Steven Bowers reviews Standing Firm by Graham Beynon.
“This book helps us know our enemy and stand firm in the fight” (p6). “The whole point of this book is to help us see how Satan works, resist him and stand firm” (p23).
On page seven we are given some guidelines on how to read this book. “…we have six chapters on tactics. Each chapter takes a slightly distinctive look at how Satan works in this fight and how we can stand against him. Each angle on the fight has been prompted by other writers from down the centuries (I don’t have any original ideas). So, at some point in each chapter, I’ll introduce you to these historical Satan-Fighters from whom I have learnt. The focus, though, is less on them and more on understanding our enemy, and ourselves better, so as to be better able to fight” (pp7-8).
Each chapter ends with some practical application under the same heading “Standing Firm.” Judging this book, not by its cover but its content, the author succeeds in his aim. I am enthusiastic about this little volume.
After the introduction entitled The Story of War, Graham Beynon sets out his work in the following chapters. 1. The Cosmic Battle. How this battle began, the source of our opposition as we live in enemy territory along with God’s rescue plan are all set out here. We learn, or are reminded, that though the battle rages it is in fact won. 2. False Faith. Essentially here false faith is “believing, trusting a lie.” “God gave one ‘No’ in a whole world of yeses. Satan turns His words into a whole world of Noes.” (p29). It is good to see the terminology “The Fall” retained and explained. 3. Falling Two Ways. In this chapter I particularly appreciated the discussion of “sins of omission”. 4. Twisted Love. This deals with the matter of self-love. “Fighting Satan means continuing to untwist our love.” 5. Sugar-coated Poison. “The fight against Satan is the fight to see sin for what it is: sugar-coated poison. While it looks attractive it will kill you. 6. Wrong Worship. Turning to Jeremiah, this chapter looks at the whole complex area of idolatry. “… fight Satan by having a bigger and truer picture of God. See him as more glorious, more wonderful, more satisfying, more worthy, and more beautiful than any other ‘god’.” (p110) 7. Life-Suckers. “A key way to think about sin is as the life-sucking parasite, and so the fight against Satan is the fight for healthiness.” (p112)
Finally 8. Put On Your Armour. Knowing we are in this battle, how do you start your day? This chapter suggests exactly that. It shows how the climax of Ephesians in chapter six draws on all the riches taught throughout that magnificent letter.
This short book is very fresh, lively, and full of Scripture and choice quotes from some greats of the past. It deals with the whole subject in a way that demonstrates that it is real and urgent, but does so in a richly encouraging way that inspires rather than depresses! It wisely sets out the balance between the battle we are in and at the same time the enjoyment of God’s good gifts.
The book would make an excellent section in any discipleship class. Pastors would do well to put it into the hands of new Christians – the sooner the better. It deserves a wide readership. It punches well above its weight and certainly teaches us how to handle our weapons. Yes, there may be aspects of the subject that some would like more information on, but in its 143 pages it achieves much – extremely valuable.
STANDING FIRM: Remaining Strong In His Strength
By Graham Beynon
10publishing. 143 pages. £7.99
ISBN 978 1 837 281 756
