Book Review: Angels

Graham, Jack, ANGELS, [Minneapolis MN, Bethany House, 2016] 220 pages.

Angels is mostly devotional, not theological in presentation. This is clear from the chapter headings. The chapters are divided into 4 sections:

The Wisdom of Angels as You start your Journey—Forgiveness, Perspective, Provision, and Confidence.

The Protections of Angels as You Sustain Life’s Blows—Comfort, Courage, Advocacy, and Shelter.

The Encouragement of Angels as You Soar on Eagles’ Wings: Spurred On When You’re Spiritually Lethargic, Faithfulness When You’ve been broken, and Victory When You Are Tempted.

The Presence of Angels as You Stay the Course with Christ—Companionship When You Are Lonely, Persistence When You Want to Give up, Assurance When You Are Dying, and Inspiration When You’re Short on Hope.

All of these are important aspects of Christian living. In each chapter the reader can find encouragement. However, I have some major problems with the book.

First, it is weak on the theology of angels. It is more on the presentation of his sermons, than of substance or teaching concerning angels.

Second, it has the underlying principle that the work of angels is the same throughout redemptive history. The writer presents the work of angels as always the same, overlooking the dispensational aspects of their work. He makes this clear when he writes: “…the same angelic presence and protection that enveloped Jesus Christ at all points along his earthly journey remains in service to those who love God here and now” (page 14). That is a questionable concept he nowhere proves, but only assumes.

Third, the absence of Pauline teaching for the church the body of Christ.

Fourth, the book emphasizes Christian living rather than teaching on angels.

I read this book with mixed feelings. I was disappointed as the actual teaching on angels is superficial at best. At the same time, I was uplifted at times by the devotional truths of the book. However, there are better books on angels in the marketplace.

 I received this book free from Bethany House Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.