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Lights shining in the darknessMen of faithLIGHTS SHINING IN THE DARKNESS Names such as Athanasius, Augustine, Nettleton sound vaguely familiar, but who actually were they, and how do they fit into the whole scheme of church history? In this attractively presented book, Peter Jeffery supplies us with succinct answers to our questions. Under the subtitle Men of Faith, the writer outlines the most important features and ministry of 11 Christian leaders from the past. Although, at his own confession, his choice of subject has been dictated by his own particular interests, the book seems to divide naturally into three parts. In the first five chapters we can trace the earliest beginnings and development of that great work of God which culminated in the Reformation, including details of the lives of men like Wycliffe, Tyndale and Luther. Oliver Cromwell and Daniel Rowland, representing England and Wales respectively, stand alone in the middle, before Peter Jeffery turns his attention in the third section to the American scene, covering the massive influence of Jonathan Edwards, Whitefield's American preaching and the parting of the ways in the diverse contribution of Asahel Nettleton and Charles Finney. Writing in an easy, almost conversational style, Peter Jeffery is not afraid to give a fair assessment of his heroes, pointing out where they made mistakes. Above all, the writer is a preacher and scattered throughout these pages we find 'Peter Jeffery gems', pointing the lessons that we in our day must learn both from the example and experiences of his subjects. This book is warmly recommended and makes excellent Sunday afternoon reading. Faith Cook© Evangelicals Now - August 2003 |