The Christian Looks at Himself

by Anthony A. Hoekema

What kind of self-image should Christians have? Should they see themselves primarily as unworthy sinners before a holy God? / The biblical view, Anthony A. Hoekema argues in this readable study, is that humanity, having been made in God's own image, was the capstone of God's creation. Even when we fell, God considered us of such worth that he gave up his only Son to redeem us. In Christ, as Paul makes plain, we are made into new creatures. This does not mean that redeemed people live a life of sinless perfection; it does mean that what is most distinctive about them is their new life in Christ — a new life entitling them to a self-image that is essentially positive. / Accepting the biblical view of our worth can be difficult for Christians burdened with feelings of guilt. How can such Christians learn to see themselves in a better light? And how can others in the Christians community — preachers, counselors, teachers, and parents — help fellow members to attain the positive self-image that is essential to the Christian faith? The Christian Looks at Himself offers concrete answers to these questions and, in doing so, points up the social dimension of being in Christ. As Christians accept themselves as creatures made new in Christ, so in love they must also fully accept fellow Christians as re-created in that same Christ.

Genres: Christian, Theology

156 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 1975

About the author

Anthony A. Hoekema (1913-1988) was a Christian theologian of the Dutch Reformed tradition who served as professor of Systematic theology at Calvin Theological Seminary for twenty-one years.

Hoekema was born in the Netherlands but immigrated to the United States in 1923. He attended Calvin College (A.B.), the University of Michigan (M.A.), Calvin Theological Seminary (Th.B.) and Princeton Theological Seminary (Th.D., 1953). After pastoring several Christian Reformed churches (1944-56), he became Associate Professor of Bible at Calvin College (1956-58). From 1958 to 1979, when he retired, he was Professor of Systematic Theology at Calvin Theological Seminary in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Reviews

[Nathan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m already a big fan of Hoekema, and this book is another star in his sky. While this book is more compact than other books I’ve read from him, it is no less impactful. His basic thesis here is how a Christian must have a positive self-image as a new creation in Christ. Rather than simply insisting on our being a “new man” (as other books do), Hoekema actually unpacks our identity with all its implications. The ending chapters are loaded with practical advice for parents, teachers, and pastors. Highly recommended.

[Alex · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good book. Hoekema offers a lot of biblical and practical insight for how Christians ought to view themselves and others. I don't always agree with his interpretations and exegesis. But I think the spirit of the book is notable. Further, we should be eager to implement his suggestions in how we view ourselves and the people around us.

[Drew · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lots of important corrections, and clarifications for those Christians given to self hatred and irritability with others. I'm a little uncomfortable with some of the positive readings from secular psychology, but I'd still gladly recommend it.

[Justin Genus · Rating 2 out of 5]

Sadly, I’m not sure this book provides any necessary insights on the matter of “identity” or “self-image.” While Hoekema’s insights on the nature of the Christian in Christ and as a new creation are encouraging, they do little to substantiate his call for a “positive self-image.” I’m afraid this book is dated and bogged down by the use of psychological terms with confusing meanings/baggage.

Christians looking for a more robust discussion of “identity” will likey have to look elsewhere. Perhaps Hoekema’s works on anthropology and soteriology will be more helpful on their respective subjects.

5/10