I’ve been reading some fiction, but more than that a couple nonfic theological books I checked out of the church library (which is a really funny library, by the way). They are: What Is Reformed Theology, and a book explaining the theology of a Christian Sabbath. I don’t remember the name of the latter.

In any case, I really appreciate WiRT, as I do most books by RC Sproul; especially when he explains the difference between the study of religion and the study of theology, not to mention the distinctive Reformed theological trait he develops, that Reformed theology is primarily concerned with the God. Every other point flows from that viewpoint, and as a staunchly Reformed young man myself, I cannot but agree.

The second book isn’t as well-written; it still puzzles me how so many books about the Christian Sabbath can start off as a polemic, when they really should start as a celebration. One of the best things going for Sabbath theology as exposited today, a rather recent innovation in Reformed and Presbyterian circles from what I can ascertain, is its focus on and celebration of a coming and extant kingdom represented in a future and present day of rest. But as you move past the “greedy people who want to turn Sabbath into every other day” bits, it’s a really rewarding book. Even if you don’t agree with the idea of a Christian Sabbath or a day of rest as a creation ordinance (Luther certainly didn’t, and Calvin did or didn’t depending on whether you read his exposition of Exodus or his Institutes), it’s a good introduction to why people make such a big deal out of things like the “Lord of the Sabbath” quote.

Tags: books, theology