Category: The Family

Book Briefs: “Listen Up: 10-Minute Family Devotions on the Parables” by Marty Machowski

~ Bob Hayton ~ Leave a comment

As a parent of eight, I’m always on the lookout for Christian resources we can use in our family devotions. We’ve made use of some of the books from Marty Machowski before (The Gospel Story Bible and others), so I was eager to look at his latest book Listen Up: 10-Minute Family Devotions on the Parables (New Growth Press, 2017). I was not disappointed! Listen Up is a fantastic resource for families and guides readers through a thirteen-week series of lessons focused on the Parables.

Each week starts with an overview of what will be covered, and some prep-work that can be done for an object lesson/illustration introducing the theme for the week. Then 5 lessons follow and include discussion questions and prayer pointers, as well as a deeper dive for older kids or adults. From time to time, the book includes fun facts and points out other resources for further study. The result is an incredibly helpful resource that opens up the Gospels for young readers. Even as an adult and Bible student myself, there were new tidbits to learn — such as what flower is meant by the phrase “lilies of the field.”

The lessons are Gospel-centered and presented from a Reformed-perspective, yet the book is not an overt, over-bearing embrace of the Westminster Confession or anything like that. Conservative Evangelicals of all stripes will appreciate the teaching and themes emphasized in this small book’s pages.

This book goes hand-in-hand with a full-fledged Sunday School curriculum from New Growth Press as well. And the style followed appears to line up with a similar lesson series on Proverbs. Machowski also has Old and New Testament curricula available. Check out New Growth Press for these resources and more.

Parents, get this book! It will help you appreciate the Gospel more and open up the Four Gospels to the young hearts of your children.

Blurbs:
“Marty is a parent’s best friend when it comes to figuring out how to creatively and competently do what we really want to do, which is talk with our kids about what matters most — the word of God.”
—Nancy Guthrie, Author of Dinner Table Devotions and Discussion Starters

“Biblically faithful. Gospel rich. Theologically insightful. Practical. Creative. Engaging. These are some of the words that came to mind as I read through Marty Machowski’s Listen UP! I learned things I didn’t know about the parables, and repeatedly found myself thinking, ‘Parents and their kids are going to benefit so much from this book!’ Marty has obviously done his homework and excels at using the whole Bible to help us understand what Jesus is saying in the parables. Best of all, he consistently points us not only to the words of Jesus, but to Jesus himself as the only Savior of the world.”
—Bob Kauflin, Director of Sovereign Grace Music

“If I ever had to return to my child-rearing years, I’d certainly want to take Listen Up with me. This book of family devotions, written in a lively, vivid style, presents an accurate account of Jesus’s parables and applies them well to the lives of every participant. Machowski includes excellent suggestions for object lessons, group activities, prayer, and ‘going deeper,’ while keeping the actual meetings under ten minutes! I can’t imagine that anyone would follow the book’s directions without becoming a better disciple of Jesus.”
—John Frame, Professor Emeritus of Systematic Theology and Philosophy, Reformed Theological Seminary, Orlando, FL

Where to Buy:
Pick up a copy of this book at any of the following online retailers: Westminster Bookstore, Amazon, ChristianBook.com, or direct from New Growth Press.

Disclaimer:
This book was provided by the publisher. I was under no obligation to offer a positive review.

About Book Briefs: Book Briefs are book notes, or short-form book reviews. They are my informed evaluation of a book, but stop short of being a full-length book review.

Book Briefs: “Irenaeus (Christian Biographies for Young Readers)” by Simonetta Carr

~ Bob Hayton ~ Leave a comment

Irenaeus (Christian Biographies for Young Readers) by Simonetta Carr

The Christian Biographies for Young Readers series introduces children to key figures from church history. Author Simonetta Carr and illustrator Matt Abraxas offer a compelling and beautiful historical account of the life of each Christian figure profiled in the series. To date, the series includes volumes on Reformation leaders (John Calvin, Martin Luther, Peter Martyr Vermigli, and John Knox), Puritan notables (John Owen and Jonathan Edwards), Reformation era heroines (Lady Jane Grey and Marie Durand), and Church fathers (Augustine of Hippo, Athanasius, Anselm of Canterbury). The latest volume adds Irenaeus to this last category.

Irenaeus was a disciple of Polycarp, who was a disciple of John, the Beloved, himself a disciple of Jesus Christ. Irenaeus was known as a polemicist, and defender of Christian faith in the vein of Justin Martyr. Gnosticism was the chief error that Irenaeus attacked in his ministry, but “attack” may be the wrong word. Carr highlights his pastoral motives and efforts to be a peacemaker. The book by which we most remember Irenaeus today is his classic Against Heresies, which is remembered as “one of the first great summaries of Christian thought” (p. 41).

Born in around A.D. 130 in Smyrna (Izmir, Turkey today), Irenaeus eventually migrated to Rome. He then settled in east-central Gaul (now known as France), and pastored in the towns of Vienne and Lyon for more than twenty years, before his death in around A.D. 200. In giving an account of Irenaeus’ life, Carr introduces young readers to other important church figures like Justin Martyr and Polycarp. She also highlights the errors of Marcion, the Valentinians and the Gnostics. The account of Polycarp’s martyrdom is particularly moving.

As a lover of church history, this book truly is a joy to page through. Maps, historical paintings, pictures of Roman catacombs, images of manuscripts, and other pertinent illustrations abound. A “Did You Know?” section, and a timeline help to make this book useful for all readers. The writing is at the level of children, but most adults would do well to brush up on early church history through a reading of this book!

One criticism of this particular volume in the series, was the strange absence of any mention of the books today known as “The Apostolic Fathers.” These are books widely known and read throughout church history – see my review of a modern edition of them. The Epistle of Polycarp to the Philippians, and the work called The Martyrdom of Polycarp could have been easily referred to. These books are not to be treated as more important than Scripture, but they are among the best that church tradition and history has given us.

Having read many of her works, I appreciate Simonetta Carr’s attention to detail and focus on historical accuracy — evident in this latest book as well. I am once again thankful my children will have an opportunity to learn about church history by means of this helpful resource.

This book deserves a place in church or school libraries, and would make a great addition to your coffee table or personal bookcase. If you haven’t picked up a title in the Christian Biographies for Young Readers series, now would be a good time. You won’t be disappointed with Irenaeus. Read also this earlier review of some of the previous titles in the series.

Pick up a copy of this book at any of the following online retailers: Amazon, Westminster Bookstore, or direct from Reformation Heritage.

Disclaimer: This book was provided by the publisher for review. The reviewer was under no obligation to offer a positive review.

About Book Briefs: Book Briefs are book notes, or short-form book reviews. They are my informed evaluation of a book, but stop short of being a full-length book review.

My How Time Flies: Six Months of Silence

~ Bob Hayton ~ 4 Comments

Over the last 11 years of blogging, I’ve seen many blogs start and many end. Some of you are thinking that my blog has ended due to about six months of silence! No, I’m not going to bring this all to a close. But I did want to say a word about the last several months.

Fifteen months ago our eighth child was born. Hannah Mercy is her name and we all were shown great mercy through the circumstances surrounding her birth. She weighed just 2 lbs. 1 oz., and was seven weeks premature. Just three weeks after coming home, she developed RSV and faced a life-critical stay in the hospital. She pulled through and is doing well now, and we were so blessed by undergoing that trial and seeing so many friends and family come together and support our family. She is doing very well and about to walk here, any day now.

Just a few weeks after Hannah came home from the hospital (the second time), we had some truly devastating news about my brother. Since March we’ve been dealing with his unfaithfulness to his wife and his subsequent departure from the mission field. He has walked away from the faith, and relocated to our neck of the woods. His wife and children live separately from him and are getting by, but are still so hurt by all of this. We have been caring for them and trying to be there for counsel and support. I’ve been speaking into my brother’s life: trying to both warn and love him at the same time (but not enable him).

This has been a dark and trying time for my family, and these are by no means the only burdens and trials we bear. Parenting eight children (the oldest are now 11, 12 and 13) keeps us busy as well!

I hope to write more on the topic of suffering and faith, on standing firm in trial and seeing God bless you in the storm. I plan to grapple more with apologetics and the defense of the faith, as well. A friend at my church encouraged me to share more of my story online for other’s benefit. I hope to do so in time.

I plan to continue to read and review books, and comment on other items as well. But my ministry here is only one part of my calling. Being the right husband and father to my wife and children comes first. Being there for my immediate family comes next. Participating in the ministry of our local church is important too. Priorities matter, and this time away from my blog has helped me live that truth.

I am not perfect, and I’m still a project; but I hope to help and bless others as God enables me. I hope to use this blog and the platform I’ve built in a way that honors God. Thanks to all of you who read my blog. If you can, think about our family and pray as God leads you. Don’t assume something like this can’t happen to your brother or your husband, or your father, your friend. God bless and help us all as we “fight the good fight of faith” (1 Tim. 6:12a).

“When Sinners Say ‘I Do’ DVD” by Dave Harvey

~ Bob Hayton ~ 1 Comment

When Sinners Say I Do DVD by Dave HarveyMedia Details:
• Speaker: Dave Harvey
• Director: Patrick Gines
• Publisher: Shepherd Press (2014)
• Format: DVD
• Run Time: 195 minutes
• ISBN/ASIN#: 1633420922
• List Price: $59.99 (sale at Shepherd Press for $39.95)
• Rating: Must Watch

Blurbs:
“Dave Harvey skillfully exposes the real root of most marriage problems — each spouse is still a sinner. But he doesn’t leave us to wallow in our sin. He shows the way out through the ongoing power of the gospel. This will be helpful for any married couple whether they’ve been married five weeks or fifty years.”
—Jerry Bridges, Author of the Pursuit of Holiness

“Listen closely as Dave Harvey teaches on the struggles that characterize all marriages. His words are clear and inviting. He says it in a way that is fresh and humble. He cuts to the heart of what all of us are like—people needing daily, freely-given mercies from the Lord. And he cuts to the heart of what all of us need—not self-help, not a pep talk, not a few tips, but an active Savior. Listen, take to heart, and you will grow wiser as a husband or wife.”
—David Powlison, Executive Director, CCEF; Senior Editor, Journal of Biblical Counseling

“There is no laboratory for the grace of God like the family home. And there is no relationship so crucial to the work of grace in our homes as our marriages. It’s for these reasons I’m so grateful for Dave Harvey’s careful, wise, and relevant teaching in When Sinners Say I Do. Watch closely with your spouse or spouse-to-be, and let Dave lead you with great experience and pastoral care through the hard places of marriage right into the very throne room of God, where you both will find abundant grace for every need you have from now until your nineties.”
—Jared C. Wilson, Director of Content Strategy, Midwestern Seminary; TGC Blogger, The Gospel-Driven Church

Review:
Marriage is under attack today from all sides. Churches are being pressured to recognize marriages between people of the same gender. Our culture insists on “divorce on demand.” Even in conservative evangelical churches it seems that marriages have never been more unstable. Christians are getting divorced at alarmingly high rates.

Solutions to our dilemma abound. There are countless counseling resources and video series aimed at spicing up your marriage, learning the right “love talk,” or trying increasingly bizarre sexual practices as a way to keep our marriages vibrant.

Dave Harvey points out what should be obvious. The problem with marriages lasting comes down to one simple point. Marriage always involves 2 people and both of them are sinners! His book When Sinners Say “I Do” has helped many Christian couples. Now Shepherd Press has released an 8 part video series in an effort to equip the church with Dave’s important message.

This DVD series showcases Pastor Harvey walking through different passages of Scripture and unpacking the Gospel message that applies to our marriages. He emphasizes that sin is often at the root of relational conflict. He stresses the complementary design of God for man and woman. He preaches contentment and the role of mercy. He talks frankly about sex as God’s gift for each spouse – to be mutually enjoyed. And he points to the power for change: God’s stubborn grace.

The sessions are between 20 and 30 minutes long and focus just on Dave and his message. I appreciate this length as it allows the DVD series to be used both in SS classes and small group settings, or even as a seminar or workshop for a marriage retreat. The shorter time allows for questions and interaction by a local pastor or teacher who leads a group of couples through this material. Included with the video is a link to a .PDF study guide which can accompany the DVD and facilitate group discussion.

The series is appropriate for single adults as well, and they are from time to time addressed. It is also helpful for both older and younger couples — he speaks to the needs of both. In his talk on sex, Harvey is careful to be discreet and yet still direct.

The sessions do not major on the psychology of marriage. More time is devoted to unpacking and applying God’s word and then drawing application to marriage. Harvey’s advice is seasoned with years of ministry experience. He brings appropriate and helpful illustrations to capture the attention of the audience. And his insights are powerful and helpful. People in a variety of backgrounds and situations in life will benefit from this series.

I can’t wait to share this in a group setting – either with our small group or a church SS class. I hope this gains a wide audience and encourages many a couple with Gospel grace for their marriage.

Sample:
See six preview clips here, or watch the introduction below.

About the Speaker:
Dave Harvey serves as the Pastor of Preaching at Four Oaks Community Church in Tallahassee, FL. He serves as the Chairman of the board of the Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation (CCEF), as well as the Chairman of the Board of the Sojourn Network. He is the author of a number of books, including Am I Called, Rescuing Ambition, and When Sinners Say “I Do.” Dave lives in Tallahassee, Florida with his wife, Kim. They have four grown children.

Where to Buy:
• Amazon
• ChristianBook.com
• direct from Kregel

Disclaimer:
This DVD was provided by the publisher for review. The reviewer was under no obligation to offer a positive review.

“Mission Accomplished: A Two-Week Family Easter Devotional” by Scott James

~ Bob Hayton

Mission Accomplished by Scott James

Book Details:
• Author: Scott James
• Publisher: New Growth Press (2015)
• Format: hardback
• Page Count: 48
• ISBN#: 9781939946577
• List Price: $13.99
• Rating: Must Read

Publisher’s Description:
Rediscover the greatest rescue mission in history with your children. Spend the week before and after Easter walking with Jesus through the suffering of the cross, the joy of the resurrection, and the beginning of Christianity. Each of the fourteen devotions takes just ten minutes and is suitable for children of all ages. Included are family activities and hymns to help your family remember and apply the truth that Christ is risen indeed!

Review:
Looking for an easy to use resource for helping your kids go deeper into the Bible story this Easter? Scott James has given us a beautiful resource in his book Mission Accomplished: A Two-Week Family Easter Devotional (New Growth Press, 2015). This book is intended to lead families through a devotional each day the week before and the week following Easter.

I’ll jump to the chase. Get this book, and order it now. Westminster Bookstore has it for only $10.50! You still have time to get this by Palm Sunday.

I haven’t seen another devotional that is as Gospel-centered and true to the text, nor one as helpful and clearly laid out, as this little two-week devotional.

Each day’s reading is organized as follows: a selection of Scripture to be read, a short devotional (about 1 page), discussion questions (with answers for the parents), a suggestion about what to pray about in response to the lesson, and then either a family activity or a song to sing that is related to the lesson. The activities are usually a craft that is engaging for young minds. The songs are hymns. I appreciate that the text is not included, this will help kids learn to interact with their own Bibles.

The illustrations by A.E. Macha are bright and cheerful, but not overpowering. The insights and connections with the Old Testament (particularly the Passover and the sacrificial lamb), are very helpful and simple enough for young children to understand. I suspect that elementary and middle school children will be most appreciative of the book, but it can be used with even younger children.

I highly recommend this work and trust it will be a blessing to Christian families everywhere.

Excerpt:
This excerpt concerns Jesus’ driving out the money changers from the Temple.

Jesus then went into the temple — the House of God — and he did not like what he saw. The outer court of the temple was the one place where people could come and pray from all over the world (the inner part of the temple was just for the Jewish people). But the outer court was so full of people doing the business of the temple (exchanging money and selling the animals for sacrifice) that there was no room for the nations. God’s plan had always been that the whole world would be blessed through Jesus (Genesis 12:2-3), but instead of welcoming the rest of the world, the money changers and those selling animals were making sure there was no room for them. Not only that, the place that was supposed to show a clear picture of God’s greatness and holiness was full of cheaters and crooks. Jesus defended his Father’s name and made room for the Gentiles by running these people out of the temple.

As Jesus taught about what it means to have a true relationship with God, the angry religious leaders began to think about how they could get rid of Jesus. They were not interested in hearing about how they needed to be rescued. (p. 20)

Blurbs:
“Scott James has provided families with an easy-to-use, yet spiritually enriching Easter devotional. Starting with the events leading to the cross through the ascension of Jesus, families are encouraged to read the corresponding Scripture, discuss the passage, and make application through questioning and activities. In addition, many selections include a rich hymn to use in family worship. This little book is a great tool for focusing the hearts of your family members on the reality of Jesus’s redemptive mission.”
—Sally Michael, Author; cofounder of Children Desiring God

“A delightful, biblical, practical help for family worship during the Easter season. It connects the passion of Christ with the purpose of God, beckoning families to play our part in the greatest mission in all of history—the redemption of men and women all over the world.”
—David Platt, President of the International Mission Board; Author of Radical

“Mission Accomplished is just the sort of resource families need; one that draws them into the Bible, points them to Jesus, and stirs them to worship. For such a short book it provides a delightfully rich sampling of the many reasons we have to celebrate Easter.”
—Jack Klumpenhower, Author of Show Them Jesus: Teaching the Gospel to Kids

About the Author:
Scott James (MD), is an elder at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, AL, where he also serves in the children’s and youth ministries. Professionally, he works as a pediatric physician and researcher. Scott and his wife Jaime have four children–Will, Kirstine, Benjamin, and Bethan. He is also the author of The Expected One: Anticipating All of Jesus in Advent.

Where to Buy:
• Amazon
• Westminster Bookstore
• Christianbook.com
• direct through New Growth Press.

Disclaimer:
This book was provided by New Growth Press. I was under no obligation to offer a favorable review.