3 comments about 100 Christian Women Who Changed the 20th Century.

1. Helen Kooiman Hosier gave me the beautiful gift of enabling me to get to know and understand the hearts and genius of 100 Christian heroines
   
   Every person on the planet over 12 would benefit from reading this book. Imagine learning the stories of women whose names you have heard, but don't know where they came from, how they got to make a difference in our world, and why they made the choices they made.
   
   I was amazed at the deep faith of women heroines I never knew were Christians.
   
   Here is one example of a name that I have heard all my life: Florence Nightengale. One patient in a hospital said this of Florence Nightengale's impact on him as she made her nightly rounds with her lamp to light her way: "What a comfort it was to see her pass even. She would speak to one, and nod and smile to as many more; but she could not do it all, you know. We lay there by hundreds; but, we could kiss her shadow as it fell and lay our heads on the pillow again content."



2. This collection of brief biographies of 100 women from different walks of life, living in different places, periods and cultures, who each served God in her own unique way is incredibly inspiring and motivational. My 8 year old daughter, who insisted that I read parts of this book to her, actually said this was a "cool" book. My only disappointment is that Oprah Winfrey, who is one of the most high profile God loving women in recent times, was not included.



3. One of the few books that I read that gave me an incredible feeling at the end. You know, when you finish the book, close it, and sit still for about 30 minutes in a world of wonder. I never knew that women invented so many important tools that play a major role in our lives. I especially enjoyed reading about Mother Teresa whom I came to know as a totally incredible person. Her good deeds, kindness, and wisdom are great examples to follow and live by. Thank-you Helen Kooiman Hosier for a wonderful and inspirational book. My only regret was that I bought this book at a nearby bookstore and paid almost twice as much as I would have compared to Amazon.com.

3 comments about Gregory the Great and his World.

1. Very clearly written and readable work, from a man who very well knows his subject. Well-supported history of Gregory's place in the world at the end of the 6th century when everything seemed to be coming to an end. A scholarly work that generally stops where the scholarship stops. I wouldn't actually have minded a little more lively anecdote and conjecture (if identified as such), but that's just me. Very good book.



2. An extensively researched historical biography of one of the great Popes of the Catholic Church and a doctor of the Church. Though necessarily dry by nature of the work, still it tells an interesting story and offers a real appreciation for the world during Gregory's rein as Pontiff.



3. This is an excellent, easy to read guide to Gregory, the world he lived in, and his influence. It is a good stepping stone to start researching about Gregory as a secondary source.

5 comments about George Whitefield: The Life and Times of the Great Evangelist of the Eighteenth Century - Volume II.

1. I won't reiterate what I wrote in my review for the first volume. The second volume has some very interesting chapters on Whitefield's impact on history and the measure of the man. Although, it may be argued that he started Methodism, the Wesleys are more associated with that denomination. Whitefield concentrated on his preaching and stepped down from leadership roles. In spite of that decision, he was crucial in starting two universities in North America (Princeton and Dartmouth). He was instrumental in the spiritual awakening on both sides of the Atlantic. He started open air preaching and shook up the Church of England from its slumbers. He preached the Gospel until literally his breath gave out. No matter what you think of his doctrine or decisions, you have to respect his dedication. His death is well written in this volume and it is a painful read for an asthmatic.
   
   These volumes should be read by all preachers so they can learn from both the wisdom and folly of Whitefield.



2. "Justice has at last been done to the greatest preacher that England every produced." This was the judgment of Martyn Lloyd-Jones concerning the first volume of Arnold Dallimore's biography of George Whitefield. This is perhaps the most authoritative work to date on the life of Whitefield, surpassing the older work of Luke Tyreman in both breadth (since Dallimore had access to far more material than Tyreman) and objectivity (Tyreman was a Wesleyan who was somewhat unsympathetic with Whitefield's theology).
   
   The two volumes together are divided into eight parts, which help give some navigation to understanding Whitefield's life. The sections are: (Volume 1): I. The Years of Preparation; II. The Youthful Ministry; III. The Period of Transition; (Volume 2): IV. The Controversy; V. The Calvinist Evangelist of Two Continents; VI. The Helper of all the Revival; VII. The Years of Failing Strength; and VIII. Death and Commemoration.
   
   Volume 1 traces Whitefield's life from birth to conversion through the early years of the Great Awakening which came under his preaching in England, Wales, and the Colonies of North America. It is full of details about his travels, excerpts from sermons and journals, and is exceptionally well documented. Special attention is rightfully given to Whitefield's relationship with John Wesley, and several mistaken notions concerning the two men are corrected with careful research supporting the conclusions.
   
   The second volume begins with an introduction that gives more attention to the mistaken conceptions about Whitefield's relationship with the Wesleys. Chapter one then steers the reader back into the narrative, picking up where volume 1 left off with Whitefield's return to England from America in 1739. Several chapters are then devoted to the controversy between the Whitefield and Wesley. A broad-brush coverage is given to Whitefield's work in both Great Britain and America, with occasional detours detailing events such as the Cambuslang Revival and the contributions of other prominent figures in the revival such Howell Harris and John Cennick.
   
   Dallimore writes with an obvious admiration and appreciation for Whitefield, yet he does not whitewash his faults. Whitefield's respectable, though less than ideal marriage to the widow, Elizabeth James (who had also been courted by Howell Harris - an interesting love-triangle there!) is discussed, as well has the enormous load of debt he carried for the Orphan House founded in Georgia. While there was nothing in Whitefield's life to tarnish his integrity, his humanity is clearly evident in more than one instance.
   
   The interest and usefulness of this excellent biography is enhanced by the thorough index (at the end of volume 2), thirteen appendices (six in volume 1, seven in volume 2), thorough documentation (with hundreds - maybe thousands - of footnotes), nine-page bibliography (volume 2) and over sixty illustrations.
   
   But the true value of the two volumes lies in their soul-stirring account of the great work of God in and through Whitefield's life. A Christian could hardly ask for more delightful reading. To quote Lloyd-Jones again, "To read the wonderful story of his life is to be reminded again of what is possible to a truly consecrated Christian, and how even in the darkest and most sinful ages God in His sovereign power is able to revive His work and shower blessings upon His people."



3. Few recent books have so wide and so deep an impact as Arnold Dallimore's magisterial biography of George Whitefield. The first volume, stretching from Whitefield's birth in 1714 to his section visit to American in 1740 was published in 1970 and has since been reprinted six times. The second volume, which stretches from 1740 until Whitefield's death in 1770, was published ten years later in 1980. It has been reprinted three times. Together the volumes comprise some 1200 pages of detailed biography. Rarely have I had a biography recommended to me by so many and by men of such distinction. Rarely have I benefited more from reading about another man's life.
   
   I have noticed a strange phenomenon with this biography. Where most books of this one's scope and impact have been widely and thoroughly reviewed, this one seems to be an exception. As I attempted to write a review I may have found out why this is: it is very difficult to adequately sum up so much content in just a few words. And, as with any biography, it is difficult to measure and summarize the impact of such a book. Instead I am left doing what others have done--writing thoughts on the book that somehow seem disconnected and inadequate. Even Gary Gilley, a reviewer who is rarely lost for words, can write no more than this: "It would be difficult to lavish too much praise on Dallimore's two volume biography of the famous eighteenth century evangelist George Whitefield. This is the definitive work of Whitefield's life and ministry, dispelling many misconceptions while showing the true character and impact of this most remarkable man. Along the way the reader also receives valuable insight into the lives of the Wesleys, Jonathan Edwards and the Moravians. This is one of the greatest biographies ever written."
   
   The Foreword to the first volume is supplied by no one less than Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones. The Doctor suggests that he waited decades to find a thorough and authoritative biography of Whitefield, a man he regarded as a historical hero. This book, he felt, which appeared on the bi-centenary of Whitefield's death, achieves the excellence Lloyd-Jones knew had long been missing. Reflecting on the life of the subject he writes "May the reading of this book produce in us the same spirit of utter submission, ready obedience, and unshakeable reliance upon the power of the Holy Spirit that characterized his life and ministry. Whitefield never drew attention to himself but always pointed people to his God and exalted his Lord and Savior. May he, though now dead for nearly 200 years, do the same for countless thousands through the reading of this book!" The intervening years, almost forty of them, have shown this to be the case.
   
   This book's subtitle, The life and times of the great evangelist of the 18th century revival, is important in understanding the book. Whitefield found himself one of the sparks of the the Great Awakening and the revival of the 18th century. While other men played important roles, Whitefield was the pin at the center of the wheel. His tireless itinerancy took his preaching ministry to almost every corner of the United Kingdom and to almost the whole of the settled portion of the United States. But for illness he would also have extended his ministry to Canada. Perhaps one of this book's greatest contributions is in helping people separate the life and contributions of George Whitefield from those of John Wesley--a man who Whitefield always loved but who so often opposed him. This biographies shows conclusively that it was Whitefield's ministry that sparked the awakening.
   
   I was grateful to see that Dallimore deals fairly with Whitefield's shortcomings in these volumes. This is no hagiography--worship of a saint that is free from difficult examinations of the subject's failings. Though Dallimore has to confess that he finds surprisingly little fault with the man, he deals frankly and forthrightly with those areas in which Whitefield showed immaturity, poor judgment or poor discernment. He questions Whitefield's decision to marry and the unusual circumstances surrounding his first rejected proposal of marriage. He does not shy from discussing Whitefield's role in justifying and even promoting slavery in the colonies. He does not allow the passing of the years or his deep respect for his subject to mislead him or to excuse sin. Experience shows that this quality is surprisingly rare in such biographies.
   
   Eminently readable despite its length and depth, this biography only reinforces my belief that biographies can be among the greatest catalysts to spiritual growth. It is a classic and one that takes its place among my favorite biographies along with such great titles as Marsden's Jonathan Edwards and Dallimore's own Spurgeon. It will prove valuable to pastors or evangelists as they see the example of a man who labored tirelessly for the gospel; it will prove valuable to all Christians as they see the example of a man who labored tirelessly to grow even and ever closer to his Savior. Whitefield is a man who stands as an example to all of us. Dallimore has done us a great service in opening up to us the life of this great man of God.
   
   Together these two volumes represent a financial investment that is not insignificant. Purchased together they are likely to cost at least sixty or seventy dollars. But I can testify, as can a long list of people of far greater wisdom and discernment than I, that they are well worth the investment.



4. The best history / biography I have ever read. George Whitefield's life is exceedingly interesting and Dallimore covers it and all the history of others surrounding it, exhaustively!



5. Well, I finally saved up the money and sprung for this two-volume full-length account of the life of George Whitefield. I had whetted my appetite on the abbreviated volume "George Whitefield: God's Anointed Servant in the Great Revival of the Eighteenth Century" by the same author. I can honestly say this is one of the best investments I've ever made. Reading the life of such a great saint--this Christ-loving, gospel-centered minister--has served to rekindle my passion for the gospel and rejuvenate the love of God in my soul more than once. I most highly recommend it.
   
   This Volume: This is the SECOND volume of Dallimore's two-volume biography of George Whitefield. This is very important if you intend on buying one volume now and purchasing the other later. The information on the Banner of Truth (the publisher's) website is incorrect--the green volume is volume #1 (picture of Whitefield in a field surrounded by a crowd) and the red volume is #2 (picture of an older Whitefield in a church pulpit). I had to wait an extra few months to recieve the first volume before I could begin reading either. Each volume is about 600 pages in length and is chock full of stories, information and insightful commentary. Dallimore does not spare the details of the lives of those closest to Whitfield--including John Cennick, Howell Harris, Jonathan Edwards, and of course John and Charles Wesley. This second volume deals with the period of time from Whitefield's return to England in the wake of Wesley's controversial ministry, his reconciliation with the Wesleys and continued work in both England and America, and finally his death.
   
   The Subject Matter: Wow. Simply wow. I mean--who knew? I'd always heard that John Wesley was the sole founder of Methodism. In fact, the only thing I knew about George Whitefield was that he was attributed with a few neat quotes (ie. "Let the name of Whitefield perish, but Christ be glorified!", "I am weary in Thy work, but not weary of it", etc.) and that he once spoke at Jonathan Edwards' Northhampton church (at which time he left Edwards in tears). I fully expect that if it were not for this work of Dallimore, the name of Whitefield truly would be lost to persons such as myself. What I expected was another (Calvinistic) Wesley. What I found was a man whose zeal, love, holiness of life and passion for Christ seemed to equal even those I hold in highest regard (among whom are Martin Luther and Charles Spurgeon). Whitefield was a tireless worker for God and his zeal for the gospel was only matched by his selfless compassion for his fellow man. He was the first of the great open-air preachers and nudged both John and Charles Wesley into evangelistic ministry. Whitefield's life is a beautiful illustration of Christian ministry and evangelistic zeal. I cannot recommend this man highly enough.
   
   The Author: Dallimore was a Baptist pastor and semi-prolific biographer. This two-volume biography of George Whitefield is truly Dallimore's magnum opus. He has delved deeper into the mind and heart of this great evangelist than any of his previous biographers. It is both informative and inspirational. No space feels wasted despite the length of the account and the multitudinous strands of the storyline are brought together in a masterful way.
   
   The Reader: Who should read this book? I would recommend it most highly to pastors and other evangelical Christians whose zeal for God and spiritual wells have begun to run dry. Evangelical Calvinistic Christians will get the greatest benefit from this read. But it may also prove of great interest to those of the Methodist heritage. Also, all who are called to the ministry of evangelism (teaching and preaching) could not but benefit from this work. Whitefield's zeal is contagious and his meekness humbling. The mere historian might enjoy the factual aspects of the book, but it was written from a distinctively evangelical Christian perspective.
   
   "Weary in Thy work, but not weary of it." -G. Whitefield

1 comments about African Saints, African Stories: 40 Holy Men and Woman.

1. African Saints, African Stories introduces slaves, nobles, religious, clergy, and laity whose lives exemplify the contributions people of color have made to the Church. Some started out as Catholics, others converted, but all ended up serving God from the fullness of their hearts.
   
   Thirty sketches feature individuals with official titles of the church: saint, blessed, and venerable. Ten sketches feature saints-in-waiting, Brown's term for "heroes already in God's presence, members of the communion of saints, but unclassified as such by the church."
   
   One of the earliest canonized saints is a Pope Celsius I. He was born in the late fifth century, dealt successfully with a schism, fought against Pelagianism and Manichaeanism, advocated divine authority for the papacy, and argued for papal infallibility. He was the first pope to be known as "Vicar of Christ." Brown describes him as humble, unselfish, strong-willed, and devoted to doctrine and love of the people.
   
   A more contemporary story of energy is that of saint-in-waiting Sister Thea Bowman. Born Mississippi in 1937, Bertha Bowman took the name "Thea" at age 16 when she became the first African American Franciscan Sister of Perpetual Adoration. She promised herself to be the best sister possible, and to promote recognition of the rich heritage Black Catholics bring to the Church. Brown writes of Sister Thea's expressions of traditional African singing, dancing, and preaching. She was "a ball of energetic smiling light, urging us to celebrate because we were children of God."
   
   For each subject, Brown provides biographical information, a relevant Scripture passage, prayer, and questions for reflection. The book's appendixes feature a calendar of selected saints, litany of African saints, and map of modern day Africa. As the author suggests, the text is suitable for individuals and faith-sharing groups, retreats, and black history programs.

5 comments about My Life with the Great Pianists.

1. Franz Mohr has spent more time over the years with great pianists than one can even comprehend. As a result, this book could have been a home run of stories, and anecdotes that the world never knew - except through Mohr's storytelling. Instead, Mohr touches on just a few choice stories about a handful of musicians leaving me to want more.
   
   My guess without actually doing the research is that at least half the book consists of Mohr's preaching to us his religious views. It felt very out of place in this context and I could have done without it. His co-author, Edith Schaeffer, didn't help matters with her overly frilly prose. Her additions reminded me of walking into a store that sells incense and soaps. Read the book for the great pianist stories he tells - but expect to be jarred with the rest of the contents as well.



2. I am fortunate enough (or shall I say blessed) that I see Franz Mohr numerous times a year. He is a true friend of mine and is known in professional circles as the greatest piano technician ever. The man is a magician with Steinway pianos, bringing sounds alive in pianos as only he can. Any serious student of piano must read this book, to learn feeling in music and life. Franz has paid his dues, long ago. He enlightens us all with true tales of his many life journeys. Thank you Franz Mohr- Your true friend- Carl Accettola



3. I don't understand why some people feel that Mr. Mohr, or anyone for that matter, should hide his religious faith or downplay it in some way. It is completely ridiculous. This is HIS book, and HIS life, and HIS views and if you don't like it, that's tough. He isn't writing to satisfy your political whims. Find another book if you don't like it!



4. In many ways this is an enjoyable read - I passed a couple of two-hour flights with it. However by the end - and I read practically every chapter in its entirety - I almost completely forgot that I picked it up expecting to gain some insight into the worlds of Horowitz, Rubenstein, Gould etc. Yes, I enjoyed the anecdotes about these great artists and yes, I also enjoyed learning about the care and attention the wonderful instruments they work with receive from devoted and gifted craftsmen such as Mr. Mohr. But what was I left with? What was I thinking after I had put the book down for the last time? The thought that was upper-most in my mind was: I can understand why many people - including myself - resent being preached to by self-styled missionaries about subjects that are - or at least should be totally private matters between one and his conscience. Whether the preacher is a likeable, seemingly sincere individual like Mr. Mohr or a politician looking to score some points for the next election by telling a gullible public about his latest conversation with God, at some point one has to say "enough." Finishing almost every chapter with a hard sell for one's religious beliefs isn't very ethical as far as I'm concerned. But then again, "in your face religion" seems to be the order of the day. Which god are we hawking today anyway?
   
   BTW, I'd love to know what Rubenstein was really thinking when our hero laid his proposition on him.



5. This book is easy to read, as the language is casual and conversational. The stories with the pianists are interesting, delightful and sometimes humorous. They also reveal a great deal about each pianist's personality. I am a musician, but not a pianist. although I never thought playing the piano was easy, the fact that pianists don't have to worry about tuning while performing as instrumentalists do always seem unfair. But this book gave me a greater appreciation for pianists and certainly a lot of respect for Steinway. There are also many great stories from his life, one of which I was captivated by the most was from his childhood during WWII in Germany. Mr. Mohr does talk about his Christian beliefs throughout the book. I don't really understand why other reviewers criticize Mr. Mohr for that. If this book is about his life and Christianity is central his life, wouldn't it make sense that his experiences with the pianists he worked for and other life events are told through his worldview? Edith Schaffer also adds inspiring insghts and wisdom through her contribution to the book.

2 comments about Ruth Bell Graham: Celebrating an Extraordinary Life.

1. I am not a big book reader but wanted to read this book and get a better idea of who Ruth was. She recently passed away and from what I saw on TV, she was quite a character.
   
   Boy am I glad I got this book... There are places in this book where I actually laughed and cried. Stories were told so well that I really felt I had a good understanding of who she was... and I really regret not having met her. Oh well, perhaps in heaven....
   
   I will tell you that from what I read, I really liked Ruth. She is such a strong Christian but she has got such a sense of humor and a mischeivous streak in her. She redefines what a strong Christian woman is to me. Over the years I have seen a "common mold" to Christian women that sometimes left me a little bored. Well not with Ruth. She has redefined what a strong Christian woman is as well as setting an example of a wonderful and unique Christian life. This book is a keeper... I know I will read it again.



2. Reading about Ruth Bell Graham is a wonderful thing to do, but it also shows me my own failings. I so wish I could be as kind and generous spirited as Ruth was. She was truly an extraordinary woman and I seriously doubt that anyone ever had anything harmful to say about her. I watched her funeral on TV and her son Franklin was outstanding in what he had to say about his 'mama'. My heart broke when Rev. Billy Graham said that he wished everyone could see how beautiful she was and how he had sat at her coffin for hours just looking at her. How blessed to have a wife, daughter, sister and mother such as Ruth Graham!

5 comments about Sting: The Moment of Truth.

1. I would deffinately recommend this book as well asthe DVD it was awesome!!



2. Steve Borden was at the ultimate crossroads of his life.
   
   As the character, Sting, he achieved iconic status in professional wrestling, one of a few performers who could tear the roof off of any arena in the world with his persona and signature finishing moves for victory.
   
   But Sting couldn't assist Steve Borden on that day in August 1998, the ring makeup was off and it wasn't about the promoters & fans, it was about family. Addicted to prescription drugs and years of living a fast-lane lifestyle of a pop star, Steve Borden was on the verge of losing his wife and two young children.
   
   It was his moment of truth.
   
   The reader takes the journey with Steve Borden as he puts his ego aside and confronts the demons that are damaging not only his soul, but destroying the ones who love him the most.
   
   This is a side of Steve Borden that you may not know about before picking up the book; it's how he got on his knees, raised his arms and looked up to the sky to accept the ultimate guidance in the main event of life.



3. This book is a great and helpful book for christians who have fallen off their path. Sting is one of my favorite wrestlers. I am very proud to say that because he is a christian. I cant wait for the movie to come out. I do believe that the book was short and sweet but I wanted it to be longer.



4. STING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! MY FAVORITE OF ALL TIME FINALLY WRITES ONE OF THE GREATEST WRESTLING BOOKS EVER. IF YOU LIKE STING BUY THIS BOOK!!!!!!!!!!!!



5. OK, so maybe it DOESN'T deserve 4 stars, but it is one of the rare books that move you and that make you feel touched.
   
   Just like Castaneda's Journey to Ixtlan book, it contains life story of a man who felt reformed by, in Borden's book, some Higher Good and faith in something UNmundane.

No comments about The Spiritual Autobiography of Charles De Foucauld.

5 comments about Golden Mouth: The Story of John Chrysostom-Ascetic, Preacher, Bishop.

1. J.N.D. Kelly presents a faithful portrait of the great Bishop of Antioch. He highlights John as a solid expositional preacher who rejected the allegorical method of intepretation as popularized by Origen. You learn of Chrysostom's reservations about being worthy enough to be ordained, and his initial interest in the monastic life.
   
   You also learn of how long periods of harsh fasting ruined his digestive system, and how for this reason, he preferred to eat alone. You learn of the turbulent and divisive times in which he served as a bishop in Antioch and then in Constantinople.
   
   You also read of his strict views about the role of women in the church and of how strict he was with the monastic communities and with the priests in Antioch and later in Constantinople.
   
   Chrysostom's sermons were powerful and held the attention of the people, even though some of them were fairly lengthy. You also learn of his friendship with Olympias, a godly woman also given to virginity and asceticism.
   
   Finally, you learn about Chrysostom's enemies from within Arianism, and from his fellow clergy, especially Severinus, Eudoxia, Theophilus, and others.
   
   We see that Chrysostom's spicy sermons sometimes got him into trouble, ie. exile.
   
   We also read of his sad death.
   
   The book is occasionally bogged down in historical minutiae, but I thought Kelly did a good job of showing how Chrysostom was affected by the times in which he lived and how he himself affected the times. I also appreciated how Kelly was able to defend the historical reliability of much of the material that we have about Chrysostom from that time period. A very good book.



2. Kelly is easily recognized as our time's authority on early church matters. Here in similar fashion as his worthy work on Jerome he tackles Chrysostom.
   
   He breaks it down nicely into three major components of his life: ascetic, preacher, bishop.
   
   The politics of the church and interaction with secular authorities dominate his life, as it does most. John certainly had his prinicples and he chose not to break them. It got him into disfavor with many, thus cumulating at the end in action taken against him. That easily summarizes his end, the buildup of resentment and hatred catches up.
   
   He certainly exhibited a passion for the underpriviledged and sick and devoted his preaching and resources to this. His ascetic beginning permeated this and fueled much of his preacher/bishop energies. This will bring enemy retaliation.



3. A comprehensive treatment of this Eastern Father of the Church. We have not had a study like that of J. N. D. Kelly, unless you count the originally German 2 vol study of C. Baur, translated in 1959. An eminent historian writes about an eminent (and tragic?) personality of the late fourth and early fifth century. Kelly succeeds in making real the (imperial and episcopal) politics of the early 5th century. In addition there is enough of the theology of the time which will influence later christological developments.



4. 
   
   "John's career ended in failure. ... The tragic episcopate of John Chrysostom opened the struggle of supremacy in the East..." W.H.C. Frend
   
   
   
   
   
   John Chrysostom:
   
   Recognized to be among the most powerful orators of the ancient world, John Chrysostom was the most prolific of the Fathers, leaving us with many sermons, letters, treatises and apologetic works. He was an incredible speaker whose sermons often moved his audience to tears or applause.
   
   "Although not a formal polemicist, John Chrysostom influenced Christian thought notably. He wrote brilliant homilies, interpreting the Bible literally and historically rather than allegorically. His accomplishments as a preacher and theologian are marred by a virulent anti-Semitism." (The Columbia Encyclopedia, Sixth Edition. Copyright © 2001-05)
   
   
   
   J.C., Golden Mouth:
   
   The Principal of Oxford's St. Edmund Hall, described his book as, 'the Story of J.C.,' defining his selected offices as, 'Ascetic, Preacher, Bishop.' While the words of Fr. Sydney Griffith, one of the foremost Patristic scholars, are most fitting in the review of this book, I quote and apply them. One does not mean to complain immoderately, nor to appear ungrateful for what is on its own terms a good study of an important topic; nor does one want to review a book the author never intended to write. But here is the place to plead for a broadening of perspective on the part of students of early 'fathers.'
   
   Kelly recomposes the life of John Chrysostom in chronological order from his youth and its ascetic stage for his further development as a preacher. Later his pick as Archbishop of Constantinople and his career therein the capital.
   
   He remained a great orator and a moralist preacher but was socially and politically oriented. Kelly exposed the court politics and John's struggle to be faithful to his cause, by criticizing Empress Eudoxia, and inviting problems with Theophilus, who has consecrated him. John's conflicts led to his condemnation at the Synod of the Oak. John was eventually sent into his final exile, where he died on the way.
   
   
   
   Non-vindicated John:
   
   J. Kelly, described by The NY Times as, 'not only a distinguished church historian but also an elegant stylist,' remains for me and many, a reference on early Christian Creeds and Doctrines, in the first place, and expected to bring to the tragic career of the great preaching orator new lights to his thought, and vindicate his patristic literature as; "There is little original in his thought. He preserves throughout the moralizing tendencies of his Antiochene teachers," alleged to him by two great patrologists J. Danielou, and RPC Hanson. Earlier in the same chapter, J.C. is described as the friend of Theodore of Mopsuestia, and pupil of Libanius and of Diodore of Tarsus, and cast heavy shadow on his ethics as more Stoic than Christian! (J. Danielou, Historical Theology, Pelican, 1970, p.107)
   
   
   
   A Story, not a Biography:
   
   In his preface, the oxford scholar gives a version of his elaboration on the 79/80 lectures in Oxford devoted to J.C., but were not published because of Kelly's non satisfaction of his own treatment, and few years later, he modified them to chapters 2,3, and 16 of Golden Mouth. The author who explored Chrysostom's teaching on baptism, original sin, grace and free will, redemption, etc., in his classic 'Early Christian Doctrines', would not even quote himself, in reference. At least, John's treatise on the priesthood, which has been popular, though not accepted by mainstream Protestants, could have been given a brief parallel with St. Gregory Nazianzen who inspired John, but spoke in a different theological language.
   
   He concluded, "I should like to have included some tentative presuppositions underlying John's thinking, and certain of his theological ideas which still need clarification. Ultimately he decided to leave this task to 'younger scholars.'
   
   
   
   Biographer J. Kelly:
   
   The late Master of ecclesiastics J.N.D. Kelly is the Principal of St. Edmund Hall, Oxford, was Canon of Chichester Cathedral, a Fellow of the British Academy, and since 1966 a member of the Academic Council of the Ecumenical Theological Institute, Jerusalem. He is the author of Early Christian Creeds, Early Christian Doctrines, Jerome, The Oxford Dictionary of Popes, etc.



5. This book is a very serviceable biography of John Chrysostom, the most famous preacher of the ancient church. It chronicles the entirety of John's life, from the monasticism of his youth, to his subsequent tenure as a priest in Antioch, his bishopric in the imperial capitol, and the quarrels with the bishop of Alexandria and the empress that eventually brought about his downfall.

   Kelly does an excellent job of showing John's character. We get to see that those things which in some ways were the best of John's traits, his forthrightness and lack of fear, were the very things which due to his intemperate nature led him into conflict with those who were easily made jealous and those who did not care for their misdeeds to be honestly spoken of.

   There is, however, one serious flaw in this book. Kelly seems undecided about who his audience is. He alternates between gripping narration and lengthy passages (sometimes several pages in length) wherein he dissects the arguments for and against the authenticity of a particular sermon of John's or the dating of one of his writings. In my opinion, the book would have been strengthened had Kelly simply based the main text on what he believes to be correct, and moved the disputation either to end notes or to an appendix.

4 comments about History of Joseph Smith by His Mother Lucy Mack Smith: The Unabridged Original Version.

1. This book is great. It provides such a background to the life and experiences that Joseph Smith and his family went through to be able to be called of God and perform the works that he did.



2. I highly recommend this book. Lucy Smith's perspective provides a singularly unique window through which to view not only the life of the Prophet Joseph Smith but also the lives of her other family members and of the early Latter-day Saints.
   
   Lucy was somewhat advanced in years when she undertook writing this history. Being primarily retrospective in nature, the dates and exact circumstances surrounding some of the early Church events are not always completely accurate. (Perhaps this was part of the basis for Brigham Young's original dislike.) Despite this, the vantage point offered through Lucy's eyes lends invaluable insight and understanding that is not afforded by a purely academic study of the facts. After reading Lucy's report, one is left with a conviction of its veracity and in humbling astonishment of what she, her family members and other early Latter-day Saints ("Mormons") experienced, sacrificed and endured as they strived to fully embrace Jesus Christ and His Gospel as restored to the earth through her son, the Prophet Joseph Smith.
   
   The reader will find this particular edition/version of Lucy's account extremely valuable because it not only includes what was written prior to earlier abridgements but also includes a vast volume of Lucy's personalized thoughts and insights written in her pre-publication rough draft.



3. Regardless of how you feel about Joseph Smith, this book, written from the point of view of his mother, reveals a very human side to his life. The majority of her history consists of the many, many trials and persecutions her family and early Church members endured over the years, resulting in the death of her own older sons.
   
   Lucy has revealed to the world her impressive recollection of the history of her family, with a strong focus on her son Joseph. While there are many gaps not documented by her account, what she does retell, is in good detail and easy to understand.
   
   The book has a preface plus introduction, which explain what the many different versions of Lucy's biography are, and when they were written, by whom and how they differ. The changes in what was published and what was not are highlighted via different font use, [bracketing] and footnotes. I don't believe there is anything found in the other editions of her biography available today, that is not contained in this version.
   
   For me, my expectation was to see controversial topics removed. Having now read the book from cover to cover, I am puzzled as to what Joseph's successor, Brigham Young had problems with. I searched through all the main text and footnotes for controversial commentary, but found...none. For example, I was expecting to read a deleted chapter on Lucy's view of the leadership succession after Joseph's death, as that topic would understandably be a touchy subject that Brigham would not want readers to see. Surprisingly, there is no mention at all of this in any of the different versions. In fact one can only make the assumption he never read the book when he pronounced it was a "tissue of lies", and then a year later commissioned that it be republished "to the world".
   
   While this book does not come close to the historical coverage of the life of Joseph Smith that other biographies achieve, it is still an important, soul touching work. The details that this book covers, form the foundation of almost every other historical effort produced on the life of Joseph Smith, and hence cannot be ignored.
   
   I highly recommend this book.



4. As a faithful LDS member, I have long been troubled by Brigham Young's attempts to destroy the original copy of this book that Lucy Mack orated, then reviewed, and finally approved. If he claims it had probs, that's fine, but you don't rewrite history or rewrite a book that someone else wrote as her own autobiography!
   
   I have tried for a long time to get my hands on an original copy to see what B.Y. had felt was so threatening to the church that he would threaten church members and forced destruction of every copy he could find. This book, FINALLY has been released with not only the church-approved print, but the author has also added in the the stuff that was deleted by B.Y. (and the committee he formed to deal with it), but instead put the deletions in brackets [like this] so you know what was deleted and can skip over them if you want the church authorized version, read them if you want the original version approved by Lucy Mack, or simply notice what was taken out because it was somehow considered threatening or incorrect.
   Also, the author has gone the extra mile and included all the extra stuff from the rough draft (there were 3 drafts and a final total) in italics. There are so many other things that you can learn from Lucy's original Manuscript. Lots of details were removed in the latter drafts (to conserve space, make it flow better, and make it less conversational, as well as details that the editors decided weren't necessarily significant as well as other reasons I don't know).
   
   The preface of this book has the full detailed history of the book. It explains every edition it's been through (I think like 14 editions), the differences, where the copyrights went to, why they were released and by who (not all of them were by the LDS church). It also explains what B.Y. found so upsetting and why. Apparently there were only like 9 mistakes (a couple dates were wrong, and few names were mixed up, but no real big deal, at least nothing worth throwing a fit over and making threats). The preface is amazing, at least find the book and read the preface and you will understand why this book goes on my top 10 LDS books list.
   
   This is the BEST version ever written if you are going to read Lucy Mack's version of what happened, I would strongly suggest you get this version whether you are LDS or not! Even reprints of the original cost upwards of $200, and this book has both that, and stuff nobody has ever read before from the roughdraft (not to mention everything is seperated out so you can tell what goes with which version - Rough Draft, Original, or B.Y. Edited version)!!!