Few authors have been able to accomplish what Dane Ortlund has in his latest work, Gentle and Lowly: The Heart of Christ for Sinners and Sufferers. I think of authors such as C.J. Mahaney and J.C. Ryle who, in a manner both short and practical, tackle daunting topics such as humility and manhood. What they have done in their time, Ortlund has done in ours. Gentle and Lowly offers a concise and extremely applicable case for the heart of Christ as one driven by love above all else.
Drawing from the Puritans, Ortlund offers theologically foundational and scripturally supported arguments for understanding the tender heart of Christ. This work, of course, did not go unrecognized by the Christian community. It was perhaps one of the best-selling books of its release year. Gaining much respect and praise from churches abroad as well as Christian websites such as The Gospel Coalition and Desiring God, it became clear how relevant and helpful this 200-page book is.
One of, if not the most important chapters of any book released in 2020 is found in this book. “God’s ‘Natural’ Work and His ‘Strange’ Work” is a beautifully succinct reconciliation between the act of God’s judgment and His loving forgiveness throughout canonical Scripture. While not disparaging the essence of God’s holiness and the necessity of His wrath, Ortlund contends that God’s “natural” work is one of the forgiveness of His creation, not the judgment of them.
In full, this book is one that all Reformed believers must read. It taught me, a southern Reformed Baptist believer, how to reconcile my feelings of guilt for sin as well as the standing that I have before a Savior that loves me and forgives me instead of rejects and judges me. The sheer practicality of this book rises to the surface in an age where the Church may have lost her love. This book should help revitalize your view of Christ for you as well as others.
Title: Gentle and Lowly: The Heart of Christ for Sinners and Sufferers
Author: Dane Ortlund
Publisher: Crossway
Publication Year: 2020
Audience: Young Adult/Adult
Rating: 8/10
Readability: 7/10
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