Book Review: Reflections on the Lord's Prayer by Zondervan

This is a review of Reflections on the Lord’s Prayer, a timeless faith classic series book released by Zondervan in 2015. Featuring 160 colorful pages, Reflections on the Lord’s Prayer compiles quotes and scriptures that pertain to each line of the Lord’s Prayer. While there are fewer quotes than verses under each line of the Lord’s Prayer, there are still some rich quotes highlighted throughout this book. It's worth noting that the included quotes are not comprehensive or a good representation of thought throughout church history. Though there are quotes from church history, they are few and far between, with relatively few insights from the earliest church teachings and fathers. The quotes largely come from later Christian writers and voices such as Charles Spurgeon, Martin Luther, John Wesley, John Calvin, and Oswald Chambers. Additionally, each line also features highlighted quotes from the Westminster Shorter Catechism of Faith and the Heidelberg Catechism.

When I purchased this book, I expected something altogether different, but I was able to still find some use and encouragement in it. The usefulness of this book is probably limited to two main uses: as a coffee-table book for guests to flip through or as a concordance of useful quotes and verses to incorporate into a sermon series on the pattern of prayer taught by Jesus to his disciples. Some readers may use it as a devotional guide to reflect on each line of the Lord’s Prayer. However, note there is no commentary or additional thoughts shared in this book, outside of archived quotes and bible verses that pertain to the topic at hand in each chapter. The book also offers quotes and scriptures generally on prayer itself. All quotes are properly footnoted and cited at the end.

I read this book as part of my journey through the Doctor of Ministry program at Kairos University. The Doctor of Ministry program at Kairos University is heavily integrated with practical theology and is a program that is based on practical theological reflection and integration. As a student in the Doctor of Ministry program at Kairos University, I am exploring the theological and practical foundations of utilizing the Lord’s Prayer in discipleship, communal contexts, and with those on a spiritual pilgrimage. This book did not prove valuable to such a research task, but it did give me quotes that may be integrated into my dissertation and projects at the end of this journey.

Overall, while Reflections on the Lord’s Prayer may not entirely meet expectations for those readers who are seeking after comprehensive theological insights or extensive historical quotes from the church’s thoughts on the Lord’s Prayer, it still offers valuable inspiration and a collection of thoughtful reflections. Its vibrant pages and curated selections make it a visually appealing addition to any reader from any background. Whether used as a contemplative resource for personal devotion or a handy reference for sermon preparation, this book can serve as a meaningful tool for deepening one's understanding and appreciation of the Lord’s Prayer.

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I grew up inspired by Jesus, Jacques-Yves Cousteau, the California Raisins, and The Clash. I'm an avid fan of baseball, boardwalks, beaches, and books. Additionally, I am currently a doctoral student at Kairos University, and finishing a third master's degree, an MBA in Executive Leadership, at City Vision University. Previously I have earned two master's degrees - one in Theology and Ministry and another in Leadership - both from Fuller Seminary. I also graduated summa cum laude with a Graduate Certificate in Non-profit Management and an Associate Degree in Christian Ministry and Leadership from City Vision University.

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