Book Review: "Questions and Answers" by Guy N. Woods
To say this book is helpful is a great understatement. So many have read this book that it seems a bit silly to “review” it. However, there are many who have it on their shelf and have never read it. (Sadly, I had this book for several months before I read it. I try to read books in some order. I now wish I had moved this book “up the list”.)
For this volume, brother Guy N. Woods collected questions which were submitted to him at the open forum session of Freed-Hardeman University’s annual Bible lectureship. The range of topics covered in the 366 pages is truly incredible, and will help a preacher, Bible class teacher or parent when studying many subjects.
Allow me to say that there are some answers brother Woods gives with which I do not completely agree (such as his claim that using “You” and “Your” in prayer is a dangerous road to follow). His scholarship and dedication to detail, however, make all the subjects treated a great help. Whether one agrees with every answer put forth or not is not the question (the book is not inspired, so there is room for disagreement), the major issue is that the book helps one study. For that reason, I highly recommend this book.
The book was published in 1976 and brother E. Claude Gardner wrote a short introduction to the book in 1975. Allow his words to speak for me:
For over two decades brother Woods has conducted the famous Open Forum at Freed-Hardeman College. It is unquestionably the most popular period in the lectureship day, and it enjoys a great respect among brethren across the land. Through his work he has been a tower of strength in support of the college position for the “old paths.” Of the lectureship…he stated, “It is dedicated completely to the old paths.” … It is befitting to have a collection of the questions and answers by brother Woods from the Open Forum. We are pleased to be able to present this volume which is destined to become a classic. It contains discussion of some difficult topics and issues by this close student of the Bible. Orders soared when we announced publication, and surely it will be in demand for several generations. We express our sincere gratitude for the many hours and months of his precious time which he devoted to the preparation of the manuscript. … We salute brother Woods as a successful evangelist, able scholar, cogent writer, experienced lecturer, wise counselor, skilled defender of the faith, Christian gentleman and personal friend.
The book may be obtained by calling FHU’s bookstore or by going to the website. The link directly to this book may be found by clicking here. (The picture above is from this site.) The book costs $19.99 and is well worth the cost. You will find yourself using it many times, I’m sure. I know I will use it again and again.
