An expert resource for Advent

Emmanuel – God With Us is a collection of Advent sermons preached by Dr. David Ewert, long-time theologian and Bible expositor of the Mennonite Brethren Church. Those who are familiar with Ewert’s ministry will readily recognize the profound insights and expert exegesis he brings to the Advent texts.

Advent offers the preacher both rewards and challenges. The rewards come in conveying once again the timeless truths of the Incarnation. The challenges come in knowing how to portray such a well-known story in fresh and creative ways. To that end, Emmanuel – God With Us is a helpful resource. Not only does the author expound the familiar birth narratives of the Gospels, he also includes lesser-known texts from Paul’s epistles, Hebrews, and even Revelation. The latter, in particular, offers a fascinating look at the Incarnation of our Lord from an apocalyptic perspective.

Each text is carefully outlined, exposited verse by verse, and includes plenty of helpful contextual and historical background. Ewert provides sound exegesis but leaves the application to the reader. Herein lies the strength of a book like this. The background work is done, and readers and preachers alike are allowed to apply the texts in their own contexts. And, given the hurried pace of the Advent season, the background these sermons provide is a valuable resource.

This book is an excellent addition to any library. Not only does it give us a good outline of Advent texts, it offers a window into the mind of one of our theological giants. This is a legacy worth having.

Don Petker is pastor of Selkirk (Man.) Community Church.