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A good introduction to genesis | Posted November-27-2009
The first few chapters of Genesis tend not to get considered that much outside the context of the never ending creation/evolution debate. That is unfortunate because that isn’t all that’s there. In God’s Big Design, Vaughan Roberts discusses what we can learn about God and his plans for humanity, the earth, sex & marriage and work from the first few chapters of Genesis. He does an excellent job at applying the scriptures to contemporary issues related to these areas. While it doesn’t go in to the depth someone doing serious ethics or theology study would want, it is an ideal introduction for new Christians or those trying to think through a biblical perspective for the first time. The book includes discussion questions so could be used in a small group setting.
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So much potential but falls so short | Posted November-25-2009
In Soul Cravings, Erwin Raphael McManus attempts to communicate how our desire for intimacy, meaning and destiny point to the existence of God and our need for him. Given that apologetics books tend to focus on the historical evidence for the Christian faith, it is nice to see someone trying a different angle. McManus is a skilled writer with a good grasp on culture. He says some good things such as about how creation and our need for love point to God. He also correctly argues against some popular ideas like reincarnation.
I do however have some concerns with the book. For a book that is meant to introduce people to God, the gospel is not presented anywhere near clearly enough. It tends to be quite vague. The overall impression you get from the book is that our big problem isn’t sin but a lack of self-actualisation. The few times the cross does get a mention it is framed as a declaration of God’s love. This is true, but is on its own nowhere near a sufficient explanation. He expresses a disdain for religion that could easily be misinterpreted. If a non-believer wanted to know more about Christianity, I don’t think this book would be particularly helpful. It may well make them more confused.
This book was an idea that had a lot of potential but its lack of clarity makes it fall short. I don’t recommend it.
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A good look at how the truth of the cross applies to life | Posted November-25-2009
In death by love Mark Driscoll and Gerry Breshears attempt to apply the truths of the cross to real life. It draws some material from Mark’s Christ on the cross sermon series. Each chapter is made up of an introduction to a person’s situation, a letter to them outlining how what took place at the cross makes a difference to them, and then answers to some questions that may come up about the chapters material. This approach of applying the various aspects of the cross to different situations is a really good one because some books on the topic can sometimes seem worthy but a bit detached from real life. The book would be especially helpful if you are counseling someone going through difficult times. Especially helpful is that the book includes letters addressing both Christians and non-Christians.
I do have a few concerns. Some of the situations addressed in this book are horrendous- rape, child abuse ect. Because of this it is sometimes not an easy read. It also means it is one I would hesitate to give to a younger reader. I’m also not quite sure what to make of the chapter of unlimited-limited atonement- Mark’s take on the predestination issue.
Overall, a good but sometimes quite heavy book that I would recommend to mature readers.
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Quirky but worthwhile | Posted August-15-2008
This book is certainly a bit different. It is constantly changing writing style, topic and even which way up the book goes every few pages. It has lots of random footnotes. Not to mention that death and bluegrass music seem like an unlikely combination for a christian book! Don't let all that scare you off, it is a thought provoking and at times funny book that is well worth reading.
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Challenging but worthwhile | Posted May-31-2008
In desiring God, John Piper presents some thoughts about what it means to enjoy and glorify god. It is a challenging read, it took me several readings to get my head around it. I think it is worth the effort and time to ponder on what he says
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Be very careful | Posted May-31-2008
Rob bell has a very engaging writing style and at times says some good things. There is however some iffy theology in velvet elvis so don't go here looking for solid biblical teaching and if you do read it don't take on what you read without comparing it to the bible.
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A beautiful new direction | Posted December-07-2007
This EP takes a different focus to the big rock anthems he is known for with switchfoot, instead featuring stripped back acoustic arrangements. As usual Jon's songwriting is great, but here shows a more personal introspective bent. My personal favorites are The cure for pain and Equally skilled, a song based closely on Micah 7. He has set the bar high for what looks to be an excellent series of EP's.
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A good effort | Posted September-30-2007
Regeneration does a good job at providing some fresh takes on early Superchic[k] songs. Barlow girls gets a cool new vibe with a decent rap. Me against the world is a lot of fun as is princes and frogs. For me the stand out track is stand up. This version gives it a lot more intensity and emotion than the original. My only real complaint is that the album is quite short.
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Lots of fun | Posted September-25-2007
Something about veggie tales brings out the little kid in so many of us big kids. In line with the title there is nothing at all serious here and that's what makes it so much fun. These very talented veggies cover a variety of topics, everything from unmotivated pirates to Asian take-away to water buffalos. The pirates who don't do anything is a particular highlight. This album makes for great bus trip sing-alongs. The DVD of the silly songs is well worth a look too.
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Solid but somehow lacking | Posted September-25-2007
Given the hype and chart positions for this album i approached it with high expectations. The songs are certainly well produced and suitable for many church bands. While theres no specific song or issue i can fault i got to the end of the album feeling a bit let down and like i'd heard it before. Its nice but it doesn't really stand out to me. If you don't know their music this is probably not the best starting point.
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joanna's Music and Book Reviews 
