Basics for Believers (Repackaged Edition) by D A Carson

This is a reprint of a book originally published in 1996. It is an exploration of the major themes in Paul's letter to the Philippians. Even though this book was written over twenty years ago, the message is important for contemporary Christians.

Carson leads off early with an emphasis on the centrality of the gospel. He brought this home by writing about our relationships. The gospel should be at the center of our conversations when we get together, not sports or hobbies. Everything should revolve around the gospel. We should be encouraging one other and praying for one other. His emphasis clarified for me that the gospel was not at the center of my relationships and encouraged me to move to that end in the future.

The last major theme Carson explores is that we are to never give up on our Christian walk. It sums up all of Philippians four. It includes working toward being like minded with other believers, resolving to always rejoice, and more.

Carson's style is almost conversational and not at all academic. This is a good book for Christians who need to be reminded of the basic truths of the gospel and the kind of life that pleases God. Unfortunately, there are no questions included for personal reflection or group discussion. The book style lends itself more to devotional reading than to study.

My rating: 4/5 stars.

D. A. Carson (PhD, University of Cambridge) is emeritus professor of New Testament at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in Deerfield, Illinois. He is the author or editor of more than fifty books. He is one of the founders of The Gospel Coalition and an active guest lecturer in academic and church settings around the world.

Baker Books, 160 pages.

I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.