Having heard, and loved, several messages by Dr. Sinclair Ferguson, I was eager to review his latest book By Grace Alone, published by Reformation Trust. The publisher emailed me an e-book version of the book and offered to send me a free copy of the physical book in exchange for a published review, which I am only too happy to give.
The book’s motivation is an African hymn published in 1946 “Umbuntu Bg Imana” translated “O How the Grace of God Amazes Me”. Several facets of the grace of God in Jesus Christ are depicted in the song. Each chapter in the book focuses on one aspect of grace with studies, meditations, reflections, and praise for the marvelous grace of God. The bondage of sin, the love of God that calls and restores, the cross of Christ, the righteousness of believers in Christ, protection from Satan, rest in God’s sovereignty, and freedom to live a holy life for Christ – these are several of the amazing benefits of God’s grace that the book focuses on.
My favorite chapter, so far, is chapter 5 “Guaranteed Security”. God has given Dr. Ferguson great insight into the armor of God and the believer’s protection against Satan’s efforts. We are protected against the enemy’s “fiery darts” only with God’s armor. The darts are Satan’s false accusations and the protection is the Word of God. Satan’s accusations are of the form “Is God really for you?”. If we are unassured of God’s work on our behalf, we must honestly admit we are undone before a powerful enemy and our own personal weaknesses.
The answer to the accusation is in Romans 8:28-39. Carefully handling the Word of God, Dr. Ferguson’s pastoral teaching through this passage is remarkable. Thank God for His servants who can instruct God’s people, bringing hope and freedom to the believer and praise to the Lord. God, who spared no expense if saving us is fully committed to our sanctification and glorification – we shall certainly never be condemned! That’s the message of the scripture and meditating therein with Dr. Ferguson is a great comfort and blessing.
Other chapters cover facets of God’s grace with similar clarity and wisdom. The book is a treasure to be read devotionally with your open Bible. I hope the book refreshes and encourages you as you trust in God’s grace and live everyday “By Grace Alone”.
(More on By Grace Alone, published by Reformation Trust)