Our latest summer reading recommendation features an entire series, the Acrostic Theology for Kids by Jonathan Gibson and Timothy Brindle.
Each of the four books in the series introduces children ages five to eleven to systematic theology from A-to-Z uniquely on their age level. Using the alphabet to teach about God has a rich history in the Bible, especially in the Psalms and Lamentations. Several of the psalms—notably Psalm 119—form an acrostic that spells out the entire Hebrew alphabet.
“The inspiration behind these acrostic books comes from John Calvin. In 1542, Calvin simplified his Catechism for the Genevan Church so that children could better understand and memorize the essential truths of the Christian Faith,” the authors explain. “These acrostic books are not strictly catechetical (questions and answers), but they are written in that same tradition of instruction. As such, they are a means of planting the good seed of God’s Word into the hearts of children, so that they might grow in the grace and knowledge of the Lord Jesus.”
The four books in this fun series are:
- The Acrostic of God: A Rhyming Theology for Kids which features the titles and attributes of God, weaving together a beautiful picture of who God is.
- The Acrostic of Jesus: A Rhyming Christology for Kids helps readers gain a greater understanding of Christ and why he came to Earth.
- The Acrostic of Salvation: A Rhyming Soteriology for Kids offers an alphabet of words showing what salvation through Jesus is all about.
- The Acrostic of Scripture: A Rhyming Biblical Theology for Kids paints a detailed and varied portrait of the unfolding story of the Bible as it is fulfilled by Jesus.
Families will find the books not only educational but entertaining to read and reread. Each book may be read in one sitting (either by parent/teacher or child), or it may be used for family devotions, taking one letter per day for families to meditate on, with the accompanying Bible verses listed on each page. Each letter is illustrated by C. S. Fritz to visually reinforce the characteristic described and aid in making the memory connection.
To help children get a feel for the rhyme and rhythm of the books, readers will find a QR in the back of each book so they can scan and listen to Timothy Brindle read the book in rap style. In fact, we’d like to share the audio version of The Acrostic of God with you here.
Timothy Brindle has also released a rap album in coordination with each book. The albums include songs based on the content of the book. The albums are available for purchase at timothybrindleministries.com in MP3 format.
