This Week’s Good Reads

Here were some of my favorite selections from this past week:

1) “Your Theological System Should Tell You How To Exegete” by Kevin DeYoung

All theologians agree that good theology flows from good exegesis, but there has been debate about whether or not the opposite is true: does good exegesis take into consideration theology. Kevin DeYoung, following Moises Silva, makes a simple case for it. On three points he argues Systematic Theology shapes good exegetical and interpretive work.

2) “God Aims To Be Understood” by Chris Castaldo

This is a helpful and simple introduction to the doctrine of the perspicuity of Scripture, the teaching that Scripture is meant to be understood and the average Christian can do so with relative adequacy.

3) “Johnny Cash at Eighty” by Russell D. Moore

Theologian, Dr. Russ Moore has written a thoughtful reflection on Cash’s enduring legacy. He points out that Cash had appeal to youth in away that so many aging celebrities don’t, and that in large part that is due to Cash’ authenticity. As a Cash fan I can’t agree more.

4) “Is It Right for a Christian to Take Anti-Depressants?” by Russell D. Moore

Two great pieces in one week from Dr. Moore. It’s not surprising as he is one of my favorite theological writers. This is a subject that almost always creates conflict. But here Dr. Moore handles it with balance, care, and understanding. He approaches the subject from a holistic perspective and asks good probing questions. I commend it to you.

5) “There’s Brokenness in the Burbs Too” by Darren Calrson

This moving piece about the real need for gospel-ministry in “non-cool” places is a must read for pastors. I was reminded of my own failure on this, and of the need to continually invest in the people to whom God has presently called me. I loved this piece!

6) “Of God’s and Men” by Jefferey Overstreet

Overstreet is a brilliant film critic from within the ranks of the Evangelical Christian community. Here he expresses powerfully the frustration I have with what so many call “Christian” films. He points to their preachy, propaganda style, and their terrible aesthetic appeal. He adds to that, a review of a new film that will never garner praise in Evangelical communities but absolutely should! Here he weaves seamlessly a discussion of film, Christian living, manhood, and the gospel into a beautiful piece of writing. I wish I wrote half this well.

7) “Review: To The Moon” by Richard Clark

My dear friend Rich lost his dad this week. I never read this review but he reposted it as an explanation for those of us in the dark about what happened with his father. This is easily the most beautiful review of a video game that I have ever read. In it Rich doesn’t simply discuss a PC game about a man’s dying memories. Rather, in it Rich talks about the realities of death, memory, and control. It is beautifully written and powerful. Read it, you won’t regret it.

8) “The Landlord’s Tale” by Bert Stratton

A well-written look inside the world of a Cleveland landlord. I not only couldn’t stop reading the crazy stories and enjoying the wit of the author, but the article also serves to give some insight into what we all know about people: they’re complex (both weird and selfish, and sometimes genuinely nice).