The Women of Easter by Liz Curtis Higgs

The Women of Easter by Liz Curtis Higgs ISBN-13: 9781601426826 Hardcover: 224 pages Publisher: WaterBrook Released: Jan. 3, 2017

Source: ARC review copy from the publisher.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
You re about to meet three women named Mary, each of whom has a life-changing encounter with Jesus. Mary of Bethany prepares the way for the Lord s burial when she anoints His feet and fills the air with her perfume. His mother, Mary of Nazareth, remains by His side from His first breath to His last, her loyalty unwavering. Mary Magdalene, delivered of seven demons, bravely supports her Teacher through His darkest hours and then proclaims the glorious news of His resurrection. What a trio. What a Savior!

Your mind and emotions will be engaged and your faith strengthened as each scene unfolds, preparing your heart for a richer, deeper Easter experience. Liz Curtis Higgs, a seasoned Bible teacher and award-winning novelist, combines her storytelling skills with a thorough verse-by-verse study of Scripture as together you explore the remarkable lives of the women of Easter.


My Review:
The Women of Easter is a Bible study focusing on the women involved in Easter events (from Mary's anointing of Jesus' feet to after Jesus' resurrection). The author went verse-by-verse and commented on events. She provided cultural background information so the reader could better understand and visualize events. She also suggested what various emotions people might have felt during those events. There's a short study guide in the back with questions for further discussion or thought.

The book is very readable, and I found it to be encouraging and full of grace. I suspect I'll often read it around Easter time as a devotional. I'd highly recommend this book.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.

The American Miracle by Michael Medved

The American Miracle by Michael Medved Paperback: 400 pages Publisher: Crown Forum Released: October 25, 2016

Source: Review copy from the publisher through Amazon Vine.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
In The American Miracle, conservative radio host and best-selling author Michael Medved describes a stunning series of amazements in early American history that each suggest an "intelligent design"—a higher power that has steered crucial turns in our nation's story, and will again.

The American Miracle traces the grace that shaped twelve decisive moments in our history—from the desperate passengers of the Mayflower who were blown off course to the one spot in the region that gave them a fair chance for survival, to the casual discovery of three cigars wrapped in handwritten notes that assured Union victory in the Civil War. Sometimes Medved reveals the providential nature of well-known incidents, and at others he focuses on an unknown historical event that had long-term impact.


My Review:
The American Miracle described incidents in American history that where attributed to the divine hand in part due to how improbable they seemed. He looked at the period from the Pilgrims to the Civil War. At the beginning, he mostly focused on specific events. As the book went on, he focused people who had a series of "divine incidents" happen in their life. The book ends with Abraham Lincoln, and that section read more like a biography. The more biographical portions are on George Washington, Andrew Jackson, Sam Houston, Nicholas Trist, and Abraham Lincoln.

When describing an incident, he often quoted people who actually witnessed these events. I'd previously heard of many of these events. However, I did learn some interesting new details about those events and learned about some events I was unaware of. If you're not familiar with this theme, I think a person would find it very interesting and well-researched.

Incidentally, his point is not that we have the right to be arrogant or feel faultless because God has intervened in our history but rather that we should be grateful and are obligated to act more nobly because of it.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.

Today's Moment of Truth by Lee Strobel, Mark Mittelberg

Today's Moment of Truth by Lee Strobel, Mark Mittelberg ISBN-13: 9780310359401 Hardback: 400 pages Publisher: Zondervan Released: July 12, 2016

Source: Review copy from the publisher through Amazon Vine.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
Leading apologists Lee Strobel and Mark Mittelberg present 180 insightful devotions that will give you daily infusions of spiritual truth while deepening your knowledge of the evidence for Christianity. Each devotional is based on scientific, historical, or biblical facts that will bolster your confidence in Christ. You will be inspired, encouraged, and equipped to “give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have” (1 Peter 3:15).


My Review:
Today's Moment of Truth is a 180 day devotional. Each devotional started with a short verse from the Bible, was usually followed by a critical comment about the Bible (related to the verse) by an atheist, and then briefly described a scientific, archeological, or Biblical point (like prophecy) that supports the Bible account.

If you've read Strobel's books or other in-depth apologetics books, you probably won't find much new here. However, if you (or a friend) are interested but don't have the time to read those books, this is a nice, bite-sized way to get informed. It's more for strengthening your faith than learning to counter arguments. The entries are too brief to give a full argument on a topic.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.

What Grieving People Wish You Knew about What Really Helps by Nancy Guthrie

What Grieving People Wish You Knew about What Really Helps by Nancy Guthrie ISBN-13: 9781433552359 Paperback: 192 pages Publisher: Crossway Books Released: Sept. 30, 2016

Source: ARC review copy from the publisher through Amazon Vine.

Book Description, Modified from Back Cover:
When someone we love is grieving, we want to be there. But it's easy to feel paralyzed, worried that we might say or do the wrong thing. Nancy Guthrie has personal experience dealing with pain and knows what words of encouragement are helpful and what words are harmful.

Drawing from her own life experiences--including the loss of two young children--Guthrie has written this helpful resource for Christians who want to be better friends to those who are suffering. Practical and down-to-earth, this book includes examples and helpful tips from real grieving people who have been helped (and hurt) by friends who meant well, equipping readers to come alongside and comfort loved ones who are hurting.


My Review:
What Grieving People Wish You Knew about What Really Helps focused on grief from losing a loved one by death. The author understands that different people will be comforted or offended by different things, but she tries to give general principles about what to say and do and what to not say and do. She also includes comments by people who have experienced this grief, explaining what they found comforting when they were grieving.

What I found most helpful was insight into the mindset of people who are profoundly grieving. Some of the suggestions seemed contradictory, as some people said they would find it comforting but others said they would not, but I found some suggestions that I would be comfortable doing. I'd recommend this book to those who want to better comfort those grieving the lose of a loved one.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.

A Spectacle of Glory by Joni Eareckson Tada

A Spectacle of Glory by Joni Eareckson Tada with Larry Libby ISBN-13: 9780310346777 Hardback: 400 pages Publisher: Zondervan Released: Oct. 4, 2016

Source: Review copy from the publisher.

Book Description, Modified from Back Cover:
Do you ever wonder why God created you? The Bible spells it out plainly: God created you to showcase His glory—to enjoy it, display it, and demonstrate it every day to all those you encounter.

After nearly 50 years of living as a quadriplegic, and dealing with chronic pain on a daily basis, Joni has learned firsthand the importance of glorifying God through the toughest of situations. Through this devotional, Joni will help you discover how to put God's glory on display—how to say no to complaining and say yes to daily following God down even the most difficult paths. Along the way, you will find great comfort and encouragement by focusing on the one who longs to lead and guide you every step of the way, every day.

Don't ever think your life is too ordinary, your world too small, or your work too insignificant. All of it is a stage set for you to glorify God.


My Review:
A Spectacle of Glory is a year-long devotional with a theme of glorifying God in every situation. Each day started with a verse reference followed by a short devotion that usually quoted that verse and ended with a prayer. The devotions generally focused on better understanding the verse and how it relates to our walk with God.

The devotions often contained the theme of how we respond to difficult situations (like health problems, financial worries, etc). Short devotions generally can't develop an idea very far, but these devotions were fairly good. They emphasized keeping our focus on Jesus, the gift of our salvation, and heaven rather than our problems.

I'm not sure I agree with some of the author's theology of suffering, but it's made me dig into the Bible to further study the topic. Perhaps people with chronic suffering (from disability or health issues) might find more comfort and encouragement in it as that's the author's perspective. Since it seemed to focus on what a suffering person should ideally be doing and feeling, it sometimes made me feel bad that I'm still confused and discouraged by my suffering and current limitations.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.

Beyond Suffering Bible NLT by Joni and Friends Inc

Beyond Suffering Bible NLT by Joni and Friends Inc ISBN-13: 9781414392028 Hardback: 1696 pages Publisher: Tyndale House Publishers Released: Oct. 15, 2016

Source: Review copy from the publisher.

Book Description, Modified from Back Cover:
There is hardly a person who doesn't know someone dealing with a disability, disease, chronic illness, or other form of personal suffering. The Beyond Suffering Bible is the first study Bible to directly address those who suffer and the people who love and care for them.

From bestselling author, singer, and radio host Joni Eareckson Tada and the experts at Joni and Friends Christian Institute on Disability, the Beyond Suffering Bible is filled with thousands of notes and features that invite readers into a conversation about suffering and its place in each person's life. Each feature has been carefully created to provide readers with valuable information, meaningful encouragement, and challenging applications as they encounter God's Word.


My Review:
Beyond Suffering Bible NLT is a New Living Translation (2015 version) Study Bible. In this paperback version, the pages are so thin that you can see the print on opposite side of the page. This made the Bible text a bit difficult to read, and I doubt you could use highlighters on these pages.

It contains the things you'd expect in a study Bible: reading plans, a topical index, a dictionary/concordance of Bible terms, maps, and footnotes. It also has features targeted at people with disabilities and/or chronic health issues and at their caretakers. It's "for people who want to understand what it looks like to think and live like a Christian in the midst of suffering."

There are some essays by Joni and others about suffering and disabilities from a Christian viewpoint. The book introductions give the normal information about each book of the Bible but also point out the themes in that book relating to disabilities and suffering. There are brief commentary notes ("Connection Points") that also expand on verses relating to these themes.

There are page-long profiles and devotions. The profiles look at Biblical (and some modern) people who suffered and how they responded. The devotions often use modern people in their examples, and they expand even further on verses relating to disabilities and suffering. Some of the devotions are by Joni Eareckson Tada, and she talks about her struggles and insights.

I've recently been diagnosed with an autoimmune disease, so I hoped that this Bible would help me with some of the issues I'm now facing. I believe that people with disabilities or chronic diseases will find comfort and insights in the essays, profiles, and devotions. But I also think that it can be difficult to convey to others how different people have found hope and strength, perhaps because everyone's faith journey is a little different.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.

Moments with the Savior by Ken Gire

Moments with the Savior by Ken Gire ISBN-13: 9780310353546 Hardback: 448 pages Publisher: Zondervan Released: Sept. 13, 2016

Source: Review copy from the publisher through BookLook.

Book Description, Modified from Back Cover:
Take a step-by-step journey through Jesus' life. Join Jesus as He travels with His disciples through the Galilean countryside. Press through the throngs at the temple in Jerusalem. Marvel at the Savior’s challenging words, miraculous authority, and tender compassion. This compilation weaves events, emotions, and thoughts into a moving depiction of the life of Christ. A Scripture portion and prayer are included with each devotion.


My Review:
Moments with the Savior is a 66 day devotional. It starts by quoting several verses from the Bible that set the scene. The author then created a fictional short story based upon the verses and invented details to fill the scene out. Theses scenes were usually focused on Jesus. I had expected these devotionals to help a person slow down and consider the scene, but I felt like they were more like a novel or movie. I didn't always agree with the details included since they were based more upon tradition or imagination than historical accuracy. Each devotional ended with a fairly long prayer that was based on the verses for that day. I was disappointed that I didn't get many insights from the devotional.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.

Guarded by Christ by Heather Holleman

Guarded by Christ by Heather Holleman ISBN-13: 9780802414878 Paperback: 192 pages Publisher: Moody Publishers Released: Oct. 4, 2016

Source: ebook review copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

Book Description, Modified from Back Cover:
Heather Holleman used to live a fragile life, a prisoner to fear, anxiety, and despair. Then one day, while reading a simple statement in Scripture, “God guards the lives of his faithful ones” (Psalm 97:10), that all began to change.

In Guarded by Christ: Knowing the God Who Rescues and Keeps Us, Heather guides women through a series of practical mental shifts that immensely helped her live strong in the Lord. Learn how in Jesus, you are guarded:
By Christ's righteousness instead of condemnation
By peace instead of anxiety
By hope instead of despair
By the Holy Spirit's power instead of self-effort
By a crucified life instead of a self-important one


My Review:
Guarded by Christ explores what it means to be guarded by God. After reading Psalm 97:10, the author explored Scripture to better understand from what God rescued us and guards us.

She started from a mindset of condemnation, anxiety, hopelessness, weakness, and self-absorption. She concluded that a guarded person would feel confidence, peace, hope, strength, and be savior-focused. She explained each new way of thinking (from anxiety to peace, etc.) and quoted appropriate Scripture verses for each.

She described how she developed memory devices to help her recall these truths daily. She chose to visualize a fortress (as this metaphor is mentioned frequently in the Psalms) and various parts of that fortress. This process has helped to transform her life. Overall, I'd recommend this book.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.

The Tallit by Charlie Kluge

The Tallit by Charlie Kluge ISBN-13: 9781629987330 Paperback: 224 pages Publisher: Charisma House Released: Oct. 4, 2016

Source: ebook review copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

Book Description, Modified from NetGalley:
To some people the tallit, also called a prayer shawl, is a sacred garment worn during special occasions. To others it is a mysterious object full of symbolism and hidden meaning. This book will help readers experience the significance of the prayer shawl as it symbolically represents God’s presence, healing, love, and forgiveness.

Dr. Kluge uses personal stories and scripture to explore the mystery, explain the history, and reveal the modern meaning and application of the Jewish prayer shawl.


My Review:
The Tallit talks about the prayer shawl, its symbolism, and stories of its use in the Bible and modern times. The author described the origins of the tallit, the modern prayer shawl, and how it's used. He talked about the different parts of the prayer shawl and their symbolism. He also mentioned legends about the tallit that are speculation yet he finds interesting.

The author stated that the tallit is a sacred object that is special because of what it symbolizes and reminds the wearer of, but it has no power in itself. He then went on to tell many stories of powerful things that he's seen happen while wearing or under a tallit. Much of the book was the author's thoughts on a variety of subjects including prayer, fasting, God's voice, being still and listening, seeking God, being humble, spiritual warfare, Israel, and the Last Days.

The author is a Messianic Jew, so he talked about how Yeshua's miracles point to him being the Messiah. He pointed out mentions of Yeshua wearing a tallit and how Yeshua fulfills the symbolism of the tallit. He also included his testimony about the many events that moved him toward accepting Yeshua as the Messiah. Overall, I had hoped for a little more about the tallit in biblical times, but maybe there isn't that much to say.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.

Humble Roots by Hannah Anderson

Humble Roots by Hannah Anderson ISBN-13: 9780802414595 Paperback: 208 pages Publisher: Moody Publishers Released: October 4, 2016

Source: ebook review copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

Book Description, Modified from NetGalley:
A lot of books these days are trying to diagnose our discontentment and exhaustion. While many of us could do to simplify, peace is not about productivity, saying no, or any other external. It's about saying yes to our dependence on God.

The reason many of us feel so unsettled is that we are attempting to be something we were never intended to be—it's an internal issue. We need to recover a theology of creaturehood that leads to true abundance, and Humble Roots is the perfect place to start. Exploring various texts from the Gospels, Hannah Anderson reveals:

*The cause, nature, and dangers of busyness and self-dependence
*What humility is (and isn't), and why it's essential to our identity
*How Christ modeled humility through His incarnation
*How to learn humility and walk in dependence on God


My Review:
Humble Roots explored how we can find rest for our souls through a humble heart--through acknowledging our dependence on God. The basic idea is that God is God and we're not. She looked at a number of ways we might try to be god and not realize it. Our culture teaches and even glorifies some things that are counter to the understanding that we're not God. She also looked at how humility can be shown in how you care for your body and emotions, treat knowledge, resources, and desires, respond to the brokenness of this world, and face suffering and death.

The author focused on the Bible for answers and provided insights into the verses and our culture. She used gardening analogies to help illustrate certain points. I never felt condemned (like any good Christian ought to have this down), just "Arg, she's right! How have I been missing that?" I have felt more rested and less worried after reading this book. I'd highly recommend this book to any Christian.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.

Crossing Cultures in Scripture by Marvin J. Newell

Crossing Cultures in Scripture by Marvin J. Newell ISBN-13: 9780830844739 Paperback: 272 pages Publisher: InterVarsity Press Released: October 2, 2016

Source: ebook review copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

Book Description, Modified from NetGalley:
From Genesis to Revelation, the Bible is a crosscultural book. Scripture is full of narratives of God's people crossing cultures in pursuit of God's mission. Biblical texts shed light on mission dynamics: Sarah and Hagar functioning in an honor-shame culture, Moses as a multicultural leader, Ruth as a crosscultural conversion, David and Uriah illustrating power distance, the queen of Sheba as an international truth-seeker, Daniel as a transnational student, Paul in Athens as a model of contextualization, and much more.

Missionary and missions professor Marvin Newell provides a biblical theology of culture and mission, mining the depths of Scripture to tease out missiological insights and crosscultural perspectives. This text is organized canonically, revealing how the whole of Scripture speaks to contemporary mission realities. Filled with biblical insight and missional expertise, this book is an essential resource for students and practitioners of crosscultural ministry and mission.


My Review:
Crossing Cultures in Scripture looks at the cross-cultural encounters described in the Bible and draws lessons from them for missionaries and those who work in cross-cultural contexts. The author illustrated his points with stories from his own experiences and those of other missionaries. I think this book would be useful for those who are interested in or newly involved in cross-cultural ministry.

The author started in Genesis and worked all the way through the Bible to Revelation. Some of the lessons were about understanding different cultures, like honor/shame societies, power-distance dynamics, and tribe-clan-family groupings. Most were lessons about embracing the culture you're working in and about circumstances you might encounter, like needing a favor (Abraham), the consequences of ignorance (Jacob), multicultural leadership (Moses), leading a despised cultural minority (Nehemiah), cross-cultural conflict resolution (Acts), and preaching to pagans (Acts).


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.

Take Your Life Back by Stephen Arterburn

Take Your Life Back by Stephen Arterburn and David Stoop ISBN-13: 9781496413673 Trade Paperback: 224 pages Publisher: Tyndale Released: Oct. 4, 2016

Source: Review copy from the publisher.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
Do you have a relationship that leaves you feeling drained? Maintaining and improving this kind of relationship--whether it's a spouse, a friend, or a child--can feel exhausting, fruitless, and toxic to your own health. It's complicated: You love the person, but sometimes you feel as if you're pouring all your energy into holding your loved one, and your relationship, together.

Arterburn and Stoop have helped millions walk the path of health through their New Life Ministries and counseling center--and now they reach out to those who walk the path alongside them. We are called to love one another deeply, but it is possible to support your loved one in a way that honors the relationship, God, and yourself.


My Review:
Take Your Life Back is about no longer "letting the past and other people control you." The first 127 pages talked about the different causes and ways a person can become reactive (unhealthy) rather than responsive (healthy) in their relationships. The authors came at it from several different angles and from a very inclusive mindset so you're likely to see yourself somewhere in those descriptions. The intent seems to be to help you recognize that you have a problem and what's at the root of it so that you can heal from it.

The next 50 pages were about what you can do toward having healthy relationships. While God and Jesus were talked about, it's in a general way. Unbelievers are urged to consider the Bible and surrender to God. I had expected a much stronger emphasis on the truths found in Scripture as the path to healing. Their advice included finding someone trustworthy to talk with and come alongside you and following the 12 step program. The last 23 pages described what the life of someone who has taken back their life will look like.

This book seemed more about encouraging you to recognize the problem and the goal and to make the effort to change. It does a fine job of that, but I expected more on how to "take back" your life. The advice they did give was pretty general and needs to be tailored to your own situation.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.

Good & Angry by David Powlison

Good & Angry by David Powlison ISBN-13: 9781942572978 Paperback: 256 pages Publisher: New Growth Press Released: Sept. 12, 2016

Source: Review copy from the publisher.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
Anger is our complex human response to things we perceive as wrong in a complex world, thus we must learn how to fruitfully and honestly deal with it. Powlison undertakes an in-depth exploration of the roots of anger, moral judgment, and righteous response by looking in a surprising place: God’s own anger.

Powlison reminds us that God gets angry too. He sees things in this world that aren’t right and he wants justice too. But God’s anger doesn’t devolve into manipulation or trying to control others to get his own way. Instead his anger is good and redemptive. It causes him to step into our world to make wrongs right, sending his own Son to die so that we can be reconciled. He is both our model for change and our power to change.

Good and Angry sets readers on a path toward a faithful and fruitful expression of anger, in which we return good for evil and redeem wrongs. Powlison offers practical help for people who struggle with irritation, complaining, or bitterness and gives guidance for how to respond constructively when life goes wrong.


My Review:
Good & Angry provides an in-depth look at anger and what the Bible says about it. The author described what anger is at its core and how anger can so easily go wrong. He also looks at good anger--anger which leads to righting of true wrongs and injustice. He did an excellent job of examining how to do "good anger" with God as our perfect example and by looking at what Scripture says.

The author also looked at how we can deal with anger gone wrong by asking ourselves several questions about the situation. He gave example situations and showed how to work through the questions. He looked at both serious causes and small annoyances that provoke anger as well as anger at yourself and anger against God. Overall, I'd recommend this book to every Christian, but especially those in positions of leadership.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.

Living Clay by Keith Missel

Living Clay by Keith Missel ISBN-13: 9781625915054 Paperback: 172 pages Publisher: New Hope Publishers Released: Aug. 8, 2016

Source: ebook review copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
This Bible study illuminates the process of sanctification and transformation in the life of a believer. Filled with theological truth flowing from the context of Scripture, you will see how the Potter purposes to shape you--the clay--into a masterpiece. As Jeremiah was invited to the Potter's house, so you are invited to see how God is shaping you for His glory and your good.


My Review:
Living Clay is an 8 week long devotional with 6 days of devotions in each week. The author looked at how God purifies our lives and shapes us, and he used the biblical metaphor of God as the potter and us as the clay. He provided some information about how pottery is made to help those unfamiliar with the process to better understand the Potter metaphor.

Most weeks started with commentary that used the Potter metaphor. Each day had several verses for you to look up and 4 or 5 questions to answer about those verses. The author also provided some commentary to make sure you understood his main points. He used both biblical and modern people as examples to illustrate his points.

The themes for each week were: how God's hands shape us, hard callings, creating boundaries and rest, suffering and hard times, second chances, finishing well, evangelism, and God's sovereignty. The author has a passion for missions and evangelism, and several of the weeks emphasis those topics.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.

Cold-Case Christianity by J. Warner Wallace

Cold-Case Christianity by J. Warner Wallace ISBN-13: 9781434704696 Trade Paperback: 288 pages Publisher: David C. Cook Released: Jan. 1, 2013

Source: Bought from Christianbook.com.

Book Description from Goodreads:
Written by an L. A. County homicide detective and former atheist, Cold-Case Christianity examines the claims of the New Testament using the skills and strategies of a hard-to-convince criminal investigator.

Christianity could be defined as a “cold case”: it makes a claim about an event from the distant past for which there is little forensic evidence. In Cold-Case Christianity, J. Warner Wallace uses his nationally recognized skills as a homicide detective to look at the evidence and eyewitnesses behind Christian beliefs. Including gripping stories from his career and the visual techniques he developed in the courtroom, Wallace uses illustration to examine the powerful evidence that validates the claims of Christianity. A unique apologetic that speaks to readers’ intense interest in detective stories, Cold-Case Christianity inspires readers to have confidence in Christ as it prepares them to articulate the case for Christianity.


My Review:
Cold-Case Christianity looks at the claims of the gospels from the point of view of a cold case detective. The author looked at many "lines of evidence" as he examined the gospels, and I felt he did an excellent job of explaining how he came to his conclusions. He even covered some angles that I haven't read before and which I found very interesting.

He began by using examples of various cases he's worked on to show how a detective examines evidence. He then applied these methods to the evidence surrounding the claims of the gospels. Then he looked at some of the evidence in greater detail. He looked at when the gospels were written, if they are eyewitness accounts, if they are accurate, how well these accounts have been preserved over time, what the motive was behind writing the gospels, and how much evidence is "enough."

I wouldn't hesitate to give this book to anyone who is uncertain about the gospels or who likes to debate these issues. This book will especially appeal to those who are interested in detective work.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.

Dwelling Places by Lucinda Secrest McDowell

Dwelling Places by Lucinda Secrest McDowell ISBN-13: 978-1501815324 Paperback: 256 pages Publisher: Abingdon Press Released: June 7, 2016

Source: Advanced Reader review copy from the publisher through Amazon Vine.

Book Description, Modified from Back Cover:
Award-winning author Lucinda Secrest McDowell knows that if you spend a few minutes every day turning to God's Word for wisdom and guidance, your faith can flourish and grow. Through short and inspiring readings, McDowell unpacks a single word--like mercy, beauty, gratitude, or grace--to uncover a biblical blessing or lesson you can act on that very day. Each devotion includes stories and illustrations to foster understanding and ends with a benediction, written as if God were speaking directly to you.

Organized into four seasons--fall, Advent, Lent, and summer--these devotions invite you to discover those "dwelling places" that offer the joy of God's promises and presence.


My Review:
Dwelling Places is a devotional book with 130 days worth of devotions. These are divided into 4 seasons: Dwell (30 devotionals, fall theme), Shine (30 devotionals, winter/Christmas theme, suggested read during Advent), Renew (40 devotionals, for Lent), Grow (30 devotionals, summer theme). Each day's devotion is based on a word, and the author quotes a verse containing that word. She then related a story and talked about the verse. Each devotion ended with a paragraph written as if God is speaking to the reader about what was covered in the devotion. Overall, I'd recommend this devotional book.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.

The Temple and the Tabernacle by J. Daniel Hays

The Temple and the Tabernacle by J. Daniel Hays ISBN-13: 9780801016202 Paperback: 208 pages Publisher: Baker Books Released: Aug. 2, 2016

Source: ebook review copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

Book Description from NetGalley:
At various points in Israel's history, God dwelt in specific, significant places, most notably in the tabernacle and the temple. These structures, meticulously planned, extravagantly furnished, and regularly frequented by the devout, were more than just places of worship and sacrifice. They were pictures of God's relationship with his chosen people and of the atoning work that would be done by the Messiah. To understand the tabernacle and the temple, then, is to understand how we are brought into God's family through the sacrifice of his only Son, Jesus.

Visually stunning and theologically rich, this full-color resource brings together the latest scholarship and archeological discoveries to bring God's dwelling places alive for modern believers. It places these important structures in their historical and theological contexts, connects them with the overall biblical story, and shows how they bring meaning and depth to the faith of Christians today.


My Review:
The Temple and the Tabernacle examines what the tabernacle and temples looked like, their purpose, and their theological significance. The author started by looking at the purpose of a temple and how the Garden of Eden fulfilled that role. He then looked at how the ark and tabernacle were built, their function, and some of their symbolic aspects. He contrasted this with how Solomon went about building the temple and what it looked like. I found this contrast enlightening as I'd never stopped to think about how different Solomon's Temple was from the tabernacle.

The author also discussed God's departure from the temple (Ezekiel 8-11), the rebuilding of the temple, Herod's additions to temple area, and the future temple (Ezekiel 40, Rev. 21-22). We get a detailed description of what the temple looked like at various times based on descriptions in the Bible and from other sources. The author generally avoided speculation and stuck to the symbolism pointed out in the Bible itself. However, he did speculate about what the lamp stand, for example, might have originally looked like.

Overall, I found this book very interesting and would recommend it to anyone interested in a detailed study of the tabernacle and the temples.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.

Me Too by Jon Weece

Me Too: Experience the God Who Understands by Jon Weece ISBN-13: 9781400206926 Trade Paperback: 224 pages Publisher: Thomas Nelson Released: Feb. 2, 2016

Source: Review copy from the publisher through BookLook.

Book Description, Modified from Back Cover:
Your life is filled with pressure and pain and heartache and disappointment. So was His. Christianity does not require you to smile through your pain, much less praise God for tormenting you. God doesn’t enjoy your suffering. But he does understand it—and he knows exactly how to fix it.

That’s what Me Too is all about: A God who turned the ugliness of the cross into a spectacle of eternal beauty. An all-powerful Lord who will do the same with the pain of this world. An eternal Father who specializes in wiping away tears and putting you back together again. If you’ll allow him.


My Review:
Me Too looked at how Jesus understands our suffering. The author covered a wide variety of topics: vulnerability, praying, fear, loving your enemy, hospitality, grace, forgiveness, suicide, abortion, second chances, and more. Each chapter felt self-contained rather than building on each other, through the theme of Jesus understanding our suffering and being the answer that we're looking for is found in each.

The author looked to the Bible and Jesus' example of how he dealt with various issues. He also used stories from modern life. The writing was casual, so it's easy to read and understand. The author used a very encouraging and compassionate tone and came from a "me, too" view of struggles. Overall, I enjoyed this book and would recommend it.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.

The Secret Language of Churches & Cathedrals by Richard Stemp

The Secret Language of Churches & Cathedrals by Richard Stemp ISBN-13: 9781780289618 Paperback: 224 pages Publisher: Watkins Publishing Released: July 19, 2016

Source: ebook review copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

Book Description, Modified from NetGalley:
Who is depicted in that stained glass window? What is the significance of those geometric figures? Why are there fierce-looking beasts carved amidst all that beauty? Is there a deeper purpose behind the play of light and space in the nave? Why is there a pelican on the lectern and ornate foliage on the pillars? The largely illiterate medieval audience could read the symbols of churches and cathedrals and recognize the meanings and stories deliberately encoded into them.

Today, in an age less attuned to iconography, such places of worship are often seen merely as magnificent works of architecture. This book restores the lost spiritual meaning of these fine and fascinating buildings. It provides a three-part illustrated key by which modern visitors can understand the layout, fabric and decorative symbolism of Christian sacred structures.

Part One is an analysis of structural features, outside and in, from spires and domes to clerestories and brasses.

Part Two is a theme-by-theme guide, which identifies significant figures, scenes, stories, animals, flowers, and the use of numbers, letters and patterns in paintings, carvings and sculpture.

Part Three is a historical decoder, revealing the evolution of styles - from basilicas through Byzantine, Romanesque, Gothic and beyond.

For all those who seek to know more about Christian art and architecture, this richly illustrated book will instruct and delight in equal measure.


My Review:
The Secret Language of Churches & Cathedrals provides a tour of these buildings, explaining the practical, historical, and symbolic reasons behind their features. The author looked at Roman Catholic, Orthodox, and Protestant churches.

The first part described what you see as you approach and enter the building and explained the architectural features found in a typical cathedral or church. The second part looked at the paintings and sculptures and identified various people and common symbols and scenes for those of us not "in the know." The third part looked at the elements found in the earliest churches and how they changed throughout history.

The book contained many full-color pictures from the outside and inside of churches to illustrate the points made in the text. For paintings, we're shown the overall ceiling, then detail shots with descriptions of what is being show in that section.

I once went on a study abroad tour were we visited many cathedrals. I felt like I was missing half of what I was seeing because I didn't know the intent behind it. I'd recommend this book to those planning on touring cathedrals or who are just interested in the topic.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.

Heart Made Whole by Christa Black Gifford

Heart Made Whole by Christa Black Gifford ISBN-13: 9780310346494 Trade Paperback: 208 pages Publisher: Zondervan Released: June 7, 2016

Source: Review copy from the publisher through BookLook.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
Christa Black Gifford shares her own stories of loss, betrayal, and personal tragedy, to help those in pain invite the true Healer into the tangled mess of their broken hearts. Gifford reminds readers that pain is not their enemy, however, unhealed pain can become their greatest foe if it’s not taken to Jesus.


My Review:
In Heart Made Whole, talked about the many emotional traumas in her life, from the loss of her child all the way back to giggling girls in her childhood. Previously, she'd dealt with pain by ignoring it and hoping it'd go away. Recently, though, she's learned to acknowledge her pain, find the causes, and ask God to heal her, rather than attacking her emotions as shameful.

She grew up believing some wrong things, like that God's sovereignty means that he wants and causes bad things to happen to us. Her theology has improved, but she's concluded that God has given up his sovereignty over our lives so that we can have free will. Thus God doesn't want anything bad to happen to us, but we come to harm because we live in a fallen world and people have free will. This God patiently waits, offering to comfort us and make the best out of our messes and victim-hood.

Yet the Bible is very clear that God is completely sovereign AND we have free will. That God is not the source of evil and does not rejoice in our pain, but he does allow some bad things to happen (and--mercifully--not others) within this fallen world. So I have a problem with the theology she teaches in this book even if it's a step closer to the truth for her. I also find no comfort in the thought that God's not in control, which is implied by her theology.

Some of her other beliefs were unclear. She either has regular, vivid visions or a very active imagination. Rather than thinking about how she's feeling, she'd ask, "Heart, how are you doing?" with the response being a vision. She described visions of Jesus cracking up jokes and playing patty-cake with her. Later, she stated that she feels using her imagination to spend time with Jesus is a good thing.

I'm glad that she's come to see God as loving, but I generally found the book confusing (with all the analogies and jumps around in time) and disappointing in terms of theology.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.

The Mind of Terror by Tass Saada

The Mind of Terror by Tass Saada with Dean Merrill ISBN-13: 9781496411877 Trade Paperback: 240 pages Publisher: Tyndale House Publishers Released: July 1, 2016

Source: Review copy from the publisher.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
What motivates Islamic terrorists? What is in the mind of terror? Our news reports from the Middle East cover events--bombings, massacres, and suicide attacks. Our newscasters take time to explain who the players are--from Hezbollah to the Iranian Quds, from ISIS to the Palestinian National Authority. But there is something underneath these events and players that fuels atrocity after atrocity in the Middle East. What is it?

Tass Saada provides the answer to that question as he delves into the mind of terror, explaining what motivates extremist groups throughout the Middle East. A former Muslim and a onetime sniper with Yasser Arafat's Fatah organization, Tass has lived it himself. At age 42, he steered his life in a radical new direction, committing it to Jesus. Tass not only describes the motivations and aspirations of those who live in the Middle East, he also outlines a peaceful solution. We can plant seeds of hope that will transform not only the Middle East, but also our increasingly diverse neighborhoods at home.


My Review:
The Mind of Terror describes possible motives for terrorist activity, how people may respond, and how Christians can respond. The author (Tass Saada) was once a sniper for a terrorist group, so he knows firsthand what motivates terrorism. He provided a balanced, realistic view of people's motives and was sympathetic to certain reactions as being understandable even though they aren't desirable since they don't lead to a solution.

The author described the leading terrorist groups (which are not all Muslim) and the diversity of beliefs among Muslims. He explained how honor/shame cultures work and a variety of reasons why someone might become a terrorist. He looked at a number of ways that people respond to terrorism and explained why these reactions don't lead to peace.

He looked at verses in the Bible that Christians may not be aware of regarding Abraham, Ishmael, and Isaac. Then he described a better way to respond and gave examples of people living out this better way. He looked at what motivates people to peace, how to earn the right to be heard, and what you can do (even if terrorists seem outside of your influence). I'd highly recommend this book.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.

A Doubter's Guide to the Ten Commandments by John Dickson

A Doubter's Guide to the Ten Commandments: How, for Better or Worse, Our Ideas about the Good Life Come from Moses and Jesus by John Dickson ISBN-13: 9780310522591 Trade Paperback: 304 pages Publisher: Zondervan Released: June 7, 2016

Source: Review copy from the publisher through BookLook.

Book Description, Modified from Back Cover:
The Ten Commandments are perhaps some of the most well-known and vexed verses of the whole Bible. They have found their way into our art, monuments, literature, and culture—even into Richard Dawkins famed “Ten Atheist Commandments.”

In A Doubter’s Guide to the Ten Commandments, bestselling author John Dickson explores how these ten verses have changed our world and how they show us what the Good Life looks like. Whether or not one believes in the Bible, these ten ancient instructions open up a window to the Western world and on our own soul.


My Review:
A Doubter's Guide to the Ten Commandments talks about how the Ten Commandments--and Jesus' take on them in the New Testament--have deeply influenced history and Western culture. The author assumed that his reader isn't Christian and maybe not even religious, so he described the original context of each commandment, what Jesus said about the commandment, and how these ideas have affected the culture in the past and present.

The author was respectful towards those who do not share his Christian faith and used language that anyone should be able to follow (rather than "Christian-ese" or academic language). Though I knew much of this information, I still found it an interesting read and learned a few things. Overall, I'd recommend this book to anyone who is interested in the topic.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.

Between Pain and Grace by Peterman, Schmutzer

Between Pain and Grace by Gerald W. Peterman, Andrew J. Schmutzer ISBN-13: 9780802409676 Paperback: 352 pages Publisher: Moody Publishers Released: June 7, 2016

Source: ebook review copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
Why does suffering exist? Where is God in it? Despite how common suffering is, we still struggle to understand it, and even more, to bear through it.

Born from a popular college course on suffering, this book answers many of our critical questions, like: Is God personally involved in our pain and suffering? How should Christians handle emotions like grief and anger? What does the Bible say about issues like mental illness, sexual abuse, and betrayal?

Between Pain and Grace is useful both in the classroom and for personal reading. The authors pull together Scripture, personal experiences, and even psychological research to offer a well-rounded take on suffering.


My Review:
Between Pain and Grace provides a Biblical view of pain and suffering. It has an academic tone and appears to be aimed mostly at Christian leaders and counselors. The authors believe that God is both all-good and all-powerful. Much of the book focused on what the Bible says about the topic (either in teachings or in historical narratives).

They started by discussing pain, suffering, and the difference between them. They explored the origins of suffering as found in Genesis and discussed the verses where either God or Jesus is described as suffering. They discussed the language of lament in the Bible and urge the modern church to use laments in their services. They looked at redemptive anger (against injustice, which leads to action to make things right) and the Lord's Prayer. They talked about the role of Christians and Christian leaders regarding suffering--especially how they act toward suffering people in their church. They devote a chapter each to fractured families, sexual abuse, and mental illness.

This is probably not a book you want to hand someone in fresh, deep emotional pain, but it is a good look at the theology of suffering and how the church as a whole can better help those who are suffering.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.

Finding God in the Hard Times by Matt & Beth Redman

Finding God in the Hard Times by Matt Redman & Beth Redman ISBN-13: 9780764215193 Paperback: 128 pages Publisher: Bethany House Publishers Released: April 19, 2016

Source: ebook review copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

Book Description, Modified from NetGalley:
Matt and Beth Redman draw on their experiences as well as those of others, exploring how to offer praise even in the face of hardship and pain. Focusing on the psalms, many of which were written out of struggle, they show how difficult or tragic circumstances--and our choices--can propel us toward God or away from him, build up our faith or break it. Learn how to ride out the storms of life with a cry of "blessed be your name" on your lips.


My Review:
Finding God in the Hard Times explores worshiping and trusting God even during painful circumstances. Each chapter was roughly based on a phrase from the song, "Blessed Be Your Name." The authors talked about being grateful and praising God in the good times but also "when I'm found in the desert place...when the darkness closes in." They looked at lamentations in the Bible, especially those found in the psalms, and pointed out the pattern of expressing sorrow but ending with trust and praise.

They used verses and stories from the Bible and stories from their lives and their friend's lives. It's a good reminder of how Christians can respond to pain with hope and praise. I'd recommend this book to Christians going through painful circumstances who want a short, sympathetic book on the topic.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.

Saving My Assassin by Virginia Prodan

Saving My Assassin by Virginia Prodan ISBN-13: 9781496411846 Trade Paperback: 304 pages Publisher: Tyndale House Publishers Released: June 7, 2016

Source: Review copy from the publisher.

Book Description, Modified from Back Cover:
At just under five feet tall, Virginia Prodan was no match for the towering 6' 10" gun-wielding assassin the Romanian government sent to her office to take her life. It was not the first time her life had been threatened--nor would it be the last.

As a young attorney under Nicolae Ceausescu's brutal communist regime, Virginia had spent her entire life searching for the truth. When she finally found it in the pages of the most forbidden book in all of Romania, Virginia accepted the divine call to defend fellow followers of Christ against unjust persecution in an otherwise ungodly land.

For this act of treason, she was kidnapped, beaten, tortured, placed under house arrest, and came within seconds of being executed under the orders of Ceausescu himself. A must-read for all generations, "Saving My Assassin" is the unforgettable account of one woman's search for truth, her defiance in the face of evil, and a surprise encounter that proves without a shadow of a doubt that nothing is impossible with God.


My Review:
Saving My Assassin is a memoir about Virginia Prodan's life in Romania. It starts in 1961 (when she was 6 years old) and ends in 1988 (plus an epilogue). It's an awesome story about God's work in Romania and how he used Virginia to make a difference.

The author talked about growing up under the communist regime of Nicolae Ceausescu. Due to certain family circumstances, she longed to find (and defend) the truth and thought she could do this as an attorney. She described the challenges of working as an attorney and following Christ in those years. She talked about some of the cases she took defending Christians and the threats and harm she endured for doing so.

Her story gives God glory for working things together for good--even when she couldn't see it at the time. Like when she faced an assassin in her office or felt completely cut off from any friends during a house arrest. It's an amazing and encouraging story, and I had a hard time putting down. I'd highly recommend it to anyone interested in what life was like in Romania under Ceausescu and to Christians seeking encouragement about taking risks when God calls you to them.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.

Come With Me by Suzanne Eller

Come With Me by Suzanne Eller ISBN-13: 9780764218125 Paperback: 224 pages Publisher: Bethany House Released: May 3, 2016

Source: ebook review copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
In her warm, conversational way, Suzie Eller shows how, when you take a step away from the uncertainty, the to-do list, the busy life, the worries and excuses, you take a step toward the One who promises to delight and surprise. Who brings you deeper than you ever thought possible.

Two thousand years ago, 12 men answered the call to follow a man they hardly knew--and they were changed in ways they never imagined. Today that same invitation echoes across history, beckoning you to an adventure that will spill into every aspect of your faith and life. "Come with Me." Will you say yes?


My Review:
Come With Me is a Christian spiritual growth book. The author read through the gospels as if she was the 13th disciple and she didn't know how everything was going to turn out. As if Jesus had asked her to "Come with me. Wherever I lead. Whatever the price." As, of course, he still does.

She talked about growing in various aspects of following Jesus and going deeper in our relationship with Him. In each chapter, she looked at one of the 12 disciples. She talked about something she learned from their life and how this same thing works out in her and some of her friends' lives. For example, doing what Jesus asks because "if you say so" or when you don't feel able or worthy. To love the unlovable, give our "not enough" to God, do unnoticed service, find gratitude, live the good news, seek Jesus, and live as if everything we have is his.

The writing style was casual and encouraging. Overall, I'd highly recommend this book.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.

Seasons of Waiting by Betsy Childs Howard

Seasons of Waiting by Betsy Childs Howard ISBN-13: 9781433549496 Paperback: 128 pages Publisher: Crossway Books Released: May 31, 2016

Source: ebook review copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
We're all waiting for something. For some of us, it's a spouse. For others, it's children. For still others, it's physical healing.

Unfortunately, when things don't go as planned and we end up having to wait, it's often hard to trust God's timing. But while there will always be delays and disappointments in this life, there is still hope; God has a purpose and a plan for every season of our lives, even when it feels like he just keeps saying no.

Betsy Childs Howard points us to examples of waiting from Scripture that teach us to understand our waiting as a parable of God's unfolding kingdom. In the process, she shows us how the gospel informs our response to unmet longings and delayed dreams--directing our attention to the day when Christ will return and all our waiting will be over.


My Review:
Seasons of Waiting looked at why God often asks us to wait for something good and what to do while waiting. While we get some generalized reasons, the author also looked at five specific types of waiting: waiting for a spouse, for a baby, for physical healing, for a stable home, and for the return of a rebellious child or unfaithful spouse.

The author pointed out people or parables in the Bible where waiting was involved and showed how waiting can be a parable for the gospel message. For example, waiting for a rebellious child helps us understand God's love for us and portrays God's love to others. She also explored how God is working during our waiting and what we can do while waiting, like mentoring other people's children while waiting for your own. She doesn't promise the wait will end in this life but rather that the wait has worth and will ultimately be fulfilled when Christ returns.

Overall, I'd recommend this book to those who are struggling with waiting, especially if you're waiting for one of her five categories.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.

The Longing in Me by Sheila Walsh

The Longing in Me by Sheila Walsh ISBN-13: 9781400204892 Hardcover: 208 pages Publisher: Thomas Nelson Released: April 5, 2016

Source: Review copy from the publisher through BookLook.

Book Description, Modified from BookLook:
You vowed you’d never repeat the same mistakes—yet you find yourself right where you started. What is it that keeps drawing you back into the same old traps? The fact is, your longings are built from the blueprint of your needs: for protection, for love, for God. And those needs aren’t going anywhere.

Sheila speaks candidly about the trials in her life, including the heartache of her first marriage, and intertwines her story with the biblical saga of King David. As both Sheila’s and David’s stories make clear, some cravings are misguided, but they all stem from the same hunger—and they will haunt you until that hunger gets satisfied properly.

If you keep reaching out to the wrong people at the wrong times in your own life, The Longing in Me will help you understand that your cravings are not the problem. It’s where they lead you that makes all the difference.


My Review:
The Longing in Me shows how your desires are meant to be fulfilled in God. Each chapter has a theme, like the longing to be chosen, to be protected, or to be in control. The author used examples from her own life and King David's life to show how trying to fill good desires in the wrong way can lead to pain but can lead to freedom and healing when fulfilled in the right way.

She explored what those desires were intended for and how we may try to fill them. She based her advice on what Scripture teaches and shows grace to others as someone who has "been there." The author was open about her own hurts and failures, and she's very encouraging toward the reader. The book is targeted mainly at women, but anyone can benefit from it. I'd recommend this book to people who feel stuck in a cycle of bad choices.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.

Liberating King by Stephen Miller

Liberating King by Stephen Miller ISBN-13: 9780801006838 Paperback: 128 pages Publisher: Baker Books Released: May 17, 2016

Source: ebook review copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

Book Description, Modified from NetGalley:
Worship Is Our Remedy. Christ has delivered believers from the power of sin, but instead of living in true freedom, we struggle with the same failures every day. This is not how it's supposed to be. We need someone stronger than us to release us from the prison of sin. Enter Jesus, the liberating king.

With passion and purpose, worship pastor Stephen Miller calls readers to draw near to Christ in worship, allowing his Word and the Holy Spirit to loose our chains by exposing the lies that imprisoned us in the first place. When we do, we see everything more clearly--from the sinking sand of our man-made security to the solid rock of Jesus's unshakeable power. Miller shows that holy living is within our grasp when we keep our eyes and our adoration on the one who was sent not only to save us, but to make us into new creations.


My Review:
Liberating King is about how worshiping God frees us. We all focus our hopes and desires on something or someone, but only Christ can fill those desires and set us free. The author examines how worship (through song, prayer, studying the Bible, action, etc.) reminds us of God's character, the truth about our worth, and the proper perspective of our life. Thus worshiping Christ frees us from lies, allows us to suffer well, calms our worries and anxieties, allows us to truly love others, act justly, break the cycle of sin, and sustain hope.

The author examines his theme of "worship frees us to..." from these different angles, and his points were easy to follow. If you enjoy worshiping God, you'll probably enjoy this book.

Over a year ago, I sustained an injury that has kept me from doing some basic things (like driving) and this has been very frustrating. I know why bad things happen, and that God is good, sovereign, and at work. I even realize my many blessings, but, oh, I still don't like this! Most books on suffering explain the basics and say "lean on God," and that's good. But the chapter on "worship frees us to suffer well" was what I really needed to hear. I appreciate the whole book as it's a good reminder of where our focus need to be, but I suspect each reader will find that some chapters speak to them more deeply than others.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.

The Bible Cause by John Fea

The Bible Cause by John Fea ISBN-13: 9780190253066 Hardcover: 384 pages Publisher: Oxford University Press Released: April 1, 2016

Source: ebook review copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

Book Description, Modified from NetGalley:
The American Bible Society (ABS) is a seminal institution for American Protestants. The group was founded in 1816 with the goal of distributing free copies of the Bible in local languages throughout the world. Noted historian of American religion, John Fea, demonstrates how the ABS's primary mission - to place the Bible in the hands of as many people as possible - has caused the history of the organization to intersect at nearly every point with the history of the United States.

For the last two hundred years, the ABS has steadily increased its influence both at home and abroad, working with all Christian denominations in the US and internationally, aligning itself whenever possible with the gatekeepers of American religious culture. Over the years ABS Bibles could be found in hotel rooms, bookstores, and airports; on steam boats, college and university campuses; the Internet; and even behind the Iron Curtain. Its agents, Bibles in hand, could be found on the front lines of every American military conflict from the Mexican-American War to the Iraq War.


My Review:
The Bible Cause is an in-depth history of the American Bible Society. The book started with the formation of the ABS in 1816 and ended in 2003 (with the epilogue covering 2003-2015 and future goals). The author described the changing structure, methods, goals, programs, and campaigns of the ABS. He tied these changes into changing social attitudes and new technologies. He described the motives behind the ABS's efforts and how their efforts affected American culture.

We're told about the ABS outreaches to the poor, blacks, Native Americans, immigrants, soldiers, and the blind. We learned about the controversies involving the different Bible translations they were willing to sell and their changing relationship with Catholics. We learned about their early efforts in Mexico and China and later in post WWII Germany, Russia, Japan, China, and Korea.

Considering the length of this book, I would have preferred an author who was enthusiastic about the ABS's work. Instead, the author seemed disinterested or mildly disapproving. For example, the ABS tended to set high goals for Bible distribution. The author repeatedly labeled these efforts as failures because they didn't meet these goals even though what they did achieve was impressive. Overall, I'd recommend this book to people deeply interested in the American Bible Society, but probably not to those only mildly interested.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.

Severe Compassion by Gregory D. Cook

Severe Compassion by Gregory D. Cook ISBN-13: 9781629951737 Paperback: 288 pages Publisher: P & R Publishing Released: April 29, 2016

Source: ebook review copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

Book Description, Modified from Goodreads:
Gregory Cook helps us to navigate the book of Nahum, a poetic masterpiece that teaches us about God's love for his adulterous people. When we find God boring and the world fascinating, we commit treason but God, with severe compassion, refuses to abandon us. Cook illuminates Nahum's prophecy by pointing to its fulfillment in Christ and aids our understanding with historical, cultural, and literary background.


My Review:
Severe Compassion looks at the short, prophetic book of Nahum. This book is aimed at pastors and laymen rather than scholars. The author worked through Nahum by examining a few verses at a time. He'd explain any translation issues and cultural or historical aspects that provide further insights into the text. He looked at similar themes in other books of the Bible and suggested that Christ also fulfills some of these verses. I appreciate that he believes the text has not been corrupted and that Nahum had specific reasons behind his word choices.

However, since Nahum is only three chapters long, much of this book was a sermon series. For example, we're told about "plundering the silver" in context and then get a sermon on a proper attitude toward money. Keeping with the theme of the book, the author repeatedly calls on the reader to repent of specific sins and even urged the reader to question their salvation at one point. He also seems to feel that it's wrong to assure a person of their salvation even if they say they have accepted Christ. While I appreciate his emphasis on how horrible sin really is, I didn't agree with some of his assertions in his sermons. I liked the Bible study parts, though.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.

Little One, God Made You Special by Amy Warren Hilliker

Little One, God Made You Special by Amy Warren Hilliker, Illustrations: Polona Lovšin ISBN-13: 9780310753001 Board book: 14 pages Publisher: Zonderkidz Released: May 3, 2016

Source: Review copy from the publisher through BookLook.

Book Description from Back Cover:
This cute and cuddly board book, inspired by The Purpose-Driven Life, let’s children know God made each one of us very special.


My Review:
Little One, God Made You Special is a board book for young children. All of the adults who've looked at it have been absolutely charmed by the book. Our test subject is too young to give feedback, but this is the type of book I want my baby niece to grow up with. All of the art has the same look and style as the cover picture. I prefer illustrations like this, where the animals look more like the real thing (rather than a cartoon) yet still look warm and cuddly.

The book showed various animals interacting with their offspring in loving ways. The text stated how each of us are unique in how we look--from our chin to our grin--and that "God made you special from the start." The text is very simple so even fairly young kids should be able to follow along, and the text invites pointing to various body parts along with laughter and grins. It's a good message and lovely illustrations. I'd highly recommend this book.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.

Subversive Jesus by Craig Greenfield

Subversive Jesus by Craig Greenfield ISBN-13: 9780310346234 Paperback: 224 pages Publisher: Zondervan Released: April 26, 2016

Source: Review copy from the publisher through Booklook.

Book Description, Modified from Back Cover:
Subversive Jesus is the story of one family's experiment in putting the most countercultural teachings of Christ into practice. When Jesus says invite the poor for a meal, Craig and his family welcome homeless friends, local crack addicts, and women from the street corner over for dinner. When Jesus teaches love for enemies, they make homemade cookies and lemonade for the local drug dealers, and none of them show up! This adventure takes Craig's family from the slums of Cambodia to inner-city Canada and back again.


My Review:
Subversive Jesus is part biography and part Christian living. The author described some of what they did in the slums of Cambodia and in downtown Canada. In Cambodia, they helped start a movement of poor, older kids mentoring poor, younger kids. I would have liked to know more about this, but more time was spent on the radical hospitality concept that they developed in Vancouver. His family lived in Downtown Eastside in an area with open drug dealing. They opened their house to those struggling with addictions and to the homeless.

There was enough information that one could probably replicate some of it in a poor, inner city neighborhood. But only the overall attitude toward the poor (which I already have) would apply to my poor, rural area. Yet I got more out of seeing him learn various lessons about working with the poor than I did from the sections where he preached at the reader about their attitudes toward the poor.

The author had the tendency to read his interpretation into the verses he brought up. For example, he stated "that Jesus walked from Galilee to Jerusalem on what could be seen as a nonviolent protest march" (page 136) which ended with his cleansing of the temple. Except this was when he was traveling to Jerusalem for the Passover. It had nothing to due with marching in protest.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.

Habits of Grace by David Mathis

Habits of Grace by David Mathis ISBN-13: 9781433550478 Hardcover: 240 pages Publisher: Crossway Books Released: Feb. 29, 2016

Source: Review copy from the publisher through Amazon Vine.

Book Description, Modified from Back Cover:
Three seemingly unremarkable principles shape and strengthen the Christian life: listening to God through Bible reading, speaking to him in prayer, and joining together with his people as the church. Though seemingly normal and routine, the everyday "habits of grace" we cultivate give us access to these God-designed channels through which his love and power flow--including the greatest joy of all: knowing and enjoying Jesus.

A complementary study guide for individual and group study is also available.


My Review:
Habits of Grace covers the basic habits for spiritual growth and is mainly intended for young adults and new Christians. The intent is to help people understand and do these basic practices even if you have a busy schedule. The author quoted Scripture to support his statements and remained Christ-focused throughout. The ultimate point was not to accomplish a spiritual discipline but to know God more and enjoy Him.

The three basic habits are reading the Bible, praying, and fellowship with other Christians. The first part talked about studying the Bible, pondering what you've read, letting it affect your life, and memorizing key verses. The second part talked about the purpose of prayer, praying in private and in a group, journaling, fasting, and taking time for solitude to pursue Christ (with quiet times or retreats). The third section talked about biblical fellowship, corporate worship, listening to preaching, baptism, the Lord's Supper, listening to others, and accepting rebukes. At the end, he also talked about how we use our time and money.

Overall, I think he accomplished his aim with this book, and I'd recommend it to new Christians or to Christians who have never learned these basics.


If you've read this book, what do you think about it? I'd be honored if you wrote your own opinion of the book in the comments.


Excerpt: Read an excerpt using Google Preview.