracks/37:47 minutes

Listening to Go Tell Somebody by Commissioned helps to rectify a deficiency in my knowledge of Christian music. Having been raised on pop and rock, my early exposure to gospel music did not go much beyond hearing Andre Crouch & the Disciples. That was in the late 1970’s.

In 1982, six guys from Detroit, including gospel luminary Fred Hammond, formed Commissioned. The group recorded 11 albums between 1984 and 2002. Among the lineup changes along the way was the addition of another widely-recognized gospel artist, Marvin Sapp, in 1991.

Go Tell Somebody (1986) was the group’s second release on Light Records, which reached number two on Billboard’s Top Gospel Albums list. It fuses R&B, traditional gospel, 80’s pop, and a little funk and inspirational, with passionate vocals and smooth harmonizing.

The stated purpose of the recording is to uplift listeners and let them know that no weapon formed against them will prosper. The group succeeds admirably with lyrics that reflect a mature Christian perspective that is uncommonly bold and informed by Scripture. “Who Do Men Say I Am” has a grand, epic vibe ending with references from Isaiah 53. “Go Tell Somebody” encourages continually thinking about the lost. “Love Isn’t Love” features smooth as silk vocals reminding us that we have not loved until we have helped someone else.

The solid, spiritual truths surpass much of what you hear today. This will especially appeal to those who like music with substance.

Even with the remastering, the music sounds a little dated, which is to be expected on a recording more than 20 years old. Overall, it holds up well in part because the R&B/gospel style may be more timeless than pop and rock. The arrangements and production are also excellent.

The catchy music and the timeless truths make this still relevant today.

Ordinary Just Won't Do: 20th Anniversary Edition (Remastered) - Commissioned

2010-02-18T15:58:00.000-08:00

Classy gospel music from a pioneer group

Ordinary Just Won’t Do: 20th Anniversary Edition (Remastered)
Artist: Commissioned
Label: Retroactive Records
Length: 10 tracks/42:15 minutes

The group Commissioned epitomizes style and substance. There is nothing ordinary about Ordinary Just Won’t Do. It’s classy right down to the album cover and CD label.

I can’t help wondering, if their smooth and intricate vocal harmonies, and their winsome combination of R&B, pop, funk and inspirational, made them forerunners for gospel artists that have followed, and have, like them, enjoyed crossover appeal. This CD reached #4 on Billboards’ Top Gospel Albums list.

From within, the group gave birth to the solo careers of two members who have become familiar names in gospel music: Fred Hammond and Marvin Sapp. That’s not to take away anything from the others who helped produce music that is recognized as being ahead of its time.

Ordinary Just Won’t Do, originally released in 1989, is the second Commissioned recording reissued by Retroactive Records. This sounds a little more sophisticated and mature then Go Tell Somebody, which was first issued in 1986. With the remastering, and the progress in recording during the three-year period between the two releases, this is nearly on par sonically with what you hear today.

Aside from a welcome variety of styles, slick production, excellent arrangements and songwriting, like the previous reissue it’s the strong spiritual content that stands out. What we so often hear today seems watered-down in comparison. The title song, a ballad, and perhaps the most outstanding track, is a prime example. On it the group unashamedly proclaims that Jesus alone is the answer to our problems: “Only Jesus Christ can supply your need.” Commissioned is bold with the truth.

Their lyrics alternate between challenge and comfort. One song can be like a pillow for a weary head while the next is a summons to live the life.

They inspire faith toward that end by continually drawing upon Scriptural truths, and yet it does not come across as preachy. “If My People,” which is derived from 2 Chronicles 7:14, is not the inspirational ballad one might expect from the subject matter. A funky groove complements the exhortation to get it together so that God can bless us. “Back in the Saddle” makes use of a forceful rap, solid drumming and another infectious groove to encourage keeping on.

We need these spiritual affirmations, which are often missing from modern music. Twenty years later this is still fresh and inspiring. Both reissues are worthwhile investments for those who enjoy gospel music.

The Meaning of the Pentateuch: Revelation, Composition and Interpretation - John H. Sailhamer

2010-02-10T06:24:00.000-08:00

More about hope

The Meaning of the Pentateuch: Revelation, Composition and Interpretation
Author: John H. Sailhamer
Publisher: IVP Academic
Pages: 632

A thought expressed by F. W. Boreham comes to mind when I think about The Meaning of the Pentateuch by John H. Sailhamer. Let your mind roam along new lines. Are you given to astronomy? Pick up a book on botany. If mathematics is your thing, a study of psychology may be in order. If you can’t get enough conversation, take the time to make friends with books. We are the richer when we break away from habitual ways of relating.

When it comes to studying the Bible, my preference in the Old Testament might be Psalms, Ruth or one of the Prophets. Studying the first five books of the Bible, commonly known as the Pentateuch, is further down the list. This book goes against my natural inclination, but I sensed my need to know more about the purpose of this section of Scripture. How many Christians are at a loss to know what to make of the Old Testament? I suspected this book would provide help.

I discovered that John H. Sailhamer is an excellent guide. He is a professor at Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary in Brea, CA. This book is for his students.

As with any author or person, our greatest strengths can be an area of vulnerability. Sailhamer’s lifetime of study make this a scholarly work. His familiarity with historical analysis and recent studies, make this a valuable resource, one that would be a fine addition to any theological library. His insights open new vistas, but readers not inclined toward the technical may become impatient with his exhaustive treatment. Though the book is written for academics and serious students, a patient reader will find this rewarding.

Sailhamer is evangelical, orthodox and precise. Though some ideas may be debatable, his analysis and commentary is on the mark. Sailhamer draws rich meanings from texts through painstaking analysis, not reading into the text but letting it speak for itself. That’s part of the benefit of this book, watching someone rightly divide the Word of Truth.

Sailhamer focuses on the final form of the Pentateuch, rather than the history behind the text. He believes that the meaning lies in the text itself, something that modern critical analysis has moved away from.

Most Christians associate the Pentateuch with the Law. Though it comprises a significant part, Sailhamer demonstrates, to my delight, that in addition to “obedience to the Mosaic law,” the Pentateuch is about “living by faith.” Think Abraham and Moses. The former was an example of faith that the apostle Paul references in the New Testament. The latter failed to keep the law and was kept out of the Promised Land. Is the Pentateuch more about the failure of the old and the hope for something new?

Sailhamer seeks to get at the author’s original intent by exploring in detail the compositional strategy of the Pentateuch. Especially revealing are the compositional seams that link together narrative sections and collections of laws. Four major sections of poetry form the core of these seams and provide critical insight and commentary.

Sailhamer concludes that the Pentateuch is about “the prophetic hope of a new covenant. At the center of that hope, and extending to the whole of the Pentateuch, is the role of the king from the house of Judah who will reign over Israel and the nations.”

Sailhamer’s slow and deliberate enfolding of this meaning is beautiful to behold and has forever changed the way I look at these poetry sections.

This book is also valuable in showing how a Christian should relate to the entire Old Testament. How are we to view it, and what is still binding?

This study shows the benefits of grappling with subjects that are not as appealing but with sustained effort yield meaning that can be like a bloom in an unexpected place.

Hymnastics - Brad Hooks

2010-02-10T06:20:00.000-08:00

Hymns as you have never heard them

Hymnastics
Artist: Brad Hooks (http://www.bradhooks.com/) and (http://www.calvaryd.org/)
Label: Independent
Length: 11 tracks/45:49 minutes

If Hymnastics by Brad Hooks makes you think of gymnastics your thought matches the cover design, which includes sketches of gymnasts in various poses. Maybe it’s a reflection of Hooks’ acrobatic maneuvers with some of Christendom’s most venerated texts. He puts these verses through widely creative and intricate contortions along the lines of Sufjan Stevens minus the horns. His use of programming and modern beats reminds me of David Crowder.

As a singer, he covers a wide range. One moment his falsetto sounds like Brit-rock; the next he is warbling (and whistling) like Andrew Bird.

Hooks succeeds admirably in updating hymns like no one before him. He also adds a couple of excellent original songs that fall in the contemporary worship category. Chris Tomlin should checkout “All Blessing” for one of his future releases.

For a generation that doesn’t know or appreciate hymns the last thing you want is for them to sound dated. Hooks’ attention to detail keeps that from happening. He infuses these classics with a fresh vigor by varying the music styles, which makes this fascinating and anything but boring. Some songs get a radical makeover with new melodies and even added words.

The most traditional sounding is “Blessed Assurance,” which relies on keyboards that fluctuate between more and less. It feels like the right touch for this dearly-loved composition from Fanny Crosby, who though blind could see more than many who have sight.

Getting back to the gymnastic analogy, this isn’t just a fun exercise. It breathes a spirit of worship, which is what these songs have always been about. They are not diminished by Hooks innovative production, just reinterpreted for new listeners.

Hooks has the talent to make this a series, but he also demonstrates proficiency in modern worship. He serves as the music director for Calvary Chapel Montebello and tours as a worship artist. It will be interesting to see what he does next.

I like hymn releases because I enjoy new versions of these classics. From my growing collection, I can’t think of any that sound more modern, original and creative than this.

Wide Open Spaces - FFH

2010-02-04T19:05:00.000-08:00

Their most significant recording

Wide Open Spaces
Artist: FFH (http://www.ffh.net/)
Label: Independent/62 Records
Length: 10 tracks/41:25 minutes

I wish I had more recordings like Wide Open Spaces by FFH. It must be their most personal and honest recording. It’s a reflection of what FFH, after taking a three-year sabbatical, has become: an extension of Jeromy and Jennifer Deibler, chronicling their recent highs and lows.

You might be surprised by the theme of brokenness, which is why you won’t hear some of these songs on Christian radio. It’s unfortunate that Christians are sometimes shielded from unpleasant or controversial subjects. It may be a reflection of our reluctance to embrace suffering as part of the Christian life. When I hear songs like these, I feel a little less alone and crazy. Those who live under cloudless skies may find it harder to relate, but their perspective might change when their hard times come. At the very least, this may encourage them to take up their cross and empathize with the less fortunate.

Don’t let talk about suffering scare you off. This is not a heavy and melancholy recording. The sound is the FFH that many have come to know and love: gorgeous husband and wife harmonies, a strong pop sensibility and familiar music that sounds more mature and better than ever. There are lighter moments; particularly the celebration of the couple’s deepened relationship on “Hold on to Me” and “The Time of My Life.” The former has such a winsome-sounding chorus. The Deiblers know how to make great pop.

The opening “Undone” and “Wide Open Spaces” soar with a rock edge. The latter was co-written by veteran Christian music writer, Chris Eaton. Mia Fields helped write “Undone” and “What if Your Best,” two of the strongest tracks. Another recognizable co-write is Jill Paquette on “Who I’m Gonna Be.” Jennifer takes the lead on this song and a couple of others and is excellent.

What distinguishes this from past efforts is the lyrical depth, which stems in large part from Jeromy’s MS diagnosis in 2007. That and the break from FFH, which included spending six months of anonymity in South Africa, and the birth of their second child radically changed their perspective. The songs that emerged were unlike anything they had written before.

The idea that the best art comes from an artist’s pain is debatable, but there’s no denying that this is the most significant recording of their career. How often do you find an album whose theme is brokenness and becoming undone? It’s a little like Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s interpretation of Christ’s call as an invitation to come and die.

This takes our humanity into account by being realistic about our trials and struggles. This is the soundtrack I need when I’m down and hurting. It encourages surrender rather than running.

This is a strong return for the Deiblers, who more than ever have something to say. This is art born in the crucible of life, which makes it all the more impacting.

Life in the Trinity: An Introduction to Theology with the Help of the Church Fathers - Donald Fairbairn

2010-01-25T12:14:00.000-08:00

Sharing in the life of the Trinity

Life in the Trinity: An Introduction to Theology with the Help of the Church Fathers
Author: Donald Fairbairn
Publisher: IVP Academic
Pages: 248

Has the Church made too much of the Trinity? Reading Life in the Trinity by Donald Fairbairn makes me realize that this doctrine is crucial and practical.

What is the heart of Christian life? Fairbairn suggests “part of the answer is that a life reflecting the love Jesus has shown for us lies close to the heart.” He sees “first and foremost, then, Christian life is a process of abiding in Christ, of relying on him, of recognizing and maintaining one’s connection to him in all aspects of life.”

To take it further, and where the real beauty of this book lies, is seeing our relationship with Christ in terms of his relationship with the Father and the Holy Spirit. Fairbairn writes, “He (Christ) is offering himself to us as a person, that we might share in his most deeply personal relationship, the relationship he has with God the Father.” Seen in this context, the Christian life is a sharing in the life of the Trinity. This is the scarlet thread that runs through every chapter.

Fairbairn expertly walks readers through Trinitarian theology, which is fascinating, but his most important work is sharing relational and practical implications. He makes it clear that the worth of everyone lies in our being made in the image of God. “Christianity teaches us that our significance does not ultimately lie in what we accomplish or what we do: it lies in the one to whom we belong,” he writes. “Our significance is not something that can be earned; it is something given to us by God.”

He is also a wise guide into the thought of the Church fathers. He makes judicious use of their writings, to inform modern perspectives that can be lacking. He draws most from four Patristic writers: Irenaeus of Lyons, Athanasius of Alexandria, Augustine of Hippo and Cyril of Alexandria. Readers get some of their most fruitful and biblical thoughts.

The only time I felt unsure of Fairbairn was his discussion of John 6 where Jesus enjoins eating his flesh and drinking his blood. Fairbairn sees this as a reference to celebrating the Eucharist. He notes that “the early church saw its regular celebration of the Eucharist as crucial to believers’ continuation in Christian life.” He adds, “To say that the Eucharist is central is to imply that communal worship in general is central to the cultivation of people’s relationship to the Father and the Son.” He closes this section by observing that “in the mind of the early church, cultivating a direct relationship to Christ was not by any means an individual task. It involved the entire community of faith, as well as the devotion of each individual…. Life in the Trinity is life in the church and involves regular participation in the worship and the mysteries Christ has entrusted to the church.”

This is not intended to be a comprehensive book in theology but rather a supplement to the more exhaustive and systematic variety.

Just catching the glimpse this book gives of the Trinity is staggering. It is also mind-boggling to realize that becoming a Christian makes us part of this triune fellowship. Being able to better see the Godhead and the beautiful relationship it engenders, makes this a lovely book.

Duets - The Blind Boys of Alabama

2010-01-17T05:44:00.000-08:00

The Blind Boys’ commendation

Duets
Artist: The Blind Boys of Alabama
Label: Saguaro Road Records
Length: 14 tracks/56:35 minutes

If The Blind Boys of Alabama ever needed commendation, which they don’t, Duets provides it by being a showcase for the wide variety of artists with whom they have collaborated. Also telling are the many songs on this release that come from Grammy-nominated or Grammy-winning albums.

Appropriately, the CD opens with “Take My Hand” by Ben Harper from the Grammy-winning There Will Be a Light (2004). It was through that award that The Blind Boys came to my attention and perhaps the attention of many others.

What is it about The Blind Boys that causes so many artists to want them on their albums? Being in the music business, it must have something to do with their sound, which for me hearkens to the Negro spirituals sung by world-weary voices that knew hardship. It’s an authentic gospel sound that enhances songs that resonate with The Blind Boys.

Two of the most powerful tracks are back to back blues excursions: “I Had Trouble,” by Charlie Musselwhite and “When the Spell is Broken,” by Bonnie Raitt. The latter song features The Blind Boys on a great-sounding refrain toward the end: “Can’t cry if you don’t know how.” Their voices fit well with the blues, but among the wide range of styles that you find are country, black gospel, Americana, reggae and something that sounds a little alternative.

In regards to the latter, I’m thinking of “Jesus” by Lou Reed, one of three previously unreleased recordings. I found this track mesmerizing from the first time that I heard it. Sparse instrumentation and short, simple lyrics given with a vulnerable delivery perfectly complement this song of brokenness. It’s a plea from one who has fallen from grace and now seeks to find their place. This song also caught the attention of the legendary Glen Campbell, who recorded it on Meet Glen Campbell.

On the contemplative and intriguing side is “Secular Praise,” by Timothy B. Schmidt, a member of the Eagles. As he reminisces about his life he adds, “Don’t go to church but I feel the weight.” Could this be the weight of glory that people feel when the catch sight of an Almighty God? It’s not clear who he is referring to when he sings, “Still I hope to shake the hand of fate before I die.”

Another interesting collaboration with someone not as well known is Susan Tedeschi on “Magnificent Sanctuary Band,” a gospel song produced by the well-respected Joe Henry, who produces another song on this recording, “None of Us Are Free,” by Solomon Burke. Tedeschi is known as a blues guitarist and the wife of Derek Trucks, one of two guitarists for The Allman Brothers Band.

I can’t help thinking that The Blind Boys are an obvious bridge between the gospel and the world of music. Their lives and voices are an influence for good. This CD serves as a fascinating introduction to their music, which thankfully has intersected mainstream music in such a rewarding way.

The Indelible Image: The Theological and Ethical Thought World of the New Testament - Ben Witherington III

2009-12-14T19:39:00.000-08:00

Scholar at work

The Indelible Image: The Theological and Ethical Thought World of the New Testament (Volume One) The Individual Witnesses
Author: Ben Witherington III
Publisher: IVP Academic
Pages: 856

“Scholar at Work” would be an appropriate cover sticker for this book. This might also be the most important reason for reading it. I watch in admiration when a scholar like Ben Witherington III employs the tools of his trade to examine Scripture.

In this first volume on New Testament theology, he focuses on exegetical work. What qualifies him for such a task? Prior to this project, he took on the rather daunting challenge of writing a substantial commentary on every book of the New Testament. This exercise served him well as he works in chronological order through the writings (and in the case of Jesus, the teachings) of all who contributed to the New Testament canon. In his effort to get at the heart of the major themes, he defines words and looks at their usage. He provides historical background, and he frequently resorts to extrabiblical writings to provide context.

He has an amazing grasp of these outside writings, and I wish he had explained their importance, but from his use it is plain that they provide corroborating evidence in support of the Scriptures. Again, the most valuable learning is watching Witherington attempt to determine the original meaning of texts. What we end up with is a multitude of Bible resources rolled into one. With extensive name, subject and verse indexes in the back, this is an extremely valuable reference, one that should be in any theological library, particularly those that support higher education in biblical subjects.

Even the most learned may find new insights in the wealth of exposition. One interesting example in his discussion of Matthew 19:1-12, where Jesus seams to permit divorce in the case of “adultery,” or “immorality.” Witherington states that the original term translated “adultery” comes from a word that means “prostitute.” He writes that the exception could be in a case where the wife has taken up prostitution. The word can also refer to the sin of incest. Jesus may have been commenting “on the very situation that John the Baptizer was beheaded for protesting against: the incestuous marriage of Herod Antipas to his brother’s wife.” If the exception is in the case of incest, a devout Jew would not see this as a proper marriage.

Since the word “porneia” can refer to a wide variety of sexual aberrations, translating the word in the normal way would seam to make Jesus more lenient than some ancient Jewish teachers in regard to divorce. The disciples reaction to all of this, “If that is the way it is between a man and a woman, it is better not to marry,” supposes a stricter view. Witherington suggests that what is meant “is either ‘except on the grounds of prostitution’ or more likely ‘except on the grounds of incest.’” He believes this makes good sense when compared with Mark 10, “where Jesus’ teaching is said to be ‘no divorce,’ and also 1 Corinthians 7, where Paul says that Jesus’ teaching was ‘no divorce.’”

In this survey, one major theme that continually emerges is Witherington’s view that salvation is not ironclad. He finds manifold support against the position of “once saved, always saved.” I wondered if being a Methodist scholar shaped his interpretations, but he displays a careful fidelity to the Scriptures, even if some finer points are arguable.

Further, he is not teaching the Wesley doctrine of sinless perfection, only that Christians must work out their salvation with fear and trembling. He seems to concede that it may be hard to lose one’s salvation, but it is possible.

It’s almost startling how clear this possibility of loss becomes. It probably serves as a much-needed correction to the idea that what comes after salvation is not as important as conversion. Witherington emphasizes the two-sided nature of salvation: faith and works. Somewhere over the course of time the latter has been uncoupled from the former. Highlighting so many passages that seem to show salvation is conditional is somewhat novel and unsettling, but we need to know the truth. More than once I wished that this kind of careful analysis would filter down into our pulpits.

Calvinists and others might take issue with Witherington’s Arminian positions. I encourage them to read him. He provides strong support for his views, and if they follow his logic with an open mind, they will at least come away with a better understanding of an opposing argument. Believers in Christ should not be afraid to hold up their beliefs to scrutiny and change them if needed.

Could this book be shorter? Maybe, but the length is what makes this so comprehensive. In this first volume he gives voice to all of the individuals whose thought, actions and writings comprise the New Testament. The second volume will be a synthesis that will focus equally on belief and behavior. Witherington repeatedly shows that there is no separating the two.

Songs 4 Worship: Country Live - Various Artists

2009-12-05T14:33:00.000-08:00

Country style adds reverence
Songs 4 Worship: Country Live
Various Artists
Label: Time Life (www.timelife.com)
Length: 15 tracks/71:49 minutes

Songs 4 Worship: Country Live follows Songs 4 Worship Country, a 2007 studio release that has been on Billboard’s Top Country album chart since its release. That recording features some of the same artists (and in some cases the same songs, except in this recording they are live) that you find here. Having the same song, even if performed by a different artist, is a bit of a drawback if you already have the studio recording. Another is the use of popular praise and worship songs that have become overly familiar to many. But before you write this recording off, know that these are just minor weaknesses to an album that is full of excellent performances.

Spotlighting some of the best praise and worship songs in a country light brings an added reverence that you don’t find on the pop versions. It’s like they are born anew to be the means of adoration for a new audience. The artists highlight the best aspects of already strong compositions, and some tracks are outside the standard fare.

What immediately comes to mind is “Revelation Song” by Susan Ashton. The press release accompanying this CD states that it has been at the top of the Christian radio charts for 13 weeks. Ashton was prominent in the Christian music scene before recording two country albums for Capitol, the second, for reasons unknown to her was never released. She has kept a low profile for several years, and I can only hope that we will hear more from her. This song is not only my favorite; it’s off the charts! I found myself caught-up with its great swelling tide of exaltation.

Another standout is “There is a Reason” by Alison Krause & Union Station. I like this one for different reasons. It does not address God directly. It is more of a thoughtful reflection on how difficulties bring us closer to God. It features some exquisite picking that includes a Dobro solo.

I enjoy the deep voices and harmonies of the Palmetto State Quartet on “Trading My Sorrows.” “How Can I Keep from Singing” by Lenny LeBlanc was a great choice for an opening song. It soars. Like Susan Ashton, this is another artist that seems to have crossed over to country music. LeBlanc is credited with songwriting on two other songs performed on this CD: “Above All” and “We All Bow Down.” The latter is performed movingly once again, as on the prior studio release, by Ricky Skaggs.

Collin Raye shows his versatility by performing the liveliest song, “Get Up in Jesus’ Name,” with gospel-like backing vocals, and then switching gears to perform the lovely “Indescribable,” written in part by Laura Story and made popular by Chris Tomlin.

Every performance is excellent. These songs were captured live at the historic Ryman Auditorium, with the exception of “Open the Eyes of my Heart” by Randy Travis, which comes from a previous recording. I think it’s wonderful that the Ryman, which originally was a church, became the venue for some of the brightest stars in country music casting their glory like crowns before the throne of God in humble adoration and worship. They do their best to recognize the holy and awesome Creator as the light that outshines all others.

Redefining Beautiful: What God sees when God sees You - Jenna Lucado with Max Lucado

2009-12-05T14:01:00.000-08:00

Beauty as God defines it

Redefining Beautiful: What God sees when God sees You
Author: Jenna Lucado with Max Lucado
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Pages: 221

In Redefining Beautiful Jenna Lucado writes in the same conversational mode that has made Max Lucado endearing to so many people. Max contributes throughout with excerpts and adaptations from previous writings, which serve to highlight his daughter’s thoughts.

Jenna is chattier than Max; girls and young women will find it easy to relate. She gets candid about beauty tips that deal more with identity than outward appearance. Jenna helps girls become all that God wants them to be, even if starts with something as unconventional as “embracing your weirdness.” It’s another way of saying, “Be yourself!”

Jenna is surprisingly transparent. She takes us not only into her inner psyche but the world of teenage girls. I found it fascinating. How often do you get to see life from the perspective of the opposite gender? Girls will find a friend and an advocate.

One subject that rightly gets a lot of attention is the influence of fathers. In introducing the topic she quotes Dr. Kevin Lehman, “The (most important) ingredient in any woman’s life is her relationship with her father.” She gives hope to those whose fathers have failed them, which leads me to a general observation about Max and now Jenna.

The Lucados make the gospel good news. They constantly remind us that God loves us unconditionally, no matter what. As Max writes, “God loves you just the way you are. If you think his love for you would be stronger if your faith were stronger, you are wrong. If you think his love would be deeper if your thoughts were deeper, wrong again. Don’t confuse God’s love with the love you get from people. Love from people often increases with performance and decreases with mistakes. Not so with God’s love. He loves you right where you are.”

But it does not stop there, as Jenna adds, “Being beautiful means overflowing in love for others. . . . God fills us with his love not only to show us how much he loves us but so that it will overflow to others.”

As Jenna writes of Joyce Meyer, who she uses as an example, change must sometimes begin with facing the truth about ourselves and our past. It may be as simple as realizing we need help. Jenna wants girls to give God the pen so that He can change the way their story is going. If they give Him their hearts, He can write a beautiful ending regardless of the ugliness of the past.

I was deeply impressed by the chapter on submitting to authority. Just the thought of it may seem distasteful, but as Jenna’s friend Hannah learned, it can mean “opportunity, wisdom, and triumph.” At first, Hannah would not obey her coaches. She disregarded what they told her, and as a result, did not attain the status she thought she deserved. After realizing her pride, her attitude toward authority changed. She trusted her coaches to achieve her goals. She realized that “attitudes and actions toward authority are a reflection of how we respond to the authority of God. I have learned that when we respect authority, some of that respect flows back to us from others. Good things come back—rewards!” Taking hold of this one truth can minimize the pain we go through from our own willfulness. It can also be the difference between success and failure.

This book is filled with practical principles that can change one’s outlook and life. Max and Jenna both have a way with words. They make the truth plain and simple. They are great encouragers in this journey of faith. You can’t go wrong by spending time with this book.

How Many Kings: Songs for Christmas - Downhere

2009-11-22T12:52:00.000-08:00

Solid, mostly pop/rock Christmas offering

How Many Kings: Songs for Christmas
Artist: Downhere
Label: Centricity Music
Length: 13 tracks/44:40 minutes

How Many Kings by Downhere springs in part from the success of the title track, which originally appeared on their last recording, Ending is Beginning, as a bonus. The song, which had significant airplay on Christian radio, is included here in its original form and in a slightly re-imagined version at the end. Recording a Christmas album was also the natural outgrowth of being a part of the Bethlehem Skyline Tour with other Centricity artists. Catch the 2009 tour if you can.

Though the title song may be the favorite, there is much more to enjoy. Whether new or old, most songs are done in Downhere’s pop/rock style with acoustic sounds more in evidence. There are also some lovely musical interludes that reflect the wonder of the season.

As far as content goes, most songs contain substantive Christian reflections. The exceptions are “5 Golden Rings,” which only lasts long enough for you to hear those memorable words, and “We Wish You a Merry Christmas,” which has a down-home, Salvation Army band sound. These were thrown in for fun.

I have heard instrumental versions of “Good King Wenceslas” and “Bring a Torch, Isabella” but rarely, if ever, have I heard the lyrics as you do here. The former is a blues-flavored rumble and the later a favorite with its pleasant melody, vocal tradeoffs and mesmerizing guitar.

The two co-front men, guitarist Marc Martel and keyboardist Jason Germain, are both outstanding on vocals. The musicianship and production are excellent. I especially enjoy the chiming guitar work that provides the winsome hooks.

Another favorite is the upbeat “Christmas in Our Hearts,” which has a strong feel-good vibe. It’s punctuated by horns that are as clear as a cold winter’s morning. Chase the blues away with this song.

“Silent Night” is a beautiful, stripped-down affair with piano, vocals, strings and a little acoustic guitar at the end. “What Child is This” is in classical guitar mode with vocals that have a pristine quality.

Downhere has done an excellent job of fusing their style with the more familiar melodies. They add just the right amount of creativity, which makes this accessible to a wide audience. This is a great way not only to celebrate the birth of Christ, but ten years together and seven recordings, not counting their initial independent release.

Love and War - Barlow Girl

2009-11-19T19:27:00.000-08:00

An urgent call to relationship and boldness

Love and War
Artist: BarlowGirl (http://www.barlowgirl.com/)
Label: Fervent Records
Length: 11 tracks/43:08 minutes

You can hear the urgency in BarlowGirl’s Love and War. The opening “Come Alive” starts with, “Wake up, get out, there’s no time to waste now. Never shut up, it’s our time to speak out.” On “Running Out of Time” (the title says it all), they declare, “This is war, so pick your side.”

This album does battle by boldly proclaiming truth, which serves to combat lies. As I listened, pockets of deceit were being stripped away, leaving a desire to be more aligned with God’s heart. Having a passion for God is a repeated theme on several songs.

The music is a perfect complement. Jarring rock accompanies the more warrior-like stances. Producer Otto Price (GRITS, dcTalk) adds innovative touches.

The group becomes more melodious and pop-oriented when they focus on relationship with God. “It’s all about being in love with the Lord, and about that relationship with Him. If we don't have that …, we can’t have the boldness,” says Becca Barlow.

“Beautiful Ending,” the first single, is a gorgeous piano-driven track about not losing our first love. It’s forward-looking, wondering about our future with God.

One of the most moving moments is found on “Tears Fall,” which deals with a tragedy in our society. For two and half years BarlowGirl has struggled with writing a song that articulates their pro-life stance. This lovely, stripped-down ballad avoids accusation and in the process becomes a song of confession and repentance. A gospel choir makes it even better.

The Beatles had “Good Day Sunshine” and now BarlowGirl ends on a high note with “Hello Sunshine.” It leaves us with the prayer, “Let my eyes see all the beauty.” It’s a fun, upbeat way to end their third studio release (not counting their Christmas project, Home for Christmas).

Everything Sad is Coming Untrue - Jason Gray

2009-10-25T20:02:00.000-07:00

Gray has become one of my favorites.

Everything Sad is Coming Untrue
Artist: Jason Gray (www.jasongray.com)
Label: Centricity Music
Length: 13 tracks/49:12 minutes

Everything Sad is Coming Untrue by Jason Gray is the kind of recording that Rich Mullins might make if he were still alive today. People like Mullins, Andrew Peterson, Derek Webb, Randall Goodgame, Chris Rice and Jason Gray have something in common. They see things a little differently. They write in imaginative ways. Their words are sometimes quirky but that can be the setting for some revealing insight.

I am thankful that when we lose people like Mullins, or when other luminaries fade from view, it seems like God brings along others to carry on. Jason Gray is one who stands in that line of faithful witnesses. From my perspective, he has come out of nowhere to become one of my favorites.

“How I Ended up Here” is a fine example of what I find so endearing about him. It’s humorous, self-deprecating, honest and peculiar enough to make it stand out. How many are willing to say that they don’t like people at all? (I’m sure that he’s just expressing how some of us feel at times.) Who would admit that they fear someone talking their ear off, which is how they ended up hiding in front of a lobster tank?

On “The Golden Boy & the Prodigal,” like the two sides of a coin, Gray sings of the ideal self that we tend to project to others and our actual selves, which we tend to hide. Care to guess which one Jesus died for?

“Jesus, Use Me, I’m Yours” is a stripped-down, self-effacing (“I’m not much to look at”) song of surrender. As I listened while driving one day, my heart melted like wax. It was deep calling to deep with my spirit echoing his cry.

“I Am New,” a joyous celebration of all that we are in Christ, is a favorite. It contains a wealth of Scriptural affirmations and music that soars. Listen to this to bolster your spiritual identity.

“Fade with Our Voices” is right up there with the best in contemporary worship. It’s a reminder that worship is more than a song, it’s what we do with our lives. May our devotion not fade with our voices.

Just the title alone of “Everything Sad is Coming Untrue” is a winner. This is definitely in the spirit of Mullins with its poetic imagery of the reverse of the curse. The background calls and the captivating music that breaks in on the chorus are terrific. It even ends with a hammer dulcimer playing along.

Jason Gray makes a believer out of me. I am reminded as I listen to the title song that the effects of the curse—no matter how real and trying— are as nothing before God’s truth and faithfulness.

Sacred Singleness - Leslie Ludy

2009-10-24T07:27:00.000-07:00

Letting God script your love story

Sacred Singleness: The Set-Apart Girl’s Guide to Purpose and Fulfillment
Author: Leslie Ludy (http://www.setapartgirl.com/)
Publisher: Harvest House Publishers
Pages: 184

This is one of the best books that I have read on singleness, and this is written for young single women. It was easy, however, for me as a guy to apply the material to my own situation. Who doesn’t need to let God occupy first place in their lives? If guys follow this approach by not chasing after women and focus on becoming mature in Christ, they will become the kind of men that godly women are seeking.

This is not a how-to-find-someone type of book. It’s the opposite of taking matters into your own hands. You could summarize Leslie Ludy’s perspective in a favorite phrase of Oswald Chambers: Let God engineer. In her words, it is “trusting God to script our love story in His own perfect time, without manipulation on our part.” In a broader context, “This book is about laying down your life for Jesus Christ; surrendering every hope, dream, desire, and ambition to Him. Exchanging your agenda for His. Awakening to His glorious purpose for this sacred season of your life.”

Ludy acknowledges that this self-denying view of singleness is at odds with mainstream culture and even many Christians. She spends the second part of the book using Scripture to demolish “lies” that are floating around Christian circles. She says that “the majority of Christian single young women today are surrounded by messages that encourage them to follow their hearts, take matters into their own hands, and find themselves a husband as quickly as possible.” In marked contrast, she believes the best way to find a marriage partner is to stop hunting for one and instead focus your entire life around Jesus Christ and His priorities. She writes, “God has not called us to build our lives around the pursuit of our own selfish desires, but to be poured-out sacrifices for His kingdom.”

Ludy wants to help young women live full and satisfied lives now, but she is not discouraging women from holding on to the dream of marriage. As she says, most people are meant to be married. It’s a natural, God-given desire. Through her testimony and that of many others in this book, she makes it clear that it’s a mistake to let that desire control our lives and put off present opportunities to serve.

This no-nonsense approach is not only refreshing, but it has the potential to be life-changing and world-altering. The last section of the book provides a wealth of information on how singles can get involved and help change the world.

This is very much in the spirit of Elizabeth Elliot’s Passion and Purity, a classic on relationships. Ludy alludes to Elliott several times, and this is like a modern-day successor. The singular focus on becoming all that God wants us to be make this one of the best single books available. It’s a strong incentive to develop an intimate relationship with Jesus Christ as the best preparation for marriage.

“Prince Song” by the 2nd Chapter of Acts fits so well with the theme of this book. The song exudes the “first love” kind of relationship that Ludy continually advocates. If you are able to find the song, give it a listen, but here are the lyrics:

I got a brand new story though you have heard it a time of two,
About a Prince who kissed a girl right out of the blue.

Hey this story ain’t no tale to me now,
For the Prince of Peace has given me life somehow

You know what I mean.

My sleep is over. I’ve been touched by His fire,
That burns from his eyes and lifts me higher and higher.

I’ll be forever with Him right by my side.
He’s coming again on a white horse He’ll ride.
He’ll clothe me and crown me and make me His bride.

You know what I mean.
You know what I mean.

The song describes the true Prince of many a girl’s dreams. This is the One that Ludy rightly directs young women to have as the object of their supreme love and devotion.

Once Was Lost - Sara Zarr

2009-10-16T06:58:00.001-07:00

Found delight in Zarr’s storytelling

Once Was Lost
Author: Sara Zarr
Publisher: Little, Brown and Company
Pages: 217

The small town of Pineview is in a heat wave, and flowers are not the only thing wilting.

Fifteen-year-old Sam is feeling the absence of her mother, who is in rehab after her drinking finally led to an accident. Her dad, a pastor who always seems to have an answer for everyone else, never has the right words for her. Suddenly, the whole town is reeling from a tragedy that no one can explain. It’s like the day after 9/11; nothing will ever be the same.

Sam goes beyond doubting the religious convictions that have always been part of her life. She tells herself, “This is something I’ve never felt before, a total absence of whatever it is that’s made me who I am, on the inside, all my life.” Thoughts like this are a highlight of the book. Sara Zarr gives us the honest, questioning monologue of one who is searching.

The light exploration of spirituality never feels artificial or forced. This pays more attention to story and character development, which makes scattered observations more compelling. I never lost interest, and Zarr kept me guessing.

Thankfully, she leaves sordid events to the imagination, never getting graphic. On the other hand, she interjects a sobering realism that avoids fairytale endings. Sam could see the shadows that were left: “It makes me think of Lazarus. He must have had those shadows, too, after, his miracle. You don’t spend time in the tomb without it changing you, and everyone who was waiting for you to come out.”

This third novel of Sara Zarr’s was the first fiction book that I have read in some time, and this reminded me of the pleasure I have missed.

The Lost Get Found - Britt Nicole

2009-10-03T17:52:00.000-07:00

Day Dawns for Britt Nicole

The Lost Get Found
Artist: Britt Nicole (www.brittnicole.com)
Label: Sparrow
Length: 11 tracks/38:31 minutes

Strings that you might hear in an epic movie scene open the title track. Percussion kicks-in like a thunderclap. It’s a sublime start to a song that in Nicole’s words is “simply about being who we are called to be as Christians, and through that, seeing the lost get found. I believe that when we become who we are called to be, the lost will come to know God.”

That means more than the song being #1 for at least five weeks on the Radio & Records Christian Hit Radio chart. The CD opened at #63 on Billboard’s all-genre Top 200 albums chart. It was also #10 on their Christian chart for the week of 9/13/09. It’s impressive for the 23-year-old’s second recording, which follows Say It, her debut, which yielded three #1 singles and gained airplay on MTV’s “The Hills.”

What impresses me is a wonderful blend of organic and programmed sounds. The world of pop music has changed with the influence of hip-hop, urban and dance, all of which are felt here. It’s a real art to combine old and new in such a delicious blend. “How We Roll,” like all of these songs is completely modern, but it also has a vintage organ sound that is a perfect complement to the funky groove.

Watch out Lady Gaga. Nicole is blessed with pipes that are the dream of aspiring singers. She is quite the expert at making monosyllables ripe for consumption. I am not always sure what she is singing about—spiritual references tend to be subtle and some songs are in the celebratory dance mode—but it all sounds so good.

The weaker moments for me come on “Welcome to the Show” and “Glow” which tend toward rock. The execution is fine, but the music is not as catchy. I guess I have been spoiled elsewhere by infectious rhythms and ballads that sound fresh.

With regard to the latter, the closer, “Have Your Way,” is stunning. It’s vulnerable, intimate and has spiritual depth and maturity. It’s about choosing to trust and worshipping with one’s life even if everything is lost or stripped away.

This is not the kind of music that is familiar to me. It’s far removed from the adult contemporary pop that was so common among Christian artists. I am surprised at how much I enjoyed it. It’s creative and fun, but it also has substance. Unlike early Christian music, which could suffer from poor production, this is on par with anything in the marketplace.

The day is just dawning for Britt Nicole. As she continues on this path, I expect her future will get brighter and brighter (See Proverbs 4:18).

Bringing Theology to Life: Key Doctrines for Christian Faith and Mission - Darren C. Marks

2009-10-03T17:50:00.000-07:00

Making theology clear, precise and applicable

Bringing Theology to Life: Key Doctrines for Christian Faith and Mission
Author: Darren C. Marks
Publisher: IVP Academic
Pages: 190

In “Why the Care of Language is More Important than Ever” (Christianity Today, September 2009), Marilyn Chandler McEntyre writes, “The discourse of the church, the subtleties of biblical language and the nuances of translation, the ear for poetry and care for theological distinctions may be eroded when the language of popular media is allowed to overtake the dialect of worship and conversation among believers. We need to help one another—reading, speaking, and praying thoughtfully together—to maintain the strenuous pleasures of precision, clarity, and lively confrontation that are mutually empowering and that keep us accountable to one another, to the responsible reading of Scripture, and to the God we serve.”

This is why a book like Bringing Theology to Life is important. It is an attempt to “maintain the strenuous pleasures of precision, clarity, and lively confrontation that are mutually empowering and that keep us accountable to one another, to the responsible reading of Scripture, and to the God we serve.” Recognizing and understanding theological distinctions are part of growing spiritually. We are impoverished when we speak and act without a substantive knowledge of what we are doing. It is like taking communion without knowing the significance.

Having come from a church background that gave little thought to history and theology, I find the book rewarding, even when I am unsure if Marks is correct. I appreciate the discussion. This is one man’s attempt to communicate the depth and richness behind the teachings that are fundamental to the Christian faith. You find one of many samples of this in the chapter titled “The Doctrine of the Bible and Sacraments,” Marks pulls back the curtain to integrate a theology of Scripture with preaching, which he contends rarely happens. We learn the purpose of preaching.

The value of this kind of precision is that it can be corrective, so that we can adjust our thoughts and actions to be more in line with God’s intent as revealed in the Scriptures.

Having coming from a non-sacramental background, I found his discussion on this subject fascinating and enlightening. He avoids controversy by not concerning us with the number and nature of sacraments, but giving us his view of what they do. He briefly provides non-sacramental perspectives in the book, but the sacramental views have greater depth and inform his theology. Those like me in non-sacramental churches may sometimes feel like a foreigner, but what keeps me interested is a desire to know the truth. This is what Marks seeks to convey even if some of the finer points are debatable.

This book arises from the author’s conviction that “theology, or rather academic theology, is largely divorced from needs and concerns of members of the community of faith.” Marks seeks to “redress that imbalance by clarifying that Christian theology is exactly the content of the life of the Christian community in terms of its worship and therefore its understanding of Christ.” He does this by introducing the insights of academic theologians. This is one of the delights, meeting key figures from the past and learning how their thoughts contributed to our understanding of foundational teachings. In learning why the doctrine of the Trinity is important, for example, the influence of Karl Barth (1886-1968) is reviewed. Each section ends with a bibliography that is grouped into introductory, intermediate and advanced levels.

Some theological distinctions are hard to grasp, but I appreciate the author’s view of the big picture. He continually relates everything back to the Church, rather than focusing on the individual. He reminds us that we are called to community, something our highly individualized society finds hard to accept.

This would make an excellent textbook for a class on the subject. It’s not intended to be an exhaustive book of systematic theology—its scope is limited to the Trinity, Sin, the Incarnation, the Holy Spirit, the Bible and the Sacraments, Heaven, and the Church. The author believes that every Christian should be familiar with these concepts to “live and serve the gospel fully.” Marks succeeds in being clear, precise and confronting with the truth that empowers and make us accountable to each other.

Making Your Emotions Work for You - Harold Sala

2009-10-03T17:46:00.000-07:00

A Sure Guide to Emotional Health

Making Your Emotions Work for You
Author: Harold Sala
Publisher: Harvest House Publishers
Pages: 236

Emotions may not have the best reputation. We don’t want to base our lives on fluctuating feelings, but are all emotions bad? On the contrary, as Gary D. Chapman, the author of The Five Love Languages, writes in the foreword: “God made us with capacity for emotions. In God’s design, emotions were meant to help us process life in a positive manner. . . . Emotions are not designed to control our lives, but to draw our attention to life. Positive emotions help us enjoy life, while negative emotions inform us that something needs attention.”

Author Harold Sala maintains that our greatest struggles are fought within our hearts as we deal with “frustration, stress, lack of self-confidence, fear, feelings of inadequacy and inferiority, and the inability to cope with circumstances that are not to our liking.”

Choices can make us better or bitter. Sala walks us through relevant Biblical principles that we can choose to apply. We can thereby make our emotions work for us in the process of becoming more of what God wants us to be.

The first two chapters, which deal with our uniqueness and God’s acceptance of us in Christ, are worth the price of the book. It’s not that this introductory section, or any of the material that follows; is anything new. I just like how clear, concise and complete these first two chapters present the importance of having an identity established in Christ. If like me you have struggled with esteem and acceptance issues, this material alone can be life-changing. Just reading it I felt a little like Pilgrim being relieved of his burden in The Pilgrim’s Progress. Grasp these truths and feel the weight of negative emotions roll-off your person.

On the matter of self-acceptance, Sala writes, “When you can accept yourself as a person of worth and value, you can then accept adverse circumstances in life and realize that God has not forsaken you nor is He punishing you, but rather He is still guiding in the affairs of your life and home no matter what happens. . . . You don’t consider difficulty to be punishment because you know your sins have been dealt with and you are God’s child.” Sala doesn’t discount the fact that at times God will discipline us. I just appreciate him highlighting that when things go wrong, it doesn’t mean that God is not there or that He is necessarily against us.

Another thing I like about Sala is his liberal use of stories to illustrate his points. This is not dry reading. Sala draws on many years of ministry experience, which includes a radio program heard on more than 1,000 stations around the world. Over the years he has collected numerous responses to his broadcasts, and he often judiciously shares correspondence and anecdotes for interest and emphasis. If sermon illustration is becoming a lost art, you would never know it from reading Sala.

Even so, his writing is not cluttered with too much of a good thing. He knows how to be brief, which makes this a reference that one can turn to repeatedly for inspiration and help. It’s written for lay people, but church leaders will also find that it’s a good resource.

Sala is never heavy-handed, but his easy to follow applications gently challenge. For those who are hurting, this book offers a wealth of practical steps toward recovery.

In addition to several chapters focusing on the intricacies of emotions, separate chapters are used to explore anger, fear, boredom, stress and burnout.

Reading Sala is like having your own personal counselor who encourages making friends with your emotions. We must respond rather than react to them, and Sala is an expert at showing us how. His aim is that we become all that God wants us to be.

Alive Again - Matt Maher

2009-10-03T17:40:00.000-07:00

Multi-faceted worship from an emerging singer/songwriter

Alive Again
Artist: Matt Maher (www.mattmahermusic.com)
Label: Essential Records
Length: 12 tracks/55:34 minutes

Alive Again, Matt Maher’s second release on Essential Records, solidifies his emergence as a recognized worship artist. It also highlights his ability as a songwriter. He is best known as the author of “Your Grace is Enough,” which appeared on his Essential debut, Empty and Beautiful.

Maher is one who believes in songs born out of community. These songs were written with Jason Ingram, Chris Tomlin, Matt Redman, up-and-coming writer/vocalist Audrey Assad, Mark Byrd and Mia Fieldes (Hillsong). I appreciate the honesty and vulnerability in some of the lyrics.

Originally from Newfoundland, Canada, Maher has gone from full-time ministry at his home church in Mesa, Arizona to leading worship around the world.

That is not to say that Alive Again is just the typical fare found on modern worship recordings. There are songs like “Shout of the King,” a driving anthem that would be right at home on a Chris Tomlin recording. But you also find a more than average variety of styles. Maher sings with a Bruce Springsteen-like swagger on “Hold Us Together,” which with its sing-a-long chorus could pass for a folk anthem. The plainspoken sentiments about love make it a song that I can imagine the Boss singing.

“Remembrance” is a communion song with lyrical depth and an ethereal sound that highlights the mystical aspect of the rite. The stripped-down, all-acoustic sound on “Letting Go” fits perfectly with its theme of relinquishing all. The quiet, gentle nature make this one of my favorites.

“You were on the Cross” is a stark song of lament from the perspective of someone who is in the winter of discontent. Yet when life falls apart, it still has the faith to direct the hard questions to God: Where were you when …? Songs like this are a heartening sign of maturity. Others have pointed out that modern worship recordings have often lacked this aspect of grief and sorrow.

Anytime anyone successfully incorporates the beautiful picture of God singing over his children (Zep. 3:17), it is worth noting. That is what you find on “Sing Over Your Children.”

“No Greater Love” celebrates the Incarnation with drums that shuffle and atmospheric guitar. Kudos to the producers, Paul Moak and Christopher Stephens, for helping to give this CD a raw, organic sound that makes this a little different from the many similar-sounding praise and worship recordings. My first exposure to Moak was his hot guitar-playing on one of Derek Webb’s tours. I can hear his influence.

“Garden,” another acoustic gem—one of two songs that include female harmonizing and the album’s closer—rejoices in the fruit of God’s cultivation of the heart.

This CD is like a fresh garden of delights. It’s not hard for me to imagine the gentle breeze of the Spirit carrying these songs of praise and worship heavenward as they fill the hearts of God’s children.

Hello, Stranger - Catie Curtis

2009-10-03T17:34:00.000-07:00

No longer strangers

Hello, Stranger
Artist: Catie Curtis (www.catiecurtis.com)
Label: Compass Records
Length: 11 tracks/42:11 minutes

I had never heard of Catie Curtis, but now that I have listened to Hello, Stranger, I would welcome the opportunity to hear more. There is more—nine solo recordings over a 15-year career—but I am thankful for this introduction to such a friendly voice.

Those in the know have clamored for stripped-down versions of her classics, something that captured the spirit and intimacy of her live shows. Those who enjoy the sound of string instruments don’t have to wait any longer. This is a gentle feast for the ears from some of Nashville’s finest pickers.

The highlight is a warm voice anchoring songs that range from whimsical to thought-provoking. By focusing on acoustic instruments, occasional light percussion (no drums), and unadorned vocals, this has a pleasing organic quality. It is a delightful blend heard through a variety of styles.

The title track is a rousing country duet with Mary Gauthier. “Walking On a Wire” has a relaxed feel that makes its confession of falling seem so natural.

What drew me to this recording was “Tuesday’s Dead,” the Cat Stevens gem, which is still relevant and one of the highlights.

“Dad’s Yard” is ever so soothing with its beautiful harmony. “Passing Through” is similar to a gospel song, reminding us that life is transitory. The most moving for me is “Don’t Want to Know (No Evil).” Here she sings of shunning evil and wanting to know love.

I appreciate the authenticity in songs like “100 Miles,” where Curtis wonders if she is ahead or behind. She is not afraid to engage in a little humor at her own expense. Nor is she shy about posing challenging questions. It makes it easier to get to know her.

This is a lovely initiation to the music of Catie Curtis. I hope she counts me as a friend.