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RADIO RHEMA – “BETWEEN THE COVERS” BOOK REVIEWS
Radio Rhema – “BETWEEN THE COVERS”
Earlier reviews - click on "Previous Reviews" on main menu.
“INGA - MY STORY” by Inga Tuigamala with Myan Subrayan. Penguin. It’s interesting how memories are triggered. An incident long forgotten brought to mind by something read in a book, seen on T.V. or the comment of a friend. Or maybe it was the result of a place revisited, a photograph and so on. Today’s book triggered a memory for me - although some of the details are a bit rusty. It was either a Friday evening or a Saturday morning. I was behind the counter in the Scripture Union Bookshop in Though I am not much of a This memory was revived when John Lindsay, who records, and prepares, these programmes for broadcasting, said that he had been reading Inga the Winger’s autobiography “INGA – MY STORY” now available at Christian, as well as other leading bookshops such as Whitcoull’s and Borders. I quickly secured a copy and devoured it in a matter of a few hours. It really is a great read, especially for sport lovers, but certainly not just for them. This is much more than a sports biography because there is more behind story of the ‘gentle giant’ of New Zealand Rugby than meets the eye. In a way it is rather like a “This is Your Life” on T.V. with Inga’s personal memories interspersed with comments and memories from other people such as Murray Deaker, Former All Black coach Laurie Mains, Kevin Roberts, Michael Jones and many others. There is also a chapter by his wife Daphne. Inga’s family moved to from Inga’s Rugby Union days were before it became a professional sport and as a result, when he married and started a family, things were pretty tight financially. This meant that they were forced to live in a concrete slab garage out the back his mother’s house. Something of a contrast to the comparative luxury he enjoyed when away traveling with the All Blacks. 2. Added to this was the tension of being away from home so much as an All Black with long overseas trips that led to his three year old son asking his mother “is my daddy dead.” Inga’s previous biography was published in 1993 and after a brief recap this new one picks up the story from there. There is mention of his early days and of his time as an All Black and the tours undertaken to Inga writes…”Sixteen years of my life have passed since those ‘glory’ days. This is my opportunity to share with you what has happened between then and now. Hopefully, you will come to see that there is more to Inga Tuigamala than my former accomplishments on the sports field, while at the same time learn the answers to some of the following questions.” (End of quote) These questions include his reasons for leaving the All Blacks for a lucrative contract playing Rugby League for His shift to Rugby League was quite daunting on top of having to settle in a new country with his wife and family. The physical fitness required for the almost non stop League play was of a higher standard than was then required for He had to work hard on his fitness and the new code he was adapting to. The Tuigamala’s were made very welcome in the They were soon in touch with a number of other Samoans. His and Daphne’s was popular open home. Another question often asked of him was why did he return to when he had so much going for him in Inga is a committed Christian whose faith comes through in this biography in a quiet, but powerful, way. He has matured into an inspirational community leader among his own people and beyond. Although what is written contains much in praise of Inga Tuigamala he is very honest in admitting that he has made his mistakes. This is book full human interest, home spun wisdom, spiritual insights, sporting memories, and motivational encouragement for all who take time to read it. “INGA – MY STORY” by Inga Tuigamal with Myan Subrayan is published by Penguin Books R.R.P. $39.99. (ISBN 978-0-14-320355-1 Published 2009) Reviewed for Radio Rhema by John Ward and recorded by John Lindsay in the
“STAND – A Call for the Endurance of the Saints” General Editors John Piper & Justin Taylor. (Crossway) In our instant society the subject of perseverance is not one that we hear much about but, for Christians, it is a very important part of what it means to be a follower of Jesus Christ and a child of God. It was the Lord Jesus who said that it was those who stood firm to the end who would be saved. (Mark The theologian John Murray proposed this definition of what it means to persevere: “Perseverance means the engagement of our persons in the most intense and concentrated devotion to those means which God has ordained for the achievement of his saving purpose.” Paul’s definition is probably easier to grasp, he wrote, “continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose.” (Philippians 2:12b/13) The writer of Hebrews pictured the Christian life as a race that must be run with perseverance with our eyes fixed on Jesus. (Hebrews 12:1b/2a) The importance in any race is to finish it, and to finish it strongly, the same is true of the Christian life. Today’s book, “STAND – A Call for the Endurance of the Saints” is a collection of writings put together by General Editors John Piper and Justin Taylor. In his introduction Justin Taylor quotes John Piper who testified to his father’s unwavering faith, even in his closing years. In 2004 his father wrote…”I’ll soon be 86 but I feel strong and my health is good. God has been exceedingly gracious and I am most unworthy of His matchless grace and patience. The Lord is more precious to me the older I get.” The purpose of this book is to encourage and equip all who read it to be able to truthfully say those words, “The Lord is more precious to me the older I get”. Jerry Bridges, well known writer and conference speaker, outlines four essentials for finishing well. Firstly a daily time of focused communion with God. Secondly a daily appropriation of the Gospel. Thirdly a daily commitment to live 2. as a daily sacrifice to God and finally a firm belief in the Sovereignty and love of God. John Piper explains some principles for getting old to the glory of God which means “getting old in a way that makes God look glorious. Living and dying in a way that shows God to be the all-satisfying Treasure that he is.” Such a process cannot be left until we start to draw National Super. Like any race finishing well requires a lot of preparation and self discipline along with running the race in a planned and committed way. John MacArthur outlines the certainties that drive an enduring ministry. For him this has been in a life time of pastoral ministry that has seen many challenges. But the principles he explains are true for all of us if we are to run the race to its conclusion. Randy Alcorn is convinced that it is the sum total of all the daily decisions that we make, wise or otherwise, that determines how well we run the race. There is the need for courage in the cause of Christ and the commitment to live a life that will involve sacrifice and endurance. Helen Roseveare refers to the example of Caleb about whom the Scriptures record five times that he “wholly followed” the Lord. He was 85 when he reminded Joshua of the promise of Moses to “give him this mountain.” Helen goes on to provide other examples of people who, in a variety of circumstances, endured to the end. One such was Polycarp, the Bishop of Smyrna, who was eighty six years old when he refused to recant his faith in Christ and was burned at the stake in 156 A.D. The final two chapters are in the form of interviews conducted by Justin Taylor. Firstly with Randy Alcorn, Jerry Bridges, John Piper and Helen Roseveare and then another with John Piper and John MacArthur. While the world we live in would tell us that to better our self and get more pleasure out of life we need to “Move on” the Bible, as God’s Word, holds up a different standard that, while difficult and demanding, leads to deep satisfaction and a greater reward than any this world can offer: endurance – a “hold the course” perseverance that leads to eternal life. “STAND – A Call for the Endurance of the Saints” co edited by John Piper & Justin Taylor is published by Crossway R.R.P. $29.99 (ISBN 978-1-4335-0114-2) Reviewed for Radio Rhema by John Ward and recorded by John Lindsay in the
“The chocolate Seller on Broadway and his kids” by Chris Grantham. Published by The Cocoa Bean Press. “From my window up there,’ began the woman in an accusatory tone, “ I’ve been watching this poor guy sitting out there Saturday in, Saturday out, often in the cold, just dumped there, It’s shameful, I tell you, shameful.” “Mark actually likes being here, doing this,” his father explained to the irate woman. “he’s doing what he can to help others.” Yes, Mark Grantham was doing what he could for others, those he considered less fortunate than himself. One would have thought this was obvious but obviously to some it was not. Mark has been on the television several times and has featured in World Vision promotional material. For some twenty years now Mark has sold chocolate, firstly in Cuba Mall in His humbling, and yet invigorating, story is told by his father Chris Grantham in his book…”The chocolate Seller on Broadway and his kids.” Mark was born on Mentally he seemed to be fine but physically his growth and progress gave cause for concern. Chris recounts in some detail Mark’s early years, his struggles at school and his need to be in a wheel chair. In 1984 there was a Labour Government move to mainstream children like Mark but even though this was government policy there were still hurdles to be overcome. Life was not easy for parents with such a child who was dearly loved, had a sparkling personality and obviously had potential that needed room and opportunity to develop. In spite of his severe limitation Mark has done some amazing things as this book recounts in fascinating detail. He has met many interesting people, some on a regular basis over a cup of coffee. Mark has had his accidents, been under the knife for a surgical a procedures and hastraveled overseas to 2. These and other journeys are described in detail as are the difficulties, frustrations, along with the co-operation required from airlines, hotels and other people involved in raising financial support to make such trips possible. One of the concerns that I had in reading this book was the degree to which Chris and Jocelyn had to fight for the education, medical help and financial benefits that were their right in the raising, and care, of a son who, though very limited in what he could do physically was none the less very bright and personable and who deserved to get the best out of life. Chris is quite scathing of some of those whose role ,over the years, was far from helpful but he is also very ready to extend praise where people have willingly gone the second mile to make things possible for Mark. At the beginning of chapter thirteen Chris writes…”Along Mark’s journey of life we have come across some amazing gems of humanity. Mark wouldn’t be the character he is today without the encouragement and support he received in innumerable ways from these gems.” Chris also writes that…”Mark has a pretty robust faith in God, It’s a stronger faith than I reckon I’d have if I were in Mark’s shoes – or on his wheels, to be more metaphorically correct.” Mark of course grew up in a faith family. His Christian faith, and vibrant personality, have led to numerous opportunities to speak at seminars and conferences. After a struggle for funding he now lives on his own with the help of carers and revels in the independence this affords. There are lots of colour photos to add interest to this book. For a young man who has had to overcome the limitations of Cerebral Palsy Mark’s story is both an example and an inspiration to us all and especially to others who daily have to cope with the limitations they either endure or overcome. A great read from start to finish. “The chocolate Seller on Broadway and his kids” by Chris Grantham is published by The Cocoa Bean Press R.R.P. $30.00 (ISBN 978-0-473-15611-4) Published in 2009 Large format 122 pages. Reviewed for Radio Rhema by John Ward and recorded by John Lindsay in the “VINTAGE JESUS” by Mark Driscoll & Gerry Breshears. Crossway. It is very refreshing to be able to review a book about Jesus that, in the words of well known author and theologian J.I. Packer, “targets teens and twenty somethings with the old, old story told in a modern, street-credible, style”. “VINTAGE JESUS” by Mark Driscoll and Gerry Breshears is a book that, to quote Dr. Packer again, reveals Mark Driscoll “as a highly powerful, colourful and down to earth catechist” and Professor Breshears as someone who ”ballasts a sometimes lurid, but consistently vivid, presentation of the basic truth about the Lord Jesus Christ.” (End of quote) Here is a book that provides “Timeless answers to the timely questions” (sub title) that people today, especially young people, need to be asking about Jesus at a time when so many pseudo ‘Christian’ books are hitting the secular bookshop shelves. Books that present a Jesus very different to the one revealed in the Bible as the Son of God, Lord and Saviour. The preface tells readers that…”This book is a collaborative project between friends. As a young pastor, I (Mark), desired to be as competent a Bible preacher as possible. This led to a close friendship with my professor Dr. Gerry Breshears, whose biblical insights have been invaluable to my understanding of the person and work of Jesus as revealed in Scripture.” The twelve questions asked, and answered, begin with “Is Jesus the Only God?” This first chapter deals with the deity of Christ. This is logically followed by the question “How Human Was Jesus?” A chapter that obviously takes up the crucial issue of the humanity of Jesus. Chapter three poses the question “How Did People Know Jesus Was Coming? Here the subject of prophecy in the Old Testament, as it related to Jesus is presented. The short answer is that they read the Old Testament. Obviously if the Son of God was to leave the glory of heaven for a big O.E. on planet earth there must have been a very good reason - thus the next question “Why Did Jesus Come To Earth?” His coming was not as one might have imagined. One might have expected that the coming of the Son of God would be quite a spectacular show so “Why Did Jesus’ Mom Need To Be a Virgin? To all intents and purposes his death, on a Roman cross, seemed, from a purely human perspective, to indicate a total failure, cutting short what might well have been a very successful mission so “What Did Jesus Accomplish on the Cross?” The short answer - more than most people realise! 2. The whole validity of the Christian faith hangs on the answer to the all important question. “Did Jesus Rise From the Dead?” The Biblical writers claim, in no uncertain terms, that he did…but then they would say that wouldn’t they? Convincing evidence is cited in chapter seven. “Jesus’ image is practically everywhere today” the authors claim “television, movies, T-shirts, magazines, web sites, blogs, books, artwork, and tattoos but ‘Where is Jesus Today?’” In preparing this chapter Mark interviewed people on the street to get their opinions about Jesus. The answers he received make for some interesting reading. This chapter explains just where Jesus is and what he is doing! With all the religious options on offer today “Why Should We Worship Jesus?” is a question many would ask in our secular, post Christian, P.C. society. There are many valid reasons why Jesus is superior to all other ‘saviours’ vying for our allegiance. “What Makes Jesus Superior to Other Saviours” is the question answered in chapter ten. Though many would not appreciate it the answer to the question “What Difference Has Jesus Made in History?” provides a wealth of examples as to the tremendous difference the coming of Jesus has made to the world in which we live. Conversely, when his teaching and example are neglected, or rejected, the effect soon become painfully obvious. The final question “What Will Jesus Do upon His Return” is more than just idle speculation. With all the current debate on the dangers of climate change it is refreshing to be reminded that God has everything under control. This world, as we know it has a ‘use by date’ and although we have a responsibility to care for God’s creation nothing we do, by way of carbon credits or the like, will push God’s timetable out of skew. These are timeless answers to timely questions presented in a reasoned and convincing way. As one reviewer wrote…”Wow! This is a powerful book. It’s edgy and, frankly, it made me uncomfortable at certain points…but for the right reasons.” (Dan Wolgemuth, President, Y.F.C. ) “VINTAGE JESUS” by Mark Driscoll & Gerry Breshears is published by Crossway Books, hardcover edition, R.R.P. $39.99. (ISBN 978-1-58134-975-7) Reviewed for Radio Rhema by John Ward and recorded by John Lindsay in the
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