Emblems of the Infinite King

Enter the Knowledge of the Living God

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Pub Date 15 Oct 2019 | Archive Date 05 Oct 2019

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Description

Emblems of the Infinite King seeks to introduce young readers to the beauty of God’s Word using the categories of systematic theology in bright, creative, and innovative ways. Written for kids ages 10+.

Emblems of the Infinite King seeks to introduce young readers to the beauty of God’s Word using the categories of systematic theology in bright, creative, and innovative ways. Written for kids ages...


A Note From the Publisher

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Advance Praise

“When sound systematic theology is conveyed to kids in a vibrant and accessible way, it is a victory to be celebrated. Emblems of the Infinite King does this, and I enthusiastically recommend it!”
—Randy Alcorn, author, Heaven; If God Is Good; and Hand in Hand

Emblems of the Infinite King may be the coolest theology textbook the world has ever seen. But it’s not style at the expense of substance. Each lesson is concise, approachable, and packed with theological insight. The words and the illustrations work in tandem to communicate profound truth. For Christian parents, educators, youth pastors, and young people, this is an essential new resource.”
—Brett McCracken, Senior Editor, The Gospel Coalition; author, Uncomfortable and Hipster Christianity

“It is probably the greatest challenge for an artist to visualize biblical teaching. To bring something true and beautiful to the point without falling into clichés and yet remain fresh and innovative is something that very few artists succeed in doing. Anthony Benedetto did just that with his illustrations for Emblems of the Infinite King. An extraordinary achievement that will help many young readers to get to know the true God of the Bible better.”
—Peter Voth, designer; illustrator

“Benedetto’s iconic illustration style coupled with Lister’s immersive writing is a perfect pairing. This is a must-have for fans of both rich theology and beautiful illustration.”
—Don Clark, artist; Cofounder, Invisible Creature

“In Emblems of the Infinite King, the author and illustrator have used beautiful words and pictures to tell of the beautiful triune God and the beautiful gospel. Here is a theological primer worth reading to your children, with your children, and for your children to read on their own.”
—Ron Marrs, President, Portland Youth Workers Network; Professor of Youth and Pastoral Ministry, Western Seminary; Elder, Hinson Baptist Church

“As a father and educator, this work fills a void for the body of Christ. Lister and Benedetto combine theology with resplendent graphics to present the epic story of redemption in Christ. It is a masterful way of presenting the true, good, and beautiful to formative hearts and minds through the disciplines of biblical and systematic theology. Emblems of the Infinite King will become a seminal work for young theologians and a great handbook for parents and educators to pass on the faith to the next generation. This book keeps the good news of Jesus Christ as the central story of Scripture.”
—Dan Peterson, Head of School, Regents School of Austin, Texas

Emblems of the Infinite King is a beautifully told and beautifully illustrated story that creatively guides you through the even more beautiful truths of God’s character and work in the world. It is a theology book that captures and captivates, just like the God it sets out to describe. This is a book I look forward to reading to my children and one that I will make sure is on their bedside table when they are older as well.”
—Thomas J. Terry, Director, Humble Beast; member, Beautiful Eulogy; Lead Pastor, Trinity Church of Portland

“This book carries you into an ‘other than’ story experience, where you are immersed in a sense of fantasy and wonder, only to discover that it’s the story you are truly living with a King who is truly with you. It has captured my imagination and curiosity as a believer, reignited creative ways to communicate the truths of Scripture in my work as a pastor, and assisted me in my parenting as I help my children discover God. This book couples beautiful art with creative narrative to accomplish a wonderful unfolding of the doctrines our children so desperately need to learn.”
—Justin R. Rahmes, Lead Pastor, Missio Dei Church, Cincinnati, Ohio

“This amazing book, written in a narrative style, is a grand adventure through rich and mysterious theological truths. Beautifully woven together, the writing and illustrations echo with an ancient mythology.”
—John Hendrix, author and illustrator, Miracle Man and The Faithful Spy

Emblems of the Infinite King is an outstanding contribution to children’s Christian literature and will make an excellent addition to any family’s library. Grand theological topics are expounded on in a way that centers on the one who came to rescue those who could not rescue themselves. Divine truths are presented in ways that are accessible, appropriately weighty, deeply rooted in the gospel, and complemented with reverential illustrations that bring vivid attention to the sacredness of the message.”
—Jared Pulliam, Founding Pastor, Christ Church Sellwood, Portland, Oregon

Emblems of the Infinite King is the invitation to an adventure—and not just any adventure, but the greatest journey anyone could ever embark upon: that of knowing and following the living God. Explaining systematic theology using a poetic narrative, this book wisely frames biblical theology as a breathtaking glimpse of heaven, earth, and the grand arc of all history. With captivating illustrations, it offers parents a way to introduce their kids to the core doctrines of Christian faith in a way that evokes awe and wonder. For adults and kids alike, Emblems of the Infinite King captures the imagination and proves a powerful reminder of the story we all need to continually be reminded of—the story of the good King who loves his creation dearly.”
—Pip Craighead, author and illustrator, Little Francis Falls Asleep

Emblems of the Infinite King is systematic theology with a narrative approach that carefully weaves together the doctrines of the Christian faith, making sometimes abstract concepts palpable to young readers. Successfully peeling back layer by layer the heart and work of God in Christ, this book gives youth a firm foundation of who God is and who they are in relation to him. Paired with beautifully illustrated iconography, Emblems of the Infinite King gives clarity to the transcendent and illuminates the mystery.”
—Nollan Obena, Art Director, Cartoon Network

“When sound systematic theology is conveyed to kids in a vibrant and accessible way, it is a victory to be celebrated. Emblems of the Infinite King does this, and I enthusiastically recommend it!”
...


Available Editions

EDITION Other Format
ISBN 9781433563386
PRICE $24.99 (USD)

Average rating from 10 members


Featured Reviews

Wow! What an excellent way to teach systematic theology to older children! It's a little above my 7 year old's head, but I can't wait to read it with her when she's older! This book is very well written and also has engaging illustrations and different keys unlock different teachings about God. And through this teaching about God, we find out our place and purpose in His world. I highly recommend this imaginative and thought-provoking book!

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What a stunning book. As a parent of both teens and young adults, I was very impressed with the way that this book has been written and illustrated. Telling the sometimes hard-to-hear story of our sin and God's redemption in a way that will be appealing to ears that are often not wanting/ or ready to listen to the truth, I'll be recommending this to my readers and family.

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Okay, as I am not fully Christian, his review might be a bit different than the rest. However, I am interested in religion to learn more about the different sorts. It was a bit different to get into the flow of the book, in the beginning, but after I while I started to get the writing style. I think it will be a great book for 13 year olds to understand Christianity in a different way.

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First sentence: His strong and wise command cut through the empty silence as he reached out of the shadows to offer an ancient key. “I am the Key Keeper. I have come to show you the Way. But before you do anything . . . Heed this warning: Those who turn this key will never be the same. It will show your deepest guilt and display your darkest shame. You’ll see who you were made to be and what you’ve really become. But only if you turn the key will you find your story isn’t done, that the way ahead is the path that leads into the throne room of the Son, this one they call the Death Killer, who gives his life to pay your ransom. “If you so choose, pick up the key. Open the lock. “If you do, you will not be alone. I will walk with you and guide you. I will meet you on the other side.” Everything changed with the turn of a key.

This book is a great introduction of the gospel for children and teens to read either on their own or with their parents. The gospel presentation is structured around the thematic concept of keys. The Throne Room Key: The Doctrine of God. The Dust Key: The Doctrine of Humanity. The Serpent Key: The Doctrine of Sin. The Tomb Key: The Doctrine of Christ. The Spirit Key: The Doctrine of the Holy Spirit. The Gavel Key: The Doctrine of Salvation. The Temple Key: The Doctrine of the Church. The Throne Key: The Doctrine of Last Things.

I earlier said 'gospel presentation' but it could also be seen as an introduction to systematic theology. If you are already a believer, the clear presentation will strengthen and inform your faith. Plenty of substance to chew on. If you are not a believer--perhaps you've been exposed here and there to the faith of others--then I think this will give you food for thought. Perhaps the Spirit will use the book to help clarify and explain the faith.

I think the intended audience is children ages eight and up. But I think adults could benefit as well from reading this one. I do think families could benefit from using this one together. Counting the introduction and conclusion there are ten chapters/sections to read.

It does directly address the reader. Not many books for adults do this--for better or worse. I liked the style of this one--especially in small doses. I would recommend this one.

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What is the key to unlock the fountain of truth and ideas? Is there an accessible way to reveal the truths of God's Word? How can we explain difficult theological truths in simple terms, so that kids could understand? Surely, theology should not be restricted just for adults. With pictures, illustrations, and creative use of familiar symbols, author Ryan Lister gives us the metaphor of locks and keys. Making the use of keys to unlock eight fundamental theologies, Lister shows us fascinating ways to learn about the doctrines of God; humanity; sin; Christ; Holy Spirit; Salvation; Church; and the last days.

Keys are given to us. We ought to pick up these keys to open the lock and to enter into the truths God wants to reveal to all of us. For God is the "Key-keeper." Each key opens us to a particular room. The "Throne Room key" opens the door to theology, the Doctrine of God. We learn about worship in celebration and song. We move from ourselves to God, to see that the most important thing in the world is not us, but God. God wants to bless us, but we must let Him do so. Subtly, we are reminded that the king is not us, that God alone is king. The "Dust Key" reminds us that we are nothing until God came along. We are made from dust into the image of God, but we are still creatures needing God. Yet, God has made us his highest prize and desires to bless us. The "Serpent Key" is about sin and how mankind has fallen into brokenness and despair. It reminds us of Adam and Eve who fell into the deception of the serpent. Lister spends time to describe various images of pride (Tower of Babel); and the stain of sin from Genesis to depict the fallenness. Instead of worshiping God, man ends up worship other gods, even himself.


The "Tomb Key" is about the doctrine of Christ, tomb being the way Jesus was crucified, buried, and rose again on the third day. These are described in three acts of Christ. I like the way Lister calls Christ as the "death killer." Indeed, that is the good news. The "Spirit Key" teaches us about the doctrine of the Holy Spirit, how believers are renewed in their hearts and how we can live in the Spirit. Lister synthesizes biblical truths and narrates the doctrine in a palatable manner. The "Gavel Key" is about salvation. We get snippets of the meaning of election, atonement, regeneration, justification, reconciliation, adoption, sanctification, and glorification. The "temple key" is about Church embodied as a people of God. The marks of the church are unity; holiness; global; and one. Finally, we return to the "Throne Key" which is essentially about God's Kingdom that is to come. There is hope, anticipation, resurrection, the final judgment, and the glory of God. Lister gives us glimpses of the image of the last days from the book of Revelation.

My Thoughts
The title of this book is a precursor to what this book is about; that it will be revealing the truths of God via symbols, representations to bring abstract details into simple images. This is the intent. A noble intent indeed. The author begins well with a plan about keys, locks, and rooms of understanding. Hearts are easy to understand. We could visualize adults and kids as people. When it comes to other symbols, it takes some effort to visualize what it represents. Perhaps, the final edition of the book would contain explanations about the symbols. If not, I suggest the publisher include a legend to describe the symbols and terms used. Otherwise, readers would be left to speculate what the symbols mean. Having said that, this could also be a positive thing to help younger readers raise questions and ponder about the truths the authors are trying to convey. It should also inspire readers to go back to the Bible to find out more.

Sometimes, the simplest things could also be the most profound. As I read through the book, it requires a fair understanding of theology before one can truly comprehend more of what the author is saying. For that reason, I would not recommend this book for young believers, unless there is a mature believer willing to guide their reading. This is a good effort to try to simplify things but it should be used more as a springboard for further study or discussion.

Ryan Lister is professor of theology at Western Seminary in Portland, Oregon.

Rating: 3.75 stars of 5.

conrade
This book has been provided courtesy of Crossway Publishers and NetGalley without requiring a positive review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.

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Emblems of the Infinite King uses very straightforward language to teach young people the truth of God. Even though this is written for the younger audience, I think new Christians no matter what their age would benefit from reading this book as well. It accurately and fully explained everything from God's nature to His will, from the act of creation to God's plan of salvation. I enjoyed reading it and it was a great reminder for me.

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An interesting, poetic look at the tenants of the faith. Deep thinkers and lovers of literary imagery will find this a unique read.

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One of the best books to read about the Holy God. Simple, understandable way of knowing the eternal, one. I loved the way the concept is described, it is soothing to read and knowledgeable. If you want to know about Holy God read this book. Recommend the book to all.

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Knowing the King is so important. Knowing him shows you that you can't be the center of the world because he already is. That is the good thing. You weren't made to be the center of the world; you can't hold everything together. But God can. And when he is the center of the world, and the center of your story, you are free to be who you were made to be- who he made you to be.

A study for Christian teenagers desiring to know Christ as their King. Each chapter a vivid word picture of Christ has King of your life, King of your salvation, King of creation. It is meant for readers to see Christ in a different way. A king is not meek but a good king is humble. A king who is not for the popular vote but for God's glory and your joy. How do you view what a King is? What a king does? Reading this study, I reflected on how the nation of Israel viewed a king and how they rejected God as their king.

Why is the holiness of God important to those that are seeking to know God? That is the most important attribute of God to know as it is the basis of how you view God, yourself and others. The holiness of God reflects the trinity and the work of the trinity in the character of God.

The sovereignty of God is another aspect of Kingship . "Your Kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in Heaven." As we pray those words, how does that look like in your life. We really don't need another way to look at God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit. We have all we need in the bible, however, a study likes this helps us to open our eyes to the truth of the word. Highly recommend.

A Special Thank you to Crossway Publishing and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review

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This is a well written and enjoyable read for children (and adults) from the age of 10. In beautiful and lyrical language it exposes the well-known truths of the gospel in a way that is easily understandable. I would be willing to share this with any new or young believer.
I was given this book by Netgalley and the publisher. This is my voluntary and impartial review.

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