A Beginner's Guide to Talmage

Book Details

Author: Calvin R. Stephens (compiler)
Release Date: May 2013
Publisher: Deseret Book
Genre: Inspiration

When I first saw this title I thought it would be a book on "how to understand the writings of Talmage."
Then I opened up the book and saw that it was SO MUCH MORE!

If I would have read the bottom of the book cover I would have noticed that this is "Excerpts from the writings of James E. Talmage."
But again...this book is SO MUCH MORE even than that!

James E. Talmage was a powerful author and orator. His books were often written at the request of The First Presidency...

Now Calvin R. Stephens has taken these writings and given us a WONDERFUL study guide and reference manual.

This book can be used for personal study, teaching material, and talk inspirations.

It is divided up into subject matter and gives us the teaching of Talmage on these topics:

Plan of Salvation

The Godhead

Jesus the Christ

The Atonement of Jesus Christ

Mortal Probation

Satan is an Enemy to God and Man

The Dispensation of the Fullness of Times

Church Government

Principles and Ordinances of the Gospel

Missionary Work

Scriptures

Responsibility of the Covenant People

Don't miss out on this amazing book!

A fun little side note about James E. Talmage....
He was a third-generation member, but even so the adversary tested him. When James was 10-years-old his father took him the the dark of night to be baptized to avoid persecution. As they were getting ready to enter the water they heard a terrible, frightening shriek, yell, scream, howl...awful noise. His father asked him if he was too frightened to be baptized...James answered by stepping into the water.

About the Author/Compiler

Calvin R. Stephens received his master’s degree in LDS history and doctrine from Brigham Young University. He has been a popular instructor at the Ogden LDSInstitute, BYU–Jerusalem Center, and BYU Education Week. He served as the president of the California San Bernardino Mission and as a member of the Church’s Materials Evaluation Committee. He and his wife, Lynette Davis Stephens, are the parents of four children.

A digital review copy was provided for this review.
However, all reviews are of my own opinion :)