Living by God's Master Plan
The kingdom of God
Living by God's Master Plan
By Michael Lawson
Christian Focus. 271 pages
ISBN 1 85792 541 6
This work was originally published by Kingsway under the title The Unfolding Kingdom. Something of that original title is preserved in its present subtitle, 'The Reality of the Kingdom of God from Eden to Revelation'.
The book is a series of studies on the theme of the Kingdom of God. This theme is traced through creation and covenants in the Old Testament, showing how they point forward to Christ. Several chapters consider Jesus's teaching on the Kingdom of God, particularly through the parables. The closing chapters deal with what it means for Christians to live now as 'Kingdom people', while looking forward to Christ's return and the arrival of the Kingdom in all its fullness.
A number of useful questions for personal consideration or discussion are included at the end of each chapter. There is also an appendix on the Toronto blessing. Mr. Lawson assesses the Toronto phenomena in a sensitive and balanced fashion. While acknowledging that many were genuinely blessed by what they experienced, he expresses grave reservations concerning the lack of the Bible in the Toronto ministry.
This is a helpful introduction to the theme of the Kingdom of God. While the material sometimes lacks clear structure and can be repetitious, it is full of practical Scripture exposition enlivened with relevant illustrations from contemporary events and is full of practical exhortation and encouragement. I felt that there were a few weaknesses in the work, such as Mr. Lawson's treatment of heaven and hell when dealing with the rich man and Lazarus, but, on the whole, the book was thoroughly orthodox. I warmly recommend it.
Peter Misselbrook,
Bristol
© Evangelicals Now - January 2001
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