The Epistles to the Corinthians, Herschel H. Hobbs, Baker Book House, Grand Rapids, Michigan, 1960, 127 pages, $1.95; The Gospel of John, V. Wayne Barton, Baker Book House, Grand Rapids, Michigan, 1960, 96 pages, $1.75.
These are the recent additions to the Shield Study Series; both manuals are by prominent Bible teachers. To date, twelve of these manuals are in print and further volumes are to be announced when ready. These manuals are inexpensive, paper bound, and well organized into study guides. They are of special interest for seminaries, colleges, universities, ministers, and gospel workers. In each of these manuals an excellent introduction, analytical outline, and careful fundamentalist commentary are provided. Sound scholarship and able authorship mark these helpful manuals. Herschel Hobbs is pastor of the First Baptist church of Oklahoma City and is the preacher on the Baptist Hour. He is also the author of several inspiring books. V. Wayne Barton is a professor of New Testament and Greek at the New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. Teachers and librarians please take notice.
Louise C. Kleuser
Letters to Young Churches, J. B. Phillips, The Macmillan Company, 60 Fifth Avenue, New York, 1960, paperback edition, 225 pages, $1.25.
The author's translation of the New Testament Epistles here needs no introduction. But to be able to have such an excellent reference work in modern language and in an inexpensive yet sturdy book, we consider to be an opportunity for those who appreciate a study help. Far from having been robbed of their original force and purpose, these letters are provokingly personal and have remarkable relevance today. This is a well-organized, easy-to-read-and-understand verbal translation of the New Testament Epistles. We enjoyed reading this translation as a revealing running story of the early church.
Louise C. Kleuser
Handbook of Denominations in the United States, Second Revised Edition, Frank S. Mead, Abingdon Press, 1961, 272 pages, $2.95.
Teachers and students of contemporary religions will welcome this up-to-date treatise of more than 260 religious bodies, their history, doctrines, distinctive characteristics, and present status. Here is concise, complete, and generally fair information by a well-recognized authority in this incisive field of research. Frank S. Mead has had broad experience as a pastor and editor, himself having authored religious books. Denominations are grouped alphabetically.
Louise C. Kleuser
For One Moment, Christmas Carol Kauffman, Herald Press, Scottdale, Pennsylvania, 1960, 320 pages, $3.25.
Here is a true story of a German youth who became Hitler's flag-bearer. He received a medal for being fifty times in close contact with the enemy as he worked for the Nazi cause.
The chapters of this book cover his experience and big decisions as a war prisoner, a boarder in a Christian home, a man in need of God, as a new creature in Christ, as a reconstruction worker, and finally an American churchman. It is a moving story, full of pathos, but it eventually reveals Christian satisfactions. This book reveals a deep understanding of the strength of the forces of evil, and will prove to be a timely enlightener for Christians. Here is thinking on a high plane and guidance for inexperienced Christians and for all who value truth and righteousness. Its ideals will shape character.
Louise C. Kleuser
Out of My Life, V. Raymond Edman, Zondervan Publishing House, Grand Rapids, Michigan, 1961, 224 pages, $3.50.
Here is a work that we cheerfully recommend to our university, seminary, and college presidents. The author is the president of Wheaton College. A great man and a deep Christian is writing out of his life's experiences. The chapters are brief and filled with the richest and most practical experiences that come to any young man or woman, especially those who anticipate service in ministerial work. The author's theme is the personal, intimate relationship that exists between a child of God and his Lord. There is an overseas touch, which makes all men akin. The very reality of these soul-searching and heart-warming chapters reveals the author's God-centered philosophy. Here is clear-cut insight into youthful nature and its temptations, and not without a dignified humor, which holds the reader's interest and befriends the one who may be walking in "slippery places." This book is a gem and demonstrates God's dealings with His children.
Pastors will appreciate the rare thinking displayed by Dr. Edman, for he has had pastorates in peace and in war settings, was also a missionary in Ecuador, and has had a distinguished career in scholarship and education. Librarians will consider it a treasured book. The leadership of your college or university will relish its inspiration.
L. C. K.
