|
Based on the book of Ecclesiastes, Lewis, a PCA teaching
elder, addresses postmodernism in a readable and usable way. I have often said
that Ecclesiastes is an extremely important book of the Bible for Christians to
study, living in today’s postmodern context. The writer of that Old Testament
book, often neglected by most Christians, knows something about living with hope
in a world under the curse and filled with despair. He knows something about
life’s ups and downs and about how to focus on God in the midst of them.
This book is particularly refreshing and helpful in
reminding us that the Christian life is not always tied up in neat little
packages, with no surprises, disappointments, and woes. Christianity is far more
than four, six, ten, twelve easy steps to happy living. Even believers, living
with hope in the Lord, are still living “beneath the sun” in a fallen world,
experiencing daily the result of the “common curse.”
Lewis writes, “The purpose of this ancient wisdom is to aid
people in properly applying knowledge. The student of wisdom literature may not
treat it as a mere mental exercise. To understand it is to begin to apply it. To
master it is a life-long pursuit.” He challenges the reader to realize that in
studying Ecclesiastes, you may discover a hope that is more realistic and
certain than you have ever dreamed possible.
The author actually includes the book of Ecclesiastes at
the end for quick reference. It would have also been helpful to reference the
many Scriptures quoted in the book.
I so appreciated this book, I have order copies for the
CE&P staff and committee and will recommend it in our seminars on postmodernism
and the millennial generation. Christians young and old need to understand our
world and how God fits into the picture. This book will be a helpful tool. It is
easy to read but also to study and mediate as you read.
- Charles Dunahoo, CEP Coordinator
|