• I recently read "Why We Pray" and found it to be very insightful and comprehensive about the nature, purpose, and impact of prayer. The book dives into the theological, philosophical, and practical sides of prayer, answering some of the toughest questions believers have. Through careful and clear examination of biblical stories and theological ideas, the Peckham shows how prayer can transform a believer's life. One of the book's best parts is how it deals with the complexities and paradoxes of petitionary prayer. It thoughtfully considers why some prayers seem unanswered and how this fits with the idea of an all-knowing, all-powerful, and all-loving God. The author uses scripture and theological insights to explore these issues, giving readers a balanced view that encourages both faith and thinking. I especially liked how the book emphasizes the relational aspect of prayer, showing God as a responsive being who engages with humanity in meaningful ways. This view challenges the old ideas of God's unchangeability, offering instead a picture of a God who is deeply involved in our lives. By highlighting the interactive nature of prayer, the book invites readers to see prayer as a dynamic and transformative dialogue with the divine, not just a ritual. The book also talks about the larger cosmic context in which prayer happens. Peckham introduces the idea of cosmic conflict, framing prayer within the bigger story of a battle between good and evil. This adds a layer of complexity to understanding prayer, suggesting that our prayers play a significant role in God's actions within this cosmic struggle. This approach helps readers understand the spiritual importance of prayer better. Another strength of the book is its detailed look at the practical implications of prayer. Peckham discusses how prayer can change the person praying, aligning their will more closely with God's and deepening their relationship with Him. The book also highlights the importance of persistence in prayer, using biblical examples to show the value of steadfastness and faith, even when responses seem delayed or silent. This focus on practical spirituality makes this book not only intellectually engaging but also personally enriching. Finally, Why We Pray does not shy away from the emotional and existential challenges of prayer. It acknowledges the feelings of abandonment and frustration that many feel when prayers seem unanswered, offering a compassionate perspective that validates these struggles. By including the practice of lament, Peckham provides a way for readers to express their deepest emotions and questions to God, showing that prayer is a space for honest and open communication with the divine. Overall, "Why We Pray" is a profound and enriching book about prayer that offers valuable insights for believers of all backgrounds. It combines deep theological analysis with practical guidance, making it a great resource for anyone looking to deepen their understanding and practice of prayer. The book encourages readers to embrace the mystery and complexity of prayer, fostering a deeper faith and a stronger relationship with God. Whether you are experienced in prayer or just starting, "Why We Pray" is a must-read that will inspire and challenge you on your spiritual journey.
    Why We Pray: Understanding Prayer in the Context of Cosmic Conflict
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    1. I have all of John Peckham’s books available on Logos. He is an excellent writer and I enjoy reading his books. I encourage you to pre-order this book so that it’s available soon.
      God with Us: An Introduction to Adventist Theology
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      1. A good commentary, but as a conservative Christian, I was not happy with Dr. Moo's evolution belief, especially his belief that death existed before Adam existed. He explains his position in Romans 5:12-21 section. Knowing this has me constantly examining each of his statements to see if they correspond to the inerrancy of the scriptures. I should add that the 3 stars reflect my personal view, not how good the commentary actually is.
        Romans (NIV Application Commentary | NIVAC)
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        1. What would you recommend in place of this commentary?

      2. Thank you for the overview description. It is a shame that many people have misused this book and have mislead many. I knew Dr. Blanco. He and his wife were very loving, to the point of taking me to the store to buy some winter clothes when I didn't have any. He wrote this book as a personal exercise for his children. It was not written to be published and only after the persistence of some of his friends did he agree to publish it. The intent of the Clear Word bible has always been to be a personal devotional. It should be used as such and if we want to do good bible study, Logos has excellent tools that we can use for that. Thank you for making this available and making it clear that it is NOT a bible.

        1. Acts 20:7 KJV -And upon the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached unto them, ready to depart on the morrow; and continued his speech until midnight. CW - After sundown on Saturday night, the believers got together for a fellowship meal and to say good-by to Paul. That evening he spoke to them until midnight, after which he hoped to get a few hours sleep before leaving early Sunday morning. Note - The CW calls this a Saturday night meeting, changes "break bread", a term used by the early church for communion, to a fellowship meal and to say good-by to Paul. Such revision of Scripture completely changes the focus of this verse to fit Adventist theology. 18 I warn everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: if anyone adds to them, God will add to him the plagues described in this book, 19 and if anyone takes away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God will take away his share in the tree of life and in the holy city, which are described in this book. The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. (2001). (Re 22:18–19).

        2. Per Scripture, the day begins at sundown (See Gen chapter 1 and several other references). The OT Jews and those in Jesus day reckoned time accordingly. The Sabbath has always begun on Friday at Sundown (the evening) and ends Saturday at sundown. Thus for any Jew, midnight on the "the first day" would mean Saturday night (not Sunday night). Its a shame that so many have forgotten the one Commandment that God expressly says "Remember!" But per Dan 7:25, there would be a power that would "seek to change the times and laws of God." The fact is, there is only one Commandment associated with time. To presumptiously reason within ourselves that we can define how and what we are to keep, is as faulty as Eve deciding she would eat of the tree of knowledge because "it was harmless enough right?" "It's just an arbitrary piece of fruit that is no different from all the other trees (from the vantage point of human reasoning). Or Cain reasoning, "i don't want to sacrifice an animal, i'll just offer some fruit of the ground." When will we learn to listen to what God says, and not to make ourselves the ones who define what is right? "If you love me keep My Commandments." "He who does the will of My Father shall enter therein." "Here is the patience of the saints, those who KEEP THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD and have the faith of Jesus." Rev 14:12 The Seventh Day was blessed and intentionally set apart before sin even entered into the world, so it did not point forward to Christ as Redeemer (like for instance the Pass Over, or the sacrifices according to the Ceremonial Law). Rather it always has pointed to Jesus Christ as Creator (see Rev 14:7 which is quoting the 4th Commandment). Additionally, does it make sense that the Church got together on Sunday morning, and Paul preached for 14 hours (assuming the congregation came together at 10 am)??? Not only is it scriptural to say Midnight on the 1st day would equal Saturday night, but to think that this chapter in Acts is referring to a single meal combined with a 14 hour sermon is absurd if you think about it. This argument is of course very much subordinate to the fact that per Scripture; midnight on the first day would be Saturday, but to think it was Sunday doesn't even pass the test of simple logic. May the Lord Bless you exceedingly!! I have no doubt your intent is to zealously guard the flock, and I can definitely relate to that.