Lutheran Book Review Author Spotlight: William Weinrich

 

Weinrich, William, Translator and Editor. Thomas C. Oden and Gerald L. Bray, Series Editors. Latin Commentaries on Revelation (Ancient Christian Texts). Downers Grove: IVP Academic/InterVarsity Press, 2011. 201 Pages. Cloth. $60.00/$42.00 on sale.  http://www.ivpress.com/cgi-ivpress/book.pl/code=2909 Weinrich, William, Translator. Thomas C. Oden, Editor. Thomas C. Oden and Gerald L. Bray, Series Editors.  Greek Commentaries on Revelation (Ancient Christian Texts). Downers Grove: IVP Academic/InterVarsity Press, 2011. 212 Pages. Cloth. $60.00/$42.00 on sale. http://www.ivpress.com/cgi-ivpress/book.pl/code=2908 Weinrich, William. John 1:1-7:1 (Concordia Commentary). St. Louis: Concordia, 2015. 863 Pages. Cloth. $54.99. https://www.cph.org/p-7379-john-1171-concordia-commentary.aspx In the fall of 2001 we were dealing with the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks, including at the Wyoming District Fall Pastoral Conference. Our guest speaker had been scheduled months before, the Rev. Dr. William C. Weinrich.  It was the first time I met him. I went to the other seminary... His topic? John 1:1-4:42. And we were fascinated to hear a draft of his work toward a John volume in Concordia Commentary. We now have the first volume, covering 1:1-7:1, including John 6 and John 3:16. We'll cover that book and two Ancient Christian Texts volumes on Revelation edited by Rev. Dr. Weinrich. Regular readers of LBR/QBR are quite familiar with our reviews of the InterVarsity set called Ancient Christian Commentary on Scripture. With that series complete, Thomas Oden and his team of scholars turned their attention to two additional series, each a natural outgrowth of the ACCS. One is commentary set on the Nicene Creed, Ancient Christian Doctrine, complete in five volumes. In Ancient Christian Doctrine, one volume is dedicated to the First Article of the Creed. Both the Second and Third Articles are treated in two volumes each, focusing on the person of Christ, the work of Christ, the person and work of the Holy Spirit, and the Church. The Nicene Creed has long been a basis for unity among Christians. With the help of this new Ancient Christian Doctrine series, I pray that the ecumenical creeds may lead us to honest discussion of differences between Christians and Christian traditions, in the hope that Scripture itself may lead us to a godly unity in the mind of Christ. Thanks to the generosity of the publisher, we now resume doing reviews of the other new series, Ancient Christian Texts. One common piece of feedback heard by ACCS editors was the request for "more." Personally, I wanted longer selections from the fathers quoted. Sometimes I thought some quotations suffered due to lack of a full context. Dr. Oden heard and responded with the series called Ancient Christian Texts. Fifteen volumes have been announced to date. The series could easily be expanded. First up, Latin Fathers:   Interest in the book of Revelation in the Western tradition is stronger and earlier than that in the East. The earliest full commentary on the Apocalypse is that of Victorinus of Petovium written in the mid to late third century by the earliest exegete to write in Latin. Victorinus interpreted Revelation in millennialist terms, a mode of interpretation already evident in works by Irenaeus, as well as in modest allegorical terms. Caesarius of Arles wrote in the early sixth century and offered a thoroughgoing allegorical-ecclesial interpretation of the Apocalypse. Apringius of Beja in Portugal, writing in the mid sixth century, drew on Jerome's edition of Victorinus's commentary yet understood the seven seals christologically as the incarnation, birth, passion, death, resurrection, glory and kingdom. Bede the Venerable, who died in 735, is the last commentator to be included in this collection. Characteristically, he passes on commentary from earlier exegetes, here including that of Augustine, Gregory the Great, Victorinus, Tyconius and Primasius. William Weinrich renders a particular service to readers interested in ancient commentary on the Apocalypse by drawing together these significant Latin commentaries. The work of translating these texts was begun in preparing the volume on Revelation in the Ancient Christian Commentary on Scripture. We are indebted to William Weinrich for completing this work with his able and fresh translation and notes on these texts. (Publisher's Website) There is often discomfort in reading commentaries that conflict in some way with one's confession of faith. It can be good when that commentary adheres to Scripture more closely than ones prior or current confession. The Holy Spirit grants repentance and renewed faith in Christ for such a time. There are also times, when an amilleniallist, like this reviewer, hears the millennialist comments by Victorinus, author of "the earliest commentary on the whole of Revelation that we possess," (xvii) and is not swayed by his millennialism. He is to be commended for noting the repetitive nature of the events of Revelation (xxiv, 1-22). That part of his interpretation is underappreciated and deserves a wider audience through a volume like this. Many modern comprehensive commentaries from dispensational milleniallists seem like amateur hour after reading these pages. And any commentator, ancient or living, is only as good as his faithfulness to the biblical text. I could commend to you tidbits from Bede (and I do), encourage you to clearly see the Church in Revelation as Caesarius does, but I was utterly fascinated with the cruciform explanation of the seven seals (incarnation, birth, passion, death, resurrection, glory, kingdom) in conjunction with the Sacrament of the Altar, the Mozarabic rite liturgy, both of which may have played a part in Apringius' commentary (diagram and explanation on xxx, 23ff). Next up, Greek Fathers:   The Eastern church gives little evidence of particular interest in the book of Revelation. Oecumenius of Isauria's commentary on the book is the earliest full treatment in Greek and dates only from the early sixth century. Along with Oecumenius's commentary, only that of Andrew of Caesarea (dating from the same era and often summarizing Oecumenius before offering a contrary opinion) and that of Arethas of Caesarea four centuries later provide any significant commentary from within the Greek tradition. William Weinrich renders a particular service to readers interested in ancient commentary on the Apocalypse by translating in one volume the two early sixth-century commentaries. Because of the two interpreters' often differing understandings, readers are exposed not only to early dialogue on the meaning and significance of the book for the faith and life of the church, but also to breadth of interpretation within the unity of the faith the two shared. (Publisher's Website) Oecumenius presents his commentary in twelve discourses. One will note the Christological nature of his work. He is obviously well-read, even though he does not always cite the source of his quotes of other Bible books. Consider how he explains 22:20, "Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!"  Since the prophetic Spirit said to him the preceding material, "And he who hears, let him say to the Lord, 'Come!'" obedient to what had been commanded him, he says, "Come, Lord Jesus!" This is as though he said, "Yes, Lord Christ, quickly bring your second coming, which is our salvation." I hear Luther here in the "This is as though he said..."  The commentary on 22:21 is a course in exegetical theology, historical theology, pastoral theology, isagogics, and apologetics (106-107).  Andrew gives us Twenty-Four "books" and it is evident he read and responds to Oecumenius. He stands with the consensus of the Church up to his day (xxxii), compiling his predecessors into a document that is roughly the same size as Oecumenius' own. His concluding commentary (206ff) is a true conclusion, the first paragraph quoted below: To bring everything together, let me make a helpful summary of the contents of this book. Through the letters to the seven churches we are taught endurance in temptations, eagerness in the doing of good works and various other forms of virtue. We are to desire above all earthly things to see with the pure eye of the soul the glory of God in heaven, to be sure, note his essence itself but the appearance of God in the forms it assumes, whether that is the abundance of precious stone or the multicolored form of the rainbow or other such shapes of the divine economies. We learn of the holy incorporeal powers that are near God's glory and of those who in the body have pleased the Lord and of the thunder and lightning that announce the coming of God. Furthermore, we are taught that the interpretation of the book of the divine judgments, which is sealed with seven seals of the Spirit, is incomprehensible, but that through the Lamb of God the book is opened, revealing that which has happened and will happen from his coming until the consummation. The two volumes complement one another well, more properly distinguishing law and Gospel as a pair, than separately. How will I use these volumes? They will supplement my study of Revelation in my private devotional reading, will serve as references for the next time we do a congregational Sunday Morning Bible Class on Revelation, and will give me fresh, yet ancient insights and sermon illustrations each time the Three Year Lectionary (Year C) gives me the joy to preach on the book of Revelation as the "Epistle" readings for the season of Easter. If there is a weakness of Ancient Christian Texts, it would be the list price of each volume. I would encourage the publisher to offer paperback and electronic versions of both new sets and to consider lowering the price point, or to offer discounts on a regular basis. A 20-30% discount is available through IVP for individual volumes, lowering a $60 cost to $48 or $42. Discounts also apply for ordering the entire sets. You may find a "deal" at an online bookseller as well. Budgeting and saving for these volumes will be worth the investment! Dr. Weinrich is known as a patristics scholar. He should also be known as a noted commentator on Scripture in his own right. We now pivot to John 1:1-7:1. About the Series The Concordia Commentary Series: A Theological Exposition of Sacred Scripture is written to enable pastors and teachers of the Word to proclaim the Gospel with greater insight, clarity, and faithfulness to the divine intent of the biblical text. This landmark work will cover all the canonical books of the Old and New Testaments, interpreting Scripture as a harmonious unity centered in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Every passage bears witness to the Good News that God has reconciled the world to Himself through our Lord's life, death, and resurrection. The commentary fully affirms the divine inspiration, inerrancy, and authority of Scripture as it emphasizes "that which promotes Christ" in each pericope. Authors are sensitive to the rich treasury of language, imagery, and themes found throughout Scripture, including such dialectics as Law and Gospel, sin and grace, death and new life, folly and wisdom, demon possession and the arrival of the kingdom of God in Christ. Careful attention is given to the original Hebrew, Aramaic, or Greek. Further light is shed on the text from archaeology, history, and extra-biblical literature. Finally, Scripture's message is applied to the ongoing life of the church in terms of ministry, worship, proclamation of the Word, Baptism, the Lord's Supper, confession of the faith—all in joyful anticipation of the life of the world to come. View the entire series >  Save 30% when you subscribe to the Concordia Commentary series > Now the wider church can here what we first heard at the Wyoming District Pastoral Conference in the fall of 2001.    The lowly and simple majesty of John's language calls the reader to become a disciple of the Word became flesh, and so to share in that which he himself is: eternal life. In John, the voice of the Word is heard; the Paraclete is speaking. God makes himself known, proffers himself, and so becomes our God. Thus, the Gospel invites us to see and to hear what apart from the Gospel cannot be seen and cannot be heard: the Father of Jesus, who is the true and divine Son. And in seeing the Father in that we see the Son, we can truly pray with Jesus, "Our Father." This commentary contains Dr. Weinrich's original translation of John 1:1–7:1, a painstaking verse-by-verse analysis of the Greek text of these chapters, and theological exposition of the Gospel's message, both for the apostolic church in its original context, and for the life of the Christian church today. His expertise in the early church fathers demonstrates how this Gospel was understood from the earliest times in the infant Christian church. Another unique aspect of this commentary is the interwoven extensive knowledge of the interpretation history of the Gospel of John. Dr. Weinrich explores both classic scholarship and modern interpretations of the book. About the Author William C. Weinrich is professor of early church and patristic studies at Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, Ind., where he has taught since 1975. During his tenure at the seminary, he has served as supervisor of the STM program (1986–1989), dean of the graduate school (1989–1995), and academic dean (1995–2006). He also served the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Latvia as rector of its theological school, the Luther Academy, in Riga, Latvia (2007–2010). He served The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod as third vice-president (1998–2001) and as fifth vice-president (2001–2004). He retired at the rank of lieutenant colonel from the Indiana Air National Guard after serving as chaplain (1978–2004). Dr. Weinrich received a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Oklahoma (1967; Phi Beta Kappa) and his Master of Divinity degree from Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, Mo. (1972). He studied under Bo Reicke and Oscar Cullmann at the University of Basel, Switzerland, receiving the degree of Doctor of Theology in 1977. He edited the volume on Revelation for the Ancient Christian Commentary on Scripture series and translated two ancient Greek commentaries (Oecumenius, Andrew of Caesarea) and four Latin commentaries (Victorinus, Apringius, Caesarius of Arles, Bede) on Revelation for the Ancient Christian Texts series. Dr. Weinrich has published many articles and has lectured frequently for pastors and laity. Dr. Weinrich is married to Barbara, and they have three children (Rebecca, Rachel, and John). (Publisher's Website) Back in 2001, the most memorable part of Dr. Weinrich's presentation was his argument for an early date for John,"composed in Jerusalem during the 40s and taken with John to Asia minor in the early 50s." See 44-51.  Translation, texual notes, commentary, and discussion of "logos" in The Prologue, John 1:1-18, make up 100 pages of the volume. This is a treasure trove! Let's talk about John 6 (and John 3). Does John 6 speak of the Sacrament of the Altar? "Sic et Non" answers the discursus beginning on p. 740. Eight Communion hymns in Lutheran Service Book cite the chapter as a reference. In conclusion, Weinrich writes: When one surveys the exegetical strength of a eucharistic interpretation of John 6, and when one surveys to what extent such interpretation has contributed to the doctrine of the Lord's supper, one can only concur with Scaer when he writes: Luther's removal of John 6 from the eucharistic playing field has deprived Lutheran theology of what is arguably the most extensive and detailed discourse in the New Testament on the nature of the Lord's Supper and its benefits. John 6 has incarnation, atonement, forgiveness, and resurrection all woven within a eucharistic cloth. Discuss this amongst yourselves.  Let's try to explain it in a way that anyone can understand. Do you remember the "trick" question about good works from seminary? It went like this: "Are good works necessary?" We were tempted to say no, but God, in His Word commands them, so we had to admit, "Yes." The follow-up question was "Are good works necessary for salvation?" We answered, "No." and felt better about both answers to both questions. So, does John 6 refer to the Lord's Supper? I say, "Yes." Ask a follow-up: "Does John 6 only refer to the Lord's Supper?" "No." We can feed on Jesus, the bread that came down from heaven in the Word AND in the Sacrament of the Altar. Finish with similar questions on John 3. Regarding being born again by water and the Spirit, does John 3 speak of baptism? Yes. Only of baptism? No, for the repentant thief on the cross, to whom Jesus promised paradise "today," was born again. Why end at 7:1? There is a break here in the Greek text. 7:2 is a new paragraph in many editions. And Weinrich sees a natural transition between Jesus' work in Galilee and His work in Judea (776). We eagerly await the conclusion to this John commentary, additional volumes of Concordia Commentary and Ancient Christian Texts. Rev. Paul J Cain is Pastor of Immanuel, Sheridan, Wyoming, Headmaster of Martin Luther Grammar School and Immanuel Academy, a member of the Board of Directors of the Consortium for Classical Lutheran Education, Wyoming District Education Chairman and Editor of Lutheran Book Review. A graduate of Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, Rev. Cain is a contributor to Lutheran Service Book, Lutheranism 101, the forthcoming LSB Hymnal Companion, and is the author of 5 Things You Can Do to Make Our Congregation a Caring Church. He has previously served Emmanuel, Green River, WY and Trinity, Morrill, NE. He is married to Ann and loves reading and listening to, composing, and making music.

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Release Day Review: Gettymusic 2016

 

Getty, Keith and Kristyn. Facing a Task Unfinished. Nashville: Gettymusic, 2016. Audio CD. $13.99. (Discounts and digital and deluxe versions are available.) www.gettymusic.com Today, Facing a Task Unfinished, the new album by Keith and Kristyn Getty releases. #thetaskunfinished  The album is notable for its many mission hymns and for the many collaborative compositions, arrangements, and recordings it features. This isn't the first time we've reviewed the modern hymns of Keith Getty and Stuart Townend. Longtime readers may remember the following: According to the final meeting minutes of the former LCMS Commission on Worship (June 23-24, 2010), twenty-two hymns by Keith Getty (and co-writers Kristyn Getty, Stuart Townend, et al) were approved by LCMS Doctrinal Review. http://lhpqbr.blogspot.com/2011/04/new-hymnody.html The list of 22: · Across the Lands · All Around the World · Beneath the Cross · Benediction (May the Peace of God) · By Faith · Come, People of the Risen King · Compassion Hymn · Creation Sings · Every Promise · Father, We Have Sinned · Hear the Call of the Kingdom · Hear O Israel · In Christ Alone · Jesus Draw Me Ever Nearer · O Church Arise · See What a Morning · Speak O Lord · Still, My Soul, Be Still · The Power of the Cross · There is a Higher Throne · What Grace is Mine · When Trials Come These are but a sampling of posts that review Getty/Townend collaboration hymns, recordings, or share what they have to say about composing and hymnwriting in their own words: http://lhpqbr.blogspot.com/2009/12/liturgy-hymnody-review-gettymusic.html http://lhpqbr.blogspot.com/2010/07/hymnody-review-gettymusic-part-3.html http://lhpqbr.blogspot.com/2010/08/hymnody-review-townend.html http://lhpqbr.blogspot.com/2011/06/liturgy-and-hymnody-review-rundman.html (sheet music collection by another publisher) http://lhpqbr.blogspot.com/2012/12/lhp-review-vocation.html (includes one of their LCEF concerts with an appearance by LCMS President Harrison) The Association of Classical and Christian Schools, of which my classical Lutheran school is a member, did an interview with Keith recently in advance of their concert at the summer ACCS conference (http://www.classicaldifference.com/and-can-it-be-new-hymns/). What inspires your work as you create new hymns in today's world? After we looked at Old Testament patterns of worship, New Testament patterns of worship, and eternal patterns of worship in Revelation, and indeed as we look at church music as it walks though Christian history, there were three consistents and we felt they were all under attack as we looked at the whole thing in the year 2000. So, we approached our work with three principles in mind: 1) TEACHING: God's people learn their faith in significant part, intellectually, emotionally, and artistically, through what they sing. … So, we wanted to write hymns that really taught the full canon of the God of Scripture. We live in a generation where there are more Christians in the world than at any point in human history, and yet the average person who calls himself evangelical knows less about the Scriptures than the average person who went to normal government school in 1950 in the West. 2) CONGREGATIONAL SINGING: All through history, God's people have been singing together. Congregational singing is a holy act and the Bible talks about the joy of being together, and that every tribe and tongue will sing together. So we wanted to write music that was all about congregational singing. We write melodies that borrow their structure more from classic music or traditional folk music that can be sung apace, with an organ, with a Chinese instrument, or in a rock band. Songs where the medium doesn't matter. That's the centerpiece. 3) EXCELLENCE: The third thing that emanates from the first two is … that a biblical view of artistry means to take God seriously and to take creativity seriously. We want to write songs that lead to true theology, good music, and beautiful poetry.  On 13 June, LCMS President Harrison posted the following picture and text to Facebook:   I was delighted to get a text from Keith Getty yesterday, and that he was able to come visit us at the LCMS IC today. What fun. He is a profound purveyor of modern hymnody, believes deeply in the significance of congregational singing, and singing hymns that are all about Christ and the serious themes of the Christian life. Thanks Keith Getty! http://www.gettymusic.com/ — with Jon Vieker. Previously, we at Lutheran Book Review/Liturgy, Hymnody, and Pulpit Quarterly Book Review have noted issues that Lutherans would have with hymn texts by Getty and Townend, e.g.:   "Holy Spirit" raises concerns with regard to properly distinguishing justification and sanctification with its first phrase, "Holy Spirit, living Breath of God, breathe new life into my willing soul," that could be made more like Psalm 51 by changing "willing" to "sinful."   Notably, "Communion Hymn," aka, "Behold the Lamb," has survived Pr. Wolfmueller's Praise Song Cruncher (http://www.tabletalkradio.org/documents/praise%20song%20list.pdf  http://tabletalkradio.org/content/sites/default/files/audio/ttr155_0.mp3) http://lhpqbr.blogspot.com/2014/03/more-gettymusic.html For the purposes of this review, I was given access to pre-release audio recordings, sheet music by request, and was mailed a copy of the CD. I was not required to write a positive review. This is something I would never agree to, not even if asked by our synodical publishing house. The following is my honest assessment after living with the music for a time and after reflection and discussion with my brother pastors. Musicianship on the recording is professional and of the highest quality. Arrangements and instrumentation are not always what you would see and hear at my congregation, yet as Keith acknowledged earlier, the melodies that support the texts can usually be played on a variety of instruments, even the organ, piano, trumpet, and acoustic guitar we most commonly hear. "Modern Hymns" are known for being entirely new compositions, but also for providing a new text for an old tune, a new tune for an old text, and often, the addition of a refrain to a hymn and tune that never had one before. Let's take the tracks in order: 1. "Facing a Task Unfinished" reworks a text by Anglican missionary Bishop to China, Frank Houghton paired with AURELIA, the Samuel Wesley tune used for "The Church's One Foundation," and a new refrain. In February 2016, Christian congregations around the world sang this hymn on the First Sunday in Lent (with a Lenten musical arrangement) to focus on world mission and evangelism. 2. "May the Peoples Praise You" isn't my cup of tea. It seems to be in more of the praise song style (that I liked that the Gettys had thus far avoided). The influence of co-writer Ed Cash is evident. 3. "Living Waters" was also co-written by Ed Cash. Stylistically, I would find it difficult to see this one led with an organ. Textually, I don't have as much of an issue with the content, except that this hymn is a missed opportunity to confess what Scripture says about Holy Baptism. 4. "O Children Come" is from the most recent Getty Christmas album. The world music feel is clear since the track features Ladysmith Black Mambazo. A different arrangement would likely be more edifying and less shocking for "Grandma Schmidtke" in my pews. 5. "My Worth Is Not in What I Own" is by far my favorite hymn, arrangement, and recording on the album. I have long appreciated the arrangements, playing and singing of Fernando Ortega, who is currently affiliated with the Anglican Church in North America. The duet of Fernando and Kristyn works well. If you are looking for a hymn to consider for a choir, solo, or eventually congregational use, start here. Co-writer Graham Kendrick, famous/infamous for "Shine, Jesus, Shine" has his best work in this hymn written with Keith and Kristyn. I particularly appreciate the dual confession of stanza five: "Two wonders here that I confess: My worth and my unworthiness. My value fixed-my ransom paid at the cross." An improvement to be considered would be a stanza connecting the cross to the means of grace in word and sacrament. Perhaps some future songs, hymns and canticles could be Getty/Ortega collaborations. 6. "For the Cause," a 2016 Getty/Getty/Townend collaboration was the pleasant surprise of the album for me. It follows the typical Modern Hymn pattern of stanza, stanza, refrain, stanza, stanza, refrain, final stanza, refrain. As a Lutheran, I understood stanza 2's phrase "As many see and many put their trust In the Son" in an end of Acts 2 way rather than in a "decision theology" way. See also John 15:16. I appreciate the steady and lively arrangement. I heard a different one in my own head: trumpet. In transposing the melody to play on my trumpet the syncopation really works! 7. "Lift High the Name of Jesus," was the sole new hymn on Live at the Gospel Coalition: Modern and Traditional Hymns from 2013. Fionán de Barra, Getty, Getty, and Ed Cash collaborated on this one. I never really considered this one for use at our Lutheran Divine Service or Daily Office. I have also since noted that it really has no rhyme structure at all. The closest false rhymes are Him and sin in stanza one and grace and praise in stanza two. This text celebrates "the legacy of the first missionary to Ireland, St. Patrick," but lacks the rigor of true hymnody. 8. "The Lord Is My Salvation" reminded me of the duo Watermark and with good reason. Nathan Nockles is a co-writer along with both Gettys and Jonas Myrin. The melody would best suit a soloist or a practiced choir. The book of Micah is an influence on the text, but it needs to be more anchored in God in Christ. After stanza 5 it becomes more of a 90s praise song than a Modern Hymn. I did note a change in the sheet music version compared to the recording, and one for the better. In stanza 5, "He will call me home" becomes "Christ will call me home." Thank you for making this more clear! 9. "We Believe (The Apostles' Creed)" does not appear to have any text that is blatantly false or untrue based on my initial readings and listenings, but it doesn't have the doctrinal rigor or crystal clarity that I would need in order to use it for worship. A recent convention of The Lutheran Church--Missouri Synod discouraged the use of locally-written creeds and "creedal hymns" other than those found in our hymnal. The sheet music has the correct punctuation. The album title citation, "We Believe (Apostle's Creed) does not. Since "We" is used instead of "I," one would be tempted to call it "We Believe (Nicene Creed)" instead, but the hymn text is obviously influenced by the baptismal creed rather than the one confessed at Nicea and Constantinople. The hymn and text may well be a step up in content and orthodoxy for congregations who have not used any historic Christian creed thus far. 10. "He Will Hold Me Fast (When I Fear My Faith Will Fail)" is a Matt Merker rework and expansion upon text by Ada Habershon with some borrowed introductory music from FINLANDIA by Sibelius. I have yet to decide if this would be used in our congregation's corporate worship. I need to know more about the original hymn, the congregational context of Merker, and further study of the hymn. It too sounds much like a "praise song," yet is to be commended for its focus on the difficulty of the Christian life and how it holds on to Christ. 11. "Psalm 24 (The King of Glory)" is a Getty/Getty/Cash/Chris Tomlin collaboration. I like that they are working to sing more Psalm texts, but this one did not positively resonate with me. It sounded much like Townend arrangement, though he had nothing to do with it. The sitar is very noticeable, as is the voice of one singer (unpleasantly jarring) particularly in stanza three and following. I did not care for this version of Psalm 24. 12. "O Church Arise (Arise, Shine)" features Christ Tomlin, like the previous track. It is the 2005 Getty/Townend hymn with a new and unnecessary refrain. The liner notes say: We finish the album with the words of this hymn Keith and Stuart wrote back in 2005, inspired by our admiration for the hymns of Martin Luther. Luther believed that to take a courageous stand for the Gospel and to build churches required congregations whose love for the Lord and each other was fortified by the songs they would sing. As we approach the 500th anniversary of Luther's Reformation, we thought it appropriate to bring this song back an dare grateful to our friend, Chris Tomlin, who helped us write a new chorus for this new version. With respect, I would encourage that a future version be done with a Lutheran who takes Luther's hymnic legacy and Luther's Bible doctrine seriously. How about Rev. Dr. Harrison? I'm not going to use this version. The new text is not untrue. I do feel that the new refrain takes away from the main hymn text. It seems out of character for how I have come to appreciate their original text. That said, I must address what I consider to be a doctrinal error in stanza three: "And as the stone is rolled away, And Christ emerges from the grave..." This seems to be contrary to what Scripture (and FC SD Article VII 100) confesses in that Christ rose from the dead and then the rolled-away stone revealed an empty tomb. The text as-is may be understood to mean that the stone had to be rolled away before Christ could emerge from the grave. Consider this proposed correction: "Before the stone is rolled away, Our Christ emerges from the grave..." The most prolific hymnwriter in all Christendom may well be Mr. "alt.",  as hymn texts are amended and emended by hymnal editors and committees often to make good texts even better. Track 13 is an incredible display of musicianship. 14, "Consider the Stars," rejoices in gifts that our ours from primarily the First Article of the Creed. Both feature the talented John Patitucci. The Digital Deluxe version of the album also includes "Jesus, Tender Shepherd, Hear Me," "Let the Earth Resound," and "Thou Who Wast Rich Beyond All Splendor." 97-99% of all hymns, songs, canticles, and psalms sung at my congregation and at my school come from Lutheran Service Book. I believe that hymns by Getty and Townend will be in a future supplement to that hymnal and will be in its successor some day.  I do believe that Facing a Task Unfinished will encourage the Church of Christ to be bold in mission and personal evangelism with the Gospel of Christ. The mission focus of the album is clear. One hears the Gospel on the album. Yet, perhaps too much was attempted on one album with all the different styles, different collaborators, and so many new songs and hymns all at once. I do not wish to sound or be negative about this project. One can appreciate, encourage, and be encouraged by a living artist without liking or using every piece of their art. I was personally honored by the invitation to travel to Nashville in April to be a part of the congregation for this recording. Regrettably, I was not able to attend due to my other vocations. I would like to meet the Gettys and Mr. Townend someday. Their work deserves our attention, our kind consideration, and as appropriate to our confession, even our use. To watch tonight's live stream celebration of the album release, click below:   http://www.gettymusic.com/livestreamregistration Rev. Paul J Cain is Pastor of Immanuel, Sheridan, Wyoming, Headmaster of Martin Luther Grammar School and Immanuel Academy, a member of the Board of Directors of the Consortium for Classical Lutheran Education, Wyoming District Education Chairman and Editor of Lutheran Book Review. A graduate of Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, Rev. Cain is a contributor to Lutheran Service Book, Lutheranism 101, the forthcoming LSB Hymnal Companion, and is the author of 5 Things You Can Do to Make Our Congregation a Caring Church. He has previously served Emmanuel, Green River, WY and Trinity, Morrill, NE. He is married to Ann and loves reading and listening to, composing, and making music.

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Received for Review

 

Clark, Lisa M. The Messengers: Discovered. St. Louis: Concordia, 2016. 346 Pages. Paper/Kindle. (pdf review copy received.) $12.99. http://www.cph.org/p-29552-the-messengers-discovered.aspx Issues, Etc. Book of the Month for May, 2016 Interview: http://issuesetc.org/2016/05/31/2-how-lutheranism-is-unique-pr-trevor-sutton-53116/

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Received for Review

 

Naselli, Andrew David and J. D. Crowley. Conscience: What It Is, How to Train It, and Loving Those Who Differ. Wheaton: Crossway, 2016. 157 Pages. Paper. $15.99.

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Received for Review

 

Masius, H. G. Translated and annotated by John Warwick Montgomery. A Defense of the Lutheran Faith: On the Eve of Modern Times. Milwaukee: Northwestern Publishing House, 2016. 214 Pages. Paper. (digital review copy received.) $18.99. http://online.nph.net/p-20188-a-defense-of-the-lutheran-faith.aspx (LBR) Kieker, James G. Martin Luther and the Long Reformation: Response and Reform in the Church. Milwaukee: Northwestern Publishing House, 2016. 214 Pages. Paper. (digital review copy received.) $18.99. http://online.nph.net/p-19673-martin-luther-and-the-long-reformation.aspx (LBR) Martin Luther and the Long Reformation Response & Reform in the Church: Pentecost-Present Author: James G. Kiecker - See more at: http://online.nph.net/p-19673-martin-luther-and-the-long-reformation.aspx#sthash.5AnrevfT.dpuf Sutton, A. Trevor. Being Lutheran. St. Louis: Concordia, 2016. 291 Pages. Paper. (Kindle also available. pdf review copy received.) $14.99. https://www.cph.org/p-29695-being-lutheran.aspx (LBR) Danker, Ryan Nicholas. Wesley and the Anglicans: Political Division in Early Evangelicalism. IVP Academic, 2016. 304 Pages. Paper. $26.00. https://www.ivpress.com/cgi-ivpress/book.pl/code=5122 (UN) Getty, Keith and Kristyn Getty. Facing a Task Unfinished. Nashville: GettyMusic, 2016. Audio CD. (digital advance review copy received.) $13.99. (also available in a deluxe edition with 3 additional songs or in a combo with the songbook) http://www.gettymusic.com/ (LH)

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Received for Review

 

Köstenberger, Andreas, Thomas R. Schreiner, Editors. Women in the Church: An Interpretation and Application of 1 Timothy 2:9-15 (Third Edition). Wheaton: Crossway, 2016. 415 Pages. Paper. $30.00. https://www.crossway.org/books/women-in-the-church-tpb/

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Received for Review

 

Birkholz, Mark W., Jacob Corzine, and Jonathan Mumme, Editors. Foreword by Jonathan Fisk. Feasting in a Famine of the Word: Lutheran Preaching in the Twenty-First Century. Eugene: Wipf and Stock/Pickwick, 2016. 299  Pages. Paper. $36.00. www.wipfandstock.com

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Received for Review

 

 

Schütz, Heinrich. The Passion According to St. John. Chicago: GIA, 1980.  60 Pages. Sheet music. $8.00. www.giamusic.com Batastini, Robert (Musical Adaptation). The Passion of Our Lord Jesus Christ. Chicago: GIA, 1999. 118 Pages. Cloth Folio. $45.00. www.giamusic.com Tate, Paul A. Seasons of Grace, Volume 1. Chicago: GIA, 2004. Sheet music: $20.95. Audio CD: $16.95. www.giamusic.com  Tate, Paul A. Seasons of Grace, Volume 2. Chicago: GIA, 2006. Sheet music: $17.95. Audio CD: $16.95. www.giamusic.com   Tate, Paul A. Seasons of Grace, Volume 3. Chicago: GIA, 2009. Sheet music: $20.95. Audio CD: $16.95. www.giamusic.com   Tate, Paul A. Seasons of Grace, Volume 4. Chicago: GIA, 2011. Sheet music: $21.95. Audio CD: $16.95. www.giamusic.com   Tate, Paul A. Seasons of Grace, Volume 6. Chicago: GIA, 2015. Sheet music: $21.95. Audio CD: $16.95. www.giamusic.com   Giomo, Carla. Hymn Intonations for Organ. Chicago: GIA, 2014. 16 Pages. Sheet Music. $15.00. www.giamusic.com   De Silva, Chris. Colours. Chicago: GIA, 2016. Audio CD. $16.95. www.giamusic.com   The Benedictine Monks of Conception Abbey. Ecumenical Grail Psalter. Chicago: GIA, 2015. 327 Pages. Paper. $12.95. www.giamusic.com    See also: http://lhpqbr.blogspot.com/2014/03/quick-summaries-marathon-look-at.html

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Resources Received for Review

 

Ham, Ken. Ready for Reformation: The Foundations of Our Faith are Crumbling. Green Forest: Master Books, 2015. Three paperback books plus DVD. $39.99. www.masterbooks.com

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Resources Received for Review

 

Flint, Eric, editor. Grantville Gazette VI (Ring of Fire). Riverdale, NY: Baen, 2012. eARC. $6.96. http://www.baen.com/ (N)   Flint, Eric, editor. Grantville Gazette VII (Ring of Fire). Riverdale, NY: Baen, 2016. eARC. $9.99. http://www.baen.com/ (N) http://lhpqbr.blogspot.com/2010/07/brief-noted-review-return-to-1632-and.html

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Resources Received for Review

 

Weinrich, William, Translator and Editor. Thomas C. Oden and Gerald L. Bray, Series Editors. Latin Commentaries on Revelation (Ancient Christian Texts). Downers Grove: IVP Academic/InterVarsity Press, 2011. 201 Pages. Cloth. $60.00/$42.00 on sale.  http://www.ivpress.com/cgi-ivpress/book.pl/code=2909 Weinrich, William, Translator. Thomas C. Oden, Editor. Thomas C. Oden and Gerald L. Bray, Series Editors.  Greek Commentaries on Revelation (Ancient Christian Texts). Downers Grove: IVP Academic/InterVarsity Press, 2011. 212 Pages. Cloth. $60.00/$42.00 on sale. http://www.ivpress.com/cgi-ivpress/book.pl/code=2908

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Resources Received for Review

 

Luther, Martin. Edited by Timothy J. Wengert,. The Annotated Luther, Volume 1: The Roots of Reform. Fortress: Minneapolis, 2015. 592 Pages. eARC. $39.00. http://fortresspress.com/annotatedluther  Luther, Martin. Edited by Kirsi I. Stjerna. The Annotated Luther, Volume 2: Word and Faith. Fortress: Minneapolis, 2015. 528 Pages. eARC. $39.00. http://fortresspress.com/annotatedluther

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Lutheran Book Review Quick Summaries for Early February 2016

Flint, Eric, Walter H. Hunt. 1636: The Cardinal Virtues (Ring of Fire). Riverdale, NY: Baen, 2015. Kindle e-book. $9.99. http://www.baen.com/   Flint, Eric and Andrew Dennis. 1635: A Parcel of Rogues (Ring of Fire). Riverdale, NY: Baen, 2015. 381 Pages. Kindle e-book. $9.99. http://www.baen.com/   Smith, Gordon T. Consider Your Calling: Six Questions for Discerning Your Vocation. Downers Grove: IVP Books/InterVarsity Press, 2015. 128 Pages. Paper. $16.00. http://www.ivpress.com/cgi-ivpress/book.pl/code=4607 (UN) Macchia, Stephen A. Broken and Whole: A Leader's Path to Spiritual Transformation. Downers Grove: IVP Books/InterVarsity Press, 2015. 220 Pages. Paper. $16.00. http://www.ivpress.com/cgi-ivpress/book.pl/code=4606 (UN) Quick Summaries are pithy paragraph-long reviews of releases that cross our desk. These are reviews for when you don't have all day  to decide whether a resource is worth your time, money, storage space, or trouble. The kindle is the ideal reading companion for post 9/11 airline travel. I had two new 1632-universe titles loaded for my trip this week that were quickly and enjoyably completed. Since we recently reviewed titles in this series (http://lhpqbr.blogspot.com/2016/01/lutheran-book-review-fiction-and-film.html), we'll send you to our recent post for background and just pick up where we left off. + History has changed as a result of the Americans, their technology, and their ideas.  For the first time in a major 1632-universe novel, we turn to focus on France with 1636: The Cardinal Virtues. You know King Louis XIII and the infamous Cardinal Richelieu from our history. Trying to be spoiler-free, history is turning out quite differently. The cardinal is missing. Watch for a mention of Elvis. The major question asked by this novel is, "Who is the King of France?" We are given one answer in anticipation of another. I must admit that I had not been that interested in the French storyline that is a usually only a sidestory in so many 1632-series novels. I'm now fully interested and believe you will be, too. Students of the liturgy of the Church will rejoice in Holy Baptism being administered among other rites. Recommended. + To get back up-to-speed on what's going on in 1635: A Parcel of Rogues, consider re-reading 1632, 1633, and 1634: The Baltic War. The last title mentioned came out back in 2007. This plot line has waited a while to be resumed. Note that I didn't say "resolved." we're back to England. Watch for Scotsmen, especially the one married to an American sniper. Cromwell is on the run. Yes, THAT Cromwell. Entertaining adventures ensue. More is yet to happen with Cromwell, his family, and characters we first loved in 1632. Lutheran theology, particularly the Magdeburg Confession, had great influence on Scotland and Presbyterianism in our history. LCMS President and theologian Walther gets a mention in this novel because of the influence of his theology in this new timeline. Review "The Rudolstadt Colloquy" for the reference to his theses on The Proper Form of an Evangelical Lutheran Local Congregation Independent of the State, a document these characters are learning to know well. Recommended.  We recently reestablished a relationship with IVP. The last two titles are our first from that respected publisher in some time. Our reviews will therefore be a little less brief. /+ Vocation. Sometimes described as a Lutheran approach to sanctification, teaching on vocation is spreading. For that, I am thankful. Luther himself is very prolific on vocation. That said, Gordon Smith's approachably-sized volume, Consider Your Calling: Six Questions for Discerning Your Vocation, would be strengthened by a more clear focus on the basics of vocation from a paragraph that I will never take for granted from Luther's Small Catechism: Consider your place in life according to the Ten Commandments: Are you a father, mother, son, daughter, husband, wife, or worker? Have you been disobedient, unfaithful, or lazy? Have you been hot-tempered, rude, or quarrelsome? Have you hurt someone by your words or deeds? Have you stolen, been negligent, wasted anything, or done any harm? The author does speak about parents (49) as guides, community as guides, and the change in vocations that come through changes in time of life or circumstances (cf. 85ff). I would argue that the quote above would give more clarity to the book as a whole as well as providing a better context for the summary quote of page 14: "Vocation is not merely doing a good thing, but rather about doing the right thing." FWIW, Lutherans approach the Sabbath differently than the author (cf. 17ff). The section speaking of obedience (118ff), because of its law nature, should have been followed by the comforting Gospel section on Baptism (99ff). This is a necessary book that should find a wide audience. My favorite entry-level volume on the topic of vocation remains the one by my friend Gene Edward Veith. / I appreciate personal stories about personal spiritual journeys. The most valuable of those stories are valuable because of their truth value in comparison to the Scriptures and their universal applicability. Pastors and church leaders will see themselves at times as they read Stephen A. Macchia's Broken and Whole: A Leader's Path to Spiritual Transformation. After the table of contents demonstrated an obvious structure and focus on 1 Corinthians 13, and an adaptation of that text by the author (9), I needed to hear Luther's "'Simul iustus et peccator'--at the same time righteous and sinner" (11). More on page nine later.  This book can help people. If they follow the plan of the love chapter of 1 Corinthians and practice confession and absolution, pastors and other leaders will benefit from a more humble, servant-like perspective on life and their vocations within the Church. That said, several parts gave me pause. First, I was uncomfortable with the reference to dreams (36). Perhaps this could be clarified in a Sola Scriptura way in a future edition. Second, the illustration leading the book's Chapter 12 would benefit from reflection on 1 Corinthians 14:34-35 in the context of 1 Corinthians 11. Third, I found it unpleasant, even tacky, to turn the Conclusion into an advertisement for another product (201). Finally, author's paraphrase/adaptation of 1 Corinthians 13 (9) really struck me as odd. When asked to preach on this text for a wedding, I adapted the text in this Christ-centered, Gospel-focused way: Jesus is patient and kind; Jesus does not envy or boast; He is not arrogant or rude. He does not insist on its own way, because He followed His Father's way; Jesus is not irritable or resentful; Jesus does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. He is truth. Jesus bears all things, including your sin and that of the whole world, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things, even the cross and grave. Jesus never ends. He is the eternal Son of God begotten of His Father from eternity, and also true man, born of the virgin Mary, who died and was raised for you and for your salvation. All because of God's love. God's love for you in Jesus never ends. So now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; but the greatest of these is love. Why is love the greatest? That is a great question. Faith and hope are never just isolated concepts. Faith and hope must be connected to something concrete. Faith and hope are always "in" something, or rather Someone, a capital S Someone named Jesus. Faith and hope both trust in what is not seen. They look toward the future, as we do today. Love is greatest, because of faith and hope in Christ Jesus. His love and His Word endure forever and are the only things we have in this life that we will be able to take with us to heaven. Love is the greatest because of Jesus' love for you. We look forward to more titles from Baen and InterVarsity Press.  Longtime readers of Liturgy, Hymnody, and Pulpit Quarterly Book Review, now known as Lutheran Book Review may appreciate that we have "caught up" on our backlist of titles received for review. For now at least, we will be able to read titles immediately upon receipt and post reviews very soon after! Rev. Paul J Cain is Pastor of Immanuel, Sheridan, Wyoming, Headmaster of Martin Luther Grammar School and Immanuel Academy, a member of the Board of Directors of the Consortium for Classical Lutheran Education, Wyoming District Education Chairman and Editor of Lutheran Book Review. A graduate of Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, Rev. Cain is a contributor to Lutheran Service Book, Lutheranism 101, the forthcoming LSB Hymnal Companion, and is the author of 5 Things You Can Do to Make Our Congregation a Caring Church. He has previously served Emmanuel, Green River, WY and Trinity, Morrill, NE. He is married to Ann and loves reading and listening to, composing, and making music.

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Received for Review

 

Flint, Eric, Walter H. Hunt. 1636: The Cardinal Virtues (Ring of Fire). Riverdale, NY: Baen, 2015. Kindle e-book. $9.99. http://www.baen.com/     Flint, Eric and Andrew Dennis. 1635: A Parcel of Rogues (Ring of Fire). Riverdale, NY: Baen, 2015. 381 Pages. Kindle e-book. $9.99. http://www.baen.com/

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