The Good: This is by far one of the best popular level discussions on God’s attributes available today. I found Barrett’s discussions on aseity, simplicity, and jealousy to be particularly engaging. But more than this, I appreciated that Barrett brought the attributes into conversation with each other, showing how they are doctrinally linked in a necessary (and profoundly coherent) way.


The Bad: I would have appreciated a more robust discussion on Open Theism, which is only given a brief treatment in the book. The works of Greg Boyd in particular means that open theism will continue to be a topic of discussion due to Boyd’s prolific writing, particularly on evil, suffering and, more recently, on his cruciform hermeneutic—all of which assume (and argue in favour of) open theism.



The Ugly(ish): A handful of chapters had sections that seemed like unending quotes from Stephen Charnock, which was distracting. However, even given this, the book was well written and chapters well structured, such that even these moments of distraction didn’t take away substantially from the book and its arguments.

I received a review copy of this book from the publisher, provided through Netgalley. All opinions are my own.

This book is much more than just an exploration of the attributes of God. I am impressed with Barrett clarifying how the attributes are interrelated. He shows how we cannot latch on to the attributes we like and ignore the rest. Barrett will not let us create a comfortable God, a being like us. Nor will he let us have a God we can control.

Barrett has given us a view of God consistent with the Bible. He deals with some of God's attributes and actions that might not be popular with people who want God to just be love. We are reminded that God is not a glorified human. He is not like we are. Our finite minds cannot even begin to comprehend His infinite being. We are so limited in our understanding, there will always be mystery.

While this book is generally readable, it is theology. Sometimes I had to stop and reread passages to make sure I was grasping what Barrett was communicating. He has included a glossary to help readers with theological terms, such as aseity.

I highly recommend this book. I have read a number of recent books where the authors attempt to make God someone we can like and accept like a glorified human. Barrett portrays God as He is revealed in the Bible. I am glad Barrett has set the record straight.

I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.