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Thoughts on the Christian life in a fallen world

Sunday, February 19, 2017

Bible Studies on Mark - William Boekstein

The author is a graduate of Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary and pastor of Immanuel Fellowship Church in Kalamazoo, Michigan. He has written other studies for small groups and individual study. Divided into 21 studies with questions at the end of each, this book can also be used for individual or group Bible study. Recommendations by Rev. Daniel R. Hyde and Rev. Joel Beeke, President of the Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary round out the endorsements.
Published by Reformed Fellowship Inc. their website www.reformedfellowship.net. It is good to see a Bible study on Mark based on Reformed theology, where so many others are not.
Lesson headings are Phariassaism and Discipleship, Marriage, Materialism, and Ministry, and Preparation for Death, broken down down into subjects.
I can see this book being used for an in depth Bible Study of the book of Mark.
I have been provided with a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for this review.

Monday, February 6, 2017

Finding Forgiveness - Stanley D. Gale

Discovering the healing power of the Gospel, At just 5 chapters and 120 pages, the author tackles a subject that many chose to a avoid. How do we forgive ourselves and others, even when we don't feel like it? Or even if the offending person is not sincere to our liking? What is our responsibility in the process of forgiveness? Coming from a Reformed perspective, the author states on page 8:
"What can a sinner do to be saved? the answer-nothing. We can do nothing to deserve God's favor or to merit His salvation."
and later on,"Forgiveness is essential to the Gospel message." And it is true that it is. We are commanded to forgive others, as God has forgiven us. We have no choice, to be obedient, we must forgive. He quotes Philip Ryken who says "Those who are truly forgiven, truly forgive."
There are discovery questions at the end of each chapter that could be used in a small group to stimulate conversation and reflection. The author's ministry website is www.CHOPministry.com.
He has dedicated this book to his church family for over twenty years, The Reformed Presbyterian Church of West Chester, PA.
Published by Reformation Heritage Books, Grand Rapids, Michigan.
I would recommend this book to anyone who may have a hard time forgiving themselves or others, and wants to be obedient to God in the process.
I have been provided a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for this review.