NIV First-Century Study Bible

TITLE: NIV First-Century Study Bible: Explore Scripture in Its Jewish and Early Christian Context
AUTHOR: Zondervan Team, with notes by Kent Dobson
PUBLISHER: Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2014, (1888 pages).

Any form of Bible study would require an understanding of contexts. If you have been attending Bible studies, you would be familiar with this phrase: "What's the context of the Bible passage?" For twenty-first century readers trying to make sense of ancient texts, it would be a big challenge if we try to use only the Bible to determine the backgrounds of every book in the Bible. This Bible contains notes that shed light on the contexts, the cultures, the chronological sequence of events, and the unique perspectives from the Jewish and Christian lens form the first century. Rather than trying to understand the ancient Scriptures from our Internet Age, or trying to reach too far to the ancient times, perhaps, we can look at how first century people understand the Bible. That would shave off about 2000 years to bring us closer to the original meaning of the contexts. For four years, the Teaching Pastor of Mars Hill Bible Church in Grandville, Michigan wrote historical notes, word studies, articles, and together with the Zondervan publishing team, have put together a study Bible that tries to do just that. Questions that occupy their minds were:

• What were the rabbis thinking?
• How did the disciples understand the Old Testament?
• What are the cultural nuances in both Jewish minds and the Early Church?
• How do they make sense of the Bible?

"52 Little Lessons from Les Miserables" (Bob Welch)

TITLE: 52 Little Lessons from Les Miserables
AUTHOR: Bob Welch
PUBLISHER: Nashville, TN: Thomas-Nelson, 2014, (208pages).

The musical has been seen by more than 65 million people in over 42 countries. Written by Victor Hugo in 1862, it continues to fascinate and enthrall audiences the world over. In 2012, it even won a Golden Globe award for best picture. The question, is there something more than simply a show? Are there important lessons to learn from as far as lay people are concerned? Are the lessons in the 19th Century story still relevant for today? Welch gives an emphatic YES! Fifty Two of them.

For Les Miserables is not simply a brilliant play that entertains. It is also a story that is big on spiritual themes, life struggles, and according to author, speaker, and adjunct professor of journalism at Eugene's University of Oregon, it contains "52 little lessons" that we can all learn from. What makes the writing of this book interesting and challenging is to be able to select only 52 out of a very complex tale of betrayal, mystery, joy, forgiveness, despondency, suffering, political and social reforms, and many others. For us as readers, we can enjoy the fruits of the author's labour, with the many stories of the characters, the places, the plots, the history and many other interesting settings. Most of the lessons are spiritually inclined because the author feels that the novel is spiritual in nature.

"NIV Essentials Study Bible"

TITLE: NIV Essentials Study Bible: Easily Grasp the Fundamentals of Scripture through Lenses from 6 Bestselling NIV Resources
AUTHOR/EDITOR: Zondervan
PUBLISHER: Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2013, (1728 pages).

Based on the New International Version (2011),  this study Bible brings together many of the best study notes, photographs, timelines, contextual background, provocative discussion questions, charts and maps, plus other resources to help the eager student of the Bible study the Scriptures better. These study helps are drawn from six other NIV resources:

• NIV Study Bible
• NIV Quest Study Bible
• NIV Archaeology Study Bible
• NIV Student Bible
• The Great Rescue Bible
• The Essential Bible Companion

With Zondervan publishing so many different types of study Bibles, it is only a matter of time before some people would ask for a summary of the best resources out there to be packed in one single volume. This study Bible is the answer to that need.

"Humility" (David J. Bobb)

TITLE: Humility: An Unlikely Biography of America's Greatest Virtue
AUTHOR: David J. Bobb
PUBLISHER: Nashville, TN: Thomas-Nelson, 2013, (230 pages).

True greatness comes not with power and might, but with humility and grace. As far as America's founding fathers are concerned, the exercise of humility is the key difference between ancient Rome and the America they want. In this book, Bobb looks at how important humility is with regards to the building of a nation. Throughout the book, Bobb emphasizes that "greatness and humility need not be opposed to each other." Rather, humility herself is powerful in ways that the powers at different eras, including those of this age still fail to comprehend. People such as Plato who believes that the "magnanimous man" is only answerable to self. There is Machiavelli who sees humility more as an instrument rather than a virtue, or Thomas Hobbes who sees humility more as a threat to any politics.  Bobb then pits them against Jesus, Augustine, and Thomas Aquinas' view of how humility is not just a means to an end, but the very essence of true humanity.

As an executive director of citizen education for Hillsdale College, and lecturer in politics, Dr David Bobb helps us to see that humility is not just the founding virtue of true greatness, it is vital for virtuous governance in any country. In order to flesh out his thesis, Bobb sets forth five examples of great individual leaders whose hallmark for success is humility over all other traits. George Washington was not just the first American President, he was also one who not once, but twice, opted to leave power when he was at his peak. He could have held on to power. He could have worded the constitution for his own benefit. He could have created a dynasty. Yet, he chose to stay away from the limelight when he could. The second example is James Madison (1751-1836), also known as the "Father of the Constitution." Madison believed that one can never stop improving, and sought to create a constitution that will protect the weak, and loved to operate behind the scenes without the limelight. In fact, he was a proponent of limiting power rather than increasing power. The third example is Abigail Adams, wife of the second President of the United States, John Adams (1735-1826), also the President's closest confidante. She helped shaped the modesty and humility of her husband. Instead of climbing the social ladder of influence and power, Abigail's magnanimous spirit helped raise the character of John to be a better man. The fourth example is Abraham Lincoln (1809-1865), the 16th President of the United States. Born with humble roots, Lincoln was able to recognize ambition and arrogance, and how the two can combine to flip one to the wrong side of morality. By being committed to hear from various people, even his opponents, he became one of the nation's most respected leader, showing us that the way to true greatness is humility and modesty. Finally, Frederick Douglas (1818-1895), a black man committed to the abolitionist movement, fought injustice not with arrogance but modesty. For him, "slavery was a self-perpetuating cycle of disordered pride and debased conduct." Even among his fellow blacks, he recognized forms of pride and arrogance. His case was a delicate balance between humiliation of being a slave and humility when fighting slavery. One can fight for truth, but how one fights is another matter altogether.

Bobb's book is a timely reminder that if we are not careful, we may enjoy the success of Rome and also suffer the downfall caused by Roman arrogance. America is not there yet, but it can dangerously copy the fateful path of Rome.  We all need to be reminded that arrogance and pride are closer than we think. Only the weapons of humility and modesty can move us farther away from these threats. This book is indeed an unlikely biography of America's truest and greatest success. It is not the power and might that defines a nation. It is the virtues and the values of humanity that will help a nation flourish and be an example for the rest of the world to follow. As I reflect on this, I am reminded once again that leaders are important, doing the right things are important, and fighting for what is right is also important. Let these not hide the fact that behind each righteous act or deed lies a person who needs the God of righteousness for help. Greatness and humility can co-exist.


Rating: 4.75 stars of 5.

conrade

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This book is provided to me courtesy of Thomas-Nelson and BookSneeze in exchange for an honest review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.

"The Wall Around Your Heart" (Mary E. Demuth)

TITLE: The Wall Around Your Heart: How Jesus Heals You When Others Hurt You
AUTHOR: Mary E. Demuth
PUBLISHER: Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2013, (256 pages).

This book talks about the external wall that hurt people built around their hearts, and how Jesus can help take down the walls through inner healing. Using the Lord's Prayer as the path that can help us draw closer to God, and in the process, restore any broken relationships with people. Calling the prayer a "treasure map," the bestselling author of Everything invites readers to journey with her and to learn to see life through the eyes of God instead of our sinfulness.

The very first chapter is already a reminder that following Christ is counter-cultural. When people are hurt, instinctively they will either hit back or retract themselves like a clam. DeMuth reminds us that our first instinct must be "Pray First." Pray like Jesus. Pray to God the Father. In praying first "Our Father in Heaven," we cling onto five truths about relationships.

1. That our earthly relationships need divine intervention
2. We all need spiritual parenting
3. We need to see God as the Perfect Parent
4. We need to come before God not as judges of people but worshippers of God
5. We need to avoid running away from people and from God.

Praying to hallow God's Name keeps any human retaliation in check, and to remind ourselves that God's holiness trumps human haughtiness. It is letting God deal with the difficult relationships and people of our lives. Praying God's kingdom come is about learning to put God's agenda before ours (which is often narcissistic). We then learn to respond like Jesus in the midst of all kinds of people. People can behave badly but that does not mean we respond in kind. Instead, we can learn to let God help us frame our relationships so that God's will be done on earth as it is in heaven.

Asking for help is also about asking for contentment in our age of consumerism and greed. In the prayer of forgiveness, we learn about genuine repentance as well as checking any bitterness inside. DeMuth even supplies nine things about forgiveness.

1. Forgiveness is counter-culture
2. Forgiveness is a respite from the turbulence of brokenness
3. Forgiveness has many positives 
4. Forgiveness enables one to empathize
5. Forgiveness is not the perfect answer but the most humane response
6. Forgiveness is costly but rewarding
7. Forgiveness reflects our need
8. Forgiveness helps us pray well
9. Forgiveness can be revolutionary.

Her take on "lead us not into temptation" is surprisingly a very positive one. Instead of shunning away from doing things, DeMuth urges us to boldly engage and defy fear.

So What?

For anyone who is hurting or who has been hurt before, this book is like a healing balm. Writing as one who had suffered many hurts and grievances, DeMuth shares very intimate details about her traumatic past, how she was sexually abused, a daughter of a father who was into sexually perverted stuff, her early struggles in her writing, and the many disappointments in her life. With the use of the Lord's Prayer, she was able to revisit these negative past and to uncover some positive responses to it. More importantly, she puts herself in the presence of God so that she can see as much as possible God's perspective of it all.

We all need that. Far too often, we are quick to retaliate but slow to listen. We are full of ourselves and our own rights. We imagine we are at the center and unwittingly usurp the role of God when we judge others. As part of our human nature to hide or to react aggressively, we dishonour God with our behaviour that is un-Christlike. It is easy to call ourselves "Christian." It is more difficult to live out "Christlike" behaviour. The Lord's Prayer is indeed a treasure map for taking down the walls that we unwittingly put up each time we are hurt. As we situate ourselves more and more in not just saying but living the Lord's Prayer, we will tackle our human walls and take them down layer by layer, brick by brick.  Once we are free from self-guilt, and open to God, we are ready to face the world in the way of Jesus. If anyone of us dare to think that we are the world's most hurt person, remember that Jesus himself was given the deepest cut of all, by the people he loved the most. For each time we sin against others, God is hurt. Others may hurt us, but Jesus heals. Always.


Rating: 4.75 stars of 5.


conrade

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This book is provided to me courtesy of Zondervan Publishers through the Booksneeze Blogger Review Program in exchange for an honest review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.

NIV Integrated Study Bible - A New Chronological Approach

TITLE: NIV Integrated Study Bible: A New Chronological Approach for Exploring Scripture
EDITOR: John R Kohlenberger III
PUBLISHER: Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2013, (1472 pages).

This Bible is called NIVISB for short. Using the NIV 2011 translation, the books of the Bible are arranged in chronological order according to the publisher's best estimate of the time occurrences. This is done through seven major historical sections:

1. Creation through the Patriarchs (Genesis; Job);
2. Exodus to Conquest (Exodus-Deuteronomy; Psalm 90);
3. Conquest through the United Kingdoms (Joshua- 1 Kings 11; 1 Chronicles 10 - 2 Chronicles 9; 129 Psalms; Proverbs; Ecclesiastes; Songs);
4. Divided Kingdoms and Exile (1 Kings 12-2 Kings 25; 2 Chronicles 10-36; Isaiah-Daniel 9; Hosea; Amos-Zephaniah; Psalm 102, 137)
5. Return to the Land (1 Chron 1-9; Ezra-Esther; Daniel 10-12; Haggai; Zechariah; Joel; Malachi; 18 Psalms)
6. The Life of Jesus (Matthew, Mark, Luke John)
7. The Early Church (Acts to Revelation)

There are introductions and timeline charts for each of the sections, except for the first two which share a combined introduction and chart. As far as possible, the NIVISB uses the Bible as its own interpreter with regards to the time approximations. Meant to help readers read with time sensitivity, the NIVISB enables readers to situate themselves as modern readers in the unfolding of the ancient biblical drama.Let me give some of my observations on each of the seven sections.

"Outreach and the Artist" (Con Campbell)

TITLE: Outreach and the Artist: Sharing the Gospel with the Arts
AUTHOR: Con Campbell
PUBLISHER: Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2013, (128 pages).

This is a unique contribution to the art of evangelism. We have many books pertaining to the how and the why of evangelism. Not many touch on the beauty and the creativity in terms of letting art speak the wonder of God. This book, written by an artist as well as a scholar tries to speak into the beauty of God using the natural artistic creativity of humans. The three thrusts of the book are about evangelism:

• With the arts; (chapters 2-3)
• Through the arts; (chapter 4)
• To the arts. (chapters 5-7)

In evangelism with the arts, Campbell begins with his personal testimony of his journey through visual arts toward jazz. Paintings and drawings fail to interest him. The piano only motivates him up to a certain point. With the saxophone, something artistic within him finally clicks. It leads him to dedicate more time playing it. Playing it leads him to a love of jazz. Jazz leads him to the Church, but not after a period of grappling between God and jazz. Slowly but surely, he recognizes how jazz can replace God, and makes a conscious decision that instead of allowing jazz to become a god in itself, he will let jazz be a channel to lead people to God. Thus the book of outreach and the artist where Campbell describes not only his own journey from jazz to God, but to help readers find their own stories in terms of evangelism with, through, and to the arts.

The biggest “ministry” for the author is actually the art of listening. He realizes that people are often fed up with the culture that is high in telling people what to do, but low in listening to one another. Even Christians themselves are not immune. Pointing out that the biggest barrier to people is not atheism or Christianity per se, but Christian people, Campbell shares how through jazz, he is able to introduce the person of Jesus. Even if people are resistant to the gospel directly, they will still be open to a good session of jazz. Those who love jazz will find it appealing. Creativity has a purpose, and more importantly, music is a way in which we can infuse our search for personhood with creativity, meaning with spiritual awareness, and evoking thoughts without being rude. For example, a few different jazz players who play together as one united band is a marvelous expression of the Trinity, unique three persons and yet one God. Campbell makes a distinction between professionalism and opportunity. The former is about working out the best quality, while the latter is trying to use music as a means to reach out. Sometimes, being too conscious of using music as a tool for evangelism can unwittingly result in a deterioration of integrity of the music in itself. It is a fine balance.

Some tips include clear communications, where the artists explain exactly what they are doing and why; to acknowledge critics for their honesty; and to avoid 'bait and switch' techniques that bait people with music, and then rudely switch them to a Christian message. Better to be upfront in the first place. For Christians, having appropriate expectations are helpful. Other tips include how to involve the Church in any arts outreach event. One tip in particular is to build rapport. Whether the audience is churched or unchurched, the moment the musician or the artist is able to connect with the audience, a lot can be accomplished. People connect with what is common in all of our hearts: need for security, acceptance, love, care, and the awesome human touch.

In evangelism through the arts, Campbell looks at two ways in which arts-based outreach can be done. The first is the "message" where the message takes priority, and the means to do it is of secondary importance. Theologically, this is based on the foundation of the gospel that needs to be proclaimed and to be heard. We are Christians not because of the name. We are Christians because of the gospel. The second approach is the medium where attention is paid to the way the message is transmitted. Here, the message is infused or incorporated into the medium in such a way that outreach can be done creatively. Whether the message or the medium is used first, it is good to be aware of the pros and cons of each. Campbell then makes a case for the artist to do some self-evaluation to determine which is most appropriate, according to the evangelistic contexts and the gifts in possession.

In evangelism to the arts, Campbell directs his attention to the arts community. This is perhaps the most challenging of all, and the author dedicates three whole chapters to do that. Chapter five invites readers to learn to appreciate the contexts and the subcultures of the artists. What language do they speak? How do they communicate? What vocabulary do they use? How do they live? Who do they hang out with? One way that Christians can learn more about these subcultures is to maintain some connection with them. Credibility is key when it comes to connecting with artists. On the one hand, they dislike pretense, especially when Christians try to say they know music when they are actually non-musicians. On the other hand, they dislike bad quality artists. Chapter six then looks at how many artists who grow up in churches, eventually leave, prompting the author to say: "The church gave them music, and music took them away." He looks at the two reasons why these people leave the Church. The first reason is the incompatible lifestyles. Many musicians hang out to the wee hours of the night, and making it hard for them to be earnest and regular church attendees. The second reason is the way the rest of the Church stereotypes the musicians, and even ostracize them and alienates them. Campbell then homes in on the main problem. It is not the music or the art, the musicians or the artists, the Church or the wrong stereotypes. It is idolatry. For artists, any infatuation with glorifying the acts is tantamount to idolizing the arts. In an industry where total devotion is expected, artists are trapped between creating good quality work, and letting the pursuit become an end in itself. Learning to recognize and then to work toward dethroning such an idol is the key to survival. A great way forward is to look for those who have successfully modeled a lifestyle that is honouring the arts without making them an idol. Learn from various individuals. Campbell includes in the book some short profiles of several artists like Keeley Manca Lambert (Acting); Richard Maegraith (Jazz); Dan McGowan (Comedian); Kristin Berardi (Music and Photography); Ian McGilvray (Painting); Keith Birchley (Classical Music); Hayley Neal (Performing Arts).

So What?

This is a special work of art, written by a musician as well as a scholar. As a jazz musician, Campbell understands music and the temptations that go with idolizing it. As a scholar, he thinks through the implications of theology and the arts. Campbell is also an Associate Professor of New Testament at TEDS. One of his recent books is a theological one, called "Paul and Union with Christ." You can read my review of that book here. Written in a very easy to read, but yet powerfully anchored on the premises of the gospel and theological integrity, Campbell urges readers to be creative in any evangelistic endeavours; to be active in engaging the arts community through genuine interest; to be welcoming in terms of openly appreciating the works of musicians through sincere engagement; to encourage musicians and artists from within the Christian community to see the bigger picture of God who can work with, through, and use Christians to speak to the arts community.

I like the attention given to arts in this book. While it seems like a book that attempts to evangelize the community of artists and musicians, readers will be pleasantly surprised that the book offers much more. In fact, it even invites readers to take the plunge and do the arts, if not, to be more appreciative of the arts. Learn to communicate our intent for sharing the gospel in love. Instead of trying to "bait and switch" any unsuspecting artist, be frank with them and state our intention upfront. Ask for permission. Be genuinely interested in what they are doing. Let the love of God spur all of us to good music and great art, and in the midst of enjoying the arts, we get a glimpse of the beauty of God. In the midst of marveling at the wonders of God, we get a glimpse of the human person created in the image of God.

You do not need to be an artist in order to appreciate this book. What you need is to have an eye for appreciating the arts, and an open heart to learn, to be humble, and to ask the experienced professional to teach us. Who knows. Our humility and willingness to learn from them can teach us a thing or two about faith and spirituality. Our learning disposition can also encourage non-Christians to adopt the same attitude when it comes to faith and the gospel.

Rating: 4.75 stars of 5.

conrade

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I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com® book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.

"Billy Graham in Quotes"

TITLE: Billy Graham in Quotes
AUTHOR: Franklin Graham with Donna Lee Toney
PUBLISHER: Nashville, TN: Thomas-Nelson, 2011, (448 pages).

This massive collection of quotes is a treasure chest of wisdom and wit from one of America's most revered preachers and one of the most recognizable evangelical figures in this century. It covers topics from A to Z (Y to be exact). It touches on a wide variety of subjects, ranging from abortion to addiction; Christian living to missions; personal character and political leadership; young and old; and many more topics. All of these quotes grow out of a firm and steadfast conviction: The Bible as the authoritative Word for all of life.

Thoughtfully arranged, the authors of this collection of quotes, namely Franklin Graham the son, Donna Lee Toney, a colleague of Billy Graham, have teamed up to organize many of the classic quotes culled from the great evangelist's many talks, books, writings, meetings, speeches, rallies, and lectures.  Five things grabbed my attention. First, there is that reliance on the Bible as the starting point. That is why, every topic starts with a Bible passage as an anchor for the entire chapter. The quotes are then arranged more in accordance with the Bible verse rather than the title of the chapter. Second, it takes someone with a close knowledge of the man himself to quote Graham within the right context. A book of such nature cannot be easily done from a distance. So often, quotes can be taken easily out of context which risks misrepresentation. Just deciding on which material to pull the quote out from is already a huge task. Third, one cannot help but notice the conviction in each quote. Graham is ready to call a spade a spade without reservation or qualification. For example, he calls Satan point blank as a "crafty and clever camouflager." He fingers out the problem of marriages that lie in people "absorbed only in their own pleasures and desires." He warns us against pride in one of the simplest ways possible:

"Pride comes from looking only at ourselves;
meekness comes through looking at God."

Four, Graham speaks in a manner that convicts hearts. The quotes themselves are weighty and readers will find many moments in which they have to let Graham's convictions challenge the reader: "What about you?"

Five, this book alone brings together the best of Graham all in one book. It reminds us once again why Billy Graham is so renowned, respected, and revered by many people, both Christians as well as non-Christians.

 It is tempting for any reader to just open this book, look at the topic of interest, and then choose the first quote that grabs our attention. My advice is: slow down. Pray and ponder. Reflect and wonder on the Scripture verse at the beginning of each topic. Then slowly peruse the quotes one by one, thoughtfully, critically, and openly. I recommend this book highly for preachers and teachers to use as resource material; the busy reader for a quick meditative quote; and the Christian for building up conviction in the Word of God, and commission to share that Word with the world for God.

Wow!

Rating: 5 stars of 5.

conrade

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I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com® book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.

"Clean" (Douglas Weiss)

TITLE: Clean: A Proven Plan for Men Committed to Sexual Integrity
AUTHOR: Douglas Weiss
PUBLISHER: Nashville, TN: Thomas-Nelson, 2013, (236 pages).

Do we realize that men are more vulnerable than we think? Are we aware that even during peacetime in our country, the sexual war has continued unabated? Are we tolerating sexual promiscuity and as a result, failed to be the men that we have been called to be? Do we know that our sex organs do not belong primarily to us? These questions and many more are dealt with in this frank, powerful, and blunt book about the need to be clean, and to stay clean. For the author, as far as our sex organs are concerned, we have only peeing rights! Weiss is adamant that it is God who is calling a "clean nation to rise up and reclaim our unclean culture." This is not an easy task, but not impossible either. So convicted is Weiss that he also insists that there is a tight connection between our sexual integrity and God's destiny for us. For it shows who is our true authority: Ourselves or God?

The book presents a convicting look at the state of unhealthy sexual lust and the problem of pornography. Beginning with some depressing statistics about the state of spiritual cleanliness and how pornography has choked, suffocated, and even killed marriages and family, author Douglas Weiss is on a mission to bring men from filthy thoughts and foolish dabbling in pornography, toward sexual purity in God. For we are not meant to be sexual objects or be participants in objectifying another person.  We are called to sexual integrity. Weiss makes a formidable statement in the book. He calls it a "proven plan for men committed to sexual integrity." Some readers may feel a little ambivalent about this level of confidence. I admit. I was initially skeptical, but reading farther along the book, I begin to share his sentiment and his conviction. For his "proven plan" is anchored on the Word of God, and his convictions rose out of many counseling and personal encounters with men who ought to have known and chosen better. If I can summarize the book, I will describe it in three ways. Stop. Strategize. Stay Clean.

A) Stop

It is one thing to say that pornography is bad. It is yet another to allow lingering thoughts of some sexual objects to remain in our brains, lodged somewhere in our thoughts, only to breed wildly when triggered by an image or a pornographic encounter. While it is impossible to stop the proliferation of dirty thoughts and Internet sharing of porn on the outside, we can certainly do something on the inside. We stop by declaring war on pornography. Don't buy it. Don't patronize it. Don't watch it. The statistics are alarming. For example, based on 2006 data, the porn industry rings in more than US$3000 each second. China. South Korea, and Japan share the top three spots in terms of porn revenues per country. This calls not only for decisive action to stop, but to point our weapons constantly against porn. One way is to attack lust at its root. Another is to draw firm boundaries. Yet, another is to draw up a plan and be accountable to one another. Remember the formula U (You) + P (Porn) = D (Destruction). For if we do not take this seriously, not only will we hurt our own self-esteem, we hurt our family and loved ones too.

B) Start Strategizing

Bring your weapons with you all the time, especially when venturing into a world of sexual connotations and Internet porn. Have a plan that stops any evil lust from even taking root. Adopt a covenant prayer such as:

"Lord Jesus, I am 100 percent committed to love all women today as your daughters and my sisters. I covenant with you to protect all women at all times, in every circumstance today, even in my mind. I hate lust of any kind of all women, and I covenant to protect them all this day."

This is followed up by a firm determination to protect and to cover anyone who is undressed or disrobed. See people with a "holy hologram" to see them as what God had intended them to be seen. Part of the strategy also requires us to have a proper perspective of our own sexual organs. The ownership priorities go as follows. God owns us first. Our spouses own us next. We are the third owners, and our rights are limited to peeing only. Be bold to question leaders on their sexual integrity. Share the program with men in the Christian community. Protect the Church.

C) Stay Clean

Like the gospel story of the room swept clean, only to be occupied again by evil, we need to remember that being clean does not mean we are not vulnerable. If there is anything, we may very well be even more vulnerable. Weiss recommends eleven ways to stay clean.

1. Fear God, letting our actions stem from a reverence for his holiness.
2. Be honest, and do not hide our failings
3. Be truthful to our spouses in our marital relationships
4. No secrets absolutely
5. Fantasize not, but anticipate the worst. In other words, keep the consequences visible at all times.
6. Recognize the exit signs in every temptation situation and exit when necessary.
7. Be praised and touched by our spouses, to be accepted rather than rejected
8. Cultivate respect in our marriage
9. Daily declaration for a life of purity
10. Prayer
11. Be the hero of integrity to our wives and family.

Recognize the threats of sexual addiction.

So What?

Never overestimate our ability to resist temptation. Neither should we underestimate the power of pornography. Readers may not find in the book anything that resembles "Seven Habits" or nicely concocted formulas to address the problem of pornography. It all starts with a recognition of the problem and to stop the porn habit. It continues with an awareness of the seductive allure, and to start strategizing both our defenses and our offenses. It continues with regular education, accountability, and utter honesty to ask for help when needed, and to help others when required to ensure that we stay clean. Weiss has given us a whole book, backed by biblical stories and teachings, letting readers see the problem as it is, so that they can do something about it. The book forms a great launching pad for us to start our road to cleanliness, beginning with God, proceeding with humility, and engaging with courageous determination not to lust with our eyes, or to sin with our thoughts.

Gender differences are many, and none more so than the area of sexuality. Sexual sins have caused the downfall of many powerful people in society. Whether one is a President of the most powerful capitalist country in the world, or the most prestigious Ivy League University don, or top positions in corporations or various organizations, men are essentially "born into a sexual war." In biblical times, people like Judas, Samson, Ahab, King David, even Solomon have all been tempted and failed in this area. If one follows the story of King David, one can sense that after his adulterous relationship with Bathsheba, things appear more downhill for David thereafter. If great men of old have fallen, what makes anyone of us think we can fare better? That is why this book is so important. For those who have fallen, it represents a form of hope and recovery. For those who have not fallen, it is a reminder that they are not immune, that we are all vulnerable. Most importantly, it is an opportunity to be clean and stay clean, knowing that every time someone, somewhere determines to keep their sexual integrity pure and holy, there is one LESS person in this world for our children to worry about.

Rating: 4.5 stars of 5.

conrade

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This book is provided to me free by Thomas-Nelson under the BookSneeze blogger program in exchange for an honest review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.

"Gods at War" (Kyle Idleman)

TITLE: Gods at War: Defeating the Idols that Battle for Your Heart
AUTHOR: Kyle Idleman
PUBLISHER: Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2013, (242 pages).

We have all heard of idols and idolatry. In show business, the word 'idol' has been further popularized through reality programs like "American idol," or many of the spinoffs created by the hugely successful TV series. The fact is that idols have been around for a long time. The prohibition against idol worship has been enshrined in the Ten Commandments, asserted by the prophets, stressed by many New Testament writers, and expounded upon by modern Christian writers. Kyle Idleman is one of them, stressing that the issue is not exactly idols, but idolatry. Anything can become gods. Goals, unequally yoked marriages, money, power, and anything that can lure us to surrender our hearts to them. For Idleman writes.

"Here is the point: idolatry is the tree from which our sins and struggles grow. Idolatry is always the issue. It's the trunk of the tree, and all other problems are just branches." (27)

So what exactly is "gods at war" about. Idleman takes time to first describe the battleground, that what we search for is exactly reveals the god we are looking for. For instance, Google actively tracks the keyword searches every second. Simply put, it you want to know clues about what your gods are, just check out your own search history. He reminds us that gods is plural, meaning that they often work in cooperation with one another. The main battleground: Our heart. These gods can make us do things like constantly complaining, deep disappointments, worries, where we go to when we hurt, and other matters deeply engrained in our pursuit of any form of worldliness. It can be the gods of our fathers, our past, or cultural idols. Once the root of idolatry is set in, three major branches begin to grow. Idleman calls them temples of pleasure, power, and love. This is significant because temples are often the center of Jewish culture, synonymous with the heart of society.

A) The Temple of Pleasure


Idleman observes that our obsession with food, sex, and entertainment is a clear sign of the idolatry of pleasure. Of food and eating, idolatry happens when one overindulge, unwilling to fast, eating for pleasure instead of nourishment, and constant fantasy over comfort foods. Not only is it a spiritual threat, it brings about physical problems such as obesity, diabetes, junk food culture, nutritional matters, and many other health related issues. Of sex, we read of how perverted sexuality has become. Some examples are pornography, sex objects, flirtation, foul language, and sexual immorality. Sex is a gift, but sin can turn it into an idol. Note how Idleman compares the two.

"As a gift it brings connection; as a god it causes loneliness.
As a gift it brings pleasure; as a god it leads to emptiness.
As a gift it brings satisfaction;  as a god it demands slavery.
As a gift it brings intimacy; as a god, separation
As a gift it brings unity; as a god it often causes divorce.
It is a beautiful gift and a tyrant of a god." (105)

On the god of entertainment, there are lots of examples, like TV, Internet, media, sports, and many modern shows. How passionate are we with regards to them? How is our worldview changed by watching them? What about addiction to them? The key to the last question is this: If you find it hard to turn it off, it has all the marks of an idol of entertainment.

B) Temple of Power

The threesome of power can be described as success, money, and achievement. This perhaps will bite hard among high achievers, and those of us in the higher echelons of society. Of success, we are asked about our measurements of what success are, and the costs of the success. Of money, we come face to face with the god of mammon and false rewards. Of achievement, we are forced to ask whether it is the achievement that defines us, or us that define the achievement. The following quote by Tony Campolo captures the issue very well.

1. If I had life to live all over again, I would reflect more.
2. If I had life to live all over again, I would risk more.
3. If I had life to live all over again, I would do more things that would live on after I am dead. 

Ditto.

C) Temple of Love

The next threesome gets up closer and personal. Beginning with the god of romance, readers will be forced to face up to how much they have been lured by the world's definition of romance. Like Tom Cruise's famous three words, "You complete me," are we in danger of substituting another person in exchange of God's rightful place? Then there is the god of family, where our infatuation with providing for family needs, and family concerns can take up so much of our time, energy, and resources, that our relationships become turned wrongside up. Finally, there is the god of me, the god of individualism, self-centeredness, and narcissism.

My Thoughts

The 17th Century French philosopher, Blaise Pascal has said that our hearts are like God-shaped vacuums. Only God can fill them. John Calvin calls our heart a "factory of idols." Tim Keller calls them "counterfeit gods." The warnings throughout history are many. History is strewn with examples of traps, the dangers, the disasters, that befall the foolish person. Being aware of idols is one thing. Doing something about it is another. One may then ask, since there are already so many books about idols and idolatry, does that mean we do not need any more books? Is Idleman's book another unnecessary book about idolatry warnings? No. The fact is that because people continue to fall into idolatry, the same message needs to be repeated over and over again, until people get it, if they finally get it.

In expounding the multiplicity of idols and the various shapes and sizes they come in, Idleman joins the chorus of prophetic voices that speak to the present, what the prophets and priests of old have done for the ancient world. The questions in the book will serve as powerful investigative lights into our hearts. It teaches us to recognize idols that lurk. It gives us courage to ask of ourselves tough questions. It challenges us constantly to do something about them, and in the power of the Holy Spirit, defeat them. For there is only one Person that deserves our full devotion and allegiance: The God of the Bible.


Rating: 4.5 stars of 5.

conrade

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This book is provided to me free by BookSneeze and Zondervan without any obligation for a positive review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.

"Draw the Circle" (Mark Batterson)

TITLE: Draw the Circle: The 40 Day Prayer Challenge
AUTHOR: Mark Batterson
PUBLISHER: Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2012, (240 pages).

This is a 40-Day Prayer exercise to help readers and Christians to cultivate a more intentional and deeper devotional walk with God. Based on a best-selling book, "The Circle Maker," this book draws out selections and places them in 40 brief chapters for quiet reflection, meditation, and focus on God. Batterson begins with this conviction: "Preaching may move the hearts of men, but praying moves the heart of God. And that's where revival comes from."

He spends sometime explaining why the number 40 was chosen, and how it reflects Jesus' 40 days in the wilderness and the way many Churches observe Lent. He even proposes to coin the project for Lent as an "ExperiLent." Some of the virtues of this book lay in how the author tries to promote the practice of prayer via:

• Regularity and Routine;
• Reflection and Focus on specific Scripture each day;
• Short story or illustration to guide the meditation;
• Exhortation;
• Ending with a Promise to keep.

The book reads like a 40-day devotional and presents some interesting observations of the Christian life. He brings in familiar stories like Honi, his Ebenezer Coffeehouse project, his National  Community Church and outreach programs. He also draws in some notes from his previous books.

Personally, I think Batterson's "The Circle Maker" is a much better read in terms of understanding what it means to draw the circle of prayer. This book sits awkwardly between a devotional and a prayer book. The main advantage here is that it provides a systematic 40 day journey from readiness to obey toward growing in abiding trust in God. It is helpful for at least three groups of people. The first is busy people who needs some framework to pray. Each day, the short chapters enable the busy person to read fairly quickly and learn to pray according to the short guide each day. The point of focus helps especially in a world of multiple expectations and constant distractions. The second group will be those who have read "The Circle Maker" and wants some kind of a refresher or way to implement them. Those who love the first book will certainly want to pick up this book. The last group of people will be those who simply want to develop a prayer life themselves. People are creatures of habit. There is no magical solution in the number "40" or any other number. The key thing is regularity and intentional. Once this routine is cultivated, readers are free to extend beyond 40 days themselves, or to form their own program based on the Bible. If that eventually happens, people will not need external guides like this book to draw their own prayer circle. They will let creativity and joyful desire help them draw different shapes of prayer.

Rating: 4 stars of 5.

conrade

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Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

"Everything" (Mary DeMuth)

TITLE: Everything: What You Give and What You Gain to Become Like Jesus
AUTHOR: Mary DeMuth
PUBLISHER: Nashville, TN: Thomas-Nelson, 2012, (206 pages).

When we agree to follow Jesus, we are actually agreeing to give all we have, in order to gain all we can, to be like Jesus. There is nothing less important than to hold on to earthly possessions that do not last. There is nothing more precious than to hang on to Christ, who promises us things that will last throughout eternity. More importantly, when we give to God our everything, amazingly, God supplies us our needs beyond what we can ever imagine. In fact, at the end of it all, we will realize that there is nothing more important than Christ.

In eighteen chapters, Mary DeMuth distills her learnings through her very personal trials, and provides a spiritual perspective of it all, guided by a very able theological grasp of biblical principles. Beginning with the head, of what we think, readers are urged to cultivate a "Discipline of Astonishment," to be less sensitive to what we or the world make of ourselves, but how the gospel enables us to see what God makes of us. We are urged to surrender our destructive personal vows to justify ourselves, and to let God transform those through the eyes of love. We need to let God be bigger than our problems, bigger than our relationships with people, and allow a high view of God, to guide our love for people. She makes a strong case against worry, and I like this particular description.

"Worry involves both omission and commission. Omission because we forget God's faithfulness. Commission because we actively believe our abilities supercede His." (46)

In order to be resilient through the trials and elements of life, DeMuth suggests ways in which we can build rhythms into our lives, and to believe that God can lift us out of the deepest pits.

If the head is about what we think, the next part of the book moves to the heart, which is about who we are. The key idea is that an authentic life flows from the inside out. Healing needs to happen from the inside out. Forgiveness, recovery, and renewal flows richly from a negative past to a positive future. "CONTROL" is the seven-letter word that destroys, discourages growth, and depresses our spirituality. Just look at the way she warns us about this word.

"Control satiates me. It calms me. Nursing it helps me make sense of my world. When trials inevitably knock on my door, my response is to clean my house, align the cans in my pantry, create order from chaos. When God asks me to risk for His sake, I create lists in my head about why it's not logical to do so. I'd rather live a controlled life than let Jesus take me on unfamiliar roads." (76)

From the need to relinquish control, DeMuth moves toward unleashing our heart to the workings of the Holy Spirit in eight ways. We are urged to exercise our choice for healing instead of swimming in self-pity and self-destruction. There is beauty even in brokenness. There is grace we can share with others. There is forgiveness we can extend to ourselves. All because we can give Christ everything.

The final part is about hands, and how we live. We learn to say no to money's control over us. We get tips on how to embrace the learning from failures. We see the importance of connecting well with a community. In living for God, we learn to serve God through loving people, respecting differences, following disciplines, and many more.

My Thoughts

This is perhaps one book that appears to be DeMuth giving her everything, to make sense of her own brokenness in the light of God's grace. I love the way DeMuth describes her pains, details her struggles, and in Christ, determines to let go, and let God take over. Having said that, the book looks more to me like an orientation toward the direction of God. It does not mean that DeMuth has rocketed out of the gravitational pull of earthly living and daily struggles. It does not even mean that she has it all wrapped up in nice packaging. She has given us a roadmap with regards to what we think, finding out who we are, and learning to live for God beyond mere rhetoric. This beautiful book needs to be read over and over again by people who are down and out, and for people who are caught in the rat race of doing things for themselves. Spirituality is learning to keep the head, the heart, and the hands working as one. More importantly, it is being sensitive to the movement of the Holy Spirit on us as a whole person, so that we can be wholly sensitive to a holy God, who has told us time and again that we are to be holy, just as God Himself is holy. God has given us the finest roadmap, the greatest model, and the Person who deserves our everything: Jesus.

Thanks to DeMuth for gifting us with such an important reminder, that has breathed new life to the words of this popular chorus.

"He is my everything He is my all 
He is my everything both great and small 
He gave His life for me made everything new 
He is my everything Now how about you 
Like honey in the rock 
Like honey in the rock 
for he tastes like honey in the rock 
Oh taste and see that the Lord is good 
For he tastes like honey in the rock. "

Rating: 5 stars of 5.

conrade

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This book is provided to me free by Thomas-Nelson and the Booksneeze Blogger Program without any obligation for a positive review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.

"One Big Thing" (Phil Cooke)

TITLE: One Big Thing: Discovering What You Were Born to Do
AUTHOR: Phil Cooke
PUBLISHER: Nashville, TN: Thomas-Nelson, 2012, (186 pages).

This book begins with two big questions to drive home one big thing. The two questions are:

1. "What am I supposed to do with my life?"
2. "In a hyper-competitive, cluttered, and distracted world, how do I get noticed?"

Both of these questions intersect to drive home one big thing, to discover what exactly are we born to do. It is about focus. It is about being able to recognize what is important and what is not. It is to know oneself, and to be purposeful according to one's knowledge of self. Cooke shows us that without intentional living, we let culture define who we are and what we ought to do. Without a sense of destiny, we will miss the opportunity to make a choice, and instead let ourselves be vulnerable to the whims and fancies of chance occurrences. This is a culture of clutter, of distractions, and very limited attention span. One of the biggest downside of such activism is a sense of meaninglessness. That is why Cooke argues for the need to have a sense of direction, appropriate influence, and a healthy sense of personal identity. Once this is appropriated, one can begin the journey to living the person we really are. We learn to let priorities be driven by values, to learn to take responsibility for the choices we need to make for ourselves, to map out our own future, to see the difference between jobs and our vocations, and to learn to harness the power of modern communications, according to our own make up.

My Thoughts

The way the author writes is captivating. He poses good questions to hook the attention of readers, to enable them to internalize the question into a personal one. He suggests several ideas, in the hope that at least one will hit home. He reads the culture at large and reminds readers that all that glitters out there is not necessarily precious or worthwhile. What is more important is to recognize our true sense of self and worth, and having done that, to learn to live in a manner that blesses others. There are at least three ways to benefit from this book. First, it is a mirror to look and to reflect on our own lives. Far too many people are living according to the values of the world, chasing after material dreams simply because everyone is doing it. As a mirror, it makes us think more seriously about what is more important for us. Second, it is a guide to help us discover who we are and what we are called to be. This sense of being will determine what we can do best. In our world, it is easy to react according to what the world hits us with. We need to learn to sift through the mass of information, to determine what is central and fundamental, and what is peripheral, and having done that, to make a conscious choice for the necessary. Third, it is a book to help us live well, that we can benefit others. Yes, no one is an island. No one needs to live only for self. We need to discover the role we play as a community. For people who feel uncomfortable about self-improvement, lest one becomes too individualistic focused, I like to offer some encouragement. Improving oneself is not wrong. Learn to see self-improvement as a way to bring positive energy and good to the community you are in.

This is one book that makes readers feel good about themselves, and having done that, to make one sit up and do something with their lives. The practical steps are easy to understand. The challenge to step out of our comfort zone is more difficult to practise. If readers are able to overcome their resistance to change, and to live on purpose and overcome the obstacles to change, they will benefit most. This book is strong in calling one to take the first step. It is not so useful when the going gets tough, or when discouragement steps in when the results are not forthcoming. That is why this book may give us the kick start. For Christians, we need the Bible and the Holy Spirit to help us navigate the marathon.

Rating: 4 stars of 5.

conrade

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Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255<http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

"1000 Days: The Ministry of Christ" (Jonathan Falwell)

TITLE: 1,000 Days: The Ministry of Christ
AUTHOR: Jonathan Falwell
PUBLISHER: Nashville, TN: Thomas-Nelson, 2012, (240 pages).

This book provides us an intense look at the life, the ministry, and the teachings of Christ. From the moment I read the passion of the mountain climber, I was hooked. The mountain climbing is a metaphor for much of life that is all about restlessness and the effects of it. The purpose of the book is to "showcase the life of Jesus during his 1000-day intensive ministry leading up to the real-life scene where He lays down His life, a life that was characterized all the way through by radical love" (62).

The author, son of the famous right wing preacher, has given readers a powerful motivation to learn more about Christ. Each chapter is passionately written and points consistently to the Person of Jesus, that there is no true rest unless one rests in God. Falwell invites us to read Jesus' life more closely through the gospels, showing us:

• Jesus' deep concern for the poor, the broken-hearted, the captives, the blind, and the marginalized in society;
• Jesus' zeroing in on the ordinary person even as the world tends to focus on the rich, the powerful, and the influential;
• Jesus' calling of ordinary men to be disciples;
• Jesus' beatitudes are not secrets to happiness, but pointers to live like Christ;
• Jesus' paradox of life being both going through the storm as well as being calm during the storm;
• Jesus' radical love that guides His ministry;
• Jesus' firm criticism of hypocrisy and legalism;
• Jesus' teachings on heaven and hell, pointing out that hell is eternal separation from God, and that hell is not imposed on people but is freely chosen by people, to their own detriment;
• Jesus' life that demonstrates after a spiritual highlight, there lurks temptation;
• and many more....

There are many teaching moments too, with regards to the seven messages from the cross, the teachings on prayer, and many areas of the Christian Life that will edify the disciple of Christ. Each chapter ends with a series of questions for individual reflection or small group discussion. If that is insufficient, there is a more comprehensive "Bible Study Guide" for small groups to use. 

My Thoughts

The thrust of the book is three-fold. First, we need to recognize the futility of climbing the mountain of worldliness. Second, we need to turn around and seek the right mountain. Third, we climb the path of seeking God, through Jesus. This book is a preacher's delight, a unique guidebook to the life of Jesus, and an immensely encouraging way to persuade readers to move from restlessness in the world to restfulness in God. Jesus shows us the way intensely through 1000 days. Falwell shows us a glimpse of how powerful and satisfying it is to let our natural restlessness inside us, drive us to seek God more and more, in Christ.

Written at a lay level, this book is easy to read but challenging when it comes to practice. I recommend this book highly for small groups to use as they reflect, remember, and refresh their passion for Christ, and to be impassioned to witness for Christ.

Rating: 5 stars of 5.

conrade

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This book is provided to me free by Thomas-Nelson without any obligation for a positive review. All opinions offered above are mine unless otherwise stated or implied.