5 comments about God's Politics: Why the Right Gets It Wrong and the Left Doesn't Get It (Plus).

1. This is the most one-sided, leftist reflection of current events masquerading as religions thought I have ever read in my life. There is some real helpful insight in these pages. But, it is so obscured by partisan rhetoric, that even a thoughtful individual would have great difficulty reading it. My Sunday School class has been struggling to discuss the chapters. Even the liberals are turned-off by the slant. His use of scripture is generally good, but the bias gets in the way of almost every point.



2. While mildly thought provoking, this book is a waste of time. You could get a better idea of what this guy was trying to convey by reading the beatitudes from Jesus' Sermon on the Mount.
   
   Instead of outlining what the auther thinks God's politics would be, he constantly harps on the errors of the two major polictal parties. The auther does not offer any viable solutions.
   
   I cannot recommend this book to anyone.
   
   To get a better idea of God's politics, open your Bible and put God's words to action.



3. I should have liked this book. I am what might be called a hesitantly blue evangelical (I'm not a very good democrat but was a worse republican) and mostly agree with him point by point. So when Wallis talked in his introduction about what I would call a 4th quadrant option (my terminology) that is not liberal, conservative or libertarian but passionate about life, justice and peace, I was pretty hopeful. But I did not enjoy this book and upon reflection came up with 3 reasons that, while the target audience, the book missed its mark with me:
   
   1. It is really dry. Maybe it is because I had my MP3 player switching between chapters of Klosterman, Gladwell and Wallis, so the latter withered in comparison, but this book could have easily been a pamphlet. There are not many anecdotes (aside from occasional name dropping) or historical allusions to make the text move. Just repetitive exposition on a range of positions. `Budgets are moral documents' is a true and borderline insightful statement the first or even the second time for emphasis, but not the fifth.
   
   2. It is not that insightful. Here is my problem. I could have written this book. There is little analysis, be it economic or exegetical, just repeated sweeping claims. Wallis does not reside enough in either the world of complex economic/political theory or in the world of the Biblical text to bring either insightfully to bear on the complex issue of a Christian's role in a democratic super power. Dubious economic and political theories were stated boldly without empirical support and the scriptures were used for selective proof texting (despite his decrial of the practice).
   
   3. It is not what it claims to be. In his introduction Wallis bemoans the fact that since he isn't in the religious right he is automatically dubbed the religious left because the media lacks other categories. I agree that most lack the necessary categories to describe the needed fourth quadrant position that he describes. I just don't think that he holds it. I think Wallis is firmly in the religious left. Not that there is anything wrong with that, but please don't patronize us with the illusion or claim of a new way so desperately needed. You simply can not write a book that hopes to unite people of faith in a tent big enough for evangelicals by devoting just a couple pages to abortion and concluding that Clinton had it right all along (while, in fairness, suggesting `the left is far more dogmatic on this issue than the right'). Now abortion is a complex issue loaded with conflicting goods and evils that gets to the core of very important issues like personhood, personal autonomy, gender interests, economic justice, protection of innocents and many others. I get that it is not easy and probably should not be the centerpiece of a religious political theory. But that is why it deserved an entire chapter. The quest to restore a love of peace, justice and the poor in red evangelicals is road blocked by the religious left's indifference on this issue. Whether that makes sense to Wallis and those like him or not, it is the reality. If you are not going to talk about the things that make conservatives conservative than you are just preaching to the proverbial choir, congratulating yourself on your righteous stances and selling books.
   
   
   
   So I guess I was mostly disappointed that this text was a missed opportunity on a very important thesis. I love Wallis' idea that the Church should refuse to be co-opted by any political artifice and should speak prophetically to all parties. I just don't think he represents this idea.
   
   Post Script: Several of my conservative friends have accused me of leaning left because of a simple desire to be liked. Holding liberal positions is a low cost way to acceptance by a large number of people and avoiding the scorn generally heaped upon those who genuinely believe that the hope for the poor is in markets, industries and innovations. This critique has given me pause more than once and after watching Wallis' interviews with Jon Stewart (who I really enjoy), I fear might benefit him as well. A prophet does not try that hard to be liked.



4. I have had this book since 2005 and find it to be even more appropriate today as we near the 2008 Presidential election. Wallis does an excellent job of making his case for why Christians have an obligation to be involved in the political process. However, he also lays out the rationale why Christians must be concerned with more than just the hot-button issues of abortion and gay marriage. Wallis shows why Christians have an obligation to care about poverty, environmental issues and equal rights among other issues. He also shows why it is wrong for religious and para-religious organizations to be used by outside interests and political parties and he makes a good case that candidates should be supported for their values and ideas, not simply because of party affiliation.



5. This is a well-written book by a respected theologian. I suppose that is why so many conservatives give this book poor reviews. Jim Wallis has forgotten more about religion and Christianity than most so-called religious conservatives ever knew about those subjects. Wallis is critical of war, and critical of how certain elements of our society have hijacked religion and politics for their own gain, or at least to promote their own agenda.
   
   The Bible can confuse and bewilder. Those who stand by it as their lifeblood often spew certain verses or Biblical references such as an eye for an eye when considering the current war in Iraq or the post 9/11 world in general. They conveniently forget Jesus' message of peace and forgiveness because it doesn't fit into their imperialistic world view.
   
   Wallis shows how conservatives have played into the hands of those in Washington whose only goal is power. Christianity is being held hostage by the war machine. George Bush can say you are either with us or against us as if the world is so simple. Bush and his neo-conservative minions (actually one should say Dick Cheyney and his neo-conservative minions led by puppet Bush) forget the world is complex. For their part the Democrats are not really seen as the counterbalance to this mess, as they are really seeking a way to tap into the national sentiment of security and antiterrorism to get their own slice of the imperial pie. But one can love America and think this war is not worth either the cost in human lives or the billions of taxpayer's dollars being spent on it. Would George Washington support this war? One can only speculate, but our first president did advise against entangling alliances. What have us taxpayers got for our money? Not much.
   
   Wallis illustrates how America has adopted the mantra of empire as a result of electing a president who convinced himself he's been put in power by God when the country needs such a person in power. Wow, the arrogance of it all. Wallis challenges Christians to stand up and take back their country in the face of hypocrisy and blatant blasphemy from the suits in power (I say suits because this mess is not just the making of Republicans and neo-conservatives, there are plenty of Democrats who buy into this imperialistic theory and want their piece of the action as well).
   
   Wallis believes in Christianity's message of hope and love as opposed to embracing the shackles of oppression. He challenges Christians to ignore the seductive tendencies of empire and strive for a life of true Christian virtue. Who knows, maybe some day it will happen.

5 comments about Catholic for a Reason: Scripture and the Mystery of the Family of God (Catholic for a Reason).

1. I highly recommend this to people considering converting to the Catholic faith or those who are new in it. I would even suggest it to "cradle Catholics" like myself because we all need a refresher on what our faith really is. The conglomeration of different authors is a brilliant idea because it gives the reader different perspectives. The authors are connected to the Franciscan University at Steubenville, which some priests have told me is the best Catholic university in the country. This book is heavily based on the Scriptures and very enlightening. It gives the big picture that we are God's family and He loves us.



2. Scott Hahn is without question the most popular and important Catholic apologist in today's world. Not only is he an incredibly gifted author but he is also a very dynamic speaker as well. His efforts have not only helped many of the Catholic faithful to better understand our faith but he has also been instrumental in the conversion process for many new Catholics. He himself was a Protestant minister until he began to examine scripture more closely and found a home in the Catholic Church.
   
   Most of Dr. Hahn's books are the exclusive work of his brilliant mind and I have yet to read one that didn't teach me many things and help me understand better the things that I thought that I knew. In somewhat of a departure however the good doctor only writes one chapter and serves as co-editor of the rest of the essays that make up this book. Surprisingly, Dr. Hahn's chapter is not the best one to be found within this collection but among such other fine works that is nothing to be ashamed of. Among the best chapters are those by Curtis Martin, Kris Gray, Timothy Gray and Kimberly Hahn all of whom shine in a sky full of stars.
   
   The basic theme for this collection of essays is the Church as the family of God (familia Dei) and each and every chapter deals with some aspect of this reality. From chapters on Our Lady's role as our mother, Divine sonship, the Church as the bride of Christ and the reality of Purgatory to the use of the term Father when addressing a Priest this book covers many interesting facets of our Catholic family. Best of all everything is explained in an easy to read and understand method with the authors not assuming that we are all as well educated in the Faith as they are.
   
   There are a few negative aspects of this book however that deserve some attention. In any collection of essays some will be better than others and that is certainly the case here. None of the essays are bad, or even average for that matter but some of them are just a bit dry in places. Another problem is that some of the authors tend to use way too many quotes, one of which is so long that it takes up an entire page. Some quotations are reasonable and necessary but some of these authors push the limits a little too far. One other point that registers as both a negative and a positive is the somewhat repetitive nature of some essays. It is excellent that the main them is discussed time and again and that the subject is never far from the surface but too often I found myself thinking that I must have lost my place because I had read the same exact thing just minutes ago. I don't know how this could have been avoided but it was sometimes disconcerting.
   
   There is much to know about the Catholic Faith and despite some minor flaws Dr. Hahn and company have done a marvelous job of explaining some of the very basics of Church teaching. They are not mean spirited or pompous as they explain to us less educated Catholics some things that we really should have known already. This book can justifiably be touted as another winner in the Hahn collection.



3. If you want to take a leap in your faith, this is the book for you. The depth of the book is fantastic and should be read over and over for it to sink in. I am buying 5 more copies to give to my closes friends...and I have never done that before. Need I say more.



4. Today the number of Catholics that do no go to mass, or do not have a clear idea why go to mass at all, is immense. Catholic for a reason is an excellent tool in helping those Catholics to come to know and love the Faith they received at baptism. Great book!



5. Book in Great condition (new), cheap. Shiped promptly. I will definitively buy again from this seller.

5 comments about He Speaks to Me: Preparing to Hear the Voice of God.

1. I appreciate the author's desire to bring readers closer to God and I don't for a moment wish to challenge her faith in Christ, but the premise of her book is theologically questionable.
   
   For example, Samuel wasn't even a believer when God spoke to him, so why is he a model for how Christians can learn to hear God's voice? (Indeed, the Biblical text specifically says Samuel "did not yet know God" in 3:7.) More to the point, where is it ever taught in Scripture that 1) it's normative for Christians to get subjective, personal messages from God, or 2) that we need to cultivate a discipline of hearing God's voice outside of Scripture itself?
   
   Here's a question: Does God try? That is, should we assume he is trying to speak to us but can't get through because we aren't spiritually in tune enough to hear Him?
   
   If God has to try at anything, He's not sovereign. And if he's speaking, but making it difficult for us to hear, He's cruel. No, when God wants to communicate personally to humans--believers or non-believers--He does so in unmistakably clear terms. No guesswork involved. Thus, no need to develop an ability to hear His voice.
   
   One more problem. If we truly think God is speaking to us through various "promptings" and "leadings," it follows these alleged words from God are on par with Scripture and carry the same authority. After all, God's word is God's word, right?
   
   The Bible has 66 books with marching orders for Christians. I suspect most of us have not yet fulfilled those orders. Given that, why are we always looking for more revelation?
   
   Instead of looking for the latest "word," why not study the one we already have? It's tough work, but pays a much higher dividend.



2. this book, which is also available in bible study format, is just an amazing instrument to open your heart to just how much you are loved by God. It is a practical, spirtual and funny journey to a closer relationship with God. You will definitely be listening more and getting closer to God once you have experience the power of Priscilla Shirer's expression of how God helps give us His best. It is the gift to give your friends.



3. I loved the fact that "He Speak To Me" constantly refers back to Scripture. It's not just the authors commentary on how she thinks you can hear God speak to you. There are many Biblical references that lead you to analyize why you might or might not be hearing from God. Loved it and recommend this book.



4. This reader was truly enlightened by the contents of this book and looking forward to additional publications by Ms Shirer.



5. Priscilla Shirer is a gifted writer and has been anointed by God. I am grateful and blessed she has shared her insight, wisdom, with the gift God has given her.
   
   Priscilla's writing style is easy to read, personable, humorous and her points flow very naturally. She is so personable it feels like I know her as a sister and friend. She backs up her insights with scripture. The book is loaded with wisdom and practical application for ones daily walk with God. Likewise the truths are simple and easy to understand and follow. There are questions to reflect on and a prayer at the end of each section.
   
   There were so many words and revelations that spoke to me, uplifted me, encouraged, convicted, humbled me and to get on my hands and knees and made me cry. God has spoken to me during this time and called me his daughter - "Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace." The God of the universe wants to have a relationship with me and delights in me. This is awesome news!
   
   God has been teaching me a lot during the time I have read this book and Discerning the Voice of God. Some of the areas He is been teaching me is to wait and trust in Him. Let His plan be my plan and in obedience to follow Him. Surrender my day over to Him before I do anything else in the morning... Not because I feel I have to - but out of my love and respect for Jesus. Another critical area I learned was to battle the stronghold of negative thinking with the armor of God, using the helmet of salvation and the sword to the Spirit and His word. Our thoughts are one have the hardest areas to control.
   
   In the midst of reading this book - He has been revealing His character to me and speaking to me and it is awesome! Most importantly the book reiterates - it is all about having an intimate relationship with God and not just what we can get out of God. That our individual relationship with Him is unique, He knows me like no other and shares with me things about Himself. God does speak!! Sometimes a still small voice and/or with authority! Most often it is in His word and that is how we get close to God. He has called me daughter and delights in me! It brought me to tears. I needed to hear all these truths. I have grown spiritually and healed in the process. There have been several moments like this. I feel restored, renewed and revived in the Lord. Yes, and loved. My relationship with Him grown and is more intimate.
   
   God does speak! Call on Him and believe He will! To learn more about this life changing experience and restore your relationship with God - get the books. I highly recommend He Speaks to Me and Discerning the Voice of God. Both are life changing, bring revival and restoration. Likewise - a more intimate relationship with God.
   
   I am starting "A Jewel in His Crown" and will get more of Priscilla's books.
   
   God Bless!

5 comments about An Unstoppable Force: Daring to Become the Church God Had in Mind.

1. Excellent book with many challenging statements about the role of believers in the world today.



2. Read this book - it will energize and focus you if you are a believer. If you are not, it will cause you to rethink what your perceptions are about church.



3. The writer has exceptional skills with the use of metaphor to communicate about a difficult subject, the emerging church, in ways that help the changes occuring within Christianity make sense. Without this approach in communications, what he has to say from a content standpoint, would probably be rejected. He breaks through the artificiality of Jesus-speak with a freshness that gets to the heart of the real gospel I believe Jesus brought us. I enjoyed, but was challenged, by this work.



4. I really like the spirit of this book. Don't get me wrong... Erwin and I have different ideas on theology and philosophy of ministry but his passion for the lost and the transformation of the Church from monument to movement is contagious. I hope people who may disagree with Erwin (we're on a first name basis) at least discern his heart about the issues he brings up.
   
   My reason for only giving it 3 stars is because it becomes a little repetitive and he's very vague on the exact changes that should be made.
   
   A good read for anyone who wants to change the world.



5. An Unstoppable Force: Daring to Become the Church God Had in Mind
   
   I highly recommend this book for the Christian who is looking to enhance their walk with God and the body of Christ. (the church).

1 comments about Ancient-Future Worship: Proclaiming and Enacting God's Narrative (Ancient-Future).

1. This is the first Webber book I have read. I was originally uncomfortable with his ideas (about five years ago) but having recently been dismayed with all modernist Christianities (be they liberal, Evangelical, or some Reformed), and given a recent interest in Patristic thought, I decided to give this book a chance.
   
   Webber defines "ancient-future" worship as "publically enacting God's narrative." The worshipping church tells God's narrative, which Webber carefully defines, following the Eastern tradition, as "Creation-Incarnation-Recreation." Given this, an ancient-future church will proclaim God's Scriptures as "true," but not merely in the Enlightenment style of "proving the Bible."
   
   Ancient-future worship will climax in the Eucharist. Don't worry, he isn't advocating Roman transubstantiations. His "Word and Table" model, in my humble opinion, is the best I have ever seen. The Eucharist tells the story of the Incarnate, who while being in the womb of the Virgin, united humanity to his nature so that he may redeem humanity and the world. The bread and wine symbolize the life of the world; the life being given to the world. Christ is really present. The Patristics, contra the moderns (be they conservative or liberal), saw the reality inherent in a sign.
   
   Conclusion:
   I don't have any cons with this book. It is very easy to read and flows very well. Webber cuts across the so-called "worship wars." He notes how staid traditionalism and silly happy-clappyism easily tend toward idolatry and man-worship. An ancient-future model provides a glorious alternative.

5 comments about Under Cover: The Promise of Protection Under His Authority.

1. I have read many of the reviews and believe that there is truth in all of them. But remember there in 99% truth in satans words. I personally was helped by reading the book, me being in rebellion towards all authority most of which was wrong. And I believe that many people need to understand authority. I think under cover is half way there. I believe what is tought concerning marriage to be true and concerning children to be true (a house divided against itself will not stand). But I couldn't help but be bothered by some of the references to not use reason and to ignore what you feel in your heart is the right thing to do when authority tell you to do the opposite. God tell you to obey authority but to obey him above all. Was not Abraham obedient to God when he was going to sacrifice Issac. Yes he was but isn't murder a sin (yes the ten commandments weren't written yet but the law is on the hearts of man and im sure it was a crime to kill in civilized areas during that time). Point is if God tells you to do something do it even when corrupt authority tells you not to. Another example the apostles were told to not speak of Jesus anymore they refused. Wait isn't that against the word of God not to speak of Jesus, at that time the only word of God was the old testament and what Jesus had spoken and I don't believe anything is said concerning that matter. How did the apostles know what was the right thing to do, by the prompting of the Holy Spirit. This is what this book leaves no room for is the prompting of the Holy Spirit. But one must know the fathers voice. If you read this book objectively and don't rule out common sense and the still small voice it is not as harmful and can be very helpful. I just wish there were more books on authority but ones with a healthier perspective



2. You had better be ready for change when you read this. When you are not willing to change as God wants you to, it may hurt or offend.
   Bevere delivers truth that makes you want to change, to become better and closer to the one true God.



3. 
   The church I used to be a part of pushed this book on me. I read a little of it and threw it in the trash. The doctrine in this book has no scriptural basis to exist. This covering doctrine is used by pastors to control people. To quote Frank Viola in his book,"Whos your covering" which I highly recommend, "When someone ask you, "Who is your covering"? In essence what they are asking is who controls you. I am reminded of Colossians 2:8: Be careful that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deceit based on human tradition and not based on Christ." And Matthew 15:9: "They worship me in vain, teaching as doctrines the commands of men".
   Dont buy this book and further more run from any ministry who pushes this doctrine. It will only put you in bondage. Take the 10 bucks instead and give it to someone in need.



4. This is a great book to use in leadership training classes. The author really makes the subject of submission & authority simple and revelant. Our church purchased copies for our leadership team.



5. Great read and very thought provoking. It also made me realise that perhaps I rush into things and need to stop for a moment, think about what's happening and where God might want that to go - if at all.
   
   I loved John's openness and I could almost feel I was travelling his experiences with him.

5 comments about Kingdom Triangle: Recover the Christian Mind, Renovate the Soul, Restore the Spirit's Power.

1. I found this book to be full of useful and helpful information about what is going on in the church today. A good read for anyone who is keeping up with Kingdom activity.



2. J.P. Moreland, Kingdom Triangle: Recovering the Christian Mind. Renovate the Soul, Restore the Spirit's Power. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2007.
   
   J.P. Moreland is a highly esteemed, well-published, and extremely active Christian philosopher. For years I have profited greatly from his books and articles, and for fifteen years I have used his books as texts for courses at Denver Seminary. Unlike many Christian academics, Moreland maintains a passionate concern for the church, evangelism, and the state of culture at large. To that end, he divides his writing and speaking between the highly academic and the more popular or semi-academic. In so doing, he is able to build a bridge between scholarly pursuits and the questions and concerns of laypeople. Os Guinness refers to this area of endeavor as "intermediate knowledge." While proponents of intermediate knowledge are few, the need for such is great. Few non-philosophers are likely to read Moreland's book on universals, for example, but many thoughtful Christians will be drawn to his other books, such as Love Your God With All Your Mind (NavPress, 1997), which is a stellar apologetic for a robust and spirit-filled engagement of the intellect for the glory of God, the good of the church, and the winning of the world.
   
   
   Moreland's new work is both profound and controversial. The controversy will largely stem from his endorsement of the charismatic dimension of Christian experience. It is highly unusual to find an analytically trained philosopher with a Th.M. from Dallas seminary who endorses the "third wave" form of the charismatic movement!
   
   Kingdom Triangle is a passionate and knowledgeable summons to the church to engage God, the world, and the self in a deeply biblical and profoundly meaningful manner. To this endeavor, Moreland brings the resources of philosophy to bear fruitfully on the exigencies of the Kingdom of God. This is both rare and wonderful. The book is divided into two sections. The first explains "the crisis of the age" in America and the West in general. The second section gives the answer: a kingdom triangle of intellectual engagement, spiritual formation, and supernatural spiritual power.
   
   In explaining the contemporary crisis, Moreland writes that we have moved from the "thick" world of the biblical worldview to the "thin" worlds of naturalism and postmodernism. A biblical worldview provides the knowledge of God, existential meaning, and authentic drama to all of life. We are creatures of a good and holy God, placed on earth to manifest the virtues of the Kingdom of God. We are immersed in and engaged with a life and death struggle with the forces of evil, yet God is our strength and hope. We are not groping in the dark, but have been given knowable truth in Scripture and elsewhere.
   
   But both scientific naturalism and postmodernism--each in its own way--eviscerate the world of any objective meaning or genuine drama. Naturalism denies the reality of anything outside of what materialistic science can observe. The cosmos is reduced to merely material properties. All must be explained by impersonal change and necessity. There is no soul, no God, no angels or demons, and no afterlife. As Peter Berger put it, it is "a world without windows" because the universe is self-enclosed. Morality is not rooted in the Designer and in human nature, but is merely the result of natural selection. Knowledge is limited to what can be known through scientific methods (scientism).
   
   Postmodernism recoils from the aridity of scientific naturalism and tries to find meaning in the meaning-creation of communities and individuals. Like scientific naturalism, it denies that there is any objective meaning to life, but instead of trying to find meaning in science, it affirms the contingent constructions of human beings, variously situated. Each community--or person--has its own narrative or language game, none of which is superior to any other, but all of which are acceptable. However, there is no objective meaning to be found and no knowledge of objective reality to be had. While scientific naturalism is a form of realism (we can know something of objective reality, which is only material), postmodernism is a form of nonrealism (there is no objective reality, scientific or otherwise, to know). Both deny the knowledge of God.
   
   These two worldviews rob us of objective moral values, the dignity of human beings, and any concrete hope for our existence. As a result, instead of moral agents deeply rooted in objective reality, we find around us--or even within us--"empty selves" that are restless, easily distracted, infantile, and narcissistic. Moreland ardently argues that both worldviews are both empty and false. Christianity not only provides meaning and drama for life, but is true and rational and knowable. The knowledge of God is available to errant humans. While the book does not give a full-fledged apologetic for Christianity or against scientific naturalism and postmodernism, it does powerfully demonstrate the intellectual weaknesses of these two worldviews with respect to epistemology, metaphysics, and ethics.
   
   In the second half of the book, Moreland advocates the kingdom triangle as the proper response to "the crisis of our age." The first leg of the triangle is the recovery of the Christian mind. As a Christian philosopher and apologist, Moreland is in an exemplary position to offer advice. We must reclaim Christianity as a knowledge tradition; that is, we must not be content with leaps of faith or merely true beliefs about God and the Bible. To acquire knowledge we need to justify our beliefs (in various ways). Moreland provides a short but clear run down on various ways to know things and the importance of the mind to the Christian life. (On this, see also his book, Love Your God With all Your Mind, as well as James Sire's Habits of the Mind [InterVarsity, 2000].)
   
   The second leg of the kingdom triangle is the devotional life or spiritual disciplines. Moreland advocates the classical disciplines of retreat (such as solitude) and engagement (such as service) and speaks of ways one can understand the heart or affective side of one's personality. This interior understanding of the affect has become important to Moreland in recent years. From his own experience, he speaks of the need not only to apply the mind to the things of God, but also to bring one's emotions under the Lordship of Christ. Some may find his "heart meditation" a bit strange, since it emphasizes focusing on the heart muscle itself as a place of emotion. However, there is nothing necessarily New Age or otherwise dangerous about such a meditation if it is done prayerfully and thoughtfully. Nevertheless, this practice may not be appropriate or helpful for everyone. If so, one may ignore it, and I am sure Moreland would not mind. My lone criticism of this chapter is that it did not emphasize adequately the neglected discipline of prayer with fasting. If the essence of spirituality is denying ourselves, taking up our cross, and following Jesus, then there is no better way to deny ourselves in an age of over-indulgence and narcissism than to deny ourselves food in order to give ourselves more fully to the Lord.
   
   "The restoration of the Spirit's power" fills out the last leg of the kingdom triangle. Although Moreland graduated from a seminary that teaches that the supernatural gifts of the spirit (such as healing and prophecy) have ended (cessationism), in the past few years he has experienced some of these gifts himself and has reevaluated what the Bible teaches on these matters. He has come to believe that this dimension of Kingdom living is crucial if we are to respond effectively to the deadness and darkness of our time. I completely agree. While Moreland does not give a detailed exegetical or theological argument for the ongoing manifestation of supernatural gifts, he points out that the old cessationism has been losing its credibility among many, that Christians in the global south are experiencing these gifts in powerful ways, and that he himself has experienced or witnessed the miraculous dimension of the Kingdom of God in the past few years. What Moreland advocates is not classical Pentecostalism or the Charismatic renewal of the 1960s and 1970s, but the "third wave" approach of the Vineyard movement. This is an orientation that does not emphasize a second "baptism of the Holy Spirit" or insists on the speaking of tongues. It rather seeks God's supernatural agency for healing, prophecy, and other signs and wonders.
   
   Although I am also a proponent of signs and wonders as part of the dynamic of the ongoing manifestation of the Kingdom of God, I wish that Moreland had given a few more warnings about potential and actual abuses in these areas. Moreland alludes to the dimension of spiritual warfare, but one wishes he had fleshed out this aspect of Kingdom living in more detail, since the contemporary world is awash in false forms of religion that are inspired by "the god of this world" (2 Corinthians 4:4). But to his credit, he provides references to works that tackle this area.
   
   Kingdom Triangle has many strengths and no significant weaknesses. Moreland writes with a confident, compelling, and courageous voice. He does not avoid strong judgments when he deems them necessary. This may be off-putting to tender souls accustomed to terminal tentativeness in Christian writing, but it should not be. Moreland has paid his dues and knows of what he speaks. For example, as a robust proponent of Intelligent Design, he refers to theistic evolution as "intellectual pacifism," since it gives so much ground to Darwinism, a naturalistic understanding of biology that is not warranted by the facts. Likewise, Moreland has no patience with Christians who adopt postmodernist views of truth or knowledge, because such an approach marginalizes Christianity as merely another language game or perspective on reality. Christianity is, rather, a knowledge tradition that can and should be rationally defended according to objective principles of rationality. Moreland is not afraid to offer tough judgments against elements of popular culture--such as celebrity-ism and sports worship--when they reveal the hollowness and shabbiness of lives poorly lived (see Romans 12:1-2; 1 John 2:15-17).
   
   If read, pondered, preached, taught, and applied, the teachings of Kingdom Triangle could spark revival, reformation, and reform in the church, as well as in the world at large. This is a triangle that Christians must not ignore.



3. I heard Moreland speak to several hundred pastors at the National Pastor's Convention in San Diego. That was an impressionable experience for me. I now see why Kingdom Triangle is his most important book. (There are some wonderful audio add-ons to Kingdom triangle at the book's website: www.kingdomtriangle.com)
   
   Kingdom Triangle contains the necessary elements for a healthy, fruitful life as a Christian, including what is necessary for a Christianity to robustly engage the culture and its worldviews at large.
   
   Moreland is the best author for this sort of book. He is overflowing with valuable, wise, and insightful experience about life, ideas, and the culture at large. He has delivered the goods; now its our job as readers, leaders, and influencers of all sorts to engage his ideas in the crucible of our own individual and church experiences. Thank God for Kingdom Triangle!



4. First of all, let me explain the basics of the triangle Moreland has so keenly presented in this book. The book has 4 basic sections:
   
   1. "The Crisis of Our Age" (Chapters 1-4)
   2. "The Recovery of Knowledge" (Chapter 5)
   3. "Renovation of the Soul" (Chapter 6)
   4. "Restoration of the Kingdom's Miraculous Power" (Chapter 7)
   
   Chapters 1-4 describe in lucid detail the reason we need the Kingdom Triangle right now. Our culture is in a state of crisis, and Moreland explains the what, why, and how of it. With sharp awareness, Moreland has observed and studied our world and its history, recognizing what God intended, and pinpointing how we've gone against those intentions. Having failed as a race to follow God's intended course has resulted in a widespread crisis, namely, our abandonment of classic philosophy and life practice in exchange for modern substitutes. The inevitable outcome has been a pandemic case of human enslavement to "the empty self". We have exchanged the "thick" worldview of Christian monotheism for the "thin" worldviews of scientific naturalism and postmodernism. Moreland explains what is required for today's church to function as God intended, encouraging readers to effectively take action, penetrating the culture around us.
   
   Moreland brings the reader up to date on the relevant facts of the matter and writes informatively about the subject of knowledge. This is the heaviest and deepest part of the book, which Moreland admits. But he also encourages the reader that these things are essential for everyone in the church to understand. He writes as clearly as possible on these complex issues, sharing great wisdom in a way the layperson can understand.
   
   Having set the stage with the appropriate background, Moreland now moves on to explain the "triangle". First, he explains the importance of knowledge and its importance, recovery, and value for the Christian church. Second, he concisely explains the role of spiritual formation and discipleship in the inner life of a Christian, giving a brief overview of some classic spiritual disciplines. Finally, he completes the triangle with a thoughtful discussion of the role of the Holy Spirit's power in the life of the church, manifested in various miraculous signs, wonders, and providential acts. This section will be one of the biggest and most useful wake-up calls to many readers. Moreland sensitively presents well-informed ideas about the supernatural realities absent in so much of the Western church, while they thrive in other parts of the world.
   
   Moreland is one of today's greatest Christian philosophers and thinkers, and his years of experience spill forth in this book. He has gleaned rich knowledge and experience from various mentors and friends and from his own spiritual journey. The range of books he has studied is vast and his careful research is evident throughout.
   
   While reading, the value of this inspired book quickly became apparent to me. By the time I was done, there was no question: Kingdom Triangle has climbed to the top of my personal stack of "the greatest books of all time," sitting right there with my Dallas Willard collection. The book demands that the reader change his or her life for the best - which is my favorite kind of book. The challenges presented are very relevant for the current Western church, and Moreland argues for them masterfully. If I had to pick one part that most affected me, it would be the section where he explains a plan for living a life of self-denial, taking up your metaphorical cross (Mark 8:34-35), and living to love and serve others, after Christ's own example.
   
   I can't recommend the book enough. I think every Christian in our culture should read it, consider its truth, discuss it with friends, and apply its wisdom to a life of spiritual transformation. Pastors, grab a copy and start recommending it to others. This book is an honest and realistic call to participate in the life of greatness God has designed us for in his eternal kingdom.



5. Welcome to College: A Christ-Follower's Guide for the Journey
   
   J.P. Moreland's new book Kingdom Triangle (hereafter KT) offers a clarion call to the 21st century church. For at least the past decade, Christians have been lulled to sleep by a culture of self-help books and privatized beliefs. Far too many of us have been naturalized into believing that God doesn't do anything miraculous or supernatural in our sophisticated age. And a good number of us have not been intentional about cultivating a dynamic relationship with Jesus Christ and attending to the important task of Spiritual Formation. Moreland's book offers a passionate, sober, and biblical corrective to this lethargy.
   
   The first section of KT seeks to analyze and assess where we are at as a culture. In a helpful analogy, Moreland discusses the difference between living in a "thin" world and a "thick" world. A "thin" world is one in which nothing ultimately matters (e.g., atheism would be a "thin" world). In this world, chemistry and physics exhaustively explain reality. On the other hand, if we live in a "thick" world, then objective morality exists (along with ultimate meaning, purpose, and value etc.). Christianity offers a "thick" world. In the next few chapters, Moreland highlights the inadequacies of postmodern and naturalistic worldviews. But he does not stop with analysis only. He prescribes a threefold remedy to counteract the prevailing winds of culture that are eroding the potency and vibrancy of Christians today. (1) Recover the Christian Mind (2) Renovate the Soul (3) Restore the Spirit's Power. I will briefly summarize each of these in turn.
   
   First of all, Moreland contends that knowledge is not the sole possession or province of the scientists in the white lab coats. While science yields important knowledge of our world, it is certainly not the only source of knowledge. Christians can and do possess knowledge of God, moral facts, and what a good life is (among other things). These are not private beliefs on the level of personal preference or pragmatism; rather they are bona fide instances of knowledge of reality--the way things really are. Not only is Christianity true, but it can be known to be true.
   Next, we are reminded how easy it is to allow our hearts to grow cold and calloused. If we are not intentional about examining the health of our souls, then we can become emotionally detached over time and eventually discover we are devoid of the vitality that God desires us to experience in our relationship with Him. We also tend not to cultivate a healthy community of relationships. This part of the triangle invites us to take our daily journey from brokenness to Christlikeness seriously (i.e., Spiritual Formation).
   
   Finally, Moreland reminds us that the Holy Spirit did not die with the last Apostle. And while we certainly don't want to drift into a mindless and wild-eyed sensationalism, I think many of us have shied away from the supernatural because we are either afraid we will look weird to our culture or we have been so conditioned by naturalism that we don't really (i.e., beyond lip service) believe in anything beyond the five senses. Moreover, stories of God's power and deliverance remind us of the supernatural world in which we live and can embolden our Christian lives.
   
   As I have read and reflected upon KT, I have been both challenged and encouraged. This is an important work which has something to say to all of us--regardless of our tradition or spiritual pedigree. I am grateful that J.P. Moreland took the time to integrate decades of ministry experience and study and then package it in an accessible format for the Christian community. If you have not yet read Kingdom Triangle, I encourage you to pick up a copy and read it carefully. While KT contains much that our "thin" world needs to hear, it just may be the timely catalyst you need for taking the next step in your journey with the Savior.

5 comments about Listening for the Heartbeat of God: A Celtic Spirituality.

1. Of all of Philips' books, this is my favorite. His gentle personality shows through this wonderful introduction to Celtic Spirituality. It is the first book that I give to people who have never read anything about the Celtic tradition. Knowing the man, himself, I can hear his voice in each chapter of this book. His scholarship is sound and his ability to explain difficult spiritual concepts in a simple, forthright manner is refreshing.



2. We are using this as the text for a Lenten course in Celtic Christianity. It provides an excellent overview on the contributions of the Early Fathers made in Celtic Britain, Scotland, and Ireland. Great resouce for Christian studies.



3. I have long been drawn to the spiritual philosophy that was Celtic Christianity which believes that mankind is at it's core good and that the spark of God resides in all creation. After reading several good books on the subject I have to say this book was the most accessable to me. A true teacher is able to explain complex subjects in a way that a novice can understand and J. Philip Newell is definitely a true teacher of this subject. For me Christianity as understood by the Celtic mind and soul is by far the most enlightened view of the teachings of Jesus and it's suppression over the centuries has been a great loss to humanity. I only hope that books like these and the stirring in the souls who are drawn to this form of Christianity mark a resurgence of this beautiful, enlightened view of God, Jesus, mankind and the earth.



4. I opened this book with hopes but was disappointed. The earlier chapters on Pelagius and Eriugena were interesting. As the argument moved on, though, it seemed Celtic spirituality sounded merely like the progressive theology in the church today. I wondered if calling it "Celtic" was just a way to make it sound more exotic. I also didn't care for how Augustine and Calvin(ism) were treated as the villians of the drama. I'm guessing the matter is more complicated than this.
   
   The theme of approaching God through nature is a valuable one, and I appreciated that aspect of the book. For a better treatment of the contemplation of nature within the context of Christian spirituality, I recommend Diogenes Allen's Spiritual Theology.



5. The book is exactly what one needs, if the punitive and controlling factions of Christianity have driven one away. There is another way to know God: The generative and intimate God of the Celtic Church, who permeates all creation.

5 comments about God Is Love: Deus Caritas Est.

1. Fantastic and beautiful. This is the first book I read from the Pope and I could not put it down. Love is so important to us and Ratzinger makes you believe in it like no one else can. Very readable and straight from the heart of a great man. This book blew me away and made me feel that God no matter what is always there for us all we have to do is believe. All Catholics and Christians in general should own a copy of this. With all the hate and violence going on in this world it's good to know that love is still the most powerful and beautiful thing out there.



2. A clear and concise illumination of the theologic reason for this statement. It actually is not in the creation story but derives from it. It was also fun to read. See the mind of the new pope at work. The press accounts of him being a dour, humorless conservative are wrong,



3. This is an Encyclical worth reading. Over the years I attempted to read several encyclicals and found them rather technical and often difficult to read. I concluded that Popes are not usually good writers and that I would read encyclicals only as reference books. Benedict XVI, for me, breaks the mold. He is an excellent writer and offers fresh insights into Christianity.
   
   Deus Caritas Est is broken into two parts: The unity of Love in Creation and Salvation History; and Caritas, the practice of Love by the Church as a "Community of Love." This letter includes detailed explanations of Benedict's teaching points and would require a long summary. I will focus on several main points that are important to me.
   
   In the Introduction Benedict refers to Scripture and teaches that we "come to believe" in the love of God and indicates that love is an encounter that animates and guides our lives. He proclaims the words of Jesus that the commandments are "united" into a single concept - love. God loves us and we respond by loving Him and our neighbors.
   
   The Pope discusses Eros, the love between a man and a woman. He notes that some Christians want to avoid discussing Eros. He also notes that some Christian leaders forget that we were created as human beings. Christian Eros can be very positive and bring us closer to God. This occurs when Eros, worldly love, joins with agape, love "grounded and shaped by faith". By accepting our humanity we accept God's creation. That love, however, must not be self-centered, as Eros often is at the beginning of sexual attraction. With agape, love seeks the "good of the beloved" and is ready to sacrifice self for other. When fully formed love receives as well as gives, Eros-agape leads to a loving relationship.
   
   The letter also addresses forgiveness. God's agape love is "completely gratuitous" and as such God's love forgives. Benedict refers to Hosea 11 and claims that God's love overcomes God's justice. " I will not give vent to my blazing anger, I will not destroy Ephraim again; For I am God and not man, the Holy One present among you; I will not let the flames consume you."
   
   The Pope suggests that there is an "unbreakable" bond between love of God and love of neighbor. If I "close my eyes" to neighbors, I "blind" myself to God. If I concentrate upon my religious duties and ignore others, I become arid and eventually loveless.
   
   Benedict reminds us that the Church has three responsibilities: to proclaim the word of God, to celebrate the sacraments, and to exercise the ministry of charity. These three are inseparable. For the Church, charity must be the very essence of its activities. The
   Church of today, with advances in communication and travel, must address the needs of all people everywhere. Our distinctiveness as a Church equals our charitable activities.
   
   This encyclical has some deep insights. I plan to re-read it with much meditation and prayer. I highly recommend this encyclical.



4. There are serious issues facing the Catholic Church, one of them being the abuse scandal. The Church was criminally complacent, the Bishop's complicity documented, and the Church an accessory after the fact. Yet on page 71 of this tomb, point 29, the Pope states: "The Church has an indirect duty here, in that she is called to contribute to the purification of reason and to the reawakening of these moral forces without which just structures are neither established nor prove effective in the long run." Such could be the epitaph of the Catholic Church in regards to it's betrayal of the victims of the abuse scandals. Instead of this book, I recommend reading the Pope's earlier work: "What It Means to Be a Christian."
   
   Justice belongs to God, not just forgiveness; anything less by the Church regarding its conduct in this matter is the very moral relativism and equivocation that the Pope bewails. It would be a grace from God if all Christianity became more objective and honest about its history, thus allowing for real growth and real faith. Here, the Pope desires to elaborate that Christian charitable activity, "contribute to a better world only by personally doing good now, with full commitment and wherever we have the opportunity, independently of partisan strategies and programs" (pg 81). Sadly, this volume lacks the depth and breadth of real moral strength to address the vices perpetrated with itself. Thus it fails to rise to theological heights, and falls flat, unlike several of the Pope's more challenging books, where he addressed the limits and fallibility of the Church. Some religious, like Father Groeschel, continue to complain that the media has perpetuated an anti-clerical perspective that victimizes priests. Although the image of priests has been damaged by media coverage, thankfully there is an investigative outlet, a venue outside the Church, for dissenting opinion and reporting crimes. Any error on the side of excess by the media, and subsequent lack of status by priests, is nothing compared to the life-long struggle and suffering of the numerous victims. Others (like Father John Corapi), have publicly stated that when they knew several accused priests, they were good men, and that the abuse occurred when they were younger and more susceptible to sin, or that a victim was 17 years old. Corapi enjoys diatribes against those who dress themselves and their children too provocatively, and yes, this is a problem, but don't blame the victim.
   
   Priests and bishops have special authority within the body of the Church, i.e., the parishioners, as trusted representatives of Jesus. Parishioners have been asked to simply forgive these priests, as if these men were just civilians. The crimes are not only against human victims, but to the Church at large, Jesus. In a world where the moral compass can be so easily lost, this violation represents a loss of moral credibility of the Church. The only way to deal with it is through the Church being totally open, honest, and unafraid. There seems to be a lack of coherent and cohesive acknowledgment that the Church enabled these priests, which is a failure to clearly address the spiritual abuse of the sex scandals, which ripple out in harmful influence, and effect all members of the Church. This is a betrayal perpetrated on the highest levels; not just another sin, but sin committed against the innocent by representatives of Jesus. Real faith should be able to examine these extremely difficult issues and then find some way forward. What is needed is not just a supernaturally empowered scholar, but a leader capable of providing justice, not just forgiveness, a light unafraid to shine on dark places.



5. This encyclical is an imperative for anyone who wants to understand what makes Benedict XVI tick, and what has been making him tick for many years. He is a supreme theologian, but also a man deeply in love with God. In a way that is crystal clear, he explains what it means to say that God is Love, as the apostle John tells us in his letters. This successor to the apostles explains the meanings of the word love, and how they apply to us, in ways only an outstanding teacher, which he is, can do. He helps us understand why the different meanings of the words for love in Greek are important, for each has unique implications. We can understand this most clearly when we consider the dialogue in the Greek text between Jesus and Peter after the Resurrection, where Jesus asks Peter three times if he loves Him. In English, we do not see the dynamic of the conversation. In Greek we do, and the difference Benedict XVI explains between agape love (total self-giving love) and filio (love of friendship) becomes clear. Jesus' first question to Peter is, "Do you agape Me more than these?" Peter, mindful of his recent denials, can only respond, "You know I filio you." Jesus then changes the question and instead asks, "Do you agape Me?", not asking for a comparison of his love to that of the others. Again, Peter responds, "You know that I filio you." You can actually feel his inner pain as he understands the difference between Jesus' question and his answer. Finally, Jesus changes the question again and asks, "Do you filio Me?", and Peter responds, "Yes, Lord, you know I filio you." Benedict XVI teaches us in this encyclical that we must be ready to respond to God with an answer to these same questions. He challenges us to look within and ask ourselves how much we love God, and if we do not love God with agape love, we need to develop our relationship with God further because God loves us infinitely with an Agape Love.

5 comments about The New Testament and the People of God (Christian Origins and the Question of God).

1. I find Tom Wright's work exciting and challenging.
   
   I just wish the publisher spent a bit more money on the book binding and covers. Both my NTPG and JAVG have delaminated covers and spines (and I treat them very gently). Surely works as fine as these deserve better!



2. Necessary reading for any student wishing to study in detail the mission and message of Jesus. It is too technical for the ordinary reader, although not too academic for students genuinely interested in the subject. A very good introducation to the other books in the series by N.T.Wright.



3. Bishop N.T. Wright's The New Testament and the People of God is a marvelous work of exegesis. Unlike his 'for everyone' Bible studies which are filled with contemporary references and language, his series of scholarly tomes-of which this is one of three--are not for the casual reader. They are, however, for any Christian who wants to know more about the growth of the Christian church in the first century and how Christianity diverged from its Judaic roots. This is not light reading, but it is definitely worthwhile.



4. I have just finished reading this book after coming across Wright's shorter work, The Challenge of Jesus" which I also highly recommend.
   This book lays a good foundation for the ambitious project Wright is undertaking to explain Jesus, Paul and the New Testament.
   
   The first section of the book explains the need for History, Theology and Literature to be interlinked. Wright explains that neither positivism nor phenomenalism are good ways of explaining the world. He argues for a new hermeneutic: the hermeneutic of Love. He also uses the term 'critical realism' to explain this.
   In part two he goes deeper into the explanations of narrative and worldview with some very useful insights and ideas. Such as the reality of public and private spheres of knowledge, instead of the well worn objective/subjective split. He also discusses the enlightenment and its values and the necessity for different ideas in theology than pantheism and deism.
   The third part of the book is a massive account of Judea and its people from the 100's BC to the 100's AD. It includes explanations of Jewish beliefs, hopes and worldviews. How their interpretive framework of the world operated.
   The fourth portion of the book does the same for the early 1st century Christian movement. Wright critiques the different strands of Christianity and insists that Christianity of the first century was above all from a Jewish perspective and not, as Crossan and others postulate, a hellenistic movement that later became Jewish.
   The final section sums up the entire book and sets the stage for the second book of the series, Jesus and the Victory of God. I promptly ordered that book as soon as I finished this first volume. It is very refreshing to see someone like Wright who is firmly rooted in history but can also sum up theology and narrative so well.
   
   A definite must-read for any student of the bible and christianity. 5 stars all the way around.



5. How do you sum up a book of this density in only a few paragraphs. This book is a monumental work and I found it very helpful in understanding the historical climate surrounding Second Temple Judaism. Wright is a first class historian of the highest calibre. I have never Bibliography list that long before. He has certainly done his homework.
   
   Like another reviewer has said this is a dense read and you need to take time to reflect on what he says. At one point I was reading 2 pages a day. I skipped most of the first section and went straight to the history. I'm not interested in epistemology yet....
   
   This is not for the lay theologian, its aimed at scholars who are familiar with the various forms of literature and schools of thought out there. I'm not so a lot of this book has been over my head.
   
   The Chapters I found most useful are Chapters 6 - Judaism in a Greco Roman world and Chapters 9-10 about the beliefs and hope of Israel - Its worth noting that Wright also says trying to present a coherent statement about the beliefs of a nation one is walking onto a minefield. Its particularly difficult and wright does an excellent job.
   
   I love the section on the early Church, and his exposition of the themes in the gospels particularly Luke. Never have I seen the parrallels between Lukes gospel and the story of Samuel. WOW ! Blew my mind.
   
   If you have some theological training then this book will be food for your eager mind. This is not Christian living book in the typical sense of someone like Yancey or Lucado, it is history and history in the most scholarly context.
   
   Well worth the price I paid for it, but my only complaint (apart from not understanding some of it) was the shoddy job done by the publisher. Surely a book of this magnitude should have a hard cover and not a sloppy soft cover.