Michael W. Austin, Wise Stewards: Philosophical Foundations of Christian Parenting (Kregel Academic, 2009), 192 pages, ISBN 9780825424250.

Wise Stewards begins with the philosophical question “What gives meaning, purpose, and value in life?” But don’t let the philosophical focus of this book scare you away. One of the author’s main accomplishments in the text is his ability to present this concept in a manner that is more of a challenge to our way of thinking than to our intellectual ability. This unspoken challenge is for parents—biological or not—to obtain a personal theory of a more suitable, Godly parenting style rather than relying on unstructured notions of parenting. Austin does not simply discuss key virtues for the Christian family in an abstract way, he intends the reader to integrate the ideas into a comprehensive framework that can then be used as a resource to enhance their parenting skills.

Austin makes sure to clarify early on that he believes in moral realism. Additionally, he begins with a disclaimer that his suggestions are not to replace scripture. I appreciated both of these points. In today’s postmodern society, this is a rare attribute in publications related to parenting, which should be valued. The author invites the reader to join him on a journey into becoming a better parent, a journey that will be guided by Biblical truths. If there was one sentence that could sum up the entire book it would be: “I seek to develop a sound understanding of the parent-child relationship by combining biblical, theological and philosophical reflections in order to construct an everyday ethic of parenthood that is distinctly Christian.” Finally we have someone who is not afraid to take a strong stand on Christian values. The way Austin opens himself at the onset of this undertaking is inviting and encourages the reader to maintain an open mind to the views that follow.

Wise Stewards sheds light on the often neglected area of parenting. Unfortunately it has come to the point that parents have to be reminded of their biblical roles. It is not a suggestion to raise your child up in the Lord—it is a mandate. Austin does a great job of reminding us of this by addressing the need for Christian ethics for parents, insisting that wise parents must view themselves as stewards of their children. He addresses basic values every parent should already be teaching their children. One’s view of parenthood will definitely change after reading this book.

The end of book challenges parents to restore the home to be the center for spiritual life and a “sacred place” for worship and study. The modern family has forsaken gathering around the table for dinner. The home is no longer the center for learning or spiritual development. Austin makes a compelling case that parents who are acting as wise stewards must not bow to societal pressures but must live up to Godly standards.

If used correctly, Wise Stewards could restore the earthly home to a place of shalom that provides a reflection of our heavenly home.

Reviewed by Kathryn N. Donev

Preview: books.google.com/books?id=OW6uL2OXG8oC

This book is “A Handbook for Strengthening Ministry Skills,” it is a guide full of good counsel about what pastors will encounter in their careers. Pastor Tucker writes from the perspective of one who has been there and done that. My first reaction was that the book was perhaps targeted more to the new minister, but as I read on, I found myself comparing my own experiences with Tucker’s, and appreciating his insights to the challenge of being all things to all people.

Tucker writes, “Sinful humanity’s twin problems are alienation from God and estrangement from others.” As a pastor, he has spent a lifetime helping people who suffer from those two problems and want relief from them. He was successful in that endeavor, though not every time, and his words will help you be more successful.

I have worked at solving problems and helping others resolve disputes for many years. Often, fortunes accumulated over a life time were at stake. Emotions of every kind resonated through the life of the dispute. I found that in almost every case, the disputants needed to go back to the basics to understand what was really involved in the situations that they faced. Those that were able to deal with the implications of the basics were winners even when they seemingly lost what they sought.

Austin Tucker is a Southern Baptist with more than 30 years of experience. He is not Pentecostal/charismatic or from a holiness tradition in doctrine or experience, and he does close his book with his version of the Spirit-filled life. This discussion concludes with his admonition that we are to ensure we are rightly related to God the Holy Spirit. Tucker tells us that we do this by seeking a Person, not an experience, however great and blessed spiritually that experience may be. Tucker states that we are seeking God the Holy Spirit. Scripture never calls us to seek an experience in Tucker’s view, scripture calls us to seek God. We do not want divine power but to come under divine control. However, I believe we should desire God’s power when we are rightly under His control. Nonetheless, Tucker’s thoughts and perspective on a God-controlled life are worthwhile.

I enjoyed this book and recommend it.

Reviewed by H. Murray Hohns

Preview A Primer for Pastors: books.google.com/books?id=hpo1WtsL3T0C