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Originally appeared in APeX Attack #1 (February 1998)

Brad's Book Review

By Brad Farmer

One of the things I enjoy doing whenever I have time is reading. I read a lot. You hear that, kids? Reading is goood! Reading is fun! Anyway, I've read a couple of books recently that I would like to highly recommend. Some are very deep in theology and are for the more mature reader, but these books were such good reading that I have to sing their praises. Again, as in my music review, I apologize for the brevity of exposition on these greats, but, trust me, if you honestly consider looking into these books you won’t be disappointed.

  • The Everlasting Man by G.K. Chesterton examines the history of mankind and the uniqueness and importance of the Incarnation on that history. Chesterton wittily defends his thesis that the story of Christ cannot be put side by side with other myths or religions. He is able to make the incredible story of the Gospels and the story of life fresh in our hearts and our minds by looking at it in a new perspective.
  • St. Francis of Assisi, also by G.K. Chesterton, puts the story of this lovable saint in its proper historical perspective. He looks at the man and his impact on history rather than focussing on legends and cute little stories about St. Francis. I love the way this guy writes!
  • Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis looks at what Christians of all denominations believe. He provides wonderful insight into basic Christian beliefs and morality. I think no matter what denomination you are and no matter where you are in your own personal spiritual growth, this book has something to offer everyone.
  • The Screwtape Letters, also by C.S. Lewis, is the only piece of fiction in this review. He presents a unique glimpse into spiritual warfare with this story. The premise of the book is the correspondence between a higher-ranking demon and his nephew, a less experienced, low-ranking demon who has the task of tempting a particular man and trying to turn him from God. A very cleverly written book that is fun to read and offers a lot to think about and learn from.
  • The Confessions of St. Augustine by (of course) St. Augustine is a book that I very highly recommend reading. This classic is an autobiography of one of the most influential leaders in theology, a man whose life also altered the course of history. I felt that I could really identify with this poor sinner and learned a lot in his honest discussion of how God slowly turned his life around to become the great saint that he is now known as. I also gained a lot of insight through his philisophical questioning of truth. I honestly couldn't put this book down.
  • Above and beyond any books that I could suggest you look at, I recommend reading the Holy Bible! There are so many exciting stories (and even funny ones!) and so much usable (actually necessary) wisdom! This isn't just a book for long-faced holy rollers, or nerdy, churchy people who look down their nose at everyone. This isn't just a book for priests and ministers, either. It is a book for everyone! I think if you honestly read many of the stories in the Bible, you would find that you actually enjoyed them as well as gained some insight from them. Even when I think I've heard or read a particular letter, or story, or other part of the Bible so many times that I couldn't get anything more out of it, the Spirit opens my eyes to a deeper insight or a new angle that I never saw there before. Reading the Bible is an adventure. It is a weapon in spiritual battle. It is food for our minds, energy for our souls! Please try to read as often as you can. If nothing else,
    read a little from the Bible each morning or each night (any time of the day), spend some time reflecting on what you read, and see if after a while you don't notice a difference in your everyday outlook on life. My guess is that if you honestly try this and really give an honest effort each time, you will live more deeply and find more joy in life. Good luck and God Bless.