Finding God’s Grace in the Boundaries He Sets
by Philip Carlson, MD
Philip Carlson is senior pastor of Bethany Church of Sierra Madre and practices family medicine in Pasadena. He lives with his wife, Carole, and their four children in Sierra Madre.
Normally, I don’t start out a book review by talking about the author, but in this case, it’s important to note that Philip Carlson is not just a pastor, but he’s also a medical doctor. It’s this unique combination that gives this book a different viewpoint than many books on the market.
Dr. Carlson takes a fresh look into the laws given in the Bible and shows how these laws are scientifically sound from a health provider’s viewpoint. He shows how the Lord really does have our best interests at heart when He gives us various rules and regulations. By weaving together scripture and science, readers are able to see a clearer picture of some of the reasons behind the rules.
There is no denying that a doctor wrote the book as he approaches everything from a diagnosis perspective:
- Diagnose the problem
- Determine symptoms and likely outcomes
- Devise a treatment plan
These directions [God’s laws, commandments, instructions] for living
reveal his grace and his compassion for our well-being.
The book is divided into 4 sections:
- Guidance for Our Relationship with God
- Instructions for Our Relationships with Other
- Directions for a Healthier Self
- Insight for Our Relationship with Creation
The book seeks to help us find meaning in the laws that were given in the scriptures. One of my favorite parts of the book is the appendix which is filled with great information including a whole section overflowing with scriptures about joy. I enjoyed seeing God’s laws, the laws of the Great Physician, through the eyes of an earthly physician and pastor.
I received a copy of this book from Bethany House to help facilitate the writing of a frank and honest review. A positive review is not guaranteed, and all opinions are my own.
