Journal: Bibliotheca Sacra
Volume: BSAC 122:487 (Jul 1965)
Article: Book Notices
Author: Anonymous

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BSac 122:487 (Jul 65) p. 280

Book Notices

The Word Of God And Modern Man. By Emil Brunner. (Translated by David Cairns). Richmond: John Knox Press, 1964. 87 pp. $1.50.

This paperback edition is a first English translation of the German work by the author, Das Wort Gottes und der moderne Mensch, published in 1937. In this introductory work to Brunner’s theology, treated more extensively in his work Man in Revolt, the author presents in simple and engaging style his concept of the Word of God which has been a major contribution to neo-orthodox theology. The principal concept that God, although infinite, can communicate to man, though finite, is presented in a very attractive and intelligent way. A careful reading will reveal, however, the fundamental weakness of the whole neo-orthodox approach, namely, that it is basically experential and subjective and without the authoritative norm of an infallible and inspired Bible.

To those interested in understanding neo-orthodoxy, this volume would be a good introduction.

J. F. Walvoord

The Holy Spirit And You. By Donald M. Joy. Nashville: Abingdon Press, 1965. 160 pp. $2.75.

This a remarkably effective attempt to present the doctrine of the Holy Spirit in popular

BSac 122:487 (Jul 65) p. 281

language. Often such works suffer from technical inaccuracy. The author in the case has done a remarkably good job theologically while at the same time presenting in vivid and contemporary terms the doctrine of the Spirit. Basically, it is an appeal to the readers to be filled with the Spirit. The author properly contrasts the baptism of the Spirit as a once-for-all experience at conversion with many fillings of the Spirit. Without treating the Trinity technically, he recognizes the personality and deity of the Holy Spirit. Even problems such as speaking in tongues are given fair and careful consideration.

In keeping with the traditional point of view of the Free Methodist Church, of which the author is Director of Educational Services, a section is devoted to the doctrine of perfectionism. Although somewhat ignoring the fact of the continued presence of a sin nature, even in a yielded Christian, the author avoids the pitfalls of sinless perfection and recognizes that even a Christian filled with the Spirit is fallible. On the whole, this is an excellent volume and worthy to be placed in the hands of young people of high school and college age.

J. F. Walvoord

The Finality Of Faith. By Nels F. Ferre. New York: Harper & Row, Publishers, 1963. 115 pp. $2.75.

The title of this book is most appropriate, because, if the suggestions ...

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