Book Club

In 2017, a group of parishioners started the Our Redeemer Book Club. Capitalizing “Book Club” makes it sound formal and sophisticated, but we’re not that. We do have serious, contemplative discussions, but we also have lighthearted, frivolous discussions. Frequently, we get “way off track,” and that, too, can be productive.

Here’s what one regular member has said about our little enclave:

“What’s good about Book Club? Book Club has given me the advantage of hearing about the backgrounds and experiences of other members of the parish. I have learned a lot about ways that others have grown up within the church—both Lutheran and other denominations. I also enjoy Book Club because it allows us all to express ourselves about Lutheran practice and tradition. I appreciate the opportunity to read, explore, and talk about very good Lutheran writing from the past fifty years or so. I always learn a lot from the discussions.”

And another member:

“There are times when, after I read a chapter of a book, I think that there isn't much meat for discussion in it. Then I go to Book Club and hear all the things that I missed!”

We could go on and on—in fact, we do! Just look for the similar formatted text throughout this article, where members share their thoughts about the individual books we’ve read.

All of these books are presented chronologically, beginning in 2017 with Ten Ways to Kill a Pastor, and concluding with Will the Real Jesus Please Stand Up? 12 False Christs, which we will begin on March 17. (Book descriptions are shamelessly lifted from book jackets or online summaries.)

2017

10 Ways to Kill a Pastor
Christopher Thoma, © 2016

A collection of stories, Ten Ways to Kill a Pastor peeks behind the curtain and shines a light into what has become for so many in pastoral ministry a very dark place. From abusive members to impossible schedules often resulting in failing health and family decay, Ten Ways present s church-goers with an opportunity for personal reflection as well as gives voice to the often undetectable "hurts" lurking behind the pastor's smile.

A light-hearted way to address issues that face a pastor and his wife, this book pointed out several areas where I, personally, can improve in relationship/thoughts towards our faithful Shepherds.

First Christmas: The True and Unfamiliar Story
Paul L. Maier, © 1971

The historical and geographical background of the Nativity is reconstructed in photographs and text. Paul Maier is Professor Emeritus of ancient history at Western Michigan University at Kalamazoo. He wrote in the Preface to this 1971 book, "The full story of the first Christmas is not limited to the gospels of Matthew and Luke. Many important aspects of the event come into sharper focus when history, geography, archaeology, and astronomy shed their light on the Nativity. These chapters try to tell the unfamiliar story of the first Christmas by exploring the nooks and crannies of the past for fresh information and interesting sidelights on the Nativity.”

Loved this book. It takes familiar Bible “stories” and puts them in the context of history and the times of societal happenings.

2018

Hallmarks of Lutheran Identity
Alvin J. Schmidt, © 2017

Since the time Martin Luther nailed his Ninety-Five Theses to the church door in Wittenberg, Lutheran theology has survived centuries of political, religious, and societal pressures that challenged its foundational teachings. But the question remains: Do Lutherans today understand their theological heritage well enough to maintain and defend their unique beliefs when outside pressures dismiss them as irrelevant to modern-day Christianity? Engaging and insightful for both layperson and pastor, Hallmarks will deepen the understanding of Lutheran theology and its rich historical traditions so that readers can confidently answer the question, "What do Lutherans believe?"

Another good book—especially since several of us have heard Dr. Schmidt lecture locally. Written by a Lutheran old-timer, it gave us a close historical look at what it means to be distinctively Lutheran.

Faith that Sees through the Culture
Alfonso Espinosa, © 2018

The Christian life is one of dualities: we are simultaneously sinner and saint, we know believers and non-believers, we interact in the left and right kingdoms, and we hear Law and Gospel. These seemingly competing dualities can frustrate Christians as they try to live out their faith. Many wonder if the Bible presents conflicting ideas—and how, in light of that confusion, can Christians be salt and light in a world that is often opposed to Christianity? But these dualities actually focus the Christian faith. As readers grow in their understanding of this knowledge, they will be encouraged to live out their faith more fruitfully, abundantly, and effectively. They will have the tools to face their struggles and return to their identity in Christ.

A comforting book! As Christians, we face intense struggles between our beliefs and the culture surrounding us. Rev. Dr. Espinosa’s answer: knowing that eternal life is ours now.

2019

Mission at Nuremberg: An American Army Chaplain and the Trial of the Nazis
Tim Townsend, © 2015

Once Adolf Hitler was defeated, U.S. Army Chaplain Henry Gerecke received his most challenging assignment: he was sent to Nuremberg to minister to the twenty-one imprisoned Nazi leaders awaiting trial for crimes against humanity. Mission at Nuremberg takes us deep inside the Nuremberg Palace of Justice, into the cells of the accused and the courtroom where they answered to the world for their crimes. These twenty-one Nazis had sat at Hitler's right hand; Hermann Goering, Albert Speer, Wilhelm Keitel, Hans Frank, and Ernst Kaltenbrunner were the orchestrators, and in some cases the direct perpetrators, of the most methodical genocide in history. As the drama leading to the court's final judgments unfolds, Townsend brings Henry Gerecke's impossible moral quandary to life. Gerecke had visited Dachau and had seen the consequences of the choices these men had made, the orders they had given and carried out. How could he preach the gospel of mercy, knowing full well the devastating nature of the atrocities they had committed?

This is a fascinating recount of the life of an LCMS chaplain who was assigned the difficult duty of offering God's mercy and grace to the men who were charged with World War II German war crimes. Pastor Gerecke displayed incredible energy, faith, and devotion throughout his life.

I read a lot of WWII books, both factual and fictional. This was something I had never really thought about and showed me that all people, even those who have committed “crimes against humanity” are created by God, loved by God and, hopefully, even at the end of their lives, believed in Christ’s redeeming work.

The Great Works of Sacred Music (led by Vicar Wille)

Taking a break from our usual reading and discussing of books, we pursued a short venture into music appreciation, viewing and hearing segments of “The Great Works of Sacred Music,” a series of The Great Courses DVD collection. While we did not study the complete course, we appreciated this different approach to learning, knowing that music is so important in Christian worship, especially for Sunday service in the Lutheran Church. We learned that sacred music can be composed for a specific religious ritual, such as a funeral service or a wedding, and to praise God in prayer. Bach’s Cantata No. 80, “Ein feste Burg,” is such a piece. Sacred music can also be music set with a sacred text or theme, such as George Frederick Handel’s “Messiah.” We appreciated the expertise of our then-vicar, Nathan Wille, for this study, and were thrilled that several congregational musicians (organist and choir members) joined us for “Music Club.”

Grace Upon Grace
John Kleinig, © 2008

The longing for spiritual fulfillment, inevitably paired with spiritual frustration, is common among Christians. Do we read and study the Bible enough? Do we worship often and in the right way? Do we pray enough, in the correct way, and for the right things? How do we become truly spiritual? And the answers from numerous self-help spirituality books only lead to confusion and the fear of missing key steps on the road to becoming spiritual. In response, John W. Kleinig clarifies that there is no “process” for becoming spiritual. Instead, God graciously gives to us every spiritual gift that we need, beginning with the very gift of faith in Christ, our Savior. Because God has joined us to Christ, He continually comes to give us life.

This is one of the finest devotional books that I have ever read. Pastor Kleinig explores in great depth our life of prayer, meditation, and work in a sinful world. He is a wise, learned man. Fascinating, friendly style based on extraordinary scholarship. Deep insights.

This is a spiritual treasure. It is well written and really helped deepen my understanding of Christianity and helped my faith grow. It is so impactful that I want to read it every year or two and know that I will continue to find new meaning in it each time.

Echo: Unbroken Truth Worth Repeating Again
Jonathan Fisk, © 2018

Christianity is not the ability to memorize or recite from books of Scripture or doctrine. It is not magic. It is not a social club, counseling group, or self-help support group. It does not promise that you will be healthy, wealthy, wise, or even happy. Christianity is a truth—a truth first heard at the beginning of time that has echoed to this present age. A truth so profound that no man can master it, yet even a child can learn it. Jonathan Fisk introduces his readers to that truth. He lays it out as simply as a child counts to ten on his fingers. Yet in training to hear the Echo, the reader will come to understand that the wisdom Fisk imparts is bottomless. And it's worth repeating. Again.

This is a difficult book to read, largely due to its modern, hip-hop style. But it makes at least one point clear. God has a plan. And we are not God.

The drawings—I just couldn’t get past the “artwork” or the writing style of Rev. Fisk.

2020

Has American Christianity Failed?
The Rev. Bryan Wolfmueller, © 2016

American Christianity teaches the centrality of the individual: my will, my experiences, my decision, my heart, my work, and my dedication. Yet we couldn't be more unaware that Christ and His saving and comforting work are being lost. Our minds and hearts are captivated in some way by those who often preach the Christian instead of Christ. Author Bryan Wolfmueller sounds the alarm against the false teaching and dangerous practices of Christianity in America. He offers a beautiful alternative: the sweet savor of the Gospel, which brings us to the real comfort, joy, peace, freedom, and sure hope of Christ.

The central message: quit focusing on our own efforts, and focus instead on what God has done for us through Jesus Christ. Pastor Wolfmueller writes with such clarity and passion—it’s a shame that Concordia editors did a confusing job of stylistically emphasizing key comments and sentences.

Thank, Praise, Serve, and Obey
William Weedon, © 2017

For Christians who are struggling to understand what it means to be pious and how to embrace the classic Christian practices of piety, Thank, Praise, Serve, and Obey shows that acts of piety are not simply rules to keep in order to be a "good" Christian, but they are how the new life in Christ is lived out in day-to-day life. This book explores how to properly hear in the Scriptures our heavenly Father summoning us to the joy and freedom of living and growing as His beloved children through Jesus Christ.

Pastor Weedon is one of the bright lights of LCMS. He offers insights into modern Lutheran preaching, thinking, and life.

This is the book I remember most from my first year in Book Club. Pastor Weedon compares sleep to death; conversely, he writes that each morning is a resurrection of sorts. He then reminds us that morning prayers start with the Invocation—which reminds us of our baptism, where we were raised with Christ in a new life.

First Christians: Pentecost and the Spread of Christianity
Paul L. Maier, © 1976

The unprecedented spread of Christianity across the Mediterranean world was keyed by the extraordinary happenings in Jerusalem on the day of Pentecost. Paul L. Maier recreates the world, the mood, the people, and the events with an immediacy that sweeps readers into the exciting first years of Christianity. Dr. Maier fills in the little-known background details of Pentecost and gives a vivid account of the festival that drew people of all nationalities to the “upper room” in Jerusalem that day. The reader accompanies the apostles on their missionary journeys, follows Paul on the road to Damascus, is shipwrecked with him on Malta, and stands beside him at his final trial before the notorious emperor Nero. Dr. Maier’s skillful narrative casts vivid new light on the adventures of the courageous men and women who carried Christ’s message to a hostile empire.

Dr. Maier, I think, surpasses his historical writing on display in First Christmas; as I read, I was less inclined to regard his assertions as “assumptions posing as facts.” This is a remarkable book; it is well worth taking the journey with him!

2021

Holy People, Holy Lives: Law and Gospel in Bioethics
Richard C. Eyer, © 2014

In short, concise chapters, the author guides readers through the process of making ethical decisions from a Law/Gospel perspective. Rev. Eyer's easy-to-read style helps readers focus on the issues and dilemmas that confront people in this modern, high-tech age, including reproductive technology and end-of-life issues. In the course of the discussion, Eyer presents biblical and Gospel insights into living as God's holy people, redeemed in Christ.

We were all challenged immensely by the content of this book. Eyer explores ethical issues in today’s world that we often either avoid thinking about, or think about in a worldly way. He skillfully presents his case for viewing ethical issues in harmony with “God’s Story”—not man’s. Are you a “highlighter” of important sentences and paragraphs? When you’re finished with this book, you may see more words highlighted than not!

Will the Real Jesus Please Stand Up? 12 False Christs
Rev. Dr. Matthew Richard, © 2017

Like the Elvises who roam the streets of Vegas, there is no shortage of counterfeit christs who look and sound like Jesus—but couldn’t be further from the real deal. Real Jesus reveals twelve false christs who are embraced, loved, promoted, and revered—even by well-meaning Christians. Do you worship them? You might be surprised at the answers.

Through “real life” examples, Rev. Dr. Richard opened my eyes to all of the “false Christs” out in the community in which WE live. It is the subtle ways in which seemingly “Christian” people twist God’s Word that is dangerous in our day-to-day lives. The book generated good discussion and participation.

The Fire and the Staff
Klemet Preus, © 2005

Through stories of his own pastoral experiences, reflections on the Lutheran Confessions, the writings of Martin Luther, and Scripture itself, Klemet I. Preus explores the impact of the American Evangelical and Church Growth Movements on the modern Lutheran Church. He reminds readers that practice and doctrine are inextricably linked for those who are the body of Christ.

Klemet Preus reminds the reader of the importance of sound doctrine, especially useful in today’s chaotic world.  Our book group found many points to discuss and all agreed that we enjoy the blessings of a confessional Lutheran congregation.  It is definitely a book to keep in one’s personal library to read again and again.

2022

Reading Isaiah with Luther
Brian Kachelmeier, © 2018

Martin Luther's writings can be a bit intimidating. Readers can become overwhelmed with the thought of reading his works on their own.

Reading Isaiah with Luther is Luther for everyday Christians. It offers a nonintimidating way for Christians to study Scripture and learn from Luther while being guided by a contemporary pastor who helps bridge the gaps between Scripture and Luther, and Luther and contemporary life.

This was one of the more meaty and challenging books that I have read since becoming involved with the Book Club. Pastor Kachelmeier explores the role of the conscience in our lives by using selected quotes from Luther’s commentary on Isaiah. The conditioning of the conscience is under constant attack today by the culture of the world. Pastor Kachelemeier, along with Luther and Isaiah, points us constantly back to the Word of God. Here we have our consciences shaped in accordance with God’s desires, so that if our consciences are terrified, God’s Word will sooth it.

Misquoted: Rethinking Commonly Misused Bible Verses
Dan Suelzle © 2019

Does it ever feel as though Bible verses have been repeated so often they have lost their meaning? Like a game of Bible Mad Libs where bits and pieces of Scripture are pulled and patched together to fit a fill-in-the-blank narrative that strays from what God really said? Misquoted dives into the most commonly misused verses from the Bible—verses that are well worth reclaiming because of the significant impact they can have on your life.

Misquoted dives into the most commonly misused verses from the Bible—verses that are well worth reclaiming because of the significant impact they can have on your life.

Does it ever feel as though Bible verses have been repeated so often they have lost their meaning? Like a game of Bible Mad Libs where bits and pieces of Scripture are pulled and patched together to fit a fill-in-the-blank narrative that strays from what God really said? Misquoted dives into the most commonly misused verses from the Bible—verses that are well worth reclaiming because of the significant impact they can have on your life.

Faith Misused: Why Christianity Is Not Just Another Religion
Alvin Schmidt ©2022

What is the meaning of the word faith? Current society believes that faith is to have endless trust or confidence in something. But Christians believe this trust and never-ending confidence isn’t just in something. It's in God. The true interpretation of faith is shown by historical events in the New Testament such as Jesus’ birth and crucifixion. God's followers put their trust in Him and believed He would one day send His son to die for the forgiveness of sins. The original definition in the New Testament is the Greek concept of faith called pistis. Pistis means that God’s followers have complete confidence in Him and believe He is the creator of all things, loves all His people, and will one day return for them. Rev. Dr. Alvin J. Schmidt explores how society has slowly been shifting away from this definition over time and discusses how Christians can help restore the true meaning of faith.

Professor Schmidt makes a very strong case for Christian exclusivity:  that is, Christians have the only true path to redemption, salvation, and eternal life in the presence of the only God. He bases that case on the life, death, resurrection, and ascension of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. Those things really did happen, in history, as witnessed by hundreds of people. Professor Schmidt shows that those things did NOT happen in religions other than Christianity. Christians can have faith in real, objective things and events. They can have much more than warm, fuzzy religious feelings.

Handling the Word of Truth—Revised Edition
John T. Pless ©2015

Handling the Word of Truth—Revised Edition takes C.F.W. Walther’s twenty-five theses on the proper distinction between Law and Gospel and offers a fresh exposition for modern Christians. The revised edition is updated to work in tandem with a new edition of Walther’s classic work, Law & Gospel: How to Read and Apply the Bible. Pless provides a solid introduction both to the theological framework of Law & Gospel and to the variety of life settings and issues that require God’s people to think about and act on their faith. The book serves as an entry point to access Walther’s text and helps believers to read, understand, and apply God’s Word to life’s many circumstances through reflection and discussion.

This book is a sometimes clear and sometimes daunting look at Law and Gospel. These two doctrines are distinct, but, occasionally, even in the hands of pastors, they seem to overlap and become confusing. When that happens, there are potentially grave results for Christians. Professor Pless does his best to make the distinction between Law and Gospel clear: the Law accuses us of sin, and the Gospel message mercifully saves us from sin's consequence. The Holy Spirit gives us the faith that assures us of our salvation.

“Law” and “Gospel”—the basic theology of the Church. Many think that Law is only found in the Old Testament; and Gospel is found only in the New Testament. But, in reading this book, we appreciate that both Law and Gospel are scattered throughout the entirety of Holy Scriptures. Pless, in this book, examines the teachings of C. F. W. Walther and Martin Luther, emphasizing that Law and Gospel should not and cannot be interchanged. The Law tells us what we are to do—it demands that we do our duty toward God and our neighbor (and we fall short). The Gospel is a free gift of God: we are to receive and accept God’s love and eternal salvation.

2023

Subtitled, “How Thinkers and Activists Redefined Identity and Sparked the Sexual Revolution,” Strange New World is a more concise, updated version of Trueman’s critically acclaimed, The Rise and Triumph of the Modern Self.

In both books, Trueman shows how the world arrived at its current, disorienting state of identity politics, and how the church should respond. He also shows how influences ranging from traditional institutions to technology and pornography moved modern culture toward an era of “expressive individualism.” Investigating philosophies from the Romantics, Nietzsche, Marx, Wilde, Freud, and the New Left, he outlines the history of Western thought to the distinctly sexual direction of present-day identity politics, and explains the modern implications of these ideas on religion, free speech, and personal identity.

This was a challenging read for most of us. In the end, however, our consensus was that it was well worth the effort. Trueman deftly explores the moral and spiritual chaos overtaking Western civilization. As he does so, he necessarily explores topics that, by their very nature, are expressly offensive; yet, he does so in a way that allows us to understand their depravity without forcing us to wallow in it. Thankfully, Trueman, in diagnosing our cultural crisis, also shows us how to engage as Christians with this perverse culture in which we find ourselves.

Lutheran theology is glorious and mysterious. It is relatable and applicable. It is for everyone, in any time, in any place. But it also can be intimidating. Martyr's Faith serves as a starting point for those looking to begin reading theological works and deepen their understanding of Lutheran theology. The budding theologian, the newly catechized, the curious college student, and the inquiring visitor will all be at home in this book.

Short, poignant chapters show the practical side of Lutheran theology and extol the doctrine of the catechism and the Lutheran Church as true, good, and beautiful. Ultimately, readers will come away with a desire for more theology and a renewed confidence and comfort in God's Word.

The writer’s style is simple, yet profound. Easy to read, this book was full of basic Lutheran theology and a review of confirmation class teachings on the Commandments, the Lord’s Prayer and familiar Scripture passages. Each chapter begins by pointing us to a Christian martyr—those who have held fast to the faith, yes, even unto death. In today’s environment, it is good to be reminded that “neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers . . . shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Rom. 8:38-39).

Martin Luther’s Antinomian Theses recast for the modern reader! Martin Luther initiated the Protestant Reformation in 1517 by asserting that “When our Lord and Master, Jesus Christ, said ‘Repent,’ (Mark 1:15) He meant that the whole life of the believer should be one of repentance.” Twenty years later he discovered that questions concerning this assertion were still being asked: What is repentance? How can the “whole life of the believer” be spent repenting? Is not the Christian, redeemed by Christ, to live a life of joy, free from the guilt created when sin is exposed by the Law of God? Luther’s answers to these questions will help today’s Christian to gain greater insight into basic Christian living.

First, the eye-catching cover of the book is something that I believe we all can relate to. “I don’t want to hear that. Don’t Tell Me That!” we cry. We might stomp our feet, shut our eyes, shriek loudly to blot out what we don’t want to hear.

God’s people are like that—Old Testament believers did not want to observe God’s laws and obey His commands. New Testament believers, including today’s Christians, are the same: we do not like to hear that we are sinners. Some would say that God’s laws, the 10 Commandments, are old-fashioned and out of date. Through this study, we learned that the Christian, redeemed by Christ’s death on the cross, lives a life of repentance in need of forgiveness. Only through true contrition and repentance and the assurance of God’s forgiveness can we live a life of JOY—thankfulness and assurance that our sins are forgiven in Christ.

For centuries, the Nicene Creed has been central to the church’s confession. The Nicene Creed: An Introduction explores the Creed’s riches with simplicity and clarity. Phillip Cary explains the history of the Creed and walks through its meaning line by line. Far from being abstract or irrelevant, the words of the Creed carefully express what God has done in Christ and through the Spirit. The Nicene Creed gives us the gospel. It gives biblical Christians the words for what we already believe. And when we profess the Creed, we join the global church throughout history in declaring the name and work of the one God―Father, Son, and Spirit. Readers gain a fresh appreciation for the ancient confession with Phillip Cary’s help.

Of the many books that Our Redeemer’s Book Club has read over the years, this proved to be one of my very favorites. While Cary is not a Lutheran, I marveled at his ability to explain the deep theological truths expressed in the Creed using language that a Lutheran reader can both comprehend and embrace. Yes, we had to wrestle with the weighty material at times, but the wrestling was always worth it: Cary’s teaching, upon study and contemplation, always rang true. His command over the both the English language and the ancient languages was a marvel to behold. As Harold Senkbeil (also a favorite author) wrote on the book jacket: “To sum up the Christian faith in just over 200 pages is no small task. To do so while unpacking the technical language of one of Christianity’s most ancient creeds is almost unfathomable.” Want to expand your vocabulary and have your faith strengthened? Read this book!

Interested in Attending Book Club?

Join us in Our Redeemer’s Parish Hall each Wednesday at 10 a.m. (excluding summer months)!

Our Redeemer Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod
904 Bluff Street, Cedar Falls, Iowa
319.266.2509