Whitefield’s sermons and Saer’s iron-sharpener

I suppose it comes from writing random book reviews. Occasionally I get sent random books. Which is all very nice. But it doesn’t necessarily mean that I would have bought them or wanted them in the first place.

However, every now and then, a real treat comes through the post. And this happened to me last week. Twice.

George Whitefield lives on

First of all, I received a huge weighty package from the Church Society, and couldn’t for the life of me work out what I’d ordered. As it happened – nothing. I was being sent the first 2 of a 3-volume set of George Whitefield’s sermons, edited and introduced by Lee Gatiss (editor of The Theologian). I’d no idea he was even working on this. But it’s a fantastic job. Lee’s 30 page introduction is readable and informative – and genuinely whets the appetite for the many transcripts to come. It is certainly something I’ll look forward to dipping into in the future.

Everything is nicely laid out and well-presented. It’s well worth checking out… £33 full price for the pair, £22 for students…

CORRECTION: no idea why I said it was 3 volumes – my mistake. Should be just the two volumes…

Iron Sharpens Iron

Then the next day I got sent this – by another old friend, Orlando Saer. He’s written a short handbook for small group bible studies called Iron Sharpens Iron. I was asked to write a blurb for it, and this is what I came up with.

Orlando Saer has provided the church with an excellent manual for small group ministry. Founded on a clear biblical vision, this book is full of sharp insight and practical advice, peppered by personal anecdotes and the wisdom of experience. Covering everything from who should lead to how they should lead and what they should aim for, I have great hopes for its positive impact in churches of all types and sizes. As someone with responsibility for small groups, I know that this will come in very useful and so commend it warmly.