Very Good guide to Protestant subjects in the Church Year
596971
There are two things about which you must be clear of with this book. The first is that it's heritage is thoroughly Lutheran, so you will find many references to Protestant figures wuch as the Wesley brothers, Philipp Melanchthon,William Tyndale, and Count Zinzendorf, as well as the 'biggies', Luther and Calvin. The second is that contrary to the subtitle, this book does not contain an exhaustive list of 'Saints' recognized by the Catholics. For that, I suggest you go to David Farmer's 'Oxford Dictionary of Saints'.

Otherwise, as someone who writes regularly on the Christian year and on Christian subjects, this book has found a place of honor, within easy arms reach of my keyboard, as I refer to it every week. I suspect the book is even more useful to those who have responsibilities for weekly messages, as this volume gives a wealth of information about most of its figures, many of which neither the average Lutheran, Anglican, Methodist, or even Catholic has ever heard of, but should.

For the short run, there is a brief biography for most figures, about what you may find in an entry in the Wikipedia (except for the really important figures). But even better, there are quotes from books either by or about each figure.

For the long haul, there are bibliographical references, with at least two or three volumes cited for biographies or, for thinkers such as Kierkegaard, references on his work. There are Propers for the service and even suggestions for hymns, readings, and prayers appropriate to the subject. Almost all hymns appear in either the Lutheran Book of Worship or Evangelical Lutheran Worship.

I have seen other books on the Christian calendar, but this is by far the most useful for Protestants.
4252344
At the Heart of the Church: Selected Documents of Catholic Education - This is a great resource for anyone studying this kind of material
4786147
"The Story Of American Catholicism" by Theodore Maynard is a good social history of the Church in the United States.  Copyrighted in 1941, it is now dated.  That being recognized, it does a good job of relating the history of the Church in the U.S. to that date.

Organized into 29, generally chronologically sequenced, topical chapters, this book covers our history from many perspectives.  Beginning with the exploration and early settlement, the story starts, naturally, with Spanish and French missions in what are now the American Southwest and Midwest.  It then goes on to tell the story of the Church in the English colonies, including how the Penal Laws of Britain affected Catholic settlement in the U.S.  The role of Catholics in the Revolution, prominently that of the Carrolls and French interveners, is the subject of a chapter.  With Religious Freedom, new challenges faced the Church as it grew with the country.  Leading figures, such as John Carroll, John England and James Cardinal Gibbons receive the attention they deserve.

On these pages, Theodore Maynard does an excellent job of weaving Church history into the overall history of the country.  The contributions of lay, clerical and religious Catholics are all included.  Topics including Revolution, immigration, Civil War, economic expansion are shown both in their religious and secular dimensions.  At times I even forgot that I was reading a religious history.

Although this book is old, it is still relevant.  Its spirit of Triumphalism is strong, but that, too, is part of our history.  The trait of Trimphalism is a form of living history in which the reader is included.  I found some of the policy recommendations, including those regarding rural settlement, to be amusing.  I found the reference to Adolph Hitler in the present tense to be eerie.  The weaving of secular and religious history is something which I have not seen in other works.  While other works are more modern, this one contains gems which I have not found elsewhere.  One example of this is the concept that many Catholics drifted away from the Church during the Colonial and early national periods, not because of persecution, but due to the mere unavailability of religious services.  If you are only going to read one book about the history of the Church, I would recommend a more modern work.  For a more thorough understanding of our history, this one is a worthwhile supplemental read.
32675
In preparation for the 500th anniversary of the start of the Reformation, this is an outstanding explanation of the key documents that Martin Luther presented and began the movement. Wengert's discussion in his introduction is enlightening to those who might think they understand the history of the posting and publication of Luther's 95 Theses. The booklet is crisply and concisely written and allows the reader to better understand the workings of the late-Medieval church. It is a great guide for study groups tackling the subject.
4626403
The major topics that Bray highlights in this volume are drawn from the first article of the Nicene-Constantinopolitan Creed. He addresses faith and scripture, the nature of God, God as Father, God as almighty, God as creator, creation itself, and things seen and unseen. The first article is the shortest and most likely the oldest article of the Creed. With that being the case, Bray traces much of the theology from this section back to the earliest Christian writers. Of course, since the later patristic authors tended develop their theology more thoroughly, they are often cited as well. The book is a little short when compared to the volumes in the sister series (Ancient Christian Commentary on Scripture), but it also covers a very short portion of text.

While selecting sources for the patristic commentary, Bray sought to choose texts that not only represented the early Christian doctrine, but ones that were also valuable to spiritual formation of the modern reader. The main goal of the book is to "foster the edification of Christian believers" (xli), although Bray also notes that the book should prove helpful to scholars and others less interested with that goal. The book follows the trajectory of the "classical church fathers" and so voices from other forms of Christianity at the time are omitted--which is not surprising because it is a commentary on the Nicene Creed.

The sampling of texts used in the commentary are easy to navigate and the selections are generally very relevant. The selections are also nicely footnoted with pointers to source material, cross references, and explanatory notes. Unfortunately, there aren't notes on the translation of the Greek and Latin texts themselves, and those interested in the original languages will have to consult other editions. The commentary functions as a hybrid between a concordance of topics pertaining to the Nicene Creed and an anthology of primary sources of patristic authors. It's definitely a useful volume to locate sources on the theology of the writers known as the Church Fathers. I see this this book as a helpful starting place for further inquiry.
4701593
Great book!  A good read for any Catholic, and something to help Catholics when talking with Protestants.
595974
A good, clear systematic theology from a reformed Presbyterian perspective. The teaching is sound and solidly scriptural, and at the same time very accessible to the layman wanting a deeper understanding of the nature of God, the Bible, the sacraments, heaven/hell/angels, etc. As a Baptist one of the things that captured my attention was when Berkhof describes infant baptism and the situation of an infant, being baptised then later in life turning from faith, and describing this situation as that individual being judged as a breaker of the covenant. Perhaps my understanding of covenental theology isn't as strong as it could be, but I found this particular teaching difficult, and not necessarily tennable with Scripture. How could a person be held accountable to a sacramental decision that was made by the parent? I appreciate my presbyterian friends but find this teaching of theirs difficult.
2028341
This wonderful book was originally published by the Reverend Joseph Berington in 1812, with the intended aim to provide instruction and strengthen the faith of Catholics in England of that time. The work was then subsequently revised and expounded on by his friend, John Kirk in several later editions, the last of which appeared around 1830. The book begins with a somewhat lengthy explanation of the process which engendered the creation of the book, useful and informative. We then move into a table of those sacred and ecclesiastical writers and councils whose work is included herein. The vast majority of the book is constructed in this manner: a proposition, the relative scripture, and the related writings of the various Church fathers, organized relative to their time. So first century writers are followed by those of the second century, et cetera. This is very handy when one wishes to simply look for one topic, and read the passages covering that area of doctrine. I see this book as a useful one for Catholics such as myself, who wish to learn more about their faith, and related commentary by the Church fathers. This book would also be a good one for those of protestant faiths who want to learn more of the basis for our beliefs, and where they come from. I think that this would likewise be handy for Catholic apologists. Speaking for myself, I enjoyed this book tremendously, and will return to it repeatedly over the years. My only problem is that I enjoyed the book so much that I found myself wallowing in it, rather than reading books the way I ordinarily do. It'll be a good reference for the future. This edition of the book is a nicely done paperback, with easy to read text, and a pleasant cover. I will definitely recommend this book to others.
3088358
Richard Bauckham's treatment of the two least respected books of the New Testament has definately been a blessing for me as I continue to grow in my faith and knowledge of the Gospel.

As is the case for all the Word Commentaries, Bauckham introduces each book (including scholarly points of debate), translates the original language into English, and provides commentary on the book.  In this reader's opinion, Bauckham's treatment of Jude is supurb, but his treatment of 2 Peter suffers because of his belief that it is pseudepigriphal (written by an anonymous author who is pretending to be St. Peter).

I was entranced by the first part of this book--the commentary on Jude.  Bauckham greatly improved my understanding--not just of the theological elements of this work--but of St. Jude himself and the earliest days of the church in general.  Through an analysis of the gramar and vocabulary of Jude and through examining points of contact with other ancient works, one is able to gain a respect for both Jude's high degree of education as well as his knowledge of practical theological matters.  I was impressed with how relevant the message of Jude is to modern readers.

The second section, on 2 Peter, is explored as thoroughly as Jude, but was not as enjoyable a read because of my own disagreement with Bauckham's assumptions.  As previously stated, Bauckham believes that 2 Peter was not actually written by the Apostle Peter, but rather by one of his friends/students/etc.  Bauckham makes his case for this in the introduction, but is very unconvincing as he argues that 2 Peter is a hybrid piece, combining an epistle with a fictional first-person summary of his teachings.  Too much in the letter conflicts with Bauckham's view and this reader percieves some of his arguments as theological acrobatics.

Even still, Bauckham's analysis of the content of 2 Peter is excellent.  He convincingly shows the heretical arguments of Peter's opponents; he shows the unity of the letter; and points out where Peter's eschatological arguments are a continuation of both Jewish and early (earliest) Christian end-times doctrines.  It is a convincing and practical work.

In all, this fairly conservative treatment of these two Biblical books is recommended--especially to those Christians who have neglected these underrated additions to the canon.
991310
A wonderful review of the protestant reformation and results thereof.  Fr. Trenham did an amazing job of clarifying, in detail, the subjects and persons that brought us to today's results.
3666714
This book is well organized and has enough reading material from every age of the Church, at the back of the book, to test your understanding as you go, so that you don't pass out with boredom from the simple sentences at the ends of the early chapters. I think if you want to get going reading ecclesiastical Latin and work through the book as presented, this is a good book. It does assume you'll commit the material of each chapter to memory as you go. If you've had prior experience with Latin this book serves as a really good review.

It's a spare format, and could use a little more drill at the end of each chapter. I resent the lack of an answer key in the book, and that one has to buy the answer key separately. Still, if you pay attention you can be reasonably sure if your answers are correct.

One reason I gave it only four stars is the peculiarly modern (as in post VatII) tone the drill sentences seem to have. For example, the word for priest is given in the glossary as "sacerdos" but you will see the word "minister" used instead nearly every time "priest" would have been the right word. This is quite in keeping with the modern idea of the priest as a mere presider or minister, rather than one who offers a sacrifice. The phrase "people of God" also turns up quite a bit in the practice sentences. I find myself wishing there were more pre-Vatican II theology presented in the material rather than the dispiriting modernist pap that is now current. Traditionalists take note.
3709074
The "Theology in Community" series is a (growing) group of volumes produced by Crossway covering one particular theological topic from a number of angles. Thus far, some of the topics covered in this series include the deity of Christ, the kingdom of God, suffering, and sin among others. What is particularly unique for these volumes is that they seek to integrate biblical theology, systematic theology, historical theology, pastoral application, and cultural discussions on the matter. For this reason, these volumes are helpful and comprehensive introductions to the topic discussed.

This volume, "Fallen: A Theology of Sin" contains important doctrinal chapters on this matter. As Carson notes in the introductory chapter, the significance of the topic is the very universality of this topic and yet the total omission of discussion of sin in the modern world. After Carson's initial chapter, different chapters cover such issues as sin in the OT and in the NT, Sin in the biblical storyline, sin in historical theology, Satan and sin, and repentance among others.

As with such volumes with multiple contributors, the chapters are always of varying quality. In general, each of the chapters serves as a helpful contribution. The most valuable chapters in my opinion are the chapters surveying sin in the OT and NT and sin in historical theology. The practical chapters are less helpful and in this area, I would recommend the Puritans as a more valuable resource, particularly the works of John Owen (pick up the Crossway edition of Owen's works).

Yet this work remains valuable as a consideration of the topic of sin. It covers the doctrine of sin from different angles and yet does not fail to point to the solution of sin found in Jesus Christ. The authors of each chapter are aware of the deep reality of human sinfulness and depravity and yet express faith in the gospel solution.

Thank you to Crossway for providing me with a review copy!
4621817
This little book is a gem. Many parish priests are confronted with massive time pressures and must find Father Robert's book a useful source to help in delivery of  the weekly sermon. However, the laity too will welcome this book as enriching the sermon they hear and assisting their duty of evangelisation. At a time when we welcome especially catechumens and candidates for initiation or full communion into the Church at the Easter Vigil, the homilies for the third to the fifth Sundays of Lent using cycle A rather than B, are a useful aid to catechists. The literary approaches to the liturgical texts are invaluable. There is also a useful thematic index, which not only gathers together readings across the three cycles under themes, such as Mary, but is sufficiently succinct to allow cross references to the Mother Church for the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica.
2089468
Wonderful! A book of theological truths based on the Apostles Creed. Theology is more important than what the average Church goer may think. Rather than plowing through thick volumes of theological textbooks on systematic theology, or buy individual books on various theological topics, we have in our hands a book that expounds on the essence of the history, the core theological issues, and the crucial doctrines every Christian ought to know. The Apostles Creed is an excellent choice because it is still the most unifying creed for all (if not most) Christian communities. The Roman Catholics, the Eastern Orthodox, Protestants, Evangelicals, Non-Denominationals, Bible, Independents, and many others are pretty united when it comes to this ancient creed. Even fringe groups will very likely profess the same creed with certain disclaimers. Whether one agrees with the creed fully or not, the scope of coverage is wide enough to give the Church a pretty decent theological syllabus. Author and New Testament Professor Michael Bird has done exactly that and has written this book for the masses.

He begins by making a case for the Apostles Creed as an important syllabus for beginners. Not only is it biblical, it gives us a basic summary of what the Early Church held, what traditions are, and how they inform our theological education. Creeds are part of the way God has used to teach us. From the Old and New Testaments, we get the life of Jesus, the Apostolic teachings, the Rule of Faith, and the Creeds. Creeds are used in worship; in promoting unity and fellowship with other believers; in reminding us about our faith. They also form a key part of our devotional lives. The rest of the book deals with a particular part of the creed.

  Faith
  God the Father
  God the Son
  Jesus as Messiah and Lord
  The Virgin Birth
  The Atonement
  The Resurrection
  The Reign of Jesus
  The Holy Spirit
  The Church
  The Kingdom of God and more.

Each of the chapters begin with a brief introduction, followed by an explanation of what it is, what it means, and which part of the Bible supports the doctrine. From each doctrine, Bird expands it with other important theological vocabulary to enhance our learning. There is always an application component for each doctrine expounded. The short list of recommended readings makes it convenient for planning and research for interested readers. This book is targeted at the layperson. It can be used as a preaching calendar as well. Creeds and catechisms are some of the most important resources the Church has inherited over the years. In fact, every creed came about because of the threats of heresy. Such theological threats have sparked countless debates and council meetings that culminated in a statement of belief to anchor the Church on sound doctrine, something that continually needs to be done in a world that is getting more sophisticated. Learn from our forefathers who have painstakingly put together the creeds not only for their generation but for many more, including ours and our children and their descendants.

I warmly recommend this book for your reading and learning.

Bird is an Australian Professor of Theology at Ridley College in Melbourne. He publishes widely in areas of Systematic Theology and has written a comprehensive theological textbook entitled, "Evangelical Theology."

Rating: 4.5 stars of 5.

conrade
This book is provided to me courtesy of Zondervan Academic and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.
329339
Peter Marshall did an excellent job of making the Reformation (actually, Reformations) understandable. Although I am still unclear on some of the theological and philosophical divides between Catholicism  and Protestantism and their ideological offshoots, I have a much better grasp of the subject matter thanks to Marshall's clear writing.

In about 130 pages, Marshall explores the philosophical, cultural, and political effects of the religious movements collectively known as the Reformation. There is a valuable chronology at the back of the book that will make this a go-to reference material even after you've read the text. As with the other Very Short Introductions in the Oxford series, this has fairly short chapters that are broken down into several headings, which makes the book easy to read and easy to go back and find passages later.

For a potentially hot topic, the text seemed well balanced and did not appear to favor either religious camp, so there was a distinct lack of "us-versus-them" mentality in the text -- as it should be for an academic work.

Marshall also mentioned Max Weber and his "Protestant work ethic," in which Weber argued that it was the Protestant work ethic which drove Protestant nations to develop faster and more thoroughly than Catholic nations with similar resources at their disposal. Marshall offered some brief, but insightful, reasons why Weber may have been way off base in his conclusions, arguing cogently that it was a combination of factors that dictated how nations developed rather than a single philosophical difference.

I would recommend this as a first read on the Reformation, although there may be some names that person new to the subject would still need to look up. But these Very Short Introductions aren't "Dummies" books; despite the word "introduction" in the subtitle, there is a tacit assumption that you have some background in history or at least have heard some of the names mentioned in the text. This is not an insurmountable obstacle to reading the book, though.
2745276
I continue to thoroughly enjoy my journey through the Reading and Preaching of the Scriptures in the Worship of the Christian Church, with now the 5th Volume completed and about to start the 6th Volume.

This time the Author brings up to the early years of the 19th Century, covering the Great Awakening in America, 18th Century Pietism, Franciscan Preaching in Spanish California, the Austro-Hungarian Empire, the Romanian and Russian Orthodox Church, and finishing with Scottish Preaching and Evangelical Anglicanism. So quite a decent volume!

For areas like the Romanian Orthodox and Russian Orthodox, the Author goes back in time that parallels previous volumes but these places were omitted, so that they would have fuller coverage here - which I think was a wise approach. Similar the extensive coverage of Scotland goes back to Knox so that a better overview is given.

I was most pleasantly surprise by the coverage of the Franciscan preaching in Spanish California. Whilst I had a little knowledge (though probably new more about this period from Zorro than anything else) of this period, I discovered how inadequate that knowledge was. This section alone made the volume worthwhile for me.

As with previous volumes, I would recommend this series to all preachers and to all who which to travel through Church History through a different method.
4241287
Lately, as some of my readers may have noticed, I have been working on bringing together some prayer and devotional resources to add to my library. I recently ordered, Bless Us O Lord, and have gotten a chance to look it over. What I discovered was an excellent resource for church leaders, especially lay church leaders who might be charged with leading a meeting with a devotion, or planning a special worship service of some sort.

The book is separated into four parts. The first part has devotions for different moments of the Christian year. This includes moments such as Advent and Easter, and also less prominent moments in the church year Each devotion is followed by a brief prayer. The second part of the book has devotions and prayer for moments of the civic year, including holidays like New Year's Sunday and Labor Day Sunday. Then there are a few meditations for other "occasions" that may not show up on the calendar.

The final section of the book is an organization of special services at different occasions in the life of the church. Some of these services are unique to persons in the Christian Church/Disciples background. Many other services, in fact most of them, are useful in most denominational settings.

Some of the resources in this book I will find extremely helpful. Others I will probably not use. Where I will find this most helpful is as a resource to share with lay leaders in my congregation. There are several moments in the life of the church where lay leaders are called on to share devotional thoughts, and this is an easy plug and play resource for such events.

So, this book will be a helpful reference item on my bookshelf in my office. I imagine it will be an equally helpful resource for others.

(Chalice Press has given me this book in exchange for an honest review)