This little book is a timely review in light of another book recently reviewed, which was The Truth War, by Dr. John MacArthur. That work left off with post-modernism in the church, and that is where this fine book begins. But first, the author gives us definite guidelines for true church organization,
“In the infant days of the church as outlined in the book of Acts, we find a newly regenerated people with no money, no buildings, and no programs, having an astounding impact on their world in a very short time. As the newly born church began, what was important to them? Evangelism (Acts 2:41,47); Worship (2:46-47); Prayer (2:42); Truth (2:42); the ordinances of Baptism (2:41) and Communion (2:42); and finally Purity (5:1-6).”
Throughout the rest of the epistles, Gilley expounds, this doctrine is expanded upon but the truth never changes.
In chapters 1-5 Pastor Gilley examines Postmoderism in relation to truth, society, church, and finally confrontation. Chapters 6-8 involve building up the body of Christ, discipline and growth in the Christian life, and love for a Gospel the world finds offensive. Chapters 9-11 deal with the Scriptures in regard to their authority and sufficiency.
When we move on into Chapters 12 and 13, our author begins to deal with mysticism and other influences on the modern church. In doing so he warns us about experiences, contemplative prayer or “centering prayer” and/or “breath prayer”, which are practices springing up in evangelical circles. Also the revival of labyrinth prayer is similar to the function of the rosaries, stations, and tao-te-ching. They all move the worshipper into a mystical union with God (as you “understand” Him). This is man-centered, false doctrine that goes all the way back to the Tower of Babel.
Finally, in chapters 14-15, Pastor Gilley deals with some current problems within the evangelical church. He likens the emerging church movement to nailing Jell-O to the wall, in a doctrinal sense. The reviewed book by MacArthur had a viper on the cover; this cover has a wolf among sheep. Scary stuff! Maybe the next book I review will have an aardvark on the front!
Posted on September 1st, 2007 by Scott
Filed under: From the Church Library