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Book Review
A sinner’s guide to holiness
John Chapman
© 2005 Matthias Media, 90p
Review by Jenni van Wageningen
Many Christian books concentrate on theory and provide little advice on
practical application. Others lack theological substance but contain
plenty of tips for living. This first in a series of guides sets out to
achieve a balance. In other words, Chapman not only explains what the
Bible says about holiness, but also shows what this means for our daily
lives.
He first of all outlines aspects of God’s holiness, pointing out that we do not share these characteristics of might, power and purity. And yet, God’s plan for us is that we should be holy in character as well, that all Christlike characteristics will be formed in us. This begins, of course, with repentance and faith.
The second chapter shows how holiness progresses in our lives. Chapman is at pains to point out that there is no quick fix to attain holiness, no such thing as instantaneous sanctification. Instead we are to keep on trusting that God will not give up on what he has started, but continue until he has completed his work in us. At the same time we must be quite aware of the part we need to play. We are to put aside everything that hinders us, deal with the sins which hold us back, and rely on God’s strength to carry us through. All this requires effort and hard work, a combination of self-discipline and God’s discipline.
Finally, we see that our holiness will reach its fulfilment when we take our place in the new creation.
Chapman’s style of writing makes for easy reading, and his points are clear and well illustrated with biblical quotes and examples as well as interesting personal anecdotes. A discussion guide at the end makes the book a possibility for study groups or mentors.
I found this a particularly appealing and
enlightening little book. It is refreshingly pithy and down to earth,
and I look forward to others in the series.
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