Shadow of the Cross: Studies in Self Denial

Rating:
Summary: Vitally Important Truth
Review: This book deals with a vital but oft neglected Biblical teaching,that of self denial. Mr.Chantry conveys throughout the book the importance of the doctrine. For example on p.7 "Self denial is a practice which lies very near to the heart of true religion. Without its exercise there can be no conversion to Christ. Qualities most basic to a Christian frame of heart-notably humility and meekness-would dissolve without its active expression." The author goes on in the opening chapter to give some of the reasons why teaching on this doctrine has been neglected. It is extremely important in our day that this truth not be neglected because it delivers a deathblow to 'the' preeminent philosophy in our culture,which is,look out for number one,no one and nothing else matters but me. It is the essence of sin,not to live for the glory of God but to live only for self. An additional quote will suffice to show the great value of this little book,p.14" 'Why did Jesus Christ die? There are many sides to answering such an important question. But under the influence of the Spirit, the apostle teaches that our Lord's death was not designed to provide selfish men with eternal life while they remained abandoned to self-serving. A vital part of Christ's intention was to redirect the motivation of all whom his bloodshedding would make alive. As he struggled up Calvary's hill and bled upon it, his aim was to eradicate self-love and implant the love of God in the hearts of men. One can only increase as the other decreases." Indeed,all Christians ought to be able to say with the apostle Paul,'for me to live is(not self)Christ'. This book will be of help to all who so desire to live for the glory of God.

Rating:
Summary: Vitally Important Truth
Review: This book deals with a vital but oft neglected Biblical teaching,that of self denial. Mr.Chantry conveys throughout the book the importance of the doctrine. For example on p.7 "Self denial is a practice which lies very near to the heart of true religion. Without its exercise there can be no conversion to Christ. Qualities most basic to a Christian frame of heart-notably humility and meekness-would dissolve without its active expression." The author goes on in the opening chapter to give some of the reasons why teaching on this doctrine has been neglected. It is extremely important in our day that this truth not be neglected because it delivers a deathblow to 'the' preeminent philosophy in our culture,which is,look out for number one,no one and nothing else matters but me. It is the essence of sin,not to live for the glory of God but to live only for self. An additional quote will suffice to show the great value of this little book,p.14" 'Why did Jesus Christ die? There are many sides to answering such an important question. But under the influence of the Spirit, the apostle teaches that our Lord's death was not designed to provide selfish men with eternal life while they remained abandoned to self-serving. A vital part of Christ's intention was to redirect the motivation of all whom his bloodshedding would make alive. As he struggled up Calvary's hill and bled upon it, his aim was to eradicate self-love and implant the love of God in the hearts of men. One can only increase as the other decreases." Indeed,all Christians ought to be able to say with the apostle Paul,'for me to live is(not self)Christ'. This book will be of help to all who so desire to live for the glory of God.

Rating:
Summary: A Needed Call to Discipleship
Review: Walter Chantry has done an excellent service to the church community. In a culture of lazy, self-serving spirituality, Chantry writes about the cost of discipleship. He gives no easy solution, no quick-fixes and no gimmicks; all that he lays before us is the cross of Christ and the words of our Lord to come follow Him. Although discipleship costs us everything, Chantry reminds us of the joy of this sacrifice. This book is a must read for those who are serious about their relationship with Christ and want to follow the difficult yet sweet road of communion with the Lord Jesus Christ.