Grace Upon Grace: Sacramental Theology and the Christian Life by Gregory S. Neal provides an uplifting explanation of grace, faith, the holy sacraments and what those esoteric concepts mean from different leading religious points of view. Following the Wesleyan theology of the founder of the Methodist church, Neal examines the sacramentals in eight informative chapters with questions for thought at each chapter conclusion. There is also lyrical poetry, scripture quotes and the translation of theology into easily understandable concepts, which could be an aid to pastors and Sunday school teachers. Neal’s fluid style of writing includes the results of God’s work in his own life and this book is an updated second edition of a previous print. Many fundamental concepts are contrasted, such as the sacramental instruments approach verses good works ordinance theology. At the heart of the book’s thesis is grace, a central abstract concept of unmerited favor, which allows for faith and depends upon our relationship with God.

How the Holy Spirit transforms us with imparted righteousness, the ritual holiness produced by the sacraments (Baptism, Eucharist) and the other steps that lead to grace (Confirmation, Marriage, Penance, Ordination, Extreme Unction), foot washing, transubstantiation, divine favor, salvation and healing, prayer and giving with scripture support rounds off a well-thought out and detailed book. If you are seeking direction from a non-denominational, objective viewpoint, then Gregory S. Neal offers solutions to the mystery of faith through the power of grace, available in all things. This manual lays out God’s design for the beginning of eternal life in Him.

Grace Upon Grace: Sacramental Theology and the Christian Life is a nonfiction religious text written by Gregory S. Neal. Neal was ordained as an elder in The United Methodist Church after his graduate studies in the Duke School of Divinity. In his book, he discusses grace, what it is, and how and when it is conferred upon individuals through the acts of God and through the sacraments and sacramentals. Neal discusses the differing views the Catholic churches, which includes the Roman Catholic, Anglican and other churches, and the Baptist and other Reformed branches of Christianity on the matters of Baptism and Communion, and whether these are the only real sacraments. Neal shows how grace is given by God through those two sacraments and the other sacraments and sacramentals. He includes footnotes and references to Scriptures and works by theologians and also includes a Selected Bibliography of readings for those who want to continue their studies.

Gregory S. Neal's religious treatise, Grace Upon Grace: Sacramental Theology and the Christian Life, is well-presented and thought-provoking. Neal writes to both the scholar and the layman who wants to learn more about faith and grace, and he does so in an elegant and learned manner that never veers into pretentiousness or condescension. I particularly enjoyed his historical approach to the subject matter and the way he was able to share anecdotes of his life and personal experience to illustrate aspects of prevenient grace and the sacramentals. I also appreciated the Questions for Reflection and Discussion page that followed each chapter, which, along with his own poetry, served to help me focus on the topic presented. Neal's enjoyment of the rich intellectual history of his faith is obvious in his presentation, and his skill as a teacher and instructor comes out on each page of this illuminating book. Grace Upon Grace: Sacramental Theology and the Christian Life is most highly recommended.