CHRISTIAN BELIEFS
20 basics every Christian should know
By Wayne Grudem . IVP. 158 pages. £6.99
ISBN 1 84474 088 8
Back in 1994 Wayne Grudem produced his massive Systematic Theology, a book unique of its type in being warm, easy to read and understand, and designed to produce worship among its readers. Fortunately, even after 12 years, this remains a well-kept secret; if the news ever leaks out, our congregations may begin to expect sermons that are easy to understand, warming to the heart and worshipful; then where would we be?
This new book is the second, and excellent, simplification of the bigger work, and was written in conjunction with Wayne’s son Elliot. 20 chapters of basic doctrine in less than 160 pages, with ‘questions for review and application’, it offers a real opportunity for new believers (and others) to begin to ground themselves in Christian truth. Like Calvin before him, he thinks prayer is important enough to rate a chapter in a theology book, while for those who are concerned, as I would be, there is no trace of Grudem’s view of prophecy and spiritual gifts.
This is one of those rare books — much rarer than reviewers suggest — that comes close to being a ‘must read’ for all believers; no one could fail to profit from it. I look forward eagerly to teaching a church class based on this.
If I were determined to criticise (who, me?) I would be sorry that he is not more specific in the chapter on creation, but no book is perfect and it’s easy to remedy. May the Lord bless this book!
Gary Benfold
pastors Moordown Baptist Church in Bournemouth and really enjoys being positive when he can mortify his miserable pessimism
