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Thoughts on the Christian life in a fallen world

Tuesday, October 20, 2015

No Fear - Tony Perkins

Real stories of a courageous new generation standing for truth. One twist of this book is that the Preface is written by the author's father, which gives him a unique perspective. This book is a collection of 12 stories of people who faced their fears and took a stand. These are stories of a new generation of Christians who are more than bold, they are fearless. Making a difference  starts with standing up for what's right. 
On page 3 the author states "Faith and fear are opposites - it is impossible for faith and fear to equally coexist in your life."  These are stories about people who had the courage to do the right thing. Like,  Lila Rose who stood up to Planned Parenthood and Roy Costner who lead a prayer at graduation, regardless of the consequences.  There are questions at the end of every chapter under the title, Making It Real that can be used for individuals doing group study. The second part of each chapter there is a story from the Bible that relates.  The author is president of the Family Research Council in Washington, DC. This book proves that their are and have been courageous Christians who have stood up for what is right throughout history. 
Join the conversation at #nofearbook.
Published by Waterbrook press. I was provided a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for a review.

Monday, October 19, 2015

The Epic of God - Michael Whitworth

15 chapters from the book of Genesis. Genesis is a book of beginnings. In fact the word, Genesis means beginnings. Through the creation of the world through the death of Joseph, this is the story of God's people, sin, rebellion, and redemption.  Deep subjects are taken on, and history unfolds through the pages of this book of Genesis.
The author of this book preaches in Bowie, Texas.  He is the author of several books including Living and Longing for the Lord and The Derision of Heaven.  In the foreward, it is stated "This is not a shallow book, it's a book of great depth."  and indeed it is, at just about 300 pasges, although it's hard to narrow it down to less than that for the entire book of Genesis. This is a well researched and organized book, and the author has taken on quite a daunting task, not one that just any author could do.  There are talking points at the end of each chapter that can be used for a Bible study to go deeper.  There is also a unique Q & A the author has written talking to himself about the book.  I liked the actual size and format of the book, and look forward to using it for research purposes.  I does have depth, and deals with Genesis on more than just  a superficial level.
At the very end, the author sums up the whole book in 4 words, "God has been faithful."
Published by Start 2 Finish books. I have been provided a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for a review.

Friday, October 16, 2015

Five Traits of A Christ Follower - Doug Nuence

This book attempts to answer the question, "What distinguishes a follower of Jesus?" The editor is President of the Navigators in the US, and there are 30 contributors to this small book.  Each one has written a short, two page devotional based on a Bible passage.  Each devotional is divided into five sections or traits. Walking with Jesus, Knowing and Living the Scriptures, Participating in community, Engaging with those who don't know Christ, and Reproducing Spiritual Generations. Each chapter is short enough to be used for a daily devotional for one month, with at least two or three questions at the end to invoke a response.  The editor says in the introduction that "The true test of life in Christ is our character, the extent to which we are a reflection of the Spirit of God to a watching world."
The forward is written by Jerry Bridges, who is well known in the the Christian world for many of his books, and offers a brief history of Dawson Trotman, the founder of the Navigators.  There also is the background of all of the contributors, some of which are adapted from books they have written.  For example Gary Thomas's contribution is adapted from his book The Glorious Pursuit.
As with any book with multiple authors, it has different styles and ways of thinking, but one main theme, how to be a Follower of Jesus.  I would like to read more from some of these authors, as it seems they are limited in this format.  One other thing about the format, it is a very small book, with small type.  Those of us with limited vision may find it difficult to read.  I do suppose if they would have made the physical size of the pages larger, each devotion would be only one page, but that would have worked also.
All in all, a good devotional with lots of good content.
Published by NavPress. in alliance with Tyndale Publishers, Inc.
I have been provided with a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher in exchange for this review.