Book Reviews – Page 2

The Way of the Lamb

November 24, 2017 by Peter Dubbelman Leave a Comment

This book’s opening quote, by Eugene Peterson, and closing quotes, by Augustine and others, help tether its consistent line of thought that is held by two opposing questions: Do you seek applause, self-importance, influence, control, and winning—using people in the process? Do you take on the way of the Lamb, find God’s power in weakness, and lay down your life for others? Read More »

Treatise on the Love of God

October 27, 2017 by Peter Dubbelman 2 Comments

“Prying, ambition, anxiety, ignoring our purpose for being in this world: these are the reasons for which we have a thousand times more worries than work and more occupation than profit. These do not represent our true business. They are wasteful activities that we allow to distract us from the love of God.… Necessary employment, according to each person’s vocation, does not hinder divine love. It increases and gilds the work of devotion.… The devout heart loves God no less when it turns from prayer to necessary business. Silence and speech, activity and contemplation, work and rest provide equal opportunity to sing a hymn of love” Read More »

The Intellectual Life

July 22, 2016 by Peter Dubbelman Leave a Comment

Be a person that reflects, assimilates and then originates! “‘Look in thy heart and write,’ said Sidney. The man who writes like that, without pride or artifice, as it were for himself, is in reality speaking for humanity, provided he has the talent that will carry true words far and wide. Humanity will recognize itself in him, because it is human nature that has inspired the discourse. Life recognizes life.” Read More »

A Little Exercise for Young Theologians

June 17, 2016 by Peter Dubbelman 2 Comments

Thielicke writes: “How all important it is that a vigorous spiritual life, in close association with the Holy Scriptures and in the midst of the Christian community, be maintained as a background to theological work, and that the unformed shadows of thought always derive their life blood from that source.” Read More »

Enjoy Your Prayer Life

December 29, 2015 by Peter Dubbelman 2 Comments

You won’t find a better, shorter book on prayer; it’s refreshingly unique and potentially helpful for every Christian. Well written, insightful, inspirational, and devotional, it contains both theological depth and practical suggestions. Michael’s overall thoughts are launched from within the walls of Reformed theology and his main point is adapted from a quote from Calvin: “Prayer is the true exercise of faith.” For Reeves, prayer is not a burdensome task that someone has to do but a delightful privilege, communion with God, the antithesis of self-dependence, and hopefully a joyful, life-giving part of our lives. “It’s exercising belief that the Almighty is my willing and kind Father Read More »