Books read in March 2009 (5)

1. What Is a True Calvinist? (Basics of the Reformed Faith) by Philip Graham Ryken

Not according to the author, one who holds five particular doctrines. Ryken says the true Calvinist has a God centered mind, a penitent spirit, a grateful heart, a submissive will, a holy life and a glorious purpose. A warm, easy to read bookl

2. What Is the Christian Worldview? (Basics of the Reformed Faith) by Philip Graham Ryken

The author tells us a worldview is the way we look at all of life to make sense of the world. His Christian perspective is centered on the God who is there and is not silent. Crearion tells us the way we were. The fall tells us we live in paradise lost. Grace is a work in progress from God. There is glory to come, paradise consummated Gospel good tidings are no matter of mere religion but all of life is lived under God's rule.

3. What Is a Reformed Church? (Basics of the Reformed Faith) by Stephen Smallman

This booklet gives the historic reformation roots of Protestant churches of the Calvinist tradition. he gives six themes. Scripture, the sovereignty of God, the covenant, the law of God, church government and sacraments and the kingdom of God. It is unashamedly Presbyterian in its understanding of what it means to be reformed so would serve as a good introductory booklet for any such church.

4. What Is Biblical Preaching? by Eric J. Alexander

The writer sees no more urgent priority than to summon the church to a restoration of the place biblical expository preaching should hold. He teaches that biblical preaching is fundamental in importance, spiritual in essence, didactic in nature, expository, systematic, pastoral, clear in structure and with relevant contemporary application. It was taught at a conference of ministers but is suitable for all Christians to understand what id true preaching.

5. Honest Money: The Biblical Blueprint for Money and Banking by Gary North

This is the best book I have read on money and economics. It is also one of the most depressing. North gives a history of money and establishes that the state is the real counterfeiter with unbacked currency. He gives simle explanations of money and economics particularly the bad consequences of our fractional reserve banking. It may be 23 years old but it is still up to date in critical analysis.