Book Reviews for 6-15-18
Turning To God, Reclaiming Christian Conversion as Unique, Necessary, and Supernatural
By David F. Wells
Does a person have to “convert” to be a Christian? Or can one merely “follow” Jesus by studying Scripture? Does the Bible ever say that conversion is necessary? Or is it a development of the church? Turning to God explores these fundamental questions about regeneration and conversion, distinguishing Christianity from every other faith as one in which conversion is unique, supernatural, and necessary for salvation. In it you will find a clear, thoughtful, balanced discussion of the Christian conversion experience, including its history, controversy, and scriptural basis. Anyone who has marveled at the mystery of how and why we turn to God, along with those skeptical of religious conversion, will find themselves challenged and encouraged by this thorough treatment of one of the fundamentals of the Christian faith.
The Gospel Call and True Conversion
By Paul Washer
The apostle Paul gave the gospel the first place in his preaching, endeavored with all his might to proclaim it clearly, and even went so far as to pronounce a curse upon all those who would pervert its truth. Yet how sad it is that many, even among those considering themselves evangelicals, have reduced the gospel message to a few trite statements to be repeated, and view conversion as a mere human decision. In The Gospel Call and True Conversion, Paul Washer challenges such easy believism as he examines the real meaning of things like faith, repentance, and receiving Christ. He also deals extensively with the effects of saving grace that God promises in the new covenant; namely, the creation of new hearts and new people.
Table of Contents:
Series Preface
PART ONE: The Gospel Call
1. A Call to Repentance
2. A Call to Faith
3. Believe and Confess
4. Receiving Christ
5. Christ at Heart’s Door
PART TWO: New Hearts and the Nature of True Conversion
6. The Great Motive and End of Salvation
7. The Author of Salvation
8. Separation and Cleansing
9. A New Heart
10. The Effectual Spirit
PART THREE: New People and the Nature of True Conversion
11. The Glory of the New Covenant
12. The Making of New People
13. The Christian’s Sure Knowledge of God
14. The Heart and Way of God’s People
15. The Everlasting Covenant
16. God’s Goodness to His People
The Cross and Salvation
By Bruce Demarest
With America’s confidence in the Bible at an all-time low and the strength of her spiritual convictions waning, it is essential for Christians—especially Christian leaders—to be well-grounded in biblical theology and to have a clear and comprehensive understanding of the key doctrines of evangelicalism.
In response, professor and award-winning author Bruce Demarest has made plain God’s glorious plan of salvation, his provision for the human dilemma through Christ’s work on the cross, and the application of saving grace to unbelievers. Demarest’s unique approach defines each topic, identifies its most pressing issues, examines the ways in which the doctrine has been understood historically, and interprets the Bible’s revelation. The result is a clear and carefully constructed doctrinal statement that you can defend, live out, and communicate to others.
This singular, comprehensive treatment of one of Christianity’s essential doctrines gives definitive, Bible-based answers about salvation and the cross—and about related theological issues such as grace and regeneration. It’s perfect for clarifying your theology and gaining deep understanding of this foundational theme.