2 comments about Lectio Divina: Renewing the Ancient Practice of Praying the Scriptures.

1. This is a wonderful book to introductory Lectio, as is the aforementioned (prior post) book by Thelma Hall, "Too Deep for Words". I was able to get both at my public library, but will be purchasing a used copy of Pennington's, for my library. His work is an "informative and practical guidebook for today's Christian" written in a way that stirred my soul to begin practicing Lectio Divina (a "method" to reading Scripture or spiritual works). Lectio is a personal, spiritual time with the Lord thru His Word. The author speaks of taking the "word of life" that He (God) gives you through your daily "lectio" (devotional reading), and carrying this "word" (this can be literally a single word, or a phrase) throughout the day, to commune with our loving Father, one on one. "Receiving a word of life is the essence of Lectio Divina" he writes. "True lectio is taking what the Bible says, to heart."
   
   Using lectio, one first reads (lectio), then reflects (meditates), then responds (prayer), then rests (contemplation) on the word or verse(s).
   All reading should end in an action taken for others' sakes. And in doing so, your life changes.
   
   I have done Bible study (INformational) for years...Lectio is TRANSformational, or spiritually formational...it's amazing...and this book is a great start, as well as researching Lectio Divina online.
   
   Receive, reflect, respond...but first, read this book!



2. I find Thelma Hall's Too Deep for Words a much better short introduction to lectio divina.

1 comments about Grateful To Have Been There: My 42 Years With Bill And Lois, And The Evolution Of Alcoholics Anonymous/Second Edition-Expanded and Revised.

1. When I began my research into A.A. history, I traveled to A.A. World Headquarters in New York. There I met archivist Frank Mauser and his predecessor Nell Wing. Nell was Bill Wilson's secretary, Lois Wilson's long-time companion and assistant, and A.A.'s first archivist. I was greeted in New York by Frank and Nell, and several times thereafter I dined with Nell and also spent time with her in her apartment. It was quite plain to me that this lady had been a substantial part of the later development of A.A. In fact, when I visited her apartment, she was in the process of writing this important book. And she reviewed a mountain of historical materials she was studying for reference. Nell was a Buddhist. She was a non-alcoholic. And she was a gracious hostess to me and just about anyone who was interested in our early history.The First Nationwide Alcoholics Anonymous History Conference, 2d ed. She helped me with my visits to Stepping Stones for documents.Turning Point: A History of Early A.A.'s Spiritual Roots and Successes She helped me in obtaining Anne Smith's Journal. Anne Smith's Journal, 1933-1939: A.A.'s Principles of SuccessAnd she was a pillar in the community of industrious history researchers and writers. Making Known the Biblical History and Roots of Alcoholics Anonymous: A Sixteen-Year Research, Writing, Publishing, and Fact Dissemination Project, Third EditionIt's a good book by an eye witness. Despite her intimate friendship with Bill and Lois, and her access to many A.A. archival materials, Nell was humble enough to recognize the need to continue searching out our history.The Akron Genesis of Alcoholics Anonymous. I doubt if she failed to help all of us in the earlier A.A. history-writing community of the 1990's.

5 comments about Listening For God: A Ministers Journey Through Silence And Doubt.

1. I appreciated that the author takes head on the issue of spiritual wilderness or dryness, and her experience of it. It is thought-fully and richly written, with much to offer anyone in ministry.



2. After reading this book I see Renita J Weems as an intellectual, with an intellectual's ego, trying to reason her way back to God. While Ms. Weems has apparently left her faith to follow "godesses" she has trouble understanding why this has left her faith hollow. Christ told us if we were to follow Him, to understand Him, we were to do it as little children. If Ms Weems could get over her anxiety and aggression towards men, perhaps she could listen to what her husband has to say as a Baptist minister. God tells us in the Old Testament that one of the 7 things He hates is pride...snooty, condescending pride,...Sister, I say this in Love, you might try a little humility in your search for God. I would recommend she read Joyce Meyer's "Battlefield of the Mind"



3. This is the book if you are waiting on a word from God. This is a powerful book. Dr. Weems has done it, yet again. This book makes a wonderful gift for Christian women. God Bless You, Dr. Weems.



4. As a writer and one who has an ongoing inner dialogue (often chaotic debate), this book arrived in my hands like an angel to the dying. For a number of years I've been 'on hold' regarding taking action on a number of projects, believing myself to be an imposter when I have so many questions and so much doubt. Ms Weems, in her honest sharing, has offered me a new perspective. With humor, teeth gritting honesty, and a trusting soul, Renita Weems shares her struggle and doubt, offering in the end a gift of love and wisdom. What a wonderful gift to those of us stumbling along the path. Thank you.



5. A brilliantly written book with humor which kept me glued to the pages. I could not put it down. It was just so uplifting to hear that others are experiencing the same "lost feelings" I have felt. To have those feelings validated has made a profound difference in my understanding of our wonderful God and this journey we are on.

No comments about In Pursuit of Religious Freedom: Bishop Martin Stephan's Journey.

5 comments about The Other Side of the River.

1. If you have serious questions about what is God, or False folly that is breaking out in curches everywhere since the Toronto manifestations began, this is a book to read. It is an eyeopening account from a man who was in leadership for many years, and who has now bravely discarded 'the lie'. I suspect most christians will identify fully with the encounters he 'tolerated' despite his growing discomfort, due to the 'false' dilemma of loyalty to leaders versus loyalty to the WORD OF GOD.



2. Sadly, Discernment has been a neglected and scorned spiritual gift in the Church in recent years, and as this Negative attitude towards Christians with discernment progressed, deception, bizarre manifestations and practices continued to take root, and false teachings and abusive practices have only increased.
   
   Extra-biblical interpretations and Mysticism has hit the Christian Church to such a degree now, that people are looking for answers as they are questioning why what they are seeing and experiencing is not in the written word of God. Every believer is commanded from scripture to examine everything carefully, hold fast to that which is good,; abstain from every form of evil." 1 Thess 5:21,22
   
   The Author tells of his Family's personal testimony of his involvement with the 'River Movement' and how it came into his Church. Appreciated was the Author's documenting the history of the 'Latter Rain Movement' which shortly after it's inception in 1948 was rejected by the AOG, But today this movement continues to spread wildly within the Church, especially with youths and young adults. As the Church slips further into apostasy, this book brings much needed information.
   
   Had ordered this book Feb 2007, but for several months never received it due to the publishers delay. Many months later, I received a copy from someone I did research with.



3. I found Mr. Reeves' book after I bought "Why I Left the Prophetic Movement" which was very disappointing! Mr. Reeves shares his struggles with questionable teaching in the charismatic community in a way I found refreshing! He points out how a lot of what is being taught isn't found in the Bible but is based on experience and opinion. Much of what is being taught, especially in groups that adhere to the so called "Toronto Blessing" is actually heresy and Mr. Reeves' backs up what he's teaching with sound Scriptural teaching that sticks to what the Bible actually teaches and not what someone else may want it to say when it actually doesn't.
   
   I also found Kevin Reeves to be a man of godly humility and someone I can trust. He gives us freedom to doubt & question & helps us focus back on the truth of God's Word.



4. This book is a must read for anyone who has seriously questioned the new-thing approach to church and to Christianity itself. It is a lovingly worded corrective written beside a deeply personal reflection that draws us back to a faith that is upheld by the Word and lived out in love and integrity.
   
   I bought ten extra copies to pass along to friends. All have been read and appreciated.



5. This book was very helpful in understanding what the deception is that my own parents have been enamored with. It is a must read for anyone who is battling with loved ones who have fallen away from the truth and become involved in practices that contradict the Bible. My battle has lasted 5 years now, but I continue to pray that God will remove the scales from their eyes. Very definitve on Word of Faith, Charismatic and "spirit-filled" deception.

5 comments about No Greater Glory: The Four Immortal Chaplains and the Sinking of the Dorchester in World War II.

1. This is a touching book about the four chaplains who gave their lives for our soldiers. You will read a biographical background on each chaplain. Their love for each other and the love for the soldiers reached beyond the line of denominations. They gave their lives so that others may life. You can see their beautiful pictures in the stained-glass window at Washington's Cathedral. I had the privileged to visit several years ago.



2. I ordered this book for my father, whose brother died in WWII. The family was given almost no information at the time, but by piecing together details, my mother determined that he was almost certainly on a particular boat when it was sunk by the enemy. That fact was confirmed by this book, and it offered a lot of information that is offered only sketchily in other areas. We appreciate the author and the information he was able to provide families, as well as the story of the wonderful chaplains. My mother, an avid reader (particularly about WWII), said this was one of the best written histories on WWII that she has read.



3. Everyone who's already reviewed this book has said so much about it that it's hard to find anything more to say about how well it's written, what a great gripping true story it is, and the amazing heroism of the four chaplains. This book is so well-written and has such a compelling and involving story that I read it in like two days, and wished there had been even more. Additionally, this heroic tale from WWII has special meaning to many of the people in my area (New York State's Capital District) because Rev. Clark Poling's church was in nearby Schenectady, providing a local connection.
   
   The book itself follows a somewhat nonlinear format, going back and forth between the pre-war lives of the four chaplains and their lives during the war, particularly after they boarded the Dorchester and arrived in Greenland for a very brief stay before going back on the ill-fated ship. After this point, the narrative switches entirely to a linear format, discussing the ship's final night before being torpedoed by a German U-boat and the chaos, heroism, and tragedy that ensued. Not many people could honestly say that they would give up their lifejackets if their ship went down in freezing waters in the middle of the night (Rabbi Alex Goode even gave up his gloves) or remain calm in the midst of such frantic circumstances and such a life-and-death situation. Many people back then also weren't so forward-thinking about interfaith relations, with a Reform rabbi, a Catholic priest, and two reverends from different Protestant denominations being such close friends and reaching out equally to everyone on the ship, largely being nonsectarian apart from when they did things like conduct services. This was still an era in which many Protestants and Catholics didn't associate with one another, to say nothing of the rampant institutionalised prejudice against Jews, and, in a number of areas, against Catholics as well. They set a moving and heroic example for all time, not just in the area of interfaith relations, but also in the area of selfless sacrifice. It was interesting to read in the Afterword about some of the people who have since been awarded the Immortal Chaplains Prize for Humanity Award, such as the Japanese Righteous Gentile Chiune Sugihara, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, and Omri Abdel-Halim al-Jadah, a Palestinian Muslim who died while saving a young Israeli Jewish boy from drowning. The Afterword also provided information on what happened to the survivors of the Dorchester sinking and the near and dear ones of the chaplains.
   
   As we find out all throughout the book, this tragedy could have been prevented (it was kind of like a smaller-scale Titanic) if only the Dorchester had been inspected more closely or refurbished, or if there had been enough lifejackets and safety instructions provided, and even after disaster struck, the casualties could have been reduced if the nearby American ships had begun searching for survivors and bringing them onto their ships right away instead of thinking nothing serious had happened or going after the attacking U-boat first, but even in the midst of such bungling and such a chaotic disaster, the amazing heroism of the chaplains shone through as well as it would have in calmer circumstances.



4. With a sickening thump, an explosion wracked the troop transport S.S. Dorchester - a German torpedo had found its mark. It was shortly after midnight, February 3, 1942, and the ship was about to sink into the deadly cold waters off of Greenland. As men panicked and struggled to find a way to save their own lives, four men walked amongst them spreading calm and encouragement. Helping everyone they could find, even giving away their own precious lifejackets, the four chaplains - Rev. George Lansing Fox (Methodist), Rabbi Alex Goode, Rev. Clark Poling (Dutch Reformed) and Fr. John Washington (Catholic) - sought to serve their God and the fellow men. And when the end came, survivors saw the four chaplains, locked arm in arm, praying on the upside-down hull of the ship, just before it dove beneath the waves.
   
   This book tells the remarkable true story of four men who joined the American military as chaplains, their experiences at their Massachusetts training camp, and their final tragic mission. It is a story that is bound to bring a tear to your eye, but it is also a great story of faith and truly living the life of godly sacrifice. Overall, I think that this is a great book, on that I highly recommend to everyone.



5. If you ever feel that your fellow man has no regard for you, pick up this book and don't put it down untill you have finished it. What an inspiring story of four 'Men of God' and their dedication to that God, each other, and all those fortunate enough to have crossed their paths. You will be stunned by the character of each of these great men.

3 comments about Paul: A Critical Life.

1. "Paul: A Critical Life" by Murphy-O'Connor is a very detailed book written for those seeking a very detailed account of his life and work. The book focuses a lot of attention to the historical aspects of Paul, rather than focusing on his theology. However, the book does discuss the developments in Paul's theology and philosophy under the impact of historical events in his ministry.
   
   The book uses a wide range of sources, both Christian and otherwise, along with a large selection from other scholars dealing with the same subject. Although Murphy-O'Connor uses the New Testament books, he is not shy of pointing out where the New Testament record has holes, (sometimes gaping). This is particularly in regard to the record of Luke in "Acts", which is often the source of the author's criticisms. For those who hold to the 100% veracity of the New Testament idea, this may be something of an issue.
   
   "Paul" also gives a good variety of other scholar's opinions, and interacts well with other theories. Murphy-O'Connor has taken some trouble to build up a case for his own ideas, though he is also open and honest enough to admit where he is "merely speculating". What you end up with is a fairly solid overview of Paul's life and even his character.
   
   A lot of the book gives a broad overview to the history and background of Paul's writing activities in relation to different Christian groups he started. This is particularly interesting, and helps give one a deeper view of the character of the man himself.
   
   I was particular interested to note that Murphy-O'Connor describes Paul as a deeply feeling and emotional man who tended to run with whatever was foremost in his mind at any given moment. Additionally, a lot of the emotion comes through his letters, which can be missed. This was a personal insight into Paul for me that I had previously missed.
   
   This is an interesting and valuable addition to the increasingly corpus of material on the Apostle to the Gentiles. Even for people with a broad familiarity with Paul, there should be something new in this for them. It is an insightful and enjoyable book to read. I did not find it at all dry, as one other reviewer did.



2. From a Pauline scholar of Murphy-O'Connor caliber, it is no surprise to find an exhaustive appraisal of the details associated with the chronology of Paul's career. Once the hard stuff is out of the way, however, Murphy-O'Connor gives his readers a fascinating glimpse into the life of Paul. Of great interest is the educational opportunities afforded to a diaspora Jew in Tarsus, the breakdown between Paul and the Antiochian church, the strategy employed by Paul in his missionary work, the precise nature of the "Judaizers" who plagued Paul in Galatia and elsewhere, and the troubled relationship of Paul to the Corinthian church. Paul emerges as passionate, occasionally biased, but always intensely involved and fascinating. References and bibiographic material abound. The bit on 2 Thessalonians is unique and well-argued. Murphy-O'Connor tries to round out Paul's career as much as possible with what can be known of Thessalonika, Ephesus, Antioch Pisidia, Philippi, and the associates involved in Paul's ministries in Asia Minor, so it offers a picture of Paul's relationships beyond the overshadowing portrait of the Corinthian correspondence. It is a book that you will go back to over the years, even if you don't agree with all of it. Enjoy.



3. Anyone looking for an excellent synopsis of Paul, his travels, and spiritual growth would do well to read this book. We follow Paul as he develops his thoughts and philosophy, and as he travels throughout the Judaic world of the time. In addition, you are also given great insight into the lives of the people he meets and the travelling conditions of the times.

   All in all, a fascinating insight into the mind and spirit of the man who brought Christian thought into the world.

4 comments about From a Mess to a Miracle.

1. God has done it again, Kim has a truthfulness and honesty that we all need to have. She has allowed the Lord to use her story to bless others. Thank you!



2. From a Mess to a Miracle really lite a fire uder me spiritualy! Kimberly Daniels graciously shared her life story with us and how the hand of God mightly delivered her though every trap of the enemy. EXCELLENT!!!...INSPIRING!!!!!!!



3. THIS BOOK CONFIRMS THE GREATER WORKS THAN THESE THAT JESUS SPEAKS OF IN THE FOUR GOSPEL AND TAKES GOD OUT OF THE BOX THAT SO MANY IN CHURCHES HAVE NEATLY PACKED HIM IN. GREAT READ!



4. THIS SOLDIER SHOOTS STRAIGHT & RIGHT THRU SMOKE, MIRRORS & FLUFF, NO HYPE. SPEAKS IN TALK ANYONE CAN UNDERSTAND. SO CALLED "CHRISTIANS" NEED TO READ THIS BOOK AS BAD AS THE LOST SOUL THEORIZING "WHAT IS LIFE" OR THE AVERAGE WORKING CLASS STIFF OR THE STREET PERSON LIVING ON THE RAGGED EDGE - ALL WONDERING IF THERE IS ANYMORE TO LIFE AND HOW TO GET THERE.
   FOLKS, KIM DANIELS IS THE DEMON BUSTER

4 comments about America In Crimson Red: The Baptist History Of America.

1. This book is a breath of fresh air in a day when people would like to change the history of our country. Dr. Beller goes beyond even the declaration that our country is Christian...he goes to the heart of the matter; that Baptists had a major influence in the foundation of this nation.
   Dr. Beller points out the facts that We as Americans have lost touch with our heratige, and those of us who are Baptist have lost touch with our heratige. Neither of which is a good thing! He remedies the problem by giving the facts, and in a way that it is a joy to read.
   Dr. Beller has several other books which are worth the time spent reading them. He also gives lectures on the Coming Destruction of the Baptist People, which are also excellent!



2. This book has a wealth of information that can not be dismissed becasue of the facts and that the Baptist is not just another religon it is Bible.



3. "America is a Baptist nation"
   From this quote on I was spellbound. This is unlike any other history book I have ever read. The facts are presented, but in a way to inspire, encourage, and enflame the child of God to run the race seeing "we are surrounded with so great a cloud of witnesses."
   I had no clue that our nation was founded so firmly on Baptist principles. I knew our founding fathers were moral, but had no idea such a large majority were Baptist.
   This book has deepend my appreciation for the Baptist and the doctrinal (Biblical) stance they have taken through the couse of history. I pray The Lord will once again bless our nation with more Shubal Sterns', Daniel Marshall's, John Clarkes, Isaac Backus', Obadiah Holmes', and others. Men who stand on the truth of Scripture - who live by it and die by it!
   This is most definitely an absolute-must read for every Christian. If you haven't read it - READ IT! If you have read it - RE-READ IT!



4. This is simply the best Baptist/American history book out there. A real treasure in the Christians library.

5 comments about JUNGLE PILOT.

1. Why is a person's life important?
   
   Enjoyable as this biography was, I struggled for a time to understand Nate Saint's passion for such a small tribe when he was such a skilled and intelligent individual. Couldn't someone else do the job?
   
   Ask that question when you read the book, and you'll be treated to a powerful reminder that for Christians, life value is not found in name recognition or influence or popularity (though Saint's death brought those things about!). Instead, Saint highlights the truth that value in the Kingdom of God is determined by unquestioning, always hoping, joyful submission to God's will. As God directs Nate's life, you will rejoice to see people come to know Christ through Nate's commitment to serving his Savior.
   
   The book is simple, clear, and wonderful. I read it when I was 10, and understood it perfectly. I read it again when I was 21, and enjoyed it just as much. I cannot recommend this book highly enough.



2. At first I thought this would be just another book about a missionary dying for God. Don't get me wrong thats great, but I've just heard it so many times. This book is different, I've heard this story my whole life, but reading it on my own, I had a different understanding. I really enjoyed it and I know you would to.



3. I've read some biographies of amazing men that have fallen flat. This is not such a biography. It is entertaining and interesting. Russel Hitt does a wonderful job at painting a picture of a very real man who had failings and giftings and willingly laid his life down for the sake of Christ.
   This story is one of many that have influenced my life greatly.



4. This is one of the multitude of venerable Christian missionary biographies, ala Through Gates of Splendor or Evidence Not Seen or Peace Child. It feels a little dated in its presentation and context, but it is contemporary to its subject, and with only a minimal dose of sentimentalism, this book provides a thorough and enlightening presentation of the life and example of Nate Saint - a seemingly selfless and cheerful martyr for the message of God's Son. Beyond the account of the murder itself, which is treated frankly, insight is given into jungle penetration method, the business of building a mission, and Saint's small aircraft innovations. Your missionary canon is not complete without this one.



5. Awesome, awesome true story about five missionaries (particularly the life of Nate Saint, though, obviously) and their families sharing the lives to the many various tribes of Indians found in the Ecuador mountains. I love to read biographies, however, this one has been one of my all-time favorites. I purchased another copy on Amazon to pass along to a friend.