Mike Gendron was a devout Roman Catholic for 37 years before he found Christ. Since his conversion, he has passionately sought to proclaim the truth of the gospel to Roman Catholics who are deceived by their church. To that end he founded and leads “Proclaiming the Gospel Ministry,” producing written resources and speaking throughout the world warning of the false doctrines of Rome and teaching God’s Word. Preparing for Eternity is a virtual encyclopedia on Rome’s dogma and its misalignment with Scripture.
Gendron is comprehensive in his research. He draws from official Catholic resources, such as Trent, Vatican II and the Catechism of the Catholic Church, quoting them verbatim to demonstrate what Rome officially teaches. He then contrasts many of its doctrines with Scriptures, showing that much of Rome’s dogma is not based on the Bible but on tradition and extrabiblical pronouncements. There are few stones left unturned as Gendron reveals errant teaching concerning a wide range of doctrines, especially as it pertains to the gospel. But the material given is far wider than the gospel. As a matter of fact, anyone interested in the official teachings of Rome would receive a thorough education reading this volume. For those short on time, chapter 12-13 offers an extensive overview of many doctrines of the Catholic Church, as does pp. 147 and 162.
I would caution, however, against handing this book to a Catholic with hopes of enlightening him or her, unless he or she is seeking such. As the last chapter reveals, most Catholics get angry when confronted by the information Gendron provides. And while the author defends his position well, the reactions are often strong and negative. Preparing for Eternity is best used as a resource for those seeking to understand Catholicism and/or having opportunities to share biblical truth with Roman Catholics.
Preparing For Eternity, Should We Trust God’s Word or Religious Traditions? by Mike Gendron (Southlake, TX, Proclaiming the Gospel Publishing: 2011), 232 pp. + vi, paper $17.95.
Reviewed by Gary E. Gilley, Pastor/teacher at Southern View Chapel