Lewis B. Smedes (1921–2002)

Smedes’ breakdown of God’s great love song (1 Corinthians 13) is as well done as it is needful, as God’s love in us is both the lifeblood of human existence and “the most utterly impossible of all laws.” How could imperfect human beings possibly carry the perfect love of God? Hopeful and realistic, heavenly and earthy, Smedes’ explores the peculiar intersection of divine love and human experience. He probes the hard questions surrounding agape love, and he offers invaluable show more insight for rugged, every day Christian living. show less

Powerful and impactful, yet concise and simple, this will forever be my go-to book on forgiveness. Smedes makes a very convincing case for forgiveness, explaining with clarity exactly what that is – (1) rediscovering the humanity of our offender, (2) surrendering our rights to vengeance (though preserving justice), and (3) wishing our offender well. He takes the time to explore some of the stickier corners of forgiveness, as well, such as forgiving ourselves, forgiving those who aren't show more sorry, forgiving without tolerating, and forgiving even when our feelings cause us to doubt that we've really forgiven. All told, it is truly remarkable how much power is packed into this little book. show less

With clarity, wit and compassion, the author guides us step by step through what may seem like the most unnatural act a person can perform.

This is an excellent book on sexual ethics. The author, Lewis Smedes, was a Reformed professor of theology and at Fuller Seminary. And so this is a work from more of a theological grounding than a sociological one, but he also shows a great deal of psychological insight. Topics including homosexuality, singleness, marriage, and divorce are all treated within an insightful biblical theology that he draws from both Testaments.

For Smedes, sexuality is the human drive toward intimate communion. show more This union, not procreation, is the primary purpose of sexuality. In developing his theology of union, he considers the union of Christ and the church, the Lord and Israel in the Old Testament, and of the persons of the trinity.

I appreciated his exposition of the nature of fidelity--more than simply avoiding adultery, fidelity includes a commitment to the other's well being, especially including fostering their freedom and Christian maturity. show less