2004 - CHRISTIAN BOOK OF THE YEAR
Winner
STIRRINGS OF THE SOUL
ISBN 187632662X
by Michael Raiter
Published by Matthias Media
Extract from the judges comments~
This is a timely treatment of a phenomenon that has been allowed to impact upon many Christians in various ways
without a great deal of discerning thought; the new spirituality.
It contains a good survey of the New Age spirituality in its diversity; a thoughtful analysis of its appeal; a biblical
critique of the nature of human seeking; a critical exploration of Christian mysticism; a balanced exposition of biblical
spirituality, and useful practical advice for thirsty evangelicals. It is well written, and easy to read and understand. The presentation is very good, and the excellent cover is highly appropriate to the subject.
This very good book could attract a much wider and appreciative readership by changing its subtitle to “True
Spirituality and the New Spirituality”, as it is of potential interest to the many Australians seeking meaning in their lives,
as well as to Australian Christians.
2nd Prize
LIVING BY THE SWORD: The Ethics of Armed Intervention
ISBN 0868405191
by Tom Frame
Published by UNSW Press
This is an intelligent and reasonably thorough discussion of issues surrounding armed intervention, especially
regarding Australia’s involvement on the international scene.
As Anglican Bishop to the Australian Defence Forces, Dr Frame commences with a biographical section to provide
context and perspective. Before taking up the “cloth” he served as a naval officer. Hence his own personal struggle
with the issues moves the discussion from distanced theory to living understanding. An historical section traces the
development of the just war tradition. This sets the scene for the discussion of the issues in the context of recent
involvements of the ADF.
It looks at pacifism over against just war, church and state relations, interventionism and conscientious objection. It
offers something on a highly topical issue, which is much more informing than the media bits and pieces, or the biased
hysteria of the many uninformed comments which clog our airwaves. This is a book for the serious reader. It requires thought and gives a balanced and well-argued perspective. Better editing and layout could have made this book more accessible for general readership. Whilst some plates do not seem relevant, the cover is very good: the photograph raising the kinds of questions addressed in the book.
Highly Commended
GOING THE DISTANCE: How to Stay Fit for A Lifetime of Ministry
ISBN 1876326735
by Peter Brain
Published by Matthias Media
Here is a delightfully useful book on intentional self-care as the secret of an enduring and effective ministry.
Based, to a large extent, on the teaching of Arch Hart, it is full of good advice, containing many useful tips which we
found validated through personal experience (some discovered only after mistakes had been made). It is well-written
and easy to read. Perhaps its practical wisdom is based more on observation and social science than Scripture,
though this may be too harsh a judgement.
The panel would have liked to have seen a more explicit theoretical biblical base than is provided. Nevertheless, in
view of the high occurrence of ministry burnout and fallout this is a timely offering on a pressing issue. Presentation is
pleasing and the cover is very good.
For a full brochure (PDF 581KB), click here.
JUDGES - 2004
Ray Laird - Dean of S.A. Graduate School of Theology; lecturer in theology & church history
Mamie Long - Freelance editor and general manager of Moore Books, Sydney
David Nicholas - A Baptist pastor, and author
Co-ordinator: Len Woodley - National Secretary of SPCK-Australia
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