Rejoicing in Christ Paperback – February 23, 2015

WOAH!This book flat out blew me away. Few times have I every read a book like this that leaves me with my mouth hanging open at the beauty of Jesus Christ. So many times, Michael Reeves would crank out a few paragraphs of deep and profound theological musings, but in such a simple way that would excite a middle schooler.In the opening pages, Reeves discusses how we as Christians tend to focus more on "gospel-centered" or "Bible-based" things to the point where Jesus becomes just another brick in the wall. He correctly and prophetically diagnoses a blind spot in today's Reformed evangelicals: we are not as focused on the God-man, Jesus Christ, as we should be. I had never thought of this before, and he's exactly right. He showed me that I love the "gospel" and the Bible more than I love Jesus. And I'm sure there are many others out there like me.For the next 140 pages or so, Reeves simply puts forth theological meditations on who Jesus is and how much he loves us. Again, it's a profoundly deep book, but Reeves writes in such great illustrations and language that he draws in the seminary student, as well as the high school student.My only criticism I found is one of personal preference, but I want to share it nonetheless. There were a ton of examples from church history, as well as images of Christian art littered throughout the book. This seemed out of place to me. I don't know why there was such a bent towards church history in a book like this. But as I researched Reeves' other works, I found that he is a student of church history, so that shed light on this seemingly odd choice. It's not a bad thing, it just struck me as odd. This is, of course, a minor nitpicking on my part. The book is incredible.I walked away from this book in awe of Jesus and his love and goodness. It helped me have a strong basis on which to base my rejoicing in Jesus, which is the exact intent of the book.

I am enjoying this book so much I can't put it down. It helps that I read Delighting in the Trinity first - Rejoicing in Christ is MORE of that story. I am considering buying everything I can find by Michael Reeves. He takes very deep and difficult subjects and presents them in a unique way that draws the reader in to want to know more of the material and more importantly, to know God in a deeper way. I often pause in the middle of my reading to pray and worship.I'm not a student, but that's ok! His style is not in the least intimidating. I struggle sometimes to understand complicated spiritual concepts. I'm comfortable with "I don't get it" because I have come to expect from this author that with careful thought and prayer, I CAN get it. He also appeals to my sense of humor and I find myself chuckling from time to time.I also enjoy history so the inserts from Puritan writings and Church history scattered throughout the book are interesting and further explain the thought; support and corroborate his work. For me, Delighting in the Trinity and Rejoicing in Christ are as essential to spiritual study, knowledge, understanding and growth as using the Commentaries of Mathew Henry and Calvin in Bible study.You will not be sorry for this purchase.

I can add little to the other reviews which outline and speak about the content of this small but mighty book. I can add an encouragement to get this book and read it: slowly, meditatively, worshiping as you go. If you ever have found or now find yourself in need of remembering your "first love," this book can help you do it. Chapter 4 was a particular highspot. If you are a believer, there will be likely no novelty here; however, Reeves points to the Christ in whom there is always more, always deeper, always the unexpected, if we will see Him as He is. As other reviewers have said, it is a book that does what all good theology should do: it leads you to a clearer vision of God and thus to a greater worship of and joy in Him. A powerful book.

The author writes such magnificent theology, it will lead you to greater intimate knowledge of God, and greater enjoyment of Him; this theology leads to God honoring doxology. He shares his depth of of knowledge of Scripture church history, and his own love for Christ. This is a book I will re-read.

So encouraging, so refreshing, so wonderfully written and easily read! It’s all about the person and work of Christ, but especially the Person, and it was so good to take a magnifying glass to Him in a unique and beautiful way in this book. Praise God, thanks for this great, short, and accessible work.

I was unfamiliar with Reeves until a friend recommended Delighting in the Trinity. It was a marvelous book. So I was delighted to find more by Reeves. Rejoicing in Christ did not disappoint. It is theologically sound and yet heart warming. A great book for devotional reading, and even some sermon prep.

Michael Reeves focuses us on what is really important, again! We get so distracted by lesser things, but this book shows us the beauty and glory of Christ and why rejoicing in Him is central to the Christian life.

This isn't a kid's book but, like Delighting in the Trinity, Reeves has made theology approachable for everyone. I use this for our family devotional as I did with Delighting. My kids look forward to our breakfast reading of another section of this book every day. They listen intently and I personally grow in my understanding. Reeves makes Biblical Theology interesting- not as an academic pursuit, but as doctrine to challenge our affections.

I have read and re-read to absorb its truth. Deeply meaningful

Terrific.

I love it and its in great quality.