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This book was written for today’s Christian. The cover
states, “100 key doctrines in plain language,” and that it is. This book helps
us look at the essential doctrines of Christianity in bite size. A few issues
ago we reviewed a book by Stanley Grenz, which stated that every Christian is a
theologian at some level. It reminds me of the catechisms of our church, which
are written in three levels: the child’s, the shorter, and the larger. All
three contain the same doctrinal truths but at different levels to identify with
different age groups or degrees of spiritual maturity.
Sproul sets forth each of the 100 doctrines in a two page
format, including a statement of the doctrine, relevant Scripture passages, and
a summary. The book is valueable for individual devotions and study. It also
can be used as a family devotional book or a basic study guide for small groups
or Sunday school classes.
Sproul is at his at best in this kind of book. He writes
in a clear, easy, highly readable style. He presents the doctirnes simply with
out being simplistic. For example, in the section on the church, he explains,
“The church is not so much an organization as it is an organism. It is made up
of living parts. It is called the body of Chirst. Just as the human body is
organized to function in unity by the co-working and co-dependence of many
parts, so the church as a body displays unity and diversity. Though ruled by
one “head,” Christ, the body has many members, each gifted and endowed by God to
contribute to the work of the whole body.”
Young and old will be comfortable reading this book. It
will also be a helpful, quick reference for parents, teachers, and preachers who
are committed “to teaching what is in accord with sound doctrine.” You
will find it to be a good addition to your resources.
- Charles Dunahoo, CEP Coordinator
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