Asking questions can be exciting, especially when we get great answers to them. As elders we are asked many questions, and we probably have a few ourselves. In his new book, God With Us, John Peckham addresses many pertinent questions surrounding God’s nature (who is He?) and what His heart yearns for (what is He really like?). For numerous reasons, this is the kind of book you will want to have on your shelf.
First, it is an amazing discipleship resource. Whether you are new to the Bible or a veteran Bible student, there is always more to learn. Peckham shows how Scripture portrays God as dynamic and vibrant. Topics such as how God saves us are treated with the breadth the topics deserve, giving the reader a deep knowledge and appreciation for God’s work in our lives. Yet, this is done in a clear and simple way that makes it easy to understand.
Second, Peckham includes sections on “competing Christian views,” where he details how others, either in the past or in the contemporary Christian landscape, have had different understandings. This is tremendously helpful for at least two reasons: (1) it helps us better understand why different denominations believe what they believe, and thus (2) aids us in better articulating how our beliefs are different, and why we believe it to be a more suitable interpretation of Scripture. While the primary purpose of the book is not apologetic in nature, it nevertheless provides strong reasons for advancing Adventist theology. Peckham treats alternative views with the fairness and respect that we should all give generously to those who view things differently than ourselves, yet with a confidence that is saturated with biblical texts and reasoning that cannot be easily dismissed.
Another reason you will want this book is that Peckham gives strong scriptural support on topics that are near and dear to Adventism. If you have ever wondered about the nature of the Godhead; the personhood of the Holy Spirit; understanding the ramifications of the creation-evolution debate; what the inspiration of Scripture really means and how we should be interpreting the Bible faithfully; the role of Ellen G. White in the church; the significance of Christ’s ministry in the heavenly sanctuary; why God permits suffering; and so much more, this book will be invaluable to you. The real strength of this work is not merely found in Peckham’s explanation of “what” we believe, but in the “why” we believe it. And I believe this is something many people today—especially young people—need to hear.
Lastly, each chapter ends with an appeal to make the intellectual practical. After all, if true knowledge does not impact the way we live and change us, it is useless. As Peckham presents, Scripture portrays God as one whose heart yearns to be with His children, despite the intrusion of sin. The remaining question is, will our hearts yearn for Him?
Endi Stojanovic, MDiv, is an assistant professor in the department of religion at Southwestern Adventist University in Keene, Texas, United States.
