THE TRANSFORMING POWER OF THE GOSPEL – Jerry Bridges (2012)

I’ve been reading Jerry Bridges since the early 80’s and I’m continually amazed at the depth and breadth of his writing and his ability to make profound truths simple to understand.  The Word of God is never diluted or compromised.  For some reason, Bridges reminds me of a modern-day John Bunyan.  He just has a way of articulating the truth of God’s Word in a winsome and compelling way.

Bridges continues his winning ways in his newest book, The Transforming Power of the Gospel.  The foundation of his approach is the holiness of God.  Building upon this sure foundation, Bridges carefully constructs a framework that accurately reflects the gospel – a gospel that truly transforms lives.

The author is quick to admit that many of his reflections are borrowed from the English Puritans and the Reformers.  And so we learn about Luther’s “great exchange” and John Owen’s treatment of the Holy Spirit’s work in the life of the believer.  In many ways, The Transforming Power of the Gospel is a re-casting of the truths that emerged out of the Protestant Reformation.

The Transforming Power of the Gospel should be read by new and seasoned believers alike.  It will introduce new believers to the fundamentals of the faith and will remind long-time Christians that the gospel is still for them.  Indeed, we all need to be “preaching the gospel to ourselves” as Bridges as famously stated.  My prayer is that Bridges’ latest work will receive a wide reading and that the church will strengthened as a result of his faithful work.

4 stars