It isn’t always easy to find the time to keep stretching your mind when you’re in full-time employment. Even in ministry, it can be difficult to set time aside to grow in your understanding of certain topics or theological positions. In comes Primer.
Primer is a journal filled with articles on a particular topic or theological point designed to give church leaders a solid introduction to the topic. But these journals aren’t just about academic discussions. Primer is full of helpful information and relevant ways that people are talking about a particular issue.
I’d like to recommend issue 11 to you which is on the doctrine of humanity, what it means to be made in the image of God and why it matters. When considering the doctrine of humanity you might expect an exegesis of Genesis 1-3 or something like that. But Primer goes beyond that. In this edition you get four book reviews of secular books that consider how religion, particularly the Christian view of humanity, has shaped the West today. These reviews were fascinating and a good breakdown of the strengths and weaknesses of the books.
There is a paper which assesses the downfalls of Nietzsche’s view of humanity and how damaging it is. There are also papers on the technology and how that shapes the way we view mankind, abortion, power and what a biblical understanding of the doctrine of humanity.
Each paper is written by someone in the know. As you read each paper you will be stretched and they’ll get you thinking. These are ideal for church leaders who want to engage with current thinking on the doctrine of humanity and for Christians who want to have an introduction which will spark an interest for further study.
Primer is a journal done in partnership with The Fellowship of Independent Evangelical Churches (FIEC) and Oak Hill College. I really enjoyed reading this and have enjoyed reading previous issues. If you head on over to 10ofThose right now you can get all 11 issues for under £30.
These could be a great gift for your pastor or a Christian who wants to grow in their knowledge of the Word and their engagement with theological discussions.
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