Walking with God

DR. E. A., JOHNSTON is a fellow of the Stephen Olford Institute for Biblical Preaching and has written a number of books that have been reviewed in this magazine.

In Walking with God the author explores the biblical and historical examples of men and women who walked with God. From that starting point he deals with the benefits, conditions and reasons for a closer communion and walk with our God. As in previous books, the author is noted for his boldness of speech presenting a direct challenge to the hearts of his readers.

However, for this reviewer, there were a number of disappointments that detracted from the value of the book. It was unclear why the author should look at such biblical examples as Enoch, Noah, and Moses and yet fail to mention the record of Hebrews chapter 11. The lengthy quote from the memoirs of Charles Finney was unfortunate, as it implied support for charismatic doctrine. It elevated personal experiences and did not put them to the challenge of the word of God and only later in the book did the author distinguish between baptism and the filling of the Spirit. Equally, the inclusion of certain other historical names would not find favour with everyone and the omission of anyone from an assembly background was also noticeable, except for a passing mention of George Müller.

The writer’s passion for this challenging and worthwhile subject is clear and some may find help from his teaching. But, for this reviewer, there were too many unqualified or poorly substantiated comments to draw out a wholehearted recommendation.