Advent presents an opportunity every year to review the incarnation of our Lord Jesus Christ and anticipate his final return. This year presents a special occasion to celebrate the 1700th anniversary of the Nicene Creed. Therefore I have been arranging for possible books to study for this upcoming celebration. The first arrived today from Lexham Press. I thank them for being so generous to send me a review copy!
I am immediately astounded at the beautiful presentation of this study from the cover to under the cover to the details on each page.
The book is hardcover. Its dust jacket is smooth and thick. Underneath is a fabric cover with what feels like it is embossed with the gothic-like window into the creed. Inside are special details like the drop caps that begin each chapter, the full edition of the creed written out in white on chalk black backgrounds. The only detail I can find missing is a ribbon marker. It looks that special! And for an occasion like the 1700th Anniversary of the Creed it is my top contender at this point.
The contents match the majestic feel. Speaking of Christ, Philip writes,
“We tend to use this word now as a name, but it was originally a title. Pilate got the sense of it accurately enough when he had “King of the Jews” posted on the cross. The English word “Christ comes from a Greek word meaning “to anoint,” to daub or smear with oil in a ceremonial action that could be called unction. The Hebrew word for it turns into the English word “Messiah,” meaning the “anointed one.” For in ancient Israel kings were made not by crowning them but by anointing them with consecrated oil. Priests were anointed as well, which is why the particular kind of Messiah that Jesus is can be distinguished from other kinds by the title, “Son of David.” He is a royal rather than a priestly messiah, for he is the descendant of King David and thus the rightful heir of the throne of Israel. So Christ, the Messiah who is the Son of David, is indeed King of the Jews” (53–54).
The chapter there carries on just a couple more paragraphs. It is concise and assumes the reader knows little about the Creed and about the terms like “Christ.” That is what is so attractive. This sort of book seems to be a universal balm for the weary soul at the holidays. I commend a look and consideration of its use. Thank you again Lexham for your kindness in sending this my way. It’s really beautiful. Great work!
~Brian
I have also started thinking and praying about what to study this Advent. Thanks for this review!