Who Do You Think You Are by Mark Driscoll

Mark Driscoll uses Paul's letter to the church in Ephesus as a outline for exploring our identity in Christ.  This book seeks to dispel some of the myths that we might form about ourselves based on our experiences by detailing Biblical truth as a foundation for how God see's us

I really appreciated the structure of this book, being based on scripture it moves from a sentimental 'God loves us' book and moves to a book of foundational truths that can free you and I in areas of our lives where we may have been bound in the past

This book was really interesting, I enjoyed the mix between stories and doctrine. It's a book that you could use as a bed time read, but it also includes some really good sections that helped me to describe my doctrine more clearly (The section on spiritual gifts). In that sense, If I were to sum it up, I'd say it balances inspiration and theology really well.

I didn't agree with everything that Pastor Mark wrote, but I did agree with most of it. I felt it was conveyed really effectively. It has kept my attention and has re-iterated some of the things that I am free to do and be through Jesus

One particular area that has blessed me is the reminder that I am a child of God, a co-heir with Christ. That is my identity and I should be secure and safe in that identity regardless of what other people say, do or think

I recommend this book, it's definitely worth a read

The Butterfly Effect by Andy Andrews

I have just finished reading the Butterfly Effect by Andy Andrews and it didn't take me too long to do so.... In fact it's the first book that I've read for ages that has pictures in it and that made a refreshing change.

The book is designed to inspire the reader that their life can really make a difference, not only that but that their life can be one of permanent purpose. Andrews illustrates this point by using the theory of the butterfly effect to suggest that the very things we take for granted now are the result of people who have made amazing contributions to the world through their lives. The challenge is that we can all be those people. Even though the things we do know might seem menial or ineffectual they could have an influence beyond our imagination and because of this everything we do matters!

I loved this book mainly because I wasn't expecting to! I wondered whether it's content justified it's cost, but having read it know it I know that is something I will refer to many times in the future. I love the concept of the spiritual butterfly effect and would love to see the church grasp that we can ALL truly make a difference and that the difference starts now!

If I were going to be critical it would be only inasmuch as saying that I would have loved to have read a book that explored the theme further. Yet this book caught my attention, excited my mind and engaged more than one sense and as such is a great read that I would highly recommend to anyone, particularly those who perhaps need a burst of encouragement in their walk with God.

Books I read: Fearless by Max Lucado

Fearless is extremely relevant for these times as it seeks to address the concept of fear and its many manifestations in life. This book addresses some of the common fears one might face and upon pinpointing these seeks to apply scriptural principles in order that one might fear less. Max Lucado pinpoints areas of fear that we all cross and through stories and scripture seeks to encourage the reader to live a life of faith, not fear.

It’s not often that a book comes along that seems so timely, that makes you laugh, cry and think to the level that you make life changing choices. For me Fearless was such a book. Lucado’s style is easy to read and very applicable to everyday life. Each chapter is like a short sermon with anecdotes and stories culminating in a lesson from scripture. This is a book I have and will continue to recommend to others as it has really made an impact on how I think about fear in my life. One of the greatest parts of this book is that I put it down thinking “Why on earth do I fear”

You may know your fear, you may not, but, I am convinced that everyone will take something away from this book to help enhance their faith and take steps to overcome their fears, a brilliant book!

Books I read in hospital 1

This summer I've had loads of time to catch up on some reading!
At the end of July I was in hospital having an operation on my back and I read a couple of books.
The first was Rob Bell's most recent book called Jesus Wants To Save Christians.

It's a really thought provoing book tracking through Biblical history and suggesting that as a church we've lost our way. It's a call to the church to avoid going into exile again, it's a cry for the church to stand up and be a reflection of Christ first and foremost and an establishment after that!

This is a book that made me think, but is it a book that will make me think enough to act.
It was a timely reminder about what it is to be a Christian and indeed the church.

Hope. The church is always about hope.

Christianity in Crisis: 21st Century Edition by Hank Hanegraaff

Christianity in Crisis 21st Century edition by Hank Hanegraaff seeks to address some of the negative influences upon Christianity not from outside the church but from within it.

This is a development upon a book by the same title written by Hanegraaff 20 years ago to raise awareness over concerns emerging over the ‘word and faith movement’. In this 21st Century edition Hanegraaff develops upon his theme, referring to some of the well known teachers who we hear on our radios and see on our tv’s each day such as Osteen, Meyer, Dollar and others. His point is clear, these teachers are teaching an untrue and distorted gospel and as a result pose a danger of being cultic influences upon Christianity.

This book is an interesting read, it outlines some of the key false teachings of the ‘word and faith’ movement providing a basis for people to make informed decisions when facing such teaching. Haanegraaff is bold in his approach and presents his arguments and beliefs in an accessible format. This book challenges the individual to take responsibility for what they allow themselves to be taught and moulded by and clearly addresses a subject where few have been bold enough to even explore. Thoroughly recommended!

Crazy Love

In July I attended Worship Centralat Westminster Central Hall where Francis Chan spoke brilliantly in the evening session. In October I was given as a gift his book 'Crazy Love' and last week I eventually finished it.

His passion is infectious, his heart exciting and his faith, remarkable.
I truly loved this really great book, particularly his approach to giving as an individual and as a church is amazing, with his church giving 50% of their budget away. The backing for this being that Jesus said 'love your neighbour as yourself'. In the same way if they have 50% then their neighbours deserves 50%.

He sets a precedent for radical and uncompromising living, which he clearly outlines that it is standard of living that is not just for 'saints' but for all of us who are in Christ.

This book has really given me a fresh impetus to my life and ministry
Now I've read it, I need to put crazy love into practice!