5 comments about God's Passion for His Glory: Living the Vision of Jonathan Edwards (With the Complete Text of The End for Which God Created the World).

1. The book is in two parts. The second part of the book is an essay by Jonathan Edwards called, "The End for which God created the World." Edwards lived in the 18th century and was a careful and brilliant thinker. Needless to say, the essay is very tough read. I tried reading it slowly and carefully, but I gave up and decided to read it in normal mode. I plan to go back in a year and try it again. The essay needs to be digested slowly with multiple readings. Piper has added many footnotes to help guide the reader through the more difficult passages.
   
   The first part is Piper getting you prepared emotionally and physically for the intellectual climb. He does an excellent job of encouraging the reader to make the climb for the view is great from the top.
   
   The book is worth reading even if you don't understand it. It helps bring into focus all of Piper's writings.



2. This is a general comment on Piper's books. I deeply appreciate the work of John Piper--especially his emphasis on missions and on living God-centered, Christ-exalting lives of worship. And I am Augustinian, so I love Piper's theology and am thrilled that he has become so popular. But I do want to provide a warning. Piper's main emphasis is (and you'll read this over and over again) "God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied (or delighted) in Him." This is a biblical and wonderful proposition that Piper became aware of through the writings of Jonathan Edwards. To Edwards, this proposition was one small part of his theology.
   
   But Piper has taken this idea, which he calls "Christian Hedonism," and built his whole life and ministry around it. The problem is that if you read enough Piper, you will begin to focus on the FEELING of being delighted in Christ, rather than on Christ Himself. And when your feelings don't match what you want them to be, you will become disheartened. (And let's face it, few of us have the emotional intensity of John Piper.) At that point, your feelings (of being delighted in God) become the object of your desires and, thus, an idol. Yes, they are feelings TOWARD God--but those feelings are NOT GOD. And when the focus of your life has become your emotions, it has deceptively become an idol.
   
   I know Piper fights against this tendency. But I'm afraid he is often unsuccessful. The fact is, the Christian life is not going to be one of unending joy in God. Read the Psalms to see how often the psalmists cry out in agony and desperation and sadness to the Lord. Read Romans 7 to find out how tough and discouraging the Christian life can really be.
   
   According to Piper, our happiness in God should be the driving motivation in our life. But when Christians are inevitably not overflowing with delight in God, then under Piper's framework, the only solution is to seek that feeling of joy rather than just do our duty. There are times when duty and obligation (which Piper hates) are the only motivations for the Christian to be obedient and live a life of faith. I agree wholeheartedly with Piper that delight in God is a much better motivation for the Christian than duty. But when that delight is not there, we still must be faithful and obedient, and we can't always wait on our feelings to drive us on toward the prize.
   
   Read Piper's books. And enjoy his passionate and Christ-exalting preaching. But beware and repent when your emotions--rather than the Triune God Himself--become the focus of your life.



3. The End for Which God Created the World represents the core of Jonathan Edwards's thought. Edwards's thesis is this: God designed everything to revel in his glory, and he desires for us to take joy in his magnificence. What's more, those who enjoy God will enjoy him with ever-increasing joy for all eternity. Isn't that a breathtaking thesis?

   Edwards marshalls huge amounts of scriptural evidence to support his claim, and, as always, he brilliantly answers philosophical objections against what the scriptures reveal about the matter. His writing throughout is penetrating, perceptive, persuasive, and deeply worshipful.

   I think John Piper's goals in his contribution to this work were to whet the reader's appetite for the feast of The End for Which God Created the World and to make the work more accessible to the average reader. He succeeds in both respects. After reading Dr. Piper's introduction I was eager to plow forward, and, while reading The End . . ., I found Dr. Piper's explanatory footnotes helpful.

   The End for Which God Created the World is a majestic work, and I am grateful that John Piper took the time to re-introduce it to the general public. May God use this humble offering from Jonathan Edwards's pen to help our tragically parched world find the living water flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb!




4. This is a solid, powerful, stunning, and most biblical text from both Jonathan Edwards and John Piper. This book includes Edward's essay titled "The End for Which God Created the World," along with comments and further delineation from John Piper. To read Edwards sometimes takes much concentration and hard work, and Piper has done a great job bringing this work to life.

   The first part of the book is an introduction to Edwards's work, by Piper (a sort of commentary, if you will), and the later part is the actual work of Edwards's. Piper begins by expressing his concern about the issue at hand, and then leads into a discussion of not only Edwards's life but his work as well. Piper comments on Edwards's conclusions in relation to Piper's concerns in his current ministry and then allows the reader to take what Piper has discussed and make application of it through Edwards's original work.

   The thing I find most interesting about this work is its relevancy. What I mean by this is the fact that Edwards's wrote this work 200+ years ago and it is still pertinent to our own culture today (sure proof that the Truths of God endure forever). This is a great text, solid theology, and extremely relevant reading for today. I heartily recommend this work!




5. This book recovers a much needed perspective for the evangelical church-- the importance of theology (what we believe about God) and intimacy (how well we know God). Too often, we get caught in the middle, in methodology (how we do things). Most books, most conferences, etc., deal with "how" instead of the other, more pertinent issues, which Piper relays from Edwards in this book. (I see this most often in the "church growth" movement-- where pastors all get together, go to conferences, and seek to copy what's working in some other place in the country, rather than struggling to know God in the present.)

   J.Edwards was one who, according to Piper, was steeped in both theology and piety-- both, without neglect the other. Theology without intimacy leads to cold, dry orthodoxy. Yet, intimacy without theology often has no moorings... no depth...

   The book is challenging... and will stretch you to move beyond simply copying the methods of others (whether you're a church leader or whatever) and get back to the God you know and relating to that God as you seek to know Him and make His glory known.

4 comments about George Muller of Bristol (1805-1898) (Hendrickson Classic Biographies).

1. I bought this book looking for anecdotes of some amazing ways God answered prayer in George Muller's life, especially ones that could be used as illustrations for teaching, sermons, etc... What I didn't expect was God to work in my heart so much while reading it. The book certainly contains many amazing accounts of how God provided for George Muller and his ministry, but more than anything the book is a powerful narrative of how God responds to faith and prayer. Muller's life goal was to show that God is a living God who hears and answers prayer, and God richly blessed this life of faith.
   
   The refreshing thing about this biography is that you learn just as much about the almighty God whom Muller served as you do about Muller himself. The author also often steps out of the narrative to help the reader to apply lessons from Muller's life. However, these asides never feel forced or interrupt the flow of the narrative, they only add to the reader's enjoyment and edification. I'm certain that the writing of this book itself was bathed in prayer, and it will show in the heart of the reader.
   
   As mentioned before in other reviews, the language is a bit formal, as was common style in the late 1800's, but it's still very accessible, even to High School students. I heartily recommend this book!



2. The ultimate George Muller biography, written by a man who knew him, and the one approved by Mr. Muller's own son-in-law. This biography breaks down George Muller's life into sections and explores each section thoroughly. Tremendous insight is gained into why and how he became a great man of faith and prayer. And as if the unfolding of this isn't enough, there's the added bonus of author A.T. Pierson's insightful commentary on biblical principles for deeper-level Christian living. I am reading this book a second time just to take in and digest all he has to say about these things, especially in relation to following the call of God on one's life. I was not expecting this from a biography and all I could think while reading it was "Where was this man when I was starting out?" It's like sitting at the feet of your own personal mentor. While some of the writing style is a bit "too late 1800's" it does not detract from what is being said. This is an extremely rich read. (The DVD "Obstacle to Comfort" serves as a great companion to this book.)



3. This powerful biography gets to the real story behind the legendary sinner-turned-saint, George Muller. This bio is a reader's dream! The author has a masterful way of turning a phrase and more importantly he shows us how and what and who made Muller who he became--a man of God extraordinaire. I was deeply moved by his story. The faith that distinguished his Christianity from mediocre believers of his day was unclouded by sentimentality or mystical notions, it was steeped in Scripture and bathed in the love of Christ. A fiery life that I will refer to when I need an inspirational pick-me up. A wonderful book that truly brings glory to God!



4. We can learn much from the true spiritual giants. GM was one of them. Through the Spirit and discipline he succeeded to serve God in spirit and in truth. It's doable!

3 comments about Intimacy with Christ.

1. Writing a review for a Madame Guyon book is a bit like submitting a critique of Shakespeare. Her writings are classic. Who hasn't read her? What can I add?
   
   Personally, my moments with Guyon are treasured and vital. Like an aspirin for pain, a dose of Jeanne Guyon brings relief to the hurried, exterior western mindset. Radical in her day, her thoughts continue to challenge the religious. Her mystic writings cut through the fog of our present culture. Her words often pierce by surprise. Her truths are exacting and accurate in this collection of letters. The focus is clear: turn from self to Christ; abandon yourself to God. Trust His love and grace for all spiritual progress.
   
   My only objection to this edition is its subtitle, "Sit at the feet of the greatest woman in church history." Although I might personally agree with that statement, if Madame Guyon isn't rolling over in her grave at that accolade, she has most certainly protested to her Beloved about it. Her key objective in this text, and in all her writings, is to lead others to sit at HIS feet. As she writes in chapter 30: "See God alone. Fix your eyes on Him and never put them on yourself." It is ironic that the publisher would so violate her vision in circulating her material. Having said that, I am grateful to the Seed Sowers for providing the text - and highly recommend it.



2. I liked this book so much, I bought several for members of my prayer group. We now have discussions on its contents. This is just what I have been looking for. After reading Jeanne Guyon first book on "Experiencing the Depths of Jesus Christ", I knew I had to read her other writings.



3. Madame Guyon used simple short words to speak out deep truth in different people's spiritual life. More than that, she gave appropriate medicine to the person in that situation. The book is awesome. Every piece of advice is precious pure gold. Thank God for this wonderful supply.

5 comments about The Hand of God: A Journey from Death to Life by the Abortion Doctor Who Changed His Mind.

1. Did you know that Dr. Nathanson supports murderous attacks against abortion docs? I didn't know that either until I read his contribution to "Killing Abortionists: A Symposium" in the journal First Things:
   
   "If [Paul] Hill had caught Dr. Britton in the act of commencing an abortion (which is, after all a lethal assault on a human being-I am one of those who draws [sic] no moral distinction between the born and the unborn), then he would have been correct in interposing his body between Dr. Britton and the unborn, and if necessary defending the unborn with the use of lethal force if Britton was [sic] determined to proceed with his assault. But such was not the case.... "
   
   The whole article is online here:
   
   http://www.leaderu.com/ftissues/ft9412/articles/killing.html
   
   In other words, Paul Hill's murder was wrong because... he should have waited until his victim was actually at work rather than on his way to work.
   
   Here's a suggestion for improving the public image of the Catholic Church: withhold Communion from famous people who support terrorist attacks, even those who use euphemisms like "defending the unborn with the use of lethal force" and say they should only be committed at certain times. Since 9111 the viewers have caught on to the nudge-nudge-wink-wink pro-terrorism game.



2. I didn't know this would be auto-biographical. I thought he would focus more on his founding of NARAL and his attempts to make abortion legal, although he does talk about it a bit. Other than that, it was a good biography.



3. Other reviewers have done an excellent job of providing summaries of this extremely powerful book, so I'll make just a few observations:
   
   1. The book is very well-written. Nathanson is a doctor who is also an excellent writer.
   
   2. The man lays his mind and soul bare to the reader. He personally participated in about 75,000 abortions. That is mind-boggling to me, but even more so for the new Nathanson, who, no exaggeration, has gone through a transformative process that must have been unbearably painful and ultimately liberating. Another reviewer mentioned St. Augustine's "Confessions." That is exactly the book I thought of while reading Nathanson's devastating account of how he was saved from his atheism and nihilism.
   
   3. Nathanson minces no words about the horror of abortion and about his culpability in the growth of the abortion industry, which he critiques with lacerating skill and courage.
   
   4. The emotional resonance of Nathanson's retelling of the details of the abortion he performed on a woman carrying his own child is worth the price of the book in itself. The detached amorality of his actions, the lack of regret, and the smug sense of professionalism he felt as he skillfully "evacuated" the "pregnancy tissue" sent chills down my spine. He compares the sense he felt at the time of yet another surgical procedure performed flawlessly, with the sense of accomplishment Eichmann must have felt when the Holocaust death trains departed on time and arrived at the extermination camps on time. Nathanson speaks with a brutal honesty about himself that will resound in readers' memories for a long time.
   
   I am ultimately at a loss for words about how afffecting this book is, both as a critique of elective abortion and the abortion industry, and about one man's profound journey in finding himself. I only wish this book would be read by a much wider audience. Perhaps we all have the duty to provide copies to our families and friends.



4. Being a pro-life college student in a liberal university has its challenges. But after reading Dr. Nathanson's book I am no longer at a loss for words when it comes to arguing the abortion issue. I have written many 15-20 page papers on this issue ranging from its moral significance to its relationship with our government, (federal & state). I used much of the information that was in this book. Nathanson gave so much insight and honesty to the history of the issue that it would be impossible not to question any pro-choice stance. I challenge any pro-choicer to read this book. You might find that it is much more challenging to agrue with Nathanson; if it weren't for him you wouldn't have an argument.



5. I think that this is a great and true story by an abortion doctor. It would be good for all, pro-life and pro-choice.

5 comments about Light Force: A Stirring Account of the Church Caught in the Middle East Crossfire.

1. If you have not read any of Brother Andrew's books, start here then proceed w/ the rest. Very insightful. He exhibits a view of the Middle East through Christian eyes that everyone should read. It does not matter if you're Muslim, Jewish, Hindu, Christian, Black, White, Red, Purple; reading this will change your heart. Brother Andrew grasps hold of the human soul and exposes what GOD's Children are experiencing in one of the most chaotic places on EARTH!



2. I bought Light Force because I enjoyed another book about Brother Andrew called God's Smuggler. Light Force chronicles the middle east climate through the eyes of Brother Andrew, Palestinian Christians and Israeli Christians, and Muslims, from not long after Israel became a nation through 2004.
   
   This book opens my eyes to the suffering of others based upon race and religion in a captivating way and offers readers an interesting story as well as a fresh perspective on the mideast crises.
   
   I couldn't put the book down.



3. Light Force is a real eye-opener, presenting the plight of Christians caught in the crosshairs of the Middle East battle. Christians are right to support Israel--obeying God's command to "bless them." At the same time, we should not ignore our brothers and sisters in Palestine who are often lumped in with the worst of the terrorists and jihadists.
   
   Kudos to Brother Andrew for having the courage to share Christ with Hamas leaders and other dangerous men. He's right when he says that this is the only way to change the world.
   
   Fortunately, for Christians, we have hope. Jesus is our only hope for peace and stability in this world.
   
   I would encourage American believers to read Light Force, if only to help them realize that not all Palestinians are terrorists. In fact, most aren't. Most just want to live their lives as we do.
   
   God bless Brother Andrew for his life and work.



4. In our newspapers, we tend to read a great deal about the Jewish people and the Muslim people--but what about the 15 million Christians who are caught in the crossfire of the Middle East? It's a story the media doesn't often explain. Brother Andrew with the excellent writing of Al Janssen tells a riveting story of the Middle Eastern Church. The faces become more than names but memorable people whose stories will burn into your hearts and minds.
   
   I was very moved to read this paragraph in the book, "The Church was the only hope for the Middle East, not because she had a better program or more political insight. She didn't. What she had was a way to bring people from both sides together based on the work of one Man whose birth two thousand years ago would be celebrated in a few days. His light still shone through believers here in the Holy Land. Many didn't understand the light. Many covered their eyes and refused to acknowledge the light. Others attacked the light and tried to put it out. But surely there are those who realized the bankruptcy of a peace process that had brought no peace for fifty years. For those who were willing, they could see the answer--Palestinians and Jews meeting at the foot of the cross." (p. 313)
   
   I highly recommend Light Force. It is excellent.



5. In a recent conference, Brother Andrew said that terrorists are not born but made. He adds that they become terrorists because no one cares for their souls. Light Force is a book that prompts its readers to be concerned about the souls of terrorists. It also wants its readers to be involved in the struggles of their brothers and sisters in the Lebanese and Palestinian churches.
   
   Light Force is a fair book that is not marked by any mindless emotionalism. Instead, it reflects a strong commitment to Christ, to supporting God's people in Lebanon and the Palestinian territories, to loving both Arabs and Jews, and to evangelizing Muslims.
   
   In four parts, the book introduces a world marked by horror, violence, and death. We see this world through the eyes of Brother Andrew who travels throughout Lebanon and the Palestinian territories seeking to encourage the churches in these dangerous areas. As he travels, he meets courageous evangelical men and women who love God wholeheartedly and serve Him in the midst of very depressing circumstances. This could be the unique contribution of this book for it unpacks before its readers the stories and struggles of many faithful Lebanese and Palestinian evangelicals who are committed to following Jesus Christ. Through their lives and struggles, the reader considers the dwindling numbers of Christians in Lebanon and the Palestinian territories, and the escalating influence of Muslim fundamentalists.
   
   Most of the book deals with the Palestinian Evangelical church and its context. It focuses on the contributions of Bethlehem Bible College, the Palestinian Bible Society, the Jerusalem Alliance Church, Musalaha, and the Baptist Church in Gaza. Brother Andrew meets with the leaders of these ministries. He encourages them and inspires them to be faithful in the midst of trouble. He also listens to their needs and through "Open Doors" partners with them in prayer and financially.
   
   Last, the book presents a unique Christian perspective concerning Muslim fundamentalists. On the one hand, they are not mindless, nameless, or faceless terrorists. Instead, they are hospitable friends and hurting people. On the other hand, the authors emphasize that they don't condone any terrorist actions. Their words and actions lift up Christ without demonizing or dehumanizing Muslim fundamentalists. They see that doing the former properly demands a deep and sincere love for all Muslims. Such love seeks to visit these Muslims, hear their anguish, and respectfully present the living Christ to them.
   
   By the time, the reader finishes this book, he or she will be informed, inspired, and prompted to be involved in remembering their brothers and sisters in the Middle East, in reflecting on their eschatological/theological positions in light of the Middle Eastern church, and in responding with love to Muslims, Jews, and Christians in the Middle East.
   
   Yohanna Katanacho
   PhD Candidate @Trinity International University

5 comments about Faith Like Potatoes: The Story of a Farmer Who Risked Everything for God.

1. In many modern day churches, the Gospel has been so diluted that we now ask the congregation to bow our heads and close our eyes so that the new convert can SLIP his hand up to be included in the sinner's prayer for the salvation of his soul, which is totally unbiblical. Angus has brought the Gospel truth back to life by not only asking converts to come forward but to insist that they tell the first three people they meet about their new faith in Jesus Christ. The bible says "whoever confesses Me before men, him I will also confess before My Father who is in heaven' Matthew 10:32.
   
   Every preacher should read this book if only just for this revelation, that the Gospel is Good News, not Embarassing News! Much more besides in this book that builds faith. Simple English. Easy read. But faith-building nevertheless.



2. I have not read the book, but I have seen the full length movie which is not yet available in NTSC format for USA (Region 1 in DVD speak). This is a truly inspirational story which will humble you, make you cry and energize you in prayer. One is left with the need to meet Angus Buchan face-to-face and shake hands with this unique man of God. Buy the book, watch the movie (if you can get it) and spread the love. I am from Kwazulu Natal, where he and his family lived, so his story has an even greater impact on me.



3. Down-to-earth, honest and real account of how God has changed a man, willing to risk everything to trust God. It will inspire and challenge you to experience God in your every-day life!
   
   A great book for people who are seeking God but turned off by hypocritical and religious "Christians" who believe they are better than everyone else.



4. This is the incredible story of the goodness and love of God and how by grace the Spirit of God can change us into intruments to do His work and display it in power. The book has a presence of the Spirit that draws you through gentle confiction towards the challenge of surrendering your life completely to God in cheerful obedience.
   
   The story will change your life forever. Read it together with a book written by Roland and Heidi Baker, called "Always Enough"



5. This book was a pleasure to read and I read it in one day. It was easy to read in short concise chapters pertaining to specific events or themes. I found it very inspirational and liked the fact that it was written by a simple man about simple matters of faith; matters that can seem very complicated when commented on by so-called experts. It was down to earth and to the point.

5 comments about Father Joe: The Man Who Saved My Soul.

1. Father Joe sounds like a fascinating guy the only problem is that most of the later parts of the book are not about Father Joe caring and insightful monk but rather about Tony Hendra. While it was interesting to see the author struggle with his faith and eventually turn away from it there is an inability on my part to feel any kind of sympathy for the man he eventually became.
   
   I'll go easy on him as a child I mean we all did strange things because we were lonely or misunderstood but having to read pages and pages of the self destructive behavior perpetrated by the author was almost too much to take. The only thing that kept me interested was waiting to see how the life of old Father Joe turned out.
   
   Overall-Parts of the book were fascinating but the book needed less Tony Hendra and more Father Joe.



2. I read this recently, in a public library so as not to help Hendra's sales. I read it after being exposed to his daughter Jessica's book which makes a convincing case that he molested her.
   
   The narcissism was always self-evident in this book. But for Hendra to draw this picture the way he did where Father Joe's last advice to him is that he was put on this Earth to be a good parent and husband, that that was his destiny ... amazing. Hendra's fictitious bologna will stand throughout the ages as the penultimate example of "playing thyself" in print.
   
   To the extent that Father Joe actually told him anything like that, it reflects both Father Joe's disconnect with reality, borne of his insular life within "the Church", and the natural acceptance of pedophiliac tendancies that such a life seems to correlate to.
   
   "A Life Wasted Badly" would be a better title.



3. Fr. Joe offers one a splendid peek into the life of an admirable person. It was a priviledge to get to know him and his wonderful influence on people and his encouragement for all of us to live on a higher plane. This book made me feel that God holds us in the palm of His hand because we are the apple of His eye no matter how we fail; and we do so fail! Not a bit 'churchy', but rather speaks directly to real life.



4. In spite of his celebrity and achievements in the world of satire, Tony Hendra possesses a worldview that is fairly typical of those who came of age in the 1960s. Deeply antagonistic to established authority -- be it that of parents, government, the Church or themselves -- he and his cadre of stalwarts blazed a path that changed the modern world, but brought more than a few to the hell of drugs, bitterness and alienation. Many have reconstructed their lives, after a fashion, and a few seem to have struggled back from the inferno to establish lives of meaning and peace.
   
   "Father Joe" is Hendra's funny, autobiographical, and brutally frank account of his successes and failings, especially through its touch points with Father Joe Warrilow, a Benedictine monk at the abbey of Quarr, on the Isle of Wight. Hendra grew up a stranger in a strange land -- a Catholic in anti-papist 1950s Great Britain. His memoir starts with his attempted seduction of a neighbor's wife, which landed him at Quarr on Good Friday, ostensibly for a bout of penitent reflection. It is here that Hendra meets Father Joe, almost a caricature of a gentle, pious monk, with large ears and flat feet and knobbly knees. Yet in spite of his comical appearance, Father Joe would be a presence throughout the tumultuous 1960s and 1970s, as Hendra endured (usually willingly) the well-intentions depravities that characterized that era and his narcissistic generation. From his days as a guilt-ridden youth, Hendra nursed a desperate desire to become a monk, though like Saint Augustine, he wanted it "but not just yet." Hendra's lifestyle brought him fame as an actor (band manager Ian Faith in Spinal Tap), editor (National Lampoon) and director (Spitting Image) but also the purgatory of unfulfilled dreams and personal failings. His struggles often returned him to Quarr and Father Joe, whose generosity of spirit, elfin artlessness and unfailing love sustained Hendra through some truly difficult times.
   
   I heartily recommend listening to the audio version of the book if at all possible. Hendra does a wonderful job of portraying Father Joe's kindly, stuttery voice and his calming spirit. Hendra expertly renders his own state of mind at various stages in his life. There's the horny and hyper-pious 14-year-old, the college student bowled over by his first taste of satire, the hedonistic, ambitious 30-something and the burned-out middle-ager reaching for comfort, forgiveness and stability. Hendra is unflinching in his depiction of others and of himself. He is an absentee father; a brilliant if lacerating satirist with unyielding standards; an attention-seeking perfectionist who seeks idealistically and naively to change the world. Hendra's memories of his talks with Father Joe are full of meaningful detail -- probably reconstructed -- that show the older man to be wise, kind and even occasionally irreverent. Father Joe was way ahead of his time. In an era when churchmen regularly resorted to threatening hellfire on miscreants, Father Joe reached back to gospel images of a God of inexhaustible love and second chances.
   
   Hendra's critical eye falters only when discussing changes in the Church that began in the 1960s. Like many who left the Church before the reforms and returned afterward, he confuses nostalgia for the old Latin rite with worthwhile worship. In this, Hendra betrays a lingering selfishness that was always his trademark. Strange that an unorthodox believer like Hendra would pass judgment on a liturgical form whose underlying reality (the presence of Christ in the Blessed Sacrament, even the Resurrection of Jesus) he is far from accepting.
   
   Like St. Augustine's "Confessions," Hendra's "Father Joe" is an unsparing review of a man's quest toward the eternal. Though Augustine went considerably further in this journey does not diminish the value of Hendra's work, especially for this generation of skeptics and self-appointed spiritual authorities. Whatever his faults, Hendra is honest about his failings as Father Joe is unselfish with his love and support. A wonderful book for those who love spiritual quests and who appreciate the snarky humor and commentary of one who was in the middle of it all.



5. ...you'll relate to this book in a truly personal and humorous way. But even if not, or if you have no religious affiliation at all, this is a fantastic personal journey to experience. I listened to it on audiobook, and found the act of listening to the author himself (it is his own voice on the recording) reveal his life, with all its ups, downs, triumphs, and failures, to be refreshing and touching. Well written, witty, but not arrogant, this book is worth picking up.

3 comments about Release the Power of Prayer.

1. Excellent book! This is the best book on prayer I have ever read. It clearly demonstrates God's faithfullness to a man who depended only on Him and not man for provision and direction in everything. I was greatly inspired to live my life of faith the same way as George Muller.



2. I set out to read this book after I had read his Autobiography. If you too found yourself in this situation you already know what I found out... They are essentially the same testimony. This book contains large excerpts from the autobiography, but exculding a timeline of Mr. Mullers Life in the front, nothing substantially new. However, it is to date one of the most outstanding testimonies of a life of faith in our times that I have read. I also HIGHLY recommend Rees Howells: Intercessor by Norman Grubb. If you are seeking to deepen your faith or desire to live a more dedicated life for the Lord you'll not regret purchasing this book!



3. If you are in search of the testimony of a man who has lived a life solely in prayer, dependant solely on God alone, this is the book for you! The story of George Müller is definitely an inspirational story of a man who placed his hope and faith in God alone, for the care of thousands of orphans, and helped out many many missionaries monetarily and spiritually... he did all this while never asking another person for anything... just rooting his heart in prayer! Amazing!! Read this book!!

5 comments about Maimonides (Jewish Encounters).

1. It's an interesting read, but Nuland cites absolutely no sources, a problem when you have a subject with as much scholarship - much of it conflicted - as there is on Maimonides. One spot where this actually leads to him to make a pretty egregious error is when he cites the Maimonidean 13 'principles of faith.' Nuland correctly states that Maimonides writes these principles in his mishnaic commentary, but he then proceeds to give a word for word translation of a watered down version of these principles that appears in all Orthodox prayer books. This is highly problematic because the anonymously authored (not by Maimonides!) prayerbook version often inaccurately summarizes or even 'censors' Maimonides' statements in his commentary, and Nuland doesn't even bother noting that or even crediting the anonymous author as a source! He disingenuously makes it appear that this is his own correct paraphrase of Maimonides' formulation - a total inaccurate impression. I find this an alarming sign of Nuland's lack of in-depth research or even understanding of this important topic. I would not recommend this book to anyone who wishes to actually understand Maimonides' life and works.



2. Maimonidies' two biggest contributions to civilization were his religious writings, and medical practice. As author Sherwin Nuland himself points out, Maimonidies' truest, lasting legacy are his religious writings. Yet probably because he himself is a doctor, Sherwin Nuland emphasizes the medical Maimonidies at the expense of not giving the religious Maimonidies his proper due. When reading this book, Maimonidies sounded like quite an ordinary man, nothing special, and the truth is, as a doctor he was nothing special. Yet in religious circles, he is a giant. This specialness of Maimonidies was lost in this short biography of this great man.



3. The most interesting parts of this book focus on Maimonides the physician (as opposed to Maimonides the religious leader, where Nuland's discussion is a bit too sparse here and there). Maimonides (known to most Jews as Rambam) did not develop new medical knowledge, but wrote ten books synthesizing existing medical knowledge in a clear and concise way, and even occasionally criticizing the Greco-Roman masters whose works dominated medieval medicine. By the low standards of the Middle Ages, this passed for genius.
   
   Nuland links Rambam's religious and medical careers by pointing out that in both areas, Rambam focused heavily on codifying existing knowledge in ways that would be easy for the public to use.
   
   Nuland also engages in interesting speculation about a variety of other issues, including:
   
   1. Why were Jews so likely to be doctors in the Middle Ages? Nuland asserts that (a) Christians were uninterested in medicine because they were more ascetic, (b) because priests could not take employment as doctors, the Christian talent pool for medicine was artificially diminished and (c) because Jews' wealth could easily be taken away, Jews had a strong incentive to seek portable skills (as opposed to investing in fixed assets such as land).
   
   2. Why was Rambam so uninterested in accommodating or discussing competing religious views? Nuland speculates that because of Judaism's dire condition in those days (beset in persecution in some places and the temptation of assimilation into Islam in more tolerant places) Rambam may have felt the need to "circle the wagons" by encouraging as much uniformity as possible.
   
   3. Why did Rambam (who generally opposed Messianic speculation) suggest in his letter to Yemenite Jews that prophecy might return in 1216? Nuland suggests that Rambam may have been trying to defang Messianic fever by setting a date so far in advance that he could not be disproven during his lifetime.



4. Nuland has accomplished the difficult task of summarizing Maimonides' complex writings in a way that is accessible to the common reader. Nuland's style is clear and concise, and he obviously admires Maimonides as a sort of Renaissance man before the Renaissance. It is true that the book gives considerable attention to Maimonides' life as a physician, but as someone who has dipped a bit into Maimonides' writings on Jewish law and thought but knew little of his place in medical history, I didn't see that as a problem. In fact, I found that that made this book even more enlightening.
   
   I could have used more discussion of the Guide to the Perplexed, however, beyond the notions that the book is difficult and that some see it as a hidden confession by Maimonides of his lack of belief (an unlikely hypothesis). The Guide is an extraordinarily fascinating book, from all I understand, and Nuland does not do it justice.



5. it shows you right way about life
   i think it is possible to adopt it to today.
   it was very interesting book for me.
   it is the kind of book that i always enjoy reading

5 comments about Through the Narrow Gate, Revised: A Memoir of Spiritual Discovery.

1. Honest and interesting perspective from someone who has "been there." I would also recommend "The Spiral Staircase" which she wrote after this book.



2. Older book with new foreword. Personal discription of life in convent by well-known religious author.



3. I thought that this book was very honest, while at the same time providing a captivating and enticing read. I have read many of Karen Armstrong's later books on religion; however, I read this wanting to know more about her past life as a nun. The book details her seven years in a religious order in which she endures the pains of pre-Vatican Council II styled religious life. On the outside world, to which she was oblivious, things such as the sexual revolution and the Vietnam war were occurring. I could identify with some of her stumbling blocks to cultivating a spiritual life, including emotional and intellectual barriers. I now have the deepest respect for such a profound woman, not only in her writing ability but also in her courage and willingness to be so transparent in telling her story. This is a wonderful autobiography.



4. Karen Armstrong has written a most marvelous account of her life within a very strict order of English Catholic nuns of the 1960's. Her description of the torments she endured has caused me to regard with renewed respect and affection the nuns who taught me in the 1950's. How odd that we boys who were in class with the nuns for hours each day really had no idea of what kind of lives some of them led in the hours before and after school. The moral, spiritual, and intellectual gifts they bestowed on us daily are inestimable, even though at the time we were probably more interested in whether or not they actually had hair under their wimples!
   
   I've noticed some confusion in these reviews about several aspects of Catholic religious orders of those days. First, despite having no contact for long periods of time with "seculars" - i.e., civilians - Karen was not in a order of "cloistered" nuns. Cloistered sisters do truly cut themselves off completely from the world and, if I can be so bold as to describe them, they live a life governed by "ora et labora" - work and prayer. In fact, though, as strict as they were, Karen's order was primarily an order of teaching sisters.
   
   But there is a much more important concept that many people seem not quite to grasp, and that is that all Catholic youth of those days - at least in my experience - were taught that the most perfect way to be a true follower of Christ was to share in his suffering. That is why those nuns were treated - and treated themselves - as harshly as any Marine Corps recruits would ever be treated - only the nun's harsh treatment was to continue all her life. Certainly, most youth who took Catholicism very seriously must have given thought at one time or another to entering the religious life. We were always told to examine ourselves to determine if we had a religious vocation, but we were also warned that it was not a calling for everyone. In any event, to decide at a young age to become a nun, brother, or priest - to dedicate one's life to doing good - was not understood by many of us to be the same as dedicating one's whole existence to God. When young people make the decision to enter the religious life they often do not know what that really entails. Some religious communities are extraordinarily strict, others less so. The particularly strict order to which Karen belonged was obviously intent on making sure those young girls found out immediately that the religious life was not a game, that sharing in Christ's suffering was not to be an abstract concept but a concrete reality. Those young nuns were to put up with the sadism of some of their superiors in the same way as Christ had to endure the sadism of his tormenters. They were not only to tolerate it but to welcome it and even seek out even more spiritual pain and physical hardship. (As the British often jokingly say about the paddlings they endured in school, "Please sir may I have another?") This concept of self-denial is probably not well understood in our modern climate of "personal fulfillment."
   
   The total abnegation of self, of one's personal desires, of pride, of the hope for friendship and love, was the goal of the harshness they inflicted upon themselves. Their goal was to die to themselves in order to reach God. If you do not grasp this concept I think you'll miss the heroism inherent in the story of Karen and her fellow nuns. Naturally, that kind of life is not for very many of us, as Karen eventually found out for herself. It may be totally misguided or, by modern standards, even pathological, but it's the way some people have reached true holiness.
   
   I'm very happy for myself and for all her readers that Karen Armstrong eventually chose to leave the convent and to follow another path in life. This book is not only a gift from her but, through her, a gift to us from all those other nuns who took - and take - the road less traveled. A truly wonderful and enlightening gift.



5. As this is a book relating to Catholicism, it is fitting for me to start the review with a confession. I bought this book not because I was interested in it, but because I wanted to read its sequel - The Spiral Staircase - and felt I should read this book first. I was not interested all that much in the story of becoming a nun and my only curiosity was how Miss Armstrong would find anything interesting to say about it.
   
   Well, I was off the mark. Karen Armstrong's recounting of her 2 years in the convent (and subsequent disenchantment with the process) are fascinating. Most of the action in this story takes place inside the subject's head as she tries to wrestle with being human in a place where humanness is to be shed (as one must renounce worldy desires, thoughts, and feelings to be close to God).
   
   Karen Armstrong does a magnificent job of depicting what this conflict is like. The process of becoming a nun, as Armstrong describes it, is a rigorous program of self-denial. One is not to complain, be tired, be mournful, be happy, be questioning, or let onesself feel any of the things that come with the territory of being human. Rather, it was taught that the pinnacle of the spiritual life was the abillty to shed one's humanness, to think and feel only about one thing - God.
   
   Armstrong also tells of a very hierarchal system where to question one's superiors is to question God (as one's superiors are closer to God than onesself; that is why they are superiors). With accuity of word, Karen Armstrong recounts how she was constantly made to feel insignificant and imbecilic by her superiors. At the same time, feeling bad about this was attributed to her weak spirit and - so it was called - her selfishness.
   
   Armstrong's story ends when she voluntarily leaves the convent after experiencing much too much. Here she tells of the schock of living in a 'regular' world after years of physical and emotional seclusion.
   
   This is much more interesting a book than i had originally thought it would be. Owing to Armstrong's ability to describe the internal struggle between her desire to be human and her desire to devote herself to God, Through the Narrow Gate has an incredible forward motion. As The Spiral Staircase picks up where this book leaves off, I cannot wait to read the latter half of Karen Armstrong's remarkable journey.