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Stengrunden
Forfatteren giver med umådelig dygtighed læserne indblik i en verden med uanede dybder.
På en fantastisk fin måde skildrer han et lille svensk kirkesamfund i tre forskellige tidsrum, - hvordan de vidt forskellige præster må erkende, at kirken er det eneste faste og urokkelige under alle forhold.
De, for hvem ordet kirke har betydning, vil få deres taknemmelighed uddybet, og de, der måske står spørgende og kritiske, vil med læsning af denne bog få mange spørgsmål klarede og måske få syn for noget, de aldrig før har tillagt nogen betydning.
På en fantastisk fin måde skildrer han et lille svensk kirkesamfund i tre forskellige tidsrum, - hvordan de vidt forskellige præster må erkende, at kirken er det eneste faste og urokkelige under alle forhold.
De, for hvem ordet kirke har betydning, vil få deres taknemmelighed uddybet, og de, der måske står spørgende og kritiske, vil med læsning af denne bog få mange spørgsmål klarede og måske få syn for noget, de aldrig før har tillagt nogen betydning.
256 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1941
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 194 reviews
September 20, 2012
Bo Giertz’s book, “The Hammer of God,” covers the theological drama that unfolds in a small Swedish parish of Odesjo over 150 years. Each generation struggles with its expression of piety along with struggles with legalism, liberalism, and so forth. Even though each of the stories is separated by time and space, there is continuity to the whole book because of its location and the centrality of the Gospel as a solution to each time period’s struggle.
More specifically, James Nestingen comments on this book saying, “In this classic, Bo Giertz marks the difference between self-absorbed religiosity and healthy piety to center faith where it belongs—in Christ. If there is such a thing as a true Lutheran spirituality, Bo Giertz has illustrated the possibility compellingly.”
What is so appealing about Bo Giertz’s book is that it contains rich theology that is rooted in Law and Gospel, Monergism and the Grace of God. The book does not read like an aggressive dogmatic book but fleshes this fine theology out through the interaction of the characters. One cannot help cringe when reading about Pastor Savonius as well as many of the other characters with their obvious abuse of the Word in ministering to others. Even those that are not theologically trained will be able to identify the characters that are self-absorbed versus the characters that are centered in the Gospel. Furthermore, the reader is also privileged to the thoughts of many of the characters. By obtaining an insider perspective, the reader not only connects with the character but the reader is also able to see the righteous and sinful motives of many of the characters.
While this book is certainly a fiction book, it is true in the sense that it captures the heart motivations and the ethos of a man-centered theology interacting with the Gospel. I do not believe that the book exaggerates any of its stories and/or claims but frames the stories in common everyday life situations.
Overall, I appreciated this book tremendously. I read it 11 years ago and found my recent reading of this book refreshing, enlightening, humbling, and edifying.
More specifically, James Nestingen comments on this book saying, “In this classic, Bo Giertz marks the difference between self-absorbed religiosity and healthy piety to center faith where it belongs—in Christ. If there is such a thing as a true Lutheran spirituality, Bo Giertz has illustrated the possibility compellingly.”
What is so appealing about Bo Giertz’s book is that it contains rich theology that is rooted in Law and Gospel, Monergism and the Grace of God. The book does not read like an aggressive dogmatic book but fleshes this fine theology out through the interaction of the characters. One cannot help cringe when reading about Pastor Savonius as well as many of the other characters with their obvious abuse of the Word in ministering to others. Even those that are not theologically trained will be able to identify the characters that are self-absorbed versus the characters that are centered in the Gospel. Furthermore, the reader is also privileged to the thoughts of many of the characters. By obtaining an insider perspective, the reader not only connects with the character but the reader is also able to see the righteous and sinful motives of many of the characters.
While this book is certainly a fiction book, it is true in the sense that it captures the heart motivations and the ethos of a man-centered theology interacting with the Gospel. I do not believe that the book exaggerates any of its stories and/or claims but frames the stories in common everyday life situations.
Overall, I appreciated this book tremendously. I read it 11 years ago and found my recent reading of this book refreshing, enlightening, humbling, and edifying.
June 24, 2016
This book is a collection of three loosely related novellas about the "cure of souls" in Lutheran Sweden. It is all very good, and parts of it are glorious. I think it would be particularly encouraging to pastors involved in the hard slog of pastoral care.
July 10, 2025
The Hammer of God is a powerful trilogy of novellas set in a small Swedish parish, spanning from the early 19th century to the mid-20th. Bo Giertz uses this rural setting to explore the depths of Lutheran doctrine, particularly the tension between law and gospel, and the transformative power of faith-based salvation.
Each story portrays a different era and pastor, and together they illustrate how easy it is—even for clergy—to drift from the core doctrine of justification by faith. The author doesn't shy away from showing what happens when that doctrine is misunderstood or replaced with works-based righteousness or spiritual pride. These are not abstract theological musings; they’re made real through the struggles, growth, and sometimes painful awakenings of the characters.
I found the first two stories especially compelling—tightly written, emotionally rich, and theologically grounded. The final story, while still meaningful, felt more compressed and less fully developed. It spans a longer timeframe and has a more complex plot, but I suspect some parts were trimmed to maintain parity with the earlier sections, and the storytelling suffered a bit as a result.
That said, this is a book I’d recommend to every Christian, especially those who are newer in their faith. It provides clear, pastoral guidance wrapped in narrative form—guiding readers toward a better understanding of grace, and warning them of the pitfalls of self-righteousness and spiritual confusion. A deeply edifying and memorable read.
Each story portrays a different era and pastor, and together they illustrate how easy it is—even for clergy—to drift from the core doctrine of justification by faith. The author doesn't shy away from showing what happens when that doctrine is misunderstood or replaced with works-based righteousness or spiritual pride. These are not abstract theological musings; they’re made real through the struggles, growth, and sometimes painful awakenings of the characters.
I found the first two stories especially compelling—tightly written, emotionally rich, and theologically grounded. The final story, while still meaningful, felt more compressed and less fully developed. It spans a longer timeframe and has a more complex plot, but I suspect some parts were trimmed to maintain parity with the earlier sections, and the storytelling suffered a bit as a result.
That said, this is a book I’d recommend to every Christian, especially those who are newer in their faith. It provides clear, pastoral guidance wrapped in narrative form—guiding readers toward a better understanding of grace, and warning them of the pitfalls of self-righteousness and spiritual confusion. A deeply edifying and memorable read.
October 8, 2024
A unique novel with a most convicting and hopeful message. I will definitely need to read it again and again.
Review: The Hammer of God The Hammer of God is a book of history and allegory; of the walk of the baby Christian, the self-righteous, and the guilty, but ultimately leading to hope, peace, and faith. http://madelynrosecraig.com/2024/05/1...
Review: The Hammer of God The Hammer of God is a book of history and allegory; of the walk of the baby Christian, the self-righteous, and the guilty, but ultimately leading to hope, peace, and faith. http://madelynrosecraig.com/2024/05/1...
Want to read
February 17, 2023Leland Ryken reviews it here.
April 28, 2024
Basically three sermons in novel form; but gosh dang it, they're some really good sermons! The story of the church it's not told in just 5 minutes testimonies, but over the course of centuries.
Bo Giertz tells of the struggles and epiphanies of 3 pastors of the same church over the course of 200 years. This long-term framing beautifully illustrates timelessness of the church and the word that forms its strong foundation. In each episode the pastors more or less face the same difficulties in living out the paradoxes of the Christian faith: law & gospel, and simul iustus et pecator. Although there are great differences in their contexts and personalities, Giertz shows that it is the same Word that frees and empowers them all.
While I found this novel to be both historically fascinating, and spiritually educative, I recommend it primarily because it encouraged me in the reality that the gates of hell shall not prevail against Christ's Church.
Bo Giertz tells of the struggles and epiphanies of 3 pastors of the same church over the course of 200 years. This long-term framing beautifully illustrates timelessness of the church and the word that forms its strong foundation. In each episode the pastors more or less face the same difficulties in living out the paradoxes of the Christian faith: law & gospel, and simul iustus et pecator. Although there are great differences in their contexts and personalities, Giertz shows that it is the same Word that frees and empowers them all.
While I found this novel to be both historically fascinating, and spiritually educative, I recommend it primarily because it encouraged me in the reality that the gates of hell shall not prevail against Christ's Church.
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December 19, 2024The sainted Rev. Bo Giertz is Lutheranism’s most celebrated storyteller. Turning the final page of this book so many years ago might very well have marked the first moment I seriously considered writing a Lutheran fiction story of my own. And still today, I find myself holding up every theological conversation I encounter in a novel against the gold standard set by Giertz in this book. I am bold to integrate such conversations in my own novels because he first showed me how to do it faithfully, sincerely, realistically, and in a way that benefits both the fictional characters and, I pray, you.
Thank you, Rev. Giertz.
Thank you, Rev. Giertz.
March 7, 2023
A timeless novel pertaining to all generations and peoples even though it depicts three set eras in one location. How can it do that? Because Giertz understands the hearts of mankind, the temptations of the devil, and the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ for all sinners. A book to own, re-read, and treasure.
November 3, 2025
I wasn't exactly sure what to expect going into this book. I knew it was widely regarded as classic Lutheran literature. I also knew it inspired one of my favorite Lutheran authors in her writing one of my all-time favorite series. (And yes, I was able to see and appreciate the influences it had on her as an author.) Beyond that, I had no idea what I was picking up and my mind was open to what I would encounter. I think it was probably best that way.
What I liked about The Hammer of God:
It provides a compelling illustration of the life built on faith in God - The book is broken down into three sections. The setting remains the same, while the characters and timeframe change. Each of the clergy the reader meets is facing a struggle, specifically in regard to his faith. The struggle is unique but the growth each must experience is a core component of the overarching plot. It was refreshing to see the struggles of men called to the ministry by God and the various crises of faith they must navigate, not so different from those that confront the laity, and yet with the added dimension of being responsible for the flock to whom they have been adding in an urgency the parishioner will never know. And these are some deep topics to be contemplated.
Giertz is not afraid to present his readers with deep theology to explore - Rather than dumbing down the message or sugarcoating it, Giertz invites the reader to tackle challenging concepts and situations, to ponder the deepest of subjects, to consider these truths and their effect, their meaning, their life-altering importance.
Application of the themes isn't much of a stretch - As each generation of this place unfurls, its pastors as are presented with guiding their parishioners through life in a sinful world, while at the same time facing their own inner trials. Addressing such topics as right application of the Law, sin and forgiveness, the despair that comes from questioning the strength of one's faith, and attempting to mold God's Word to fit current culture all felt decidedly relevant. There is truly nothing new under the sun.
What I didn't care for:
Open-ended-ness - This is simply something that I fail to enjoy in any book. As each section reached its conclusion, the central character had progressed considerably in their personal growth, but their story was left without conclusion. Occasionally, as the following sections unwound, a vague reference might be made to the pastor's predecessors, but again with no real definitive resolution. I suppose Giertz had his reasons for this, but this reader likes to know how it all plays out, especially when I am deeply invested in the story.
What left me conflicted:
Stumbling through Swedish names and places - This book is a translation into English, but, of course, the names and places are who and what they are. Sometimes I found it distracting to finally have found in a good rhythm in what was not a speedy read for me and then I'd come upon some Swedish name of one sort or another, and it would trip me right up.
Worth noting:
Not light reading - If you're looking for an easy Christian fiction read, this isn't it. This is at times dense, heavy, challenging, and convicting. But light? No. Levity isn't something Giertz has much time for, with such an intensely critical message to impart: we need God's grace in every aspect of our lives. No exceptions.
I'm glad to have read this book. Of the three novellas, Torvik's (the final one) was my favorite. The circumstances with which he was forced to contend resonated with me personally. That being said, this doesn't feel like the type of book I will reach for as a regular re-read.
What I liked about The Hammer of God:
It provides a compelling illustration of the life built on faith in God - The book is broken down into three sections. The setting remains the same, while the characters and timeframe change. Each of the clergy the reader meets is facing a struggle, specifically in regard to his faith. The struggle is unique but the growth each must experience is a core component of the overarching plot. It was refreshing to see the struggles of men called to the ministry by God and the various crises of faith they must navigate, not so different from those that confront the laity, and yet with the added dimension of being responsible for the flock to whom they have been adding in an urgency the parishioner will never know. And these are some deep topics to be contemplated.
Giertz is not afraid to present his readers with deep theology to explore - Rather than dumbing down the message or sugarcoating it, Giertz invites the reader to tackle challenging concepts and situations, to ponder the deepest of subjects, to consider these truths and their effect, their meaning, their life-altering importance.
Application of the themes isn't much of a stretch - As each generation of this place unfurls, its pastors as are presented with guiding their parishioners through life in a sinful world, while at the same time facing their own inner trials. Addressing such topics as right application of the Law, sin and forgiveness, the despair that comes from questioning the strength of one's faith, and attempting to mold God's Word to fit current culture all felt decidedly relevant. There is truly nothing new under the sun.
What I didn't care for:
Open-ended-ness - This is simply something that I fail to enjoy in any book. As each section reached its conclusion, the central character had progressed considerably in their personal growth, but their story was left without conclusion. Occasionally, as the following sections unwound, a vague reference might be made to the pastor's predecessors, but again with no real definitive resolution. I suppose Giertz had his reasons for this, but this reader likes to know how it all plays out, especially when I am deeply invested in the story.
What left me conflicted:
Stumbling through Swedish names and places - This book is a translation into English, but, of course, the names and places are who and what they are. Sometimes I found it distracting to finally have found in a good rhythm in what was not a speedy read for me and then I'd come upon some Swedish name of one sort or another, and it would trip me right up.
Worth noting:
Not light reading - If you're looking for an easy Christian fiction read, this isn't it. This is at times dense, heavy, challenging, and convicting. But light? No. Levity isn't something Giertz has much time for, with such an intensely critical message to impart: we need God's grace in every aspect of our lives. No exceptions.
I'm glad to have read this book. Of the three novellas, Torvik's (the final one) was my favorite. The circumstances with which he was forced to contend resonated with me personally. That being said, this doesn't feel like the type of book I will reach for as a regular re-read.
June 26, 2025
This book is a wonderful portrayal of how God calls, gathers, enlightens, and sanctifies the whole Christian Church on earth, and keeps it with Jesus Christ in the one true faith. It's amazing how a book that depicts one small congregation in Sweden can give such a rich snapshot of struggles faced by all of humanity and the church at all times and all places. I know a book is good when it still makes me cry after many readings because what it contains that touches the heart is not based on subjective feeling, but objective truth that breaks a heart that is ever trying to harden into stone to keep it soft and beating. I've been pondering for years that I want to write a poem at some point in my life starting "When joy or sorrow breaks the heart..." but I'm not ready to write it yet.
This book, however, shows both sides of that dynamic brilliantly.
This book, however, shows both sides of that dynamic brilliantly.
March 28, 2017
Five stars for the theology; this book is really on point with solid doctrine and the pitfalls of error. Two stars for the fiction. I found it boring and repetitive, though some of that may be translation.
May 22, 2022
These are not stories about sermons; these are sermons in the form of stories. As such, I consider them profoundly effective in their purpose: the cure of the soul. Of mine.
Bo Giertz is a true shepherd of Jesus.
Bo Giertz is a true shepherd of Jesus.
January 23, 2022
En kristen klassiker som er like kraftfull hver gang jeg leser den. Anbefales på det sterkeste!
March 30, 2024
2 Corinthians 2:16 – “Who is sufficient for these things?”
Have you ever wondered what a pastor thinks and feels, what his relationship with God is like, as he ministers at church or visits you in the hospital?
This unique novel offers three stories of three young ministers, each faced with a spiritual crisis. Each is spiritually zealous and equally misguided. The main message is that pietism has no answers for the basic questions of the real spiritual life. What do you say when an otherwise Christian man raves on his deathbed, speaking profanely of his many sinful experiences? How do you help a woman who prays and seeks for a pure heart, but knows all the time she doesn’t have it?
Without a foundation of God’s grace to us in Christ, the Christian life is a shaky and brittle endeavor. The genius of The Hammer of God is to show us the truth of this in the minister’s own spiritual life, and his public ministry as well. Pursuing revivals and calling people to obedience and purity can be done in a way that focuses everyone on themselves or on the pastor. Such will pass as a wind-driven leaf. But to ground all we think, feel, and do in reliance on God’s grace, not finding our righteousness in our thoughts, emotions, or deeds, looking to Jesus only, brings sturdy, Gospel hope.
I was a pastor for many years, and this book ably gets inside the pastor’s mind and heart, in many ways.
The author is Lutheran, and baptismal regeneration is assumed at various points. But this is not overdone, and the main theme of the book is one every Christian needs to hear.
A strange omission: none of the clergy were married. Marriage as a minister wasn’t even a passing thought. Probably because the perpetual theme was the pietism-fighting pastor.
“If with Christ you died to the elemental spirits of the world, why, as if you were still alive in the world, do you submit to regulations— 21 “Do not handle, Do not taste, Do not touch” 22 (referring to things that all perish as they are used)—according to human precepts and teachings? 23 These have indeed an appearance of wisdom in promoting self-made religion and asceticism and severity to the body, but they are of no value in stopping the indulgence of the flesh” – Colossians 2:20-23.
Highly recommended, especially for pastors.
Have you ever wondered what a pastor thinks and feels, what his relationship with God is like, as he ministers at church or visits you in the hospital?
This unique novel offers three stories of three young ministers, each faced with a spiritual crisis. Each is spiritually zealous and equally misguided. The main message is that pietism has no answers for the basic questions of the real spiritual life. What do you say when an otherwise Christian man raves on his deathbed, speaking profanely of his many sinful experiences? How do you help a woman who prays and seeks for a pure heart, but knows all the time she doesn’t have it?
Without a foundation of God’s grace to us in Christ, the Christian life is a shaky and brittle endeavor. The genius of The Hammer of God is to show us the truth of this in the minister’s own spiritual life, and his public ministry as well. Pursuing revivals and calling people to obedience and purity can be done in a way that focuses everyone on themselves or on the pastor. Such will pass as a wind-driven leaf. But to ground all we think, feel, and do in reliance on God’s grace, not finding our righteousness in our thoughts, emotions, or deeds, looking to Jesus only, brings sturdy, Gospel hope.
I was a pastor for many years, and this book ably gets inside the pastor’s mind and heart, in many ways.
The author is Lutheran, and baptismal regeneration is assumed at various points. But this is not overdone, and the main theme of the book is one every Christian needs to hear.
A strange omission: none of the clergy were married. Marriage as a minister wasn’t even a passing thought. Probably because the perpetual theme was the pietism-fighting pastor.
“If with Christ you died to the elemental spirits of the world, why, as if you were still alive in the world, do you submit to regulations— 21 “Do not handle, Do not taste, Do not touch” 22 (referring to things that all perish as they are used)—according to human precepts and teachings? 23 These have indeed an appearance of wisdom in promoting self-made religion and asceticism and severity to the body, but they are of no value in stopping the indulgence of the flesh” – Colossians 2:20-23.
Highly recommended, especially for pastors.
January 5, 2023
Arma människor, som inte direkt levde i något jordiskt paradis, som därtill hade ångest över sina synder och vilka straff som väntar i livet efter detta och som offrade de få glädjeämnen de hade (som en färgglad sjal) trots att det enda de kunde hoppas uppnå var en blottad stengrund (den arvsynd som inga goda gärningar kan rubba).
Läste boken med rastret av min farmors mor, som grät och läste Bibeln, tyngd av att ha varit född som oäkting och av fördömande präster som ständigt påminde om att människan är en förtappad syndare.
Jag tror att den ger en ytterligare dimension för den som kan sin katekes och som har genomgått ett par husförhör (eller något prästseminarium). Förstår så mycket som att det är mycket som gick mig förbi.
Läste boken med rastret av min farmors mor, som grät och läste Bibeln, tyngd av att ha varit född som oäkting och av fördömande präster som ständigt påminde om att människan är en förtappad syndare.
Jag tror att den ger en ytterligare dimension för den som kan sin katekes och som har genomgått ett par husförhör (eller något prästseminarium). Förstår så mycket som att det är mycket som gick mig förbi.
December 25, 2021
Three beautiful and moving vignettes of conversion by one of the forefront Swedish ministers of the twentieth century. The prose style grew more on me as it continued; conversion involves much psychological narrative. But read it not as merely a piece of literature, but a piece of devotional literature. The book cuts deep into one's own soul. If you start seeing more sin in others while reading this book, you haven't truly searched your own heart. What you end up finding is the depraved heart Lutherans know so well, but also a Jesus of the cross, of grace and forgiveness, and of his precious atonement on Calvary.
April 24, 2025
I love Scandi lit.
December 22, 2025
Devastating and healing
August 1, 2024
This review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
mentions the book is good at showing the applicability of Lutheran theology, but as a piece of literature just doesn't hold up. I think I agree. The stories might be helpful for showing pastors what pastoral care looks like, but even then I have my doubts--some parts were realistic, but many parts were cliche. For the most part, people don't talk and act this way. As a story on paper, it's rather dull. Lots of descriptions, but nothing very compelling. It's three novellas put together, so the characters and plot don't have much chance to develop.
mentions the book is good at showing the applicability of Lutheran theology, but as a piece of literature just doesn't hold up. I think I agree. The stories might be helpful for showing pastors what pastoral care looks like, but even then I have my doubts--some parts were realistic, but many parts were cliche. For the most part, people don't talk and act this way. As a story on paper, it's rather dull. Lots of descriptions, but nothing very compelling. It's three novellas put together, so the characters and plot don't have much chance to develop.
October 3, 2015
In three eras, a pastor is trying to revive the spiritual lives of his people -- to some degree with success, always relying on pietistic use of the law, always discovering freedom and peace in the gospel of Jesus Christ. In each story, there is a different facet. For example, the last section turns on the authority of Scripture.
Insight into Lutheranism in a situation where the Lutheran Church is the state church. In all three eras, there was a mission society and that was where the "revivals" grew out of, while the church government -- centered in the "Cathedral Chapter" always posed a danger to what was going on.
I'd like to reread this book because there are "connections" I didn't see the first time.
Bo Giertz was an atheist until he went to university and was disgusted by the egotism and selfishness of other atheists and impressed by the character of Christians. He became a Christian, a Lutheran pastor, and the youngest bishop in Sweden. He is the Swedish C.S. Lewis.
This book is a trilogy, considered his best, a best seller in the 1940's. The three parts all take place in a fictional town /parish of Odesjo, in three eras: Part 1 "The Hammer of God" begins in 1808; Part 2 "Jesus Only" in 1880's, and Part 3, "On this Rock" in 1940's.
Insight into Lutheranism in a situation where the Lutheran Church is the state church. In all three eras, there was a mission society and that was where the "revivals" grew out of, while the church government -- centered in the "Cathedral Chapter" always posed a danger to what was going on.
I'd like to reread this book because there are "connections" I didn't see the first time.
Bo Giertz was an atheist until he went to university and was disgusted by the egotism and selfishness of other atheists and impressed by the character of Christians. He became a Christian, a Lutheran pastor, and the youngest bishop in Sweden. He is the Swedish C.S. Lewis.
This book is a trilogy, considered his best, a best seller in the 1940's. The three parts all take place in a fictional town /parish of Odesjo, in three eras: Part 1 "The Hammer of God" begins in 1808; Part 2 "Jesus Only" in 1880's, and Part 3, "On this Rock" in 1940's.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 1, 2021
Another one I had a hard time getting into at first and had to set a time to just do it. This is now one of my top books of ALL TIME. It's several stories of pastors going through the motions of serving their churches and how they related to the culture and people, etc. Different time periods, but same town. I don't often re-read a book, but I think this will be one I will probably read annually.
1 of 4 on my best of 2013 books I read. The others are reviewed as well:
The Invisible Wall: A Love Story That Broke Barriers
Letters from the Land of Cancer
The Invisible Wall: A Love Story That Broke Barriers
#TamaraJackReviews
1 of 4 on my best of 2013 books I read. The others are reviewed as well:
The Invisible Wall: A Love Story That Broke Barriers
Letters from the Land of Cancer
The Invisible Wall: A Love Story That Broke Barriers
#TamaraJackReviews
July 2, 2018
I was quite moved by this book. It is really three short stories, each about a pastor who fails and has to fall back on the grace of Jesus Christ to really learn what ministry is really about. That is a very familiar story for me. I had not heard of the author before; he was a bishop in the Church of Sweden. He was a man who knew the power of grace and knew how to tell others about it.
March 31, 2017
I've had this book on my physical shelf for a long time. Possibly two years, I'm not sure. I was putting off reading it because I knew it was a "Lutheran" book and I was a little wary of how Lutheran it might be. I wasn't interested in something that was like reading the catechism or the Book of Concord.
Thankfully, it wasn't like that at all! In reality, the book doesn't talk much of Lutheranism, it simply "preaches" Jesus only; grace, redemption, and salvation through Christ alone. Yes, this is Lutheran theology, but it is also the Christian faith.
I found myself quite able to relate to many of the struggles related within the stories. I also really liked how Giertz would present a misconception that a character was struggling with quite logically, so that it made a good bit of sense and you thought it really was correct, only to then show later on, how it was in error and the logic behind the real reason makes even more sense than you thought the other way did!
Hammer of God is three stories in one. (Hmmm, did the author do that one purpose? Three in one? Maybe I'm looking too hard for symbolism here.) I made note of things that really stood out to me in the book. I'm going to write them out here. (I apologize for any errors made in what is very long review.)
I. Hammer of God
"Must a true disciple sell all that he has and give it to the poor?"
"I have asked myself that question many times," said the curate a bit uncertainly..... "Zacchaeus didn't do that when he became a true disciple. The Lord shall be the owner of everything, but he must have someone to steward his property..... Let God rule the heart; he will then rule also the farm and the money."
At that moment his breast seemed to be pierced through as by a flame of fire. Who was he to stand here and judge?.... Was it perhaps nothing but natural aversion and lack of love, coming from his own depraved nature, that pronounced judgment? Was he not himself a sinner who needed all the atoning power of the chalice in his hands? Could he receive it rightly himself when he was so unmerciful in his judgments while administering it at the altar? Would not judgment without mercy fall upon him who showed no mercy?
"I wish there were some special sin, one that I could take hold of. But it is just a doughy mass of wretchedness that is boiling over. Pride and uncleanness, greed for money, laziness, and lack of delight in all that is holy - there is neither beginning nor end to it...... I want to serve God only, but if I get a few of my spiritual poems published in some calendar, I wonder right away if there will be an honorarium. When someone praises my sermons, or some troubled soul from another parish thanks me, I begin immediately to think how through all this my reputation may spread and I might receive a call that would be more advantageous. And if I am called to conduct a funeral, I wonder in my greedy heart whether I shall get a fee for it. And this is only a small part of my misery. Such is my condition."
II. Jesus Only
Neither does God in his grace reckon with the good deeds of men, for God looks only upon the dear Son and will not look upon man and his good deeds, and this in order that he may not have to look upon man's sins and count against him the very sins with which all human good deeds are tainted, and so be forced to punish them in his righteousness. ...... This, then, was the solution: Sin always remains, yet is always atoned for!
"It was much like that for me too. I have never before seen the truth about grace and sinful corruption so clearly presented. One toils with the flesh but never gets it put to death. One wonders, then, if perhaps the conversion was not genuine, or if no more grace is to be found. But today I have come to understand that the saving foundation does not lie here" (he beat upon his chest), "but in Jesus only. If he has redeemed my corrupt human nature, I can continue on the narrow way with confidence."
"...but to be converted means to take refuge in grace. It is to believe in Jesus, in Jesus only. It's a salvation for sinners. There is no other salvation."
(This is a great argument against the statement "people are basically good".) "Can a little child be saved? And if so, on what grounds?.... I mean, are children prepared to enter the kingdom of God just as they are, or must they, too, be made partakers of the salvation in Christ?"
"They must be saved by Jesus. Is it not written, 'That which is born of the flesh is flesh.' and 'Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God?"
"That is, without a doubt, what is written and without a doubt the Scripture means that all mankind from Adam on is under the rule of sin and death. There is none righteous, and all are included under the judgment. But all can be redeemed in Christ. It had not until today occurred to me that this included the children. The sinful corruption about which we were talking a while ago is the natural state also of the children...."
"... We carry our corrupt sinful nature with us from the cradle. From life's first day we belong to the race that is under judgment and in need of salvation."
"But is it not written that the little children belong to the kingdom of God?"
"No, the passage states that of such is the kingdom of God. The kingdom of God belongs to the children and the childlike. That is the very opposite. The children needed to come to Jesus to become partakers in the kingdom of God, just as much as publicans and all other sinners. That is why they must not be turned away. Jesus did not say, 'Let them play in peace. They are already blessed.' Instead, he said, 'Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not.' Then he laid his hands upon them and blessed them, and received them into his kingdom."
"But he did not baptize them!"
"Neither did he baptize anyone else. He took people directly into the kingdom. But to his church he has given baptism, that through this gateway we might be brought into the kingdom of God. He has given us no other way of entrance. 'Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God."
"But children cannot believe. 'He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved.' Thus faith is necessary for baptism."
"Not for baptism, but for salvation. Jesus does not in that passage say what is necessary in order to be baptized, but what is necessary in order to be saved. Faith and baptism are two that belong together. Don't you see, Ahlberg, how dreadful it would be if children could not believe? In that case they could not be saved, either."
III. On This Rock
Once again he was seized by a crushing sense of insignificance in the presence of an overwhelming Power. As he sat here, he realized that he was completely borne and supported by God's power. He could feel the pulse beat in his wrists. Without a constant fresh supply of God's creative will, it would beat no more. Life, which made it possible for him to raise his eyes and look out through the window or move his foot under the chair, was then a gift which he must accept second by second from God's hand. At any moment his Lord and Owner could take back the gift at will and bid him give an account of his stewardship of it.
"We are now in the midst of Lent, Brother. Read God's Word now as God's Word, without skipping anything. Underline heavily everything about what our Savior has done for us. And if you like, write 'For me' in the margin...."
"That is faith in the Bible as the voice of God, so that if you read it to hear what God would say to you, you actually hear God speak. For my part, I have the simple belief that the Bible is exactly as God wanted it to be. That does not mean, perhaps, that every detail is set forth systematically for science, as in an academic treatise. But it means that every little detail has been given such a form that a human being who seeks salvation will be helped to find the truth."
"There are two signs of falsifying the measure that are inescapably sure. One is that a person considers himself, his deeds and his life good enough to find acceptance with God: the other is that he calls that right which the Word of God calls wrong."
"Thus the backsliding Peter, when he had experienced the great grace, the grace that the penitent thief received on Calvary, could become both an apostolic leader and a martyr witness to the faith. Yes, he then witnessed no longer concerning his faith, but concerning the Savior, and could finally make the supreme sacrifice of his own life with confidence, a sacrifice he was unable to make as long as he lived by his own resolutions and his own righteousness."
I know that was a long review, but if you read it all, you might be able to see why it spoke to me. These are things that lots of us struggle with and need reassurance of. The Hammer of God is one of those books that you could read several times, and get something new out of each time.
Thankfully, it wasn't like that at all! In reality, the book doesn't talk much of Lutheranism, it simply "preaches" Jesus only; grace, redemption, and salvation through Christ alone. Yes, this is Lutheran theology, but it is also the Christian faith.
I found myself quite able to relate to many of the struggles related within the stories. I also really liked how Giertz would present a misconception that a character was struggling with quite logically, so that it made a good bit of sense and you thought it really was correct, only to then show later on, how it was in error and the logic behind the real reason makes even more sense than you thought the other way did!
Hammer of God is three stories in one. (Hmmm, did the author do that one purpose? Three in one? Maybe I'm looking too hard for symbolism here.) I made note of things that really stood out to me in the book. I'm going to write them out here. (I apologize for any errors made in what is very long review.)
I. Hammer of God
"It is repentance that I lack."
"You do not lack repentance, Johannes, but faith. You have walked the way of repentance for thirty years."
......
" Then your repentance is also as true as it can be in a corrupt child of Adam in this world. Your danger is not that you lack repentance, but that you have been drifting away from faith."
"Must a true disciple sell all that he has and give it to the poor?"
"I have asked myself that question many times," said the curate a bit uncertainly..... "Zacchaeus didn't do that when he became a true disciple. The Lord shall be the owner of everything, but he must have someone to steward his property..... Let God rule the heart; he will then rule also the farm and the money."
At that moment his breast seemed to be pierced through as by a flame of fire. Who was he to stand here and judge?.... Was it perhaps nothing but natural aversion and lack of love, coming from his own depraved nature, that pronounced judgment? Was he not himself a sinner who needed all the atoning power of the chalice in his hands? Could he receive it rightly himself when he was so unmerciful in his judgments while administering it at the altar? Would not judgment without mercy fall upon him who showed no mercy?
"I wish there were some special sin, one that I could take hold of. But it is just a doughy mass of wretchedness that is boiling over. Pride and uncleanness, greed for money, laziness, and lack of delight in all that is holy - there is neither beginning nor end to it...... I want to serve God only, but if I get a few of my spiritual poems published in some calendar, I wonder right away if there will be an honorarium. When someone praises my sermons, or some troubled soul from another parish thanks me, I begin immediately to think how through all this my reputation may spread and I might receive a call that would be more advantageous. And if I am called to conduct a funeral, I wonder in my greedy heart whether I shall get a fee for it. And this is only a small part of my misery. Such is my condition."
II. Jesus Only
Neither does God in his grace reckon with the good deeds of men, for God looks only upon the dear Son and will not look upon man and his good deeds, and this in order that he may not have to look upon man's sins and count against him the very sins with which all human good deeds are tainted, and so be forced to punish them in his righteousness. ...... This, then, was the solution: Sin always remains, yet is always atoned for!
"It was much like that for me too. I have never before seen the truth about grace and sinful corruption so clearly presented. One toils with the flesh but never gets it put to death. One wonders, then, if perhaps the conversion was not genuine, or if no more grace is to be found. But today I have come to understand that the saving foundation does not lie here" (he beat upon his chest), "but in Jesus only. If he has redeemed my corrupt human nature, I can continue on the narrow way with confidence."
"...but to be converted means to take refuge in grace. It is to believe in Jesus, in Jesus only. It's a salvation for sinners. There is no other salvation."
(This is a great argument against the statement "people are basically good".) "Can a little child be saved? And if so, on what grounds?.... I mean, are children prepared to enter the kingdom of God just as they are, or must they, too, be made partakers of the salvation in Christ?"
"They must be saved by Jesus. Is it not written, 'That which is born of the flesh is flesh.' and 'Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God?"
"That is, without a doubt, what is written and without a doubt the Scripture means that all mankind from Adam on is under the rule of sin and death. There is none righteous, and all are included under the judgment. But all can be redeemed in Christ. It had not until today occurred to me that this included the children. The sinful corruption about which we were talking a while ago is the natural state also of the children...."
"... We carry our corrupt sinful nature with us from the cradle. From life's first day we belong to the race that is under judgment and in need of salvation."
"But is it not written that the little children belong to the kingdom of God?"
"No, the passage states that of such is the kingdom of God. The kingdom of God belongs to the children and the childlike. That is the very opposite. The children needed to come to Jesus to become partakers in the kingdom of God, just as much as publicans and all other sinners. That is why they must not be turned away. Jesus did not say, 'Let them play in peace. They are already blessed.' Instead, he said, 'Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not.' Then he laid his hands upon them and blessed them, and received them into his kingdom."
"But he did not baptize them!"
"Neither did he baptize anyone else. He took people directly into the kingdom. But to his church he has given baptism, that through this gateway we might be brought into the kingdom of God. He has given us no other way of entrance. 'Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God."
"But children cannot believe. 'He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved.' Thus faith is necessary for baptism."
"Not for baptism, but for salvation. Jesus does not in that passage say what is necessary in order to be baptized, but what is necessary in order to be saved. Faith and baptism are two that belong together. Don't you see, Ahlberg, how dreadful it would be if children could not believe? In that case they could not be saved, either."
III. On This Rock
Once again he was seized by a crushing sense of insignificance in the presence of an overwhelming Power. As he sat here, he realized that he was completely borne and supported by God's power. He could feel the pulse beat in his wrists. Without a constant fresh supply of God's creative will, it would beat no more. Life, which made it possible for him to raise his eyes and look out through the window or move his foot under the chair, was then a gift which he must accept second by second from God's hand. At any moment his Lord and Owner could take back the gift at will and bid him give an account of his stewardship of it.
"We are now in the midst of Lent, Brother. Read God's Word now as God's Word, without skipping anything. Underline heavily everything about what our Savior has done for us. And if you like, write 'For me' in the margin...."
"That is faith in the Bible as the voice of God, so that if you read it to hear what God would say to you, you actually hear God speak. For my part, I have the simple belief that the Bible is exactly as God wanted it to be. That does not mean, perhaps, that every detail is set forth systematically for science, as in an academic treatise. But it means that every little detail has been given such a form that a human being who seeks salvation will be helped to find the truth."
"There are two signs of falsifying the measure that are inescapably sure. One is that a person considers himself, his deeds and his life good enough to find acceptance with God: the other is that he calls that right which the Word of God calls wrong."
"Thus the backsliding Peter, when he had experienced the great grace, the grace that the penitent thief received on Calvary, could become both an apostolic leader and a martyr witness to the faith. Yes, he then witnessed no longer concerning his faith, but concerning the Savior, and could finally make the supreme sacrifice of his own life with confidence, a sacrifice he was unable to make as long as he lived by his own resolutions and his own righteousness."
I know that was a long review, but if you read it all, you might be able to see why it spoke to me. These are things that lots of us struggle with and need reassurance of. The Hammer of God is one of those books that you could read several times, and get something new out of each time.
July 26, 2025
This book was recommended to both my husband and I by our Pastor, and I feel so blessed to have read it. I firmly believe more Christian fiction ought to be written like this. The book contains three short stories, following three separate young pastors from different time periods but all set in the same Swedish town. I suspect it may be semi-autobiographical from Bo Giertz' own experiences as a Swedish bishop in the 1900s.
The first story - Hammer of God, set in 1808 follows curate Henrick Savonius (assistant pastor to Dean Faltin) in which a sick visit to a peasant so deeply convicted in his sins inspires him so deeply that it transforms him into a much more zealous and fire and brimstone type preacher - to the dismay of many of the other clergyman. Overtime Savonius learns the importance of needing to emphasise more Sola Fide principals and not to downplay the salvation freely received in Christ's atoning sacrifice that covers ones sins. I interpreted it to be somewhat of a warning against becoming too legalistic to the point where you are tormented by your sins, expecting damnation and neglecting the fact that Christ covered them on the cross.
The second story, Jesus Only, was my husband's favourite. Set in 1877-1880, following young Pastor Fridfeldt. My husband found he loved the opening of the story, and indeed it was very relatable, in which Fridfeldt has to manage a conflict concerning the swindling purchase of a cow between two Christian men, and it demoralised him deeply to see Christians behaving in such un-christian ways. There is a very amusing scene that follows where the rector confronts every single party in this conflict about their sins and convicts every person involved. However, beyond cow antics the heart of this story is actually the theological validity of infant baptism. When Fridfeldt's friend Conrad writes to him about his conversion into the Baptist denomination, and Fridfeldt finds himself interacting with more baptists in general he goes through a season of denominational doubt and begins to consider the subject of re-baptism/adult baptism. Through a series of pastoral duties though we experience alongside him these doubts being put to rest, and it concludes with Fridfeldt delivering a beautiful speech in a meeting with the baptists about how the Lutheran view of infant baptism is valid and true.
My ultimate favourite story though, was by far the third. "On this Rock", set in 1937-1940, following Pastor Gösta Torvik. In this he is thrown into despair upon watching his best friend Gunnar Schenstedt fall victim to a very poor liberal theology, in which he begins to believe morality is relative. Schenstedt starts to dismiss the law in favour of gospel reductionism/antinomian heresy, and basically reasons backwards from his sexual sin to justify his lifestyle and not follow the bible at all. In some ways the opposite problem from the first story (Hammer of God), a lack of emphasis on the law and misusing the fact that Salvation is freely given by Christ to basically do whatever one wants regardless of how sinful or culturally destructive. Reading this it was hard to fathom it was a book written in the 1940s, because it is so relevant to today and I hear the same faulty arguments Gunnar made from progressive christians all the time.
Furthermore what I loved about this book is that Pastor Torvik goes on to have a family with a wonderful Godly woman Britta Torvik, and we get a glimpse into his life as a father and husband, with very high stakes as the war in Finland with the Bolsheviks is ever looming. These combined themes and the beautiful ending, made this one, in my opinion, by far the most compelling and amazing of the three.
Overall, this book really solidifies my value and appreciation of the Pastoral estate, and all the hardworking and God-fearing men, historical and present, who have dedicated their lives to such a honourable vocation.
The first story - Hammer of God, set in 1808 follows curate Henrick Savonius (assistant pastor to Dean Faltin) in which a sick visit to a peasant so deeply convicted in his sins inspires him so deeply that it transforms him into a much more zealous and fire and brimstone type preacher - to the dismay of many of the other clergyman. Overtime Savonius learns the importance of needing to emphasise more Sola Fide principals and not to downplay the salvation freely received in Christ's atoning sacrifice that covers ones sins. I interpreted it to be somewhat of a warning against becoming too legalistic to the point where you are tormented by your sins, expecting damnation and neglecting the fact that Christ covered them on the cross.
The second story, Jesus Only, was my husband's favourite. Set in 1877-1880, following young Pastor Fridfeldt. My husband found he loved the opening of the story, and indeed it was very relatable, in which Fridfeldt has to manage a conflict concerning the swindling purchase of a cow between two Christian men, and it demoralised him deeply to see Christians behaving in such un-christian ways. There is a very amusing scene that follows where the rector confronts every single party in this conflict about their sins and convicts every person involved. However, beyond cow antics the heart of this story is actually the theological validity of infant baptism. When Fridfeldt's friend Conrad writes to him about his conversion into the Baptist denomination, and Fridfeldt finds himself interacting with more baptists in general he goes through a season of denominational doubt and begins to consider the subject of re-baptism/adult baptism. Through a series of pastoral duties though we experience alongside him these doubts being put to rest, and it concludes with Fridfeldt delivering a beautiful speech in a meeting with the baptists about how the Lutheran view of infant baptism is valid and true.
My ultimate favourite story though, was by far the third. "On this Rock", set in 1937-1940, following Pastor Gösta Torvik. In this he is thrown into despair upon watching his best friend Gunnar Schenstedt fall victim to a very poor liberal theology, in which he begins to believe morality is relative. Schenstedt starts to dismiss the law in favour of gospel reductionism/antinomian heresy, and basically reasons backwards from his sexual sin to justify his lifestyle and not follow the bible at all. In some ways the opposite problem from the first story (Hammer of God), a lack of emphasis on the law and misusing the fact that Salvation is freely given by Christ to basically do whatever one wants regardless of how sinful or culturally destructive. Reading this it was hard to fathom it was a book written in the 1940s, because it is so relevant to today and I hear the same faulty arguments Gunnar made from progressive christians all the time.
Furthermore what I loved about this book is that Pastor Torvik goes on to have a family with a wonderful Godly woman Britta Torvik, and we get a glimpse into his life as a father and husband, with very high stakes as the war in Finland with the Bolsheviks is ever looming. These combined themes and the beautiful ending, made this one, in my opinion, by far the most compelling and amazing of the three.
Overall, this book really solidifies my value and appreciation of the Pastoral estate, and all the hardworking and God-fearing men, historical and present, who have dedicated their lives to such a honourable vocation.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 11, 2025
This book was gifted to me by my pastor, to be included in my Lenten season reading plan.
I have never had a book affect me in this way.
Translated from Swedish, this book consists of three novellas, distinct stories that all take place in the same village, called Odesjo. In each of the stories, the central character is a different pastor, called a curate, who works under a rector, preaching and providing communion in the local church and in peoples' homes. There is a period of roughly a hundred years between the first story "The Hammer of God," and the last one, "On This Rock." The middle tale, in my opinion the one with the most impact, is called "Jesus Only." Each of the stories has three chapters. For some reason, earlier editions of the translation do not include the last chapter of the book, but this one does, having been revised in 2005.
In all three of the stories, the curate at the center undergoes some amazing transformation as he grows in his understanding of the Gospel of Christ. And while this book is, indeed, considered a novel, it is deeply theological. In fact, there is more theology in this work of fiction than I have found in some textbooks.
The writing in this book is some of the most engaging writing I have ever read. The translator of the last chapter, Hans Andrae, wrote this in the preface: "The reader gets totally immersed in the unfolding story as well as fully engaged in the many mind-boggling and heart-wrenching dialogues. Holding the reader in a grip like a good detective story, the unfolding events present a spiritual drama of death and life, of despair and hope, of upheaval and peace, of sin and grace - all experienced in everyday life by real people in their relation to the Church and her message.
I wept so many times while reading this book that I lost count, the most intense time being at the conclusion of the middle story, "Jesus Only." My own faith has been strengthened and renewed at the reading of this treasure of a book, and I will be forever grateful to my pastor for gifting it to me.
I would most definitely recommend this book, but to a select group of people. Only those interested in an intense story of the marvelous, infinite, matchless grace of God, given in Jesus Christ, would truly get it, I think. But it might be good for someone who is stuck in the grip of legalistic, works-oriented religion to read, as well.
I have never had a book affect me in this way.
Translated from Swedish, this book consists of three novellas, distinct stories that all take place in the same village, called Odesjo. In each of the stories, the central character is a different pastor, called a curate, who works under a rector, preaching and providing communion in the local church and in peoples' homes. There is a period of roughly a hundred years between the first story "The Hammer of God," and the last one, "On This Rock." The middle tale, in my opinion the one with the most impact, is called "Jesus Only." Each of the stories has three chapters. For some reason, earlier editions of the translation do not include the last chapter of the book, but this one does, having been revised in 2005.
In all three of the stories, the curate at the center undergoes some amazing transformation as he grows in his understanding of the Gospel of Christ. And while this book is, indeed, considered a novel, it is deeply theological. In fact, there is more theology in this work of fiction than I have found in some textbooks.
The writing in this book is some of the most engaging writing I have ever read. The translator of the last chapter, Hans Andrae, wrote this in the preface: "The reader gets totally immersed in the unfolding story as well as fully engaged in the many mind-boggling and heart-wrenching dialogues. Holding the reader in a grip like a good detective story, the unfolding events present a spiritual drama of death and life, of despair and hope, of upheaval and peace, of sin and grace - all experienced in everyday life by real people in their relation to the Church and her message.
I wept so many times while reading this book that I lost count, the most intense time being at the conclusion of the middle story, "Jesus Only." My own faith has been strengthened and renewed at the reading of this treasure of a book, and I will be forever grateful to my pastor for gifting it to me.
I would most definitely recommend this book, but to a select group of people. Only those interested in an intense story of the marvelous, infinite, matchless grace of God, given in Jesus Christ, would truly get it, I think. But it might be good for someone who is stuck in the grip of legalistic, works-oriented religion to read, as well.
July 14, 2023
"But can you tell me, Mother Lotta, what might possibly be able to help overcome the corruption that I have in my heart?"
The woman looked up at him as if shocked at the question.
"The blood of the atonement, Pastor; nothing but the atoning blood."
Bo Giertz's The Hammer of God was a deeply rewarding and enriching read. Especially as a person aspiring to be a pastor (and about to be a vicar, for that matter), this book was a clear and vivid reminder of where my confidence lies (and spoiler, it is NOT in myself or my efforts). While we are trained as pastors in counseling and care of souls, it was poignant that in Giertz's stories, it was so often the pastor being counseled by his people, and that was a clear and powerful takeaway for me. Giertz has three narrative stories in this book, all taken from the same Finnish parish but separated by generation. It was intriguing to see that the same errors and reminders of the all-sufficient work of Christ popped up in each subsequent generation, showing just how necessary it is to emphasize always the message of the gospel, for it is foreign to us. God taking human flesh? Christ taking on our sin? Christ being more than enough for our salvation? Surely we must do something! Each page Giertz writes is a resounding reminder that it is just because we can't do anything for salvation that we are able to receive it gratefully and do works of love as a response (though not as means to this salvation!).
While some of Giertz's imagery can get a bit heavy and lengthy at times, this book is well worth your while. The hammer of God truly breaks apart all our pride and works, only to fill us with His grace and mercy in Christ! What good news to be reminded of.
The woman looked up at him as if shocked at the question.
"The blood of the atonement, Pastor; nothing but the atoning blood."
Bo Giertz's The Hammer of God was a deeply rewarding and enriching read. Especially as a person aspiring to be a pastor (and about to be a vicar, for that matter), this book was a clear and vivid reminder of where my confidence lies (and spoiler, it is NOT in myself or my efforts). While we are trained as pastors in counseling and care of souls, it was poignant that in Giertz's stories, it was so often the pastor being counseled by his people, and that was a clear and powerful takeaway for me. Giertz has three narrative stories in this book, all taken from the same Finnish parish but separated by generation. It was intriguing to see that the same errors and reminders of the all-sufficient work of Christ popped up in each subsequent generation, showing just how necessary it is to emphasize always the message of the gospel, for it is foreign to us. God taking human flesh? Christ taking on our sin? Christ being more than enough for our salvation? Surely we must do something! Each page Giertz writes is a resounding reminder that it is just because we can't do anything for salvation that we are able to receive it gratefully and do works of love as a response (though not as means to this salvation!).
While some of Giertz's imagery can get a bit heavy and lengthy at times, this book is well worth your while. The hammer of God truly breaks apart all our pride and works, only to fill us with His grace and mercy in Christ! What good news to be reminded of.
February 25, 2023
This was a wonderful Christmas gift from a daughter. I had never heard of the author before receiving this book! Giertz wove a story of three "regular priests" serving the Lord and His people in rural Sweden. Only a slim thread unites the three as they are separated by many years. In terms that a modern person would recognize, none of them were successful. There was no "Great Awakenings" under their leadership. There was no prestige or acclaim. Indeed, one of the three is run out of town by factions. The three were successful in the matters that truly count. They learned obedience and faithfulness to their Heavenly Father. They learned to value what God values in themselves and in others. They all learned to be humble. IN this way, they were used by their Master to build on the foundation God had established. Instead of creating world-wide acclaim, they aided others in being built on the foundation of the Lord Jesus Christ and His apostles. They were common churchmen who saw common people refined and purified for Christ's glory. There is nothing regular or common about that!
Be aware that Giertz is a High-Church Lutheran. My baptistic toes were stomped on in several places. It mainly hurt in the areas where we Baptists need to get ourselves corrected. Giertz has a high view of the people of God assembled together and working out their faith together. An idea that is seldom discussed in Baptist circles but a thoroughly biblical concept we need to re-establish in our congregations.
Read and learn from this wonderful novel. It seems accurate in its historical settings which brings a smile to my Swedish heart.
Be aware that Giertz is a High-Church Lutheran. My baptistic toes were stomped on in several places. It mainly hurt in the areas where we Baptists need to get ourselves corrected. Giertz has a high view of the people of God assembled together and working out their faith together. An idea that is seldom discussed in Baptist circles but a thoroughly biblical concept we need to re-establish in our congregations.
Read and learn from this wonderful novel. It seems accurate in its historical settings which brings a smile to my Swedish heart.
September 9, 2021
Every pastor needs to read this book.
It is an amazing novel about the transformative power of the Gospel. The novel takes place in a small (and, I believe, fictional) village in Sweden. The story is in three parts over three different eras of Sweden’s religious history. Three different pastors have to address the concerns that come up in their parishes. Revivalism/legalism tend to be the trouble in the first two parts. The third part is a kind of neo-enthusiasm (in the Reformation sense). The pastors all begin to be transformed by the Gospel of grace. They begin to realize that Jesus alone is the one who can save us and that we cannot do anything to help ourselves.
Even if you have no connection to Sweden (my wife’s great-grandparents immigrated from Sweden), it is a beautiful story that speaks a true word about the Christian faith. I cannot recommend it highly enough!
It is an amazing novel about the transformative power of the Gospel. The novel takes place in a small (and, I believe, fictional) village in Sweden. The story is in three parts over three different eras of Sweden’s religious history. Three different pastors have to address the concerns that come up in their parishes. Revivalism/legalism tend to be the trouble in the first two parts. The third part is a kind of neo-enthusiasm (in the Reformation sense). The pastors all begin to be transformed by the Gospel of grace. They begin to realize that Jesus alone is the one who can save us and that we cannot do anything to help ourselves.
Even if you have no connection to Sweden (my wife’s great-grandparents immigrated from Sweden), it is a beautiful story that speaks a true word about the Christian faith. I cannot recommend it highly enough!
August 1, 2020
This is quite a unique book: a fictional novel (or rather a collection of 3 novellas) infused with sound doctrine. The book is set in a parish in Sweden, and recounts the work of three pastors in different time periods, who minister there, and often times how the congregants and fellow pastors minister to the main characters. These pastors struggle with their faith, beliefs, doctrines, actions. The book is really a testament to the importance of fellowship of Christians, it describes ministering put in practice, and the blessings that span generations of faithful Christianity. I anticipate rereading this in the future!
October 29, 2020
This novel gave me so much to think about. How does my theology affect my daily life? And how does it impact my ability to comfort and advise others? Is God's Word my true foundation for all of life? Although this book is full of Lutheran hierarchy, it really applies to anyone who wants their life to line up with God's Word. I'm not sure why I didn't hear of this book years ago, as it's definitely worth spending time with. Fascinating!
Here's one of many good quotes: "“Not that your heart is unclean—that is the work of sin—but that you now see it, that is the work of God.” “But why, then, have I not received a clean heart?” “That you might learn to love Jesus,” said the woman as calmly as before."
Here's one of many good quotes: "“Not that your heart is unclean—that is the work of sin—but that you now see it, that is the work of God.” “But why, then, have I not received a clean heart?” “That you might learn to love Jesus,” said the woman as calmly as before."
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