Review: Prepared by Grace, for Grace

Some theology books are written for the philosophical and theoretical knowledge.  Some are written for the practical application. Some are a blend of both and leave the reader to apply the knowledge.  This book is probably best described in the final category.

I've read a couple of other books by Joel Beeke. I've really enjoyed his books in the past, and this one was one of the best. As someone who never really considered the deeper aspects of theological thought, especially Reformed Theology, Beeke and Smalley have been a great help in understanding the implications of Reformed Theology in life at full speed.

This book does feel a bit more like a college textbook.  The topic is pretty deep, and they rely heavily on direct quotes, so, for me, reading it took a bit longer than I expected.  Plus, it's a deeper topic in the way a person understands the path to salvation, so I had to take extra time to process. 

It would be easy to write off the topic for two reasons.  First, it's a theological topic that many may not ever encounter.  Second, it's dealing with the views of people long gone.  Beeke and Smalley explore the theological writings of the Puritans to lay out what their view of preparation is and why it matters...and how it does not conflict with classical Reformed Theology.

I think the book could have been a bit more readable, but, early on, the authors explain why they deliberately did not make it such.  While I may not agree with their explanation, I respect their argument and hold it as valid.

Great audiences for this book are: people interested in evangelism, pastors, group leaders, those involved in grooming church leaders and adult Sunday School classes.

Note: I received a review copy of the book from the publisher.  I was required to provide an honest, not necessarily favorable, review, and the opinions expressed are mine.