Guidebook for Instruction in the Christian Religion
Where can you find an accessible yet classic systematic theology? Herman Bavinck’s Guidebook for Instruction in the Christian Religion is an outstanding work of introductory systematic theology.
Originally intended for high school students, this book will be a blessing for churchgoers young and old. While Bavinck’s 4-volume Reformed Dogmatics is an academic read, this book clearly and succinctly covers the major topics in an approachable way.
God and God Alone
Hendrickson Academic is the first to translate this book into English, and it is thoroughly readable and enjoyable. At just under 250 pages, this handsome hardcover book features a leathery brown color with gold highlights.
Bavinck uses 20 chapters to cover the knowledge of God, justification, the consummation of the world, and more. Interestingly, Bavinck opens his book with the statement: “The highest good of man is God and God alone.” Bavinck’s emphasis on theology that confronts secularism is apparent throughout the work.
Faith and Freedom
I was most interested to see Bavinck explain how faith that rests on God’s grace alone and is certain of the forgiveness of sins is what makes one capable of doing good works. This is the way that our works give glory to God the Father. Freedom is being released form the law in order to live for God. This invigorated my ministry endeavors, eager to serve with the strength of my Savior.
The chapters read quickly, with Dutch words and Bible references throughout. I was most moved to read the chapter on The Person of Christ. He looks at how other religions were founded by particular people (Buddha, Confucius, Zarathustra, and Muhammad). Christianity is completely different, saying that Jesus Christ is Christianity itself. He is the center. He is salvation. I was moved to worship by meditating on this thought.
Good and True
The book ends with a glimpse of God in Heaven, looking over his work and proclaiming “It is all very good!” (1 Cor. 15:24-28). Simple yet profound, this book presents Bavinck earnestly and with vigor. Distinctly reformed while remaining ecumenical, readers of Bavinck will find his work to be a good and true blessing in the faith.
I received a media copy of Guidebook for Instruction in the Christian Religion and this is my honest review. Find more of my book reviews and follow Dive In, Dig Deep on Instagram - my account dedicated to Bibles and books to see the beauty of the Bible and the role of reading in the Christian life. To read all of my book reviews and to receive all of the free eBooks I find on the web, subscribe to my free newsletter.