Matthew: The Gospel of Identity - Michael Card

Michael Card uses an economy of words to convey the essential in Matthew’s gospel of identity.

Matthew: The Gospel of Identity

Author: Michael Card

Publisher: IVP Books (www.ivpress.com)

Pages: 267

“Matthew’s Gospel is about identity, about discarding the old, incomplete identities that enslave us and receiving a radical new identity. It is not your Jewish or rabbinic self, or your tax-collecting self. You are not defined by the old orthodoxy, but by the new reality. All of the old, false, incomplete identities must go and be swallowed up in a new organizing principle. It is about surrendering whatever citizenship you define your identity by and becoming a citizen of the new kingdom, whose king is Jesus,” (22) writes Michael Card introducing his third of four commentaries on the gospels.

What Card has so meticulously done in his music, he brings to the printed page. He points out that Matthew contains five large blocks of Jesus’ sayings, which occasionally may seem unconnected. Through background information, careful analysis and a sanctified use of imagination Card helps readers not to lose sight of the story. It’s easy to miss the forest when you focus too much on individual trees. I’m grateful that Card vividly brings the text to life through engaging narrative.

In his concluding thoughts on Matthew chapter one, Card ties the pertinent elements of the beginning story to the theme, “As the first hearers of Matthew’s Gospel sat listening in the synagogue, once again the theme has been touched upon that the Gentiles have a stake in the ministry of Jesus from the very beginning. The magi, who had come so far risking their very lives, are the first to recognize the dignity of Jesus and to offer him worship. Though the priests and experts in the Law know the facts about where the Messiah would be born, they missed out on the reality of who he was. Matthew’s first hearers are being encouraged not to miss out on who Jesus is, even though they, as Jews, know all the facts as well” (36).

Card succeeds in this and his other commentaries in creating a series that is highly readable but also scholarly. His comments on John the Baptist, are but one example of his consistent clarity: “His (John’s) primary mission was to make the Israelites aware of their personal sin and to urge them to respond in repentance and baptism. That is how one prepares the way for the Lord.… He is clearly the fulfillment of Malachi’s closing promise that in the last days Elijah would come (Mal 4:5-6)” (39).  

Even in the foregoing one can see how he unpacks meaning with a minimum of application, which can be a plus. An overemphasis on application can come at the expense of meaning. The first priority is to understand what the text teaches. Application then follows. Card leaves room for readers to draw their own conclusions.

He gets at the heart of Matthew’s gospel, even if at times one might like him to go further. In Matthew 24, for example, he divides the text by two questions, “When will these things happen?” and “What is the sign of Your coming and of the end of the age?” In answer to the first question, “From verse 15 to 25, Jesus prophesied the coming destruction of Jerusalem, an event he will characterize primarily as something from which a person can flee” (211).  He broadly summarizes the passage noting, “With verse 29, everything changes. The image is no longer earthly—in fact, it becomes apocalyptic. Jesus opens his second answer with two quotes from Isaiah (Is 13:10; 34:4). The signs are cosmic; they involve the sun, moon and stars” (212). These summaries are apt, but if you want to know something about the reference to “one will be taken and one left,” you will need to turn to a reference that goes into more detail.

 

That goes beyond the scope of this book, which is to make Matthew’s themes and teachings accessible to a broad audience. This, in part, is written for those who never imagined reading a commentary. In their minds, such an undertaking might be like reading through a dictionary. Fear not! This volume is not a cure for insomnia. It won’t strike terror or generate loathing in those who see reading as little more than weariness.

This is excellent at providing context and contrasting the differences between the other gospels. It is a suitable companion for a more exhaustive commentary that one can use to more fully explore individual verses.

If you have been a fan of his music, this is your chance to become more of an admirer of Card’s way with words. For me, that’s what makes his music so special. The same gift is in operation here, and it blossoms as it does not have the same constraints as a three to four minute song. Card’s music has always led to the text. Now listeners have a ready source to learn more about it by availing themselves of this or one of his other fine written works. If you have not noticed, Card has become a prolific author.

Rich Mullins may be right about songs being remembered more than sermons, but writings can often more fully develop and expound on the riches that are found in Christ. Card’s books are a natural extension of his music, and hopefully, he will continue to encourage the body of Christ with both expressions.

As with the other commentaries, Card has recorded a CD that encompasses the content of this gospel. If I receive Matthew: The Penultimate Question from the publisher, I will review it separately. However, on the basis of the previous CD releases in this series, I can safely say that it will be worth having.

Look for John: The Gospel of Wisdom in 2014.

Larnelle Live in Nashville - Larnelle Harris

This recreates memorable moments in gospel music history.

Larnelle Live in Nashville (www.larnelle.com)

Limited Edition DVD & CD

Featuring: Larnelle Harris, Steve Amerson, Steve Green and Sandi Patty

Approximate Running Times: DVD – 90 minutes, CD – 12 tracks, 60 minutes

When I think of Larnelle Harris, what comes to mind is his 1984 duet with Sandi Patty, “More than Wonderful,” which earned them a Grammy Award. Through the years that memorable performance has stayed with me. How fitting that they should be reunited on this CD/DVD for a new duet, “Then Came the Morning,” and “I’ve Just Seen Jesus,” which gave the duo another Grammy in 1986. Any recollection of great moments in gospel history should include the contribution that these two have made together as well as individually.

The CD and DVD are mostly the same, differing in only minor ways. The DVD captures Harris and Patty performing “Then Came the Morning,” in the studio, which is one of the highlights. The concert version is found on the CD.

All clad in tuxedos, Harris sings with Steve Green and Steve Amerson on “It is Well with My Soul,” and “Kings of the Earth.” On the latter they powerfully highlight the transitory rule of the kingdoms of this world. It makes me think of decaying monuments lying in forgotten wastelands.

Despite some minor problems in the DVD sound mix, consisting of occasional poorly-sounding applause and the bass being too prominent at times, the DVD is preferable to the CD. Listeners of the CD don’t get to see how demonstrative Harris can be, which enhances the listening experience.

The DVD also includes “Teach Me to Love,” a concept video recorded with Steve Green during their younger days. It’s another satisfying duet. This break in the performance is not included on the CD.

It is a wonder that each singer retains so much strength and dynamic range in their vocals. I can’t help but think that part of it is due to a godly lifestyle and their obvious desire to glorify God with their talent. I am not as familiar with Steve Amerson, but his voice may be the most powerful.

The songs include Harris doing one medley of his most popular tracks and another of some praise-oriented hymn classics. New and old songs serve as strong declarations of faith. There are no watered-down sentiments here. The selection is excellent.

“The Greatest of These,” written by Scott Krippanye, Tony Wood and Steve Siler, is an inspired adaptation of 1 Corinthians 13. It covers the entire chapter. Harris’ eloquent rendition reminds listeners of what matters most.

The concert was recorded in the Trinity Broadcasting Network’s studios and must have aired on the network. The DVD occasionally shows a website address for Harris, which would have been better to omit. The slight imperfections in editing and mixing make this seem less professional, but these are insignificant problems that many might not notice.

I respect each of the artists, who perform here at extraordinary levels, but the inspirational style, which can sometimes border on the grandiose, is not my favorite. It may be indicative of a bias for less production. Fans of these artists, however, should not be disappointed. Several times the audience is moved to stand and applaud.

This event documents some highlights in several notable careers. It serves as a tribute to their legacies and shows that they still have their song. 

Evil and the Justice of God (paperback edition) - N. T. Wright

This is a useful resource for living in anticipation of “all shall be well.”

Evil and the Justice of God (paperback edition)

Author: N. T. Wright

Publisher: IVP Books (www.ivpress.com)

Pages: 176

The now available paperback version of Evil and the Justice of God by N. T. Wright is just as relevant and engrossing as it was in 2006 when the hardcover made its debut. Written in the aftermath of tragedies like 9/11 and natural disasters like the Indian Ocean tsunami and the Gulf Coast hurricane, there has been no cessation of horrific events, particularly ones that involve gun violence or bombs. Despite the continuing onslaught and the passage of time, society hardly seems closer to coming to grips with and restraining evil.

This book can serve as a call and challenge to the Church to take the lead in finding a way forward. It is only in the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ that God has dealt a decisive blow to the problem of evil, making the way for everything to eventually be put right. Between now and the time when all shall be made well is what can be so troublesome.

Wright acknowledges the futility of two extremes that capture the imagination: the utopian dream of progress and the temptation for evangelicals to think that it will only get worse; there is nothing to do but make the best of it until Jesus returns.

This book presents us with a much grander view, worthy of the God, who not only desires to save souls but has begun the process of righting wrong through his people, whom he desires to live in the unfolding reality of his rule.

Wright gets practical as he briefly outlines ways that Christians can engage the world and make a difference. This goes beyond personal holiness and evangelizing. It also includes encouraging and helping the powers that be, in the words of the Old Testament prophet, to do justice and to love mercy.   

I appreciate how Wright even brings art into the equation. The Christian imagination needs to be educated to understand how what we create can play a role in God’s grand scheme of redemption. “Art at its best not only draws attention to the way things are but to the way things are meant to be, and by God’s grace to the way things one day will be, when the earth is filled with the knowledge of God as the water covers 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 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” (128).

The book concludes with an overview of the central role forgiveness plays on a practical level in dealing with evil. There is nothing cheap, weak or unjust about it. Wright uses and commends three books that go deeper on the subject: Exclusion and Embrace by Miroslav Volf, which he extols as “one of the finest works of Christian Theology written in the last decade,” Embodying Forgiveness by L. Gregory Janes, and lastly, Desmond Tutu’s No Future Without Forgiveness.

For those whose interest includes details of the afterlife and the fate of the wicked, these subjects lie outside the scope of this book. The thrust is the cross of Christ and all its implications for the here and now and the future new heavens and earth.

I am glad that I read this book for a second time. It’s breadth and depth in so few pages on what is vital is amazing. I understand better one aspect of Wright’s handling of what he calls “the satan.” He prefers not to give the Christian’s adversary the dignity of personhood. It’s this supernatural element of evil and spiritual realities that will make it hard for the world to ever deal with evil in the most appropriate ways. Again, this is where the Church can take the lead and make a difference. We cannot convince the world of unseen realities, but we can serve as a living demonstration of God’s victory over evil through the reality of the cross of Christ.

Even if one might not agree with Wright on some of the doctrinal positions that he holds, his writing, as always, is wonderfully stimulating. He remains a thoughtful, scholarly observer of Scripture and the world. This is a useful resource for living in anticipation of “all shall be well.”

All the People Said Amen - Matt Maher

Maher’s Boss-like worship further solidifies him as one of the finest in the field.

All the People Said Amen

Artist: Matt Maher (www.mattmahermusic.com)

Label: Essential Records

Length: 13 tracks/66:32 minutes

If Bruce Springsteen decided to make a “worship” album, I can imagine it sounding a little like All the People Said Amen by Matt Maher. Maher is known for songs like “Your Grace is Enough,” and here, in mostly live settings, his delivery of signature songs and new material is raw and even aggressive. Though there are intimate moments with appropriate reverence, much of this has an air of boldness and confidence. Muscular backing from a band that rocks and an exuberant audience make it a boisterous affair. The Boss might approve, but this is directed to please the One to whom all glory, honor and praise rightfully belong. It’s apparent that Maher and the crowd are enjoying themselves, and it shows that worship can be a joyful experience.

Even though I favor quieter moments, I appreciate that this compares favorably both musically and lyrically with anything in the marketplace. Maher has become a favorite for his songwriting depth and artistic sensibilities. There may be many ways to worship, but this is one way to do it right. It combines a little of the singer/songwriter muse with the best in rock.

Even so, Maher is not afraid to reach back into the past for inspiration. On the worshipful, “Mighty Fortress,” one of the few studio songs, Maher adds words and music to verses by Thomas Aquinas.

The opening title track, a studio gem, has a catchy rhythm and a theme that captures the universal need for grace. This is one of Maher’s finest songs. If I could only download one song, this is it.

“Lord, I Need You” is intriguing for a couple of reasons. It borrows a little from the chorus of a beloved hymn, “I Need Thee Hour.” That alone makes it worth hearing. It also includes, fellow Catholic, Audrey Assad on backing vocals. What John Michael Talbot has been to inspirational music, bridging the Catholic/Protestant divide, Maher and Assad are becoming to the modern worship movement. They have broad appeal; their music is appreciated as much or more by non-Catholics.

Those not familiar with Maher may be surprised at the number of familiar anthems found here. Maher writes with some of the best in the genre. He is an artist to follow, especially for those who engage in modern worship.

Only a Shadow: Misty Edwards Live CD & DVD

A wideness in God’s mercy; a wildness in His Love

Only a Shadow: Misty Edwards Live CD & DVD

Artist: Misty Edwards

Label: Forerunner Music (www.ihopkc.org/music)

Length: 14 tracks/73:18 minutes

A spirit of sacrifice animates Only a Shadow: Misty Edwards Live CD & DVD. It’s as if all is on the altar, which is when the song of the Lord begins, giving this an indefinable quality that some may liken to anointing. It sounds truly inspired at times.

This could be considered alternative worship. It features cutting-edge music, exudes radical devotion and has a touch of spontaneity. The latter includes a couple of improvised songs. This in part reflects the charismatic influence of the International House of Prayer, which is the setting. There is no reason for concern if you are not of the same persuasion. There is no glossolalia or speaking in tongues, though some of the spontaneous utterances may seem a bit rambling.

Edwards has a dynamic vocal range. Her voice is tender and beautiful on ballads. It’s strong and powerful when the band rocks.

The supporting cast of musicians is excellent. The instrumental “Selah (When You Think of Me), which borders on progressive rock, as on other segments, showcases their talents.

The title song contains impressive variation. When Edwards breaks into the chorus, the resolve in the music is powerful. It’s followed by a melodious guitar interlude that reminds me of some of the fluid lines played by Phil Keaggy.

My favorite is “I Love Your Ways.” It combines a winsome melody with the chorus, “I love your ways/your beautiful ways/I love your yoke of meekness and lowliness/I love your ways.” It captures in song some of the tension between flesh and spirit; the struggle that becomes rest when submitting to God’s will. It’s like the crowning achievement, even though the album closes with the driving rock of “Between the Cherubim.”

Even though I have a charismatic background, I was somewhat wary about what I might find here. I need to remember that there is no fear in love. There is a wideness in God’s mercy that encompasses many temperaments and persuasions. Modern worship does not have to be tame. It can be a reflection of the wildness in God’s love.

The DVD mirrors the CD content. 

Troubled Minds: Mental Illness and the Church’s Mission - Amy Simpson

The mentally ill wear stigma like a scarlet letter, but Christ can make it a badge of honor.

Troubled Minds: Mental Illness and the Church’s Mission

Author: Amy Simpson

Publisher: IVP Books (www.ivpress.com)

Pages: 221

Troubled Minds by Amy Simpson was a must read. My on and off relationship with Dave, who suffers from mental illness, left me looking for help. Relating to troubled minds is rewarding, but it can also be frustrating and draining. This book did not disappoint as a reference and guide on a subject that has often been neglected and misunderstood by the church. This goes a long way towards bringing clarity and wisdom.

The author is more than a researcher presenting her findings. She shares openly about her mother’s battle with mental illness and how it affected her family. It is troubling to read how her mom, a pastor’s wife, turned from her faith and wound up on the streets before being incarcerated. When you read accounts like this, or when I think of Christians who have Alzheimer’s, perplexing questions begin to multiply. How does this relate to God’s promise to keep and care for his children? Why must this be? What will be the outcome?

Fortunately, I kept reading. Simpson’s family story does not end badly. The author succeeds in providing a comprehensive overview of this subject from a Christian perspective. The wisdom found in these pages will be a source of comfort for those who struggle and for those who serve a population that is underserved.

I came away with greater compassion, which is no small accomplishment. I like how Matthew 9:36 in the King James Version speaks of Jesus, “But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd.” Christ was moved with compassion. When you catch in these pages a glimpse of the harassed and helpless, who may be like sheep without a shepherd, don’t be surprised if the Spirit of Christ moves you with compassion.

One of the rewards of this book is seeing what the church should be in relation to the mentally ill. Simpson often shows where we fall short, but she does not browbeat. She instructs out of the compassion born of experience and learning.

It would be helpful if at least one member of every ministerial staff could read this book and be familiar with the contents. I recommend it for every church and theological library. It points the way forward for the church to do better. It also provides resource information for those wanting to start a ministry to the mentally ill.

They wear stigma like a scarlet letter, but Christ can make it a badge of honor. I saw this with my friend, Dave, who asked me to write his testimony (see the article at the end of this review). Even though he liked what I wrote, he was fearful of being associated with it. He wants others to know what Christ has done, but disclosures like this often lead to the mentally ill being judged and ostracized, even in the church.   

When asked what this book is about, I mentioned in the presence of a non-Christian that it is an encouragement for the church to reach out to the mentally ill including the depressed. In reply, she remarked, “That’s good because a depressed person is not going to come to you.” Although that may be true, change is possible. This book contains stories and testimonies of churches that have successful ministries that are like magnets attracting the mentally ill. People are drawn to the supportive atmosphere.

The author is careful to point out that the church should not expect a quick fix for those who suffer in this way. This involves a long term commitment. Too often someone who does not get better in a few weeks, months or years may experience subtle rejection. Someone with this disease may struggle for a lifetime. It may be more realistic to think in terms of management rather than cure. It’s not enough to just refer people to specialists. The mentally ill need the support that only the church can provide.

This book shows that mental illness is more widespread than most people realize. It’s an overlooked ministry that is challenging but rewarding for all concerned. For those interested in the possibilities, this book is a fine starting place.  

Michael Dalton

Crazy for God! (David’s testimony)

Crazy for God! You may laugh or think me foolish, but since 1977 I have been mentally ill.  It’s a stigma I often bear, but Christ has turned it into a badge of honor. I don’t have to be ashamed. Mental illness is not a moral failure.

It was a trait that I inherited, and my home life was far from ideal. I witnessed promiscuity; my dad took me to an x-rated movie when I was only 16. But it was being rejected by a woman that triggered manic-depression and schizophrenia.

Since then many people have come and gone. I have seen the inside of hospitals and psychiatric wards. I am misunderstood and rejected even by other Christians. Although I should be able to find a place in a church, I still find myself searching to connect with people.

But this is what makes Jesus so precious to me. Since I trusted Him in 1975, he has never left me. Even more, he has given me a heart to share the good news that all may come to him for forgiveness and freedom. Who would guess that Christ would give me a ministry of evangelism?

I have lived in many places over the years. Everywhere I go I tell people about Jesus. I have given away hundreds of tracts, and I ever long for fellowship with God’s people. How many are fortunate to have that kind of love?

God put it there. His Son was no stranger to rejection. He knew scorn and abuse. When dying, after being nailed to a cross, he prayed “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do” (Luke 23:34 ESV). Though I express it imperfectly, this is the love that God has given me. Though others may mistreat or forsake me, I keep reaching out.

Though I have wanted to marry, at least for now, Christ has given me the gift of celibacy. The 40-year-old virgin has nothing on me. I have been one for over 55 years. It’s been a struggle at times, but even when I feel lonely or discouraged, Christ stands beside me.

He’s the friend that walks in when everyone else walks out. He picks me up when I fall. He’s given me a love for the Scriptures. His Word is a continual comfort and makes me feel like I have a treasure that many people know nothing about.

I am not crazy, just crazy for God. It’s why you are reading this article. I want you to know the God who will love you no matter what. Just turn from going your own way and entrust your life to Christ. As Christian recording artist Evie sang in an old song, “Live for Jesus, that’s what matters/that you see the light in me and come along.”

David

Amy Grant - How Mercy Looks from Here

If we could only see, how it might change our perspective.

How Mercy Looks from Here

Artist: Amy Grant

Label: Capitol Christian Music Group

Length: 11 tracks/42 minutes

Scottish minister Robert Murray McCheyne said, “If I could hear Christ praying for me in the next room, I would not fear a million enemies. Yet distance makes no difference. He is praying for me: ‘He ever liveth to make intercession.’” On How Mercy Looks from Here, Amy Grant applies a similar thought on “If I Could See (What the Angels See)”: “If I could see what the angels see/behind the walls to you and me/and let the truth set me free/I’d live this life differently.” This is the first of several songs that provoke listeners to look behind what is seen to the unseen. The eyes of faith see their inheritance in Christ, and it’s not just future. Time and distance make no difference. If we can only see, how it might change our perspective. How we might live differently.

The bruised reed and the smoldering wick will find compassion and solace. This is especially the case on “Don’t Try So Hard,” which includes harmony vocals from James Taylor. The song exudes the rest that Jesus promised the weary. If I could only have one song, this is it!

Guest appearances also include Carole King supplying harmony vocals on the snappy, whimsical “Our Time is Now.” Time rushes on; “let us sing before our time runs out.”

Sheryl Crow and Eric Paslay trade lines with Grant on the gospel-tinged “Deep as it is Wide.” This takes a stirring look at what awaits the faithful.

I was eager to hear Grant collaborate with some of the artists that she has admired. A slight disappointment is having Taylor and King only harmonizing. I would have enjoyed hearing them sing a few words on their own, but I am glad for their contribution. I would like to see more Christian artists collaborating with mainstream artists. It can be beneficial to everyone, and surely God’s heart is to draw people together.

The music leans toward acoustic pop with a hint of country. Whether acoustic or electric, the guitar work is excellent. At least in part, credit goes to husband Vince Gill, whose presence is felt here in a way similar to previous releases.

Grant’s songwriting is always a strength, and it’s lovely on this CD. The somewhat rustic, laid-back music fits well with the homespun sentiments. The honesty, affirmation and love mirror the kind of support often found in recovery groups. At the same time, it is also sobering and wistful. This does not have the fanfare of earlier work, but I find it more rewarding. If the former had flashes of excitement, this is more like settled peace. This could easily become my favorite of all Grant’s recordings.