The ‘Author’s Prayer’ sets the tone: ‘Let the truth go forward. Let men be changed’ (p.viii). The directness in the prayer is replicated in the exposition. The author is a voice crying to recall the church to its true mission. He seeks reformation based on love, truth and prayer.
The book consists of ten indictments to be addressed in reforming the church. (1) Psychology and sociology are displacing the sufficiency of Scripture as our guide. (2) The full-orbed knowledge of God, including his justice, wrath and sovereignty, is lacking. (3) There is a failure to convince of sin and the need for forgiveness. (4) There is ignorance of the central truth of substitutionary atonement, and rebirth has been replaced by decisionism. (5) ‘God loves you and has a wonderful plan for your life’ is not faithful to the gospel truth that sinners must repent and live godly lives. (6) The true nature of the church is not understood. (7) Loving church discipline is lacking. (8) There is silence about separation from the world. (9) Scripture is neglected in family life. (10) Pastors are not nourished by the Word.
There are many apposite illustrations that enhance this thought-provoking book.
Roy Mohon
Stockton-on-Tees
