Book Reviews

Posted: 7/20/07

Book Reviews

Me to We: Finding Meaning in a Material World by Craig Kielburger and Marc Kielburger (Fireside)

This book is written by two brothers who caught the vision of service to others. Life is very simple when you choose to live the “me to we” philosophy. From the founding of charitable organizations to the testimonies from the famous and the common, the authors present examples of how to find meaning in a material world.

What are you reading that other Texas Baptists would find helpful? Send suggestions and reviews to books@baptiststandard.com.

Craig Kielberger started the Free the Children organization in his home to combat child slavery and persecution. Marc Kielberger’s story begins with his immersion into the slums of Bangkok, Thailand. He co-founded the Leaders Today organization, which gives young people the opportunity for hands-on experience in schools and communities around the world.

This book is unique because the conclusion of each chapter lists action items for the reader. The authors’ intent is that the reader takes action to implement the “me to we” lifestyle. This is a great book for anyone interested in or being called to serve in missions.

Jerry Bradley, president

Children at Heart Ministries

Round Rock

The Divine Appointment by Jerome Teel (Howard Fiction

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What does the murder of a young lawyer in middle Tennessee have to do with the appointment of a new Supreme Court justice in Washington, D.C.? It takes a young journalist, with the help of an anonymous caller, to fit the pieces of the puzzle together—if he manages to live long enough, that is.

Jerome Teel’s second book, The Divine Appointment, weaves together a murder in Tennessee and the political machinations revolving around the appointment of a new Supreme Court justice. As in any political thriller, what ensues is murder and intrigue that spans the entire East Coast. The president believes he is in the White House “for such a time as this.” Will he play the political games, or will he trust in God?

Teel has done it again. In the best tradition of Clancy and Grisham, The Divine Appointment keeps us guessing while reminding us God is in control. If you like the modern-day thriller minus “pepper words” and compromising situations, you’ll love The Divine Appointment.

Kathryn Aragon

First Baptist Church

Duncanville

The Sermon on the Mount: A Theological Investigation by Carl G. Vaught (Baylor University Press)

The late Carl G. Vaught, distinguished professor of philosophy at Baylor University, has provided a wealth of keen insights to the Sermon on the Mount. Although I have preached through Matthew 5-7 in its entirety on at least two other occasions, Vaught’s nuanced reading of the biblical text inspired me to prepare and preach a sermon series that would cover 10 months in 2006-07. It was a time that I will look back upon as being a marker in my own spiritual life.

While there is no shortage of commentary material on the Sermon on the Mount, Vaught avoids the verbosity that characterizes several of the more well-known, historical works in this genre. Having read Vaught’s book, I will forever read Matthew 5-7 with a different eye.

Bobby C. Dagnel, pastor

First Baptist Church

Lubbock