Book Review: “Faith” By Chuck Smith

How Did I Get This Book?

Frankly, I can’t remember. I’ve had the book on my shelf for a very long time. I may have purchased it before Chuck passed away in October of 2013. It’s been that long. It’s possible that I picked it up at a Pastor’s Conference, or through Calvary Distribution where we order his resources.

The reason that I bought it is because I’ve enjoyed his other books, especially “Harvest: The Story of Calvary Chapel” and “Love: The More Excellent Way.” This book on faith rounds out Chuck’s theology when combined with “Why Grace Changes Everything,” (Soteriology), “Living Water” (Pneumotology) and “Love” (Orthopraxy).

What is it about?

Faith! Pastor Chuck has the enviable gift of being able to survey major themes, include elements and aspects that many leave out and deliver it in an incredibly succinct and accessible way.

In this book, he divides the topic into three parts. In Part 1 “The Nature of Faith” he explores definitions, “What is Faith?” and what does it accomplish, how does it please God, what does it accomplish, how powerful it truly is. He takes one chapter to explore faith by looking at it’s opposite, unbelief.

In Part 2 “The Look of Faith” he gives examples from the Scripture of faith lived out in all kinds of people. He starts with Abraham, then Isaac, Ruth, Mary, Paul, Peter and then does a comparison and contrast of the Centurion and the Syro-Phonecian mother. He has some wonderful insights that are relatable and profoundly inspiring.

In Part 3 “The Walk of Faith” he dives into practicalities with chapters titled: “How Can I…?” He talks about praying in faith, stepping out in faith, standing firm in faith, passing tests of faith, and growing in faith.

Throughout the book he shares stories from his own life that are both triumphant in their realization of miracles wrought by faith but also times of trial and heartache and true tests of faith.

What did I think?

Pastor Chuck is under-appreciated. That’s what I think. This man was brilliant. He was also humble. In my opinion, his body of work is superior to anyone popular today.

This book is no exception. It’s tremendously encouraging. It’s also sober. There’s no hype. The Spirit behind it is honest and pure and seeking to share the truth in love. It brings peace. It’s masterfully written, a child could follow along and understand, and educated people would be challenged by its depth.

I’m telling you. This guy is a gift to the body of Christ.

I was deeply encouraged and challenged and inspired. I was reminded of truths that need to be fresh in my mind.

Now, I did skim parts of the book, only because I’m very familiar with his ministry and was looking for new things, fresh things and things to be reminded of. This feels like an edited transcript of a series of messages that he’s recorded, probably from his mid-week Bible studies. If, like me you prefer reading to watching or listening, this is a great format.

Conclusion:

Books like this are rare. No matter where you are in your Christian journey, this book will encourage you. If you are a new or returning Christian you can’t get any better foundation for a very important idea in Christianity. If you are a seasoned Christian, you will undoubtedly be inspired and challenged afresh in trusting God and believing His Word. You will also learn things. Anyone that’s been in ministry for 60 years has things to offer. You’ll also be struck by his gift of communication.

I highly recommend it.