Monday, January 18, 2010

Book Review: The Gospel In Genesis


The Gospel In Genesis: From Fig Leaves to Faith by Martin Lloyd-Jones. 2009. Crossway. 160 pages. [Christian Nonfiction]

I call your attention to Genesis 3 in order that we may consider together the essential message of this book that we call the Bible.

The Gospel In Genesis contains never-before-published sermons of the late Martyn Lloyd-Jones (1899-1981). This collection of sermons focus on the early chapters of Genesis. In particular it focuses on creation, the fall of man, the flood, the tower of Babel, and the call of Abraham. (Roughly the first twelve chapters of the book of Genesis.) His argument is a simple one, the heart and soul of the gospel is found from the very beginning, it can be found in Genesis 3. Lloyd-Jones argues that Genesis 3 can explain everything about us and our world.

This third chapter of the book of Genesis is absolutely essential to a true understanding of life, the whole of life as it is at this moment for each individual. (79)
What did I love about this one? (And I did love it, by the way!) How accessible it was. It wasn't dry, it wasn't boring. It was real, it was down-to-earth. I felt like I was listening to a man preach, really preach from the Word of God. It wasn't about how many big words he could use, it was about reaching people--real, every day people--right where they are with a message that is ever-relevant. Though many decades have passed since these sermons were originally preached, the message remains timeless.

While I was reading, I felt it was so good. I was tempted to highlight all the wonderful passages that spoke to me. Because it was speaking to me. It was just that good. So I would recommend this one.

© Becky Laney of Operation Actually Read Bible

3 comments:

md5ds said...

Thanks for the review. I love Lloyd-Jones. He is, as you say, accessable, yet, he is deep. Most can't pull that off. I'm definitely going to put this on my list.

Anonymous said...

I'll have to look for this one. I love that "the gospel is found from the very beginning." Thanks!

Annette said...

Becky, see my new post @ A Well-Watered Garden. My Church burned today.