Book Review: Welcome to a Reformed Church- A Guide for Pilgrims
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Welcome to a Reformed Church- A Guide for Pilgrims
Book Author: Daniel Hyde
Review Author: Clayton
Mundijong Free Reformed Church
Pro Ecclesia Bookshop
Book Review: Welcome to a Reformed Church – A Guide for Pilgrims by Daniel Hyde
2010
In a world proliferated by different beliefs, ideologies, and values it can be difficult for those who wish to start attending a church but who don’t have a religious background, to decipher which is the correct church and why. Questions such as, what makes one particular interpretation of Scripture correct, or what sets apart a Reformed church from a Roman Catholic church, a Pentecostal church or a Baptist church, or, how can one be sure which is the true church, seem to be commonplace.
Indeed, it is quite apparent that, in response to this issue, non-denominational churches are becoming more popular. These churches simply profess to be Bible-believing, but don’t adequately define their interpretation of Scripture, leaving that up to the individual members to decide. Many prefer to employ a loose interpretation of Scripture, simply claiming that belief in Jesus Christ is sufficient for salvation.
Obviously, as Reformed believers we have reason to be concerned by liberal approaches (if you will, a “new hermeneutical”) to the interpretation of Scripture. The Reformed faith holds fast to authority of Scripture and the “five solas”, which increasingly sets it apart from other churches. Therefore, as culture drifts away from an understanding of God, and as liberal churches follow the culture, the Reformed faith continues to almost appear as if it’s from another world. Therefore, it is on that basis that Rev. Daniel Hyde, a pastor in the United Reformed Churches, has authored his book: “Welcome to a Reformed Church”. The key purpose of the book is to provide a guide to the Reformed faith for anyone who wants to know more about it, what distinguishes it from others and why a Reformed understanding of Scripture is the correct understanding.
In accordance with that goal this beautifully simplistic, theologically sound, and informative book provides a clear and concise insight into what it means to be Reformed. It does so by utilising a methodology that comprises an initial setting out of the very basics of Reformed faith (it’s history, belief in the authority of Scripture, and confessions) after which it elaborates on many of the other key tenets of Reformed faith. Some of these key tenets include the covenant, Reformed belief on justification and sanctification, the distinguishing marks of a true church and the importance of preaching and the sacraments.
Each key tenet is broken down so that it is articulated in a fashion that ensures the book is very readable, using simplistic prose that still clearly articulates the importance of each to the Reformed faith. Take for example, the way this book sets out the difficult doctrine of the covenant. First, it provides a basis for the covenant, as established in creation (covenant of redemption and the covenant of works), then it explains how man rebelled, after which it subsequently explains how God established a covenant of grace with his children. Throughout this explanation, God’s grace shines forth highlighting the beauty of how He establishes His church through covenantal means, and how precious that really is for any believer. Even the person who has spent their whole life in a Reformed church can take great comfort out of reviewing this section and indeed, the whole book.
Ultimately, if we wish to be an outward-looking church, I would strongly encourage the placement of copies of this book in our foyers, to be used as a tool to introduce new attendees to what we are all about. Alternatively, if you know of or meet someone interested in the Reformed faith, perhaps you’d be willing to walk alongside them by reading through this book together. It’s intentionally very readable, whilst also limiting itself to the basics of the Reformed faith to ensure the reader doesn’t suffer from an information overload (with further study resources referenced in the appendices). Finally, this book can also be useful for those regular (perhaps lifelong!) attendees who might have skipped out during church history class, or who may have forgotten why it is important to belong to a confessionally Reformed church.
This book was a great read and I’d genuinely recommend it as an evangelistic tool that clearly sets out the Reformed way of worship.
Clayton Plug, Mundijong
This book review was organised by Pro Ecclesia Bookshop in conjunction with Women’s League. This book is available from Pro Ecclesia bookshop, Armadale; Providence Christian books, Albany; (and Rockingham on request). Book reviews may also be accessed on our website https://frca.org.au/womensleague/