Christianity

Masterpieces in Glass Screensaver

NEW! Masterpieces in Glass Screensaver ! A beautiful screensaver featuring 100 stained glass masterpieces from Christianity and 25 minutes of inspiring stereo music. Includes 50 transition effects. 23mb disk space....
Sestus Data :: glass :: stained glass :: art :: christ :: christianity :: religion :: screensaver :: Masterpieces in Glass Screensaver

The Purpose-Driven Life- What on Earth Am I Here For-

2 stars (Nothing New Here) - I had heard people speak of this book and saw the author on the news so I figured it was worth reading. Unfortunatley there is very little that is new here wich has already been said by others. I personally don't agree with a bit of Mr Warrens conclusions and statements about what God's purpose for us is. In my opinion if you want to know What God's purpose for us is, read Neale Donald Walsch's books "Conversations With God" series and the others he has written. These books have changed my life and how I view God. They give many more answers wich are true to me than does "The Purpose Driven Life". But I will also say that if this book helps you,I am happy for you and Thank God. 5 stars (Live life with a purpose!) - The book is extremely well structured. Plenty of material to read and reflect upon. I recommend as a 'must read' and 'act upon'. Personally, will read this book once again in 6 months. 5 stars (The Purpose Driven Life) - A book that will lead you straight to God. Second only to The Holy Bible. EXCELLENT reading for ALL Christians! ...
Zondervan :: Religion & Christian Life :: CHRISTIAN LIVING SPIRITUAL GROWTH SPIRITUAL FORMATION :: Religion - Christian Living :: Religion :: Christianity - Christian Life :: The Purpose-Driven Life- What on Earth Am I Here For-

Marriage Clues for the Clueless Clues for the Clueless

5 stars (Great book - The only marriage book you need!) - Marriage Clues for the Clueless offers marriage tips for the newlyweds and for experienced couples. It offers advice on everything from money to children to sex to in-laws, often in a humerous but enlightening way. Marriage Clues for the Clueless explains how to make your marriage strong without children, with children, and even how to deal with the empty nest syndrome. ...
Promise Press :: Religious aspects :: Religion - Marriage & Family :: Religion :: Marriage :: Inspirational - Gifts :: Inspirational - General :: Creativity :: Christianity - Ch :: Marriage Clues for the Clueless (Clues for the Clueless)

Waking the Dead- The Glory of a Heart Fully Alive

2 stars (Try it at your own risk) - I certainly wouldn't be the first to question the wisdom of meddling with nature to the extent outlined in this book. Down the ages, commentators from Mary Shelley to George A. Romero have illustrated the potential negative consequences of achieving what this book shows you how to achieve; the "glory" can soon turn sour indeed. Credit is certainly due to the author for his revolutionary method of integrating the four "streams" to achieve a state of total animation. Now that this knowledge has been made so publicly available, though, we await with foreboding the terrible consequences for humanity... 5 stars (Waking the Dead) - This is a life changing book. It is very well written. The author is insightful and touches on how we can really live life. There are just a few books that I have read that have had a real impact on my life. This is one of them. I have the audio version and it likewise is terrific. 5 stars (Waking a Long Forgotten Heart) - I have had experiences with John Eldridge before in "Wild at Heart," but "Waking the Dead" awakens a many times forgotten side of Christianity. Eldridge brings to light the side of humans so often forced into hiding by society, sin, and religion. Jesus Christ came to sacrifice his all for our hearts which when turned over to Him offer a new depth to the Christian walk. Not only does the author offer therapy for a wounded spirit, but also he equips the reader with a strong exhortation in Christian warfare about which I often forget but about which Paul teaches us at the end of Ephesians. Live from your heart, but guard it as a fortress for God. All in all, this book deserves a read by any Christian looking for a new depth or perspective. Personally, I would recommend it for everyone! ...
Nelson Books :: Spiritual Growth :: Religion & Spirituality :: Christian Living :: Spirituality - General :: Religion - Prayer & Spirituality :: Religion :: Christianity - Theolo :: Waking the Dead- The Glory of a Heart Fully Alive

The Fred Factor - How Passion in Your Work and Life Can Turn the Ordinary into the Extraordinary

5 stars (great tool for team and conference) - I thought this book was extremely helpful with ideas on how to improve service and thereby improve business 5 stars (The Fred Factor) - We purchased "The Fred Factor" to use as part of an all day retreat in our department. During the earlier part of the day, we discussed the previous fiscal year results, our plans for the current year and then used questions on the book for discussion of what it would be like to be a "Fred" and work and live with people like him. All were requested to read the book before the day, and so it proved a helpful backdrop to the focus of our day. Our groups had some interesting perspectives...great tool for team building! 5 stars (Nice review of the value of going the extra mail) - This short book focuses on a mailman Mark Sanborn met, a man named Fred. When the author first met Fred, Fred took an effort to get to know his new customer, and find ways to do a better job as a mailman. This book about the value of doing a better job, how to build relationships, and why we should take initiative. In short by going the extra mile we'll have a better life, and others will benefit. It is a good book, and a short book. It is well written. The book is entertaining and at the same time makes many good points. The first of four sections covers how the author met Fred the mailman, and how very quickly the author realized that Fred was a superstar mail carrier. The basics of what a "Fred" is are explored, and then the author mentions sightings of other "Freds." The second section explains how you can become a Fred. Basically you need to build relationships with others so you know them well enough to then be able to be create, take initiative and make a difference. The third section gives pointers on how you can help others grow into being Freds. The basic steps are to: 1) Find - how do you recognize a Fred 2) Reward - how should Freds be rewarded 3) Educate - how help people improve thei...
WaterBrook Press :: Religion & Inspirational :: Success :: Religious aspects :: Religion :: Motivational :: Inspirational - General :: Christianity - Christian Life - Business :: Chris :: The Fred Factor - How Passion in Your Work and Life Can Turn the Ordinary into the Extraordinary

The Anger Workbook Minirth-Meier Clinic Series

1 stars (Wasted Money......) - Wow, I know that I can be a fool, but I was definately robbed of $16.00, even after reading the front and back of this very deceiving book! I mean, I know that I need help with anger, but this book just seemed to make me ANGRIER! I spent $16.00 on a wanna-be Bible (Something I could have gotten for free at my FORMER Church) and the contents only seemed to anger me more! Not only did half of their text not make sense, their descriptions of anger and recognizing anger only seemed to categorize the entirety of this country! The verbage used and perspective in which this ~story~ is told borderlines an autobiography of a man named "Tom". If you like a good bedtime story, like to waste time and money, and do not need real anger management help, then by all means buy this "novel". My opinion~ Dont waste your time or money, you already wasted enough reading my review! Kyle.... 5 stars (Great help!) - This book changed the way i veiw anger. Yes, i am a bible believing Christian and this book does use the bible as a source of reference. I learned so much about my anger and the anger of others. It encouraged me and gave me tools to work with to choose to control my anger. I can't wait to read their next book! I also understand how to respond better to angry people. It is a real eye opener! 5 stars (Anger Managment) - This workbook provided immediate results on how to deal with anger. I did not believe anger was an issue with me until I read and understood anger also comes in the form of frustration and irritability. In reading and working through this book I found that I have a choice on how I respond to situations and it's up to me to decide how I will deal with issues in my life. I am glad I purchased this book to use as a reference or to offer to my friends. ...
Nelson Impact :: Religion & Christian Life :: Self-Help :: Religious aspects :: Problems :: exercises :: etc :: Family & Parenting & Childbirth :: Christianity - Christian Life - In :: The Anger Workbook (Minirth-Meier Clinic Series)

The Tongue- A Creative Force

5 stars (Life Changing book for Christians) - I read this book and realized why my life has not been up to par. This book lets you realize that we are all below our potential. We get just what we ask for! 5 stars (THE POWER) - THIS IS A VERY POWERFUL BOOK. THIS IS THE FIRST PLACE I FOUND OUT JUST WHAT THE WORDS WE SPEAK EVERYDAY CAN MEAN TO US....CHARLES CAPPS IS AN EXCEPTIONAL BIBLE EXPERT WITH A WONDEFFUL INSIGHT INTO THE CREATOR AND JUST HOW MUCH POWER HE ACCTUALLY GAVE US TO CREATE AS HE HAS....USING OUR WORDS AS SEEDS WE PLANT INTO THE UNIVERSE AND REAP THE HARVEST OF OUR WORDS AS HE DID, WHETHER FOR OUR GOOD OR OUR BAD...MANKIND HAS BEEN IGNORANT OF THIS FACT AND HAS PLANTED THE SEEDS OF HIS OWN DISTRUCTION WITH HIS MOUTH FOR THOUSANDS OF YEARS!...DOES THE PHRASE "I'LL BE DAMNED" SOUND FAMILIAR?...DO YOU WANT TO FEEL HUMBLED? DO YOU WANT TO FEEL POWERFUL?...THIS BOOK WILL INFORM YOU AND CERTAINLY MAKE YOU PAY ATTENTION TO EVERY WORD YOU SAY....HOORAY FOR CHARLES CAPPS! 5 stars (Another 5 star book by Charles Capps!) - This book is a "must read" for every believer. Most Christians don't realize how powerful their tongue is. "Death and life are in the power of the tongue..." How true that is! Right now I am on my 7th book by Charles Capps! I recommend all of his books, tapes, and videos to every believer. Go to www.charlescapps.com and check them out! "...in all your getting, get understanding." Proverbs 4:7 ...
Harrison House :: Word of God (Theology) :: Religious aspects :: Religion - Christian Living :: Religion :: Language :: General :: Christianity - History - General :: Christianity - :: The Tongue- A Creative Force

The Lamb-s Supper- The Mass as Heaven on Earth

5 stars (Reaches into your soul) - I was introduced to Scott Hahn when a dear friend gave me this book to read. Mr. Hahn is the first writer able to explain Catholic beliefs and doctrine in understandable layman's terms. For the first time, I truly understood teachings about the Mass and scripture, that I just doubted and had trouble believing. For once I am no longer scared of reading the Book of Revelations. Sinc then I have read many of Mr. Hahn's titles. I suggest to anyone who is struggling with understanding the Catholic Church, that you pick up any of Hahn's books and take the time to read, meditate, and be transformed. 5 stars (Gripping.) - From beginning to end this book is just fascinating. Finally, a text about the Book of Revelations that is NOT filled up with crazy "End Times" theories! This book will not only make you appreciate the Book of the Apocalypse more, but you will find this book making you appreciate the Mass in a whole new and important way. 5 stars (Judgment Day) - Someone pointed out to me that the those in the early church realized the crucial, "eschatological dimension" of the mass because of the martyrdom which was so immanent for many of them. When they heard "Kyrie eleison" (Lord have mercy) they realized that they were at that moment before the Judgment Throne of Christ on the Day of Judgment itself! We in the 21st century need books like this to make the connection between Christ's Ultimate Sacrifice and Our Ultimate Destiny. Dr. Scott Hahn masterfully connects the Book of the Apocalypse and the Divine Liturgy showing in what manner they are two manifestations of the same reality of the Revelation of Jesus Christ, the Son of God and his message of salvation and how they help interpret each other. This is all shown to be in accordance with the way the fathers and teachers of the Catholic Church have always viewed the Mass. I would recommend this book for non-Catholics who are curious as to why the Catholic church does not mak...
Doubleday :: Religion & Catholicism :: Revelation :: Religion - Roman Catholic :: Religion :: N T :: N T :: Mass :: Criticism :: interpretation :: etc :: Christianity - Theology - Ca :: The Lamb-s Supper- The Mass as Heaven on Earth

A Hidden Wholeness - The Journey Toward an Undivided Life

5 stars (A book for everyman) - By everyman I mean, of course, men and women, young and old, retired and working, republicans and democrats, believers and non-believers. This is a book I wish I'd found years ago (before it was written)! Almost everyone lives the divided life. (I suspect the Dalai Lama does not). As Palmer notes, sometimes we have to -- this is a choice we sometimes must choose to make. One of the reasons I love this book so is that Palmer does not have rigid judgmental expectations of us (we probably are harsh enough on ourselves). He offers guidelines and explanations for the human condition, and some help on getting through. Parker Palmer takes a long time Quaker practice -- the Clearness Committee - and uses it to provide for everyone a Circle of Trust. This mutual support network is unusual -- it isn't an advisory committee but more support for listening to that inner voice which we may joke about, but which exists (you know, the one you should have listened to, that nagging feeling, that annoying little warning sign). One thing that makes us crazy is the denial of that inner voice, our true self, the divided side of self that knows the questionable aspects of our work life, the one we hush up so we can get by and make a living. This isn't just a teacher's issue or a spiritual issue. For some it may be a spiritual divide; for others, a more humanistic one. In any case, we become emotionally, mentally and otherwise unbalanced if our day to day movements and choices feel separate from -- or in conflict with -- our beliefs and values, and yet we deny that they are so. We do not allow ourselves to hear that inner voice, afraid of the changes we might have to make. We smush it down, despite knowing intellectually that anything you smush down in one area pops up in another. This book offers recognition of this conflict we are in, and gives us ways we can listen without, necessarily, having to make changes that will make us walk ou...
Jossey-Bass :: Religion & Beliefs :: Spirituality - General :: Spiritual life :: Religion - Prayer & Spirituality :: New Age :: Christianity - Christian Life - General :: Christ :: A Hidden Wholeness - The Journey Toward an Undivided Life

The DNA of Relationships

4 stars (Not just for married people) - I thought this would be a really stupid marriage book when our church started this study (and I'm single so I didn't want a stupid marriage study), but I have really enjoyed the videos, the book, and the downloadable study guide. I decided to take the study seriously and discovered this book is a practical guide to how to make ANY relationship better. The review at the end of each chapter is a quick way to refresh your mind on the main points of what the previous chapter taught. The quiz at the end of the book is great and helps you to identify your core fears - what sets you off in what Smalley calls the "Fear Dance," when you have conflicts with others. Each conflict boils down to one of two core fears - fear loss of connection, or fear of loss of control. Women usually have the first fear, and men the second, though there is overlap. ALL fears we have boil down to one of these two. I have learned that I need to take responsibility for my buttons and allowing people to push them (the chapter "The Power of One"). No one can make me do or feel anything. This book has also forced me to take a hard look at myself and how I treat others, and whether I have created an anvironment where they feel safe to share their heart with me. 4 stars (Makes sense to m) - The book is easy to read, and the exercises really make you think. My ex and I are going through this book with our pastor to see if there's any hope of reconciling and so far it's helped us realize all the things we did wrong in our marriage and why. It's helping us to take the focus off who's to blame and refocusing on what's the right thing to do. We're about 2/3 of the way through the book so we haven't finished it yet, but I expect the rest of it will be as helpful as what we've already covered. I'd recommend this book for anyone considering a serious relationship, in the middle of a relationship, or trying to rebuild one. It does a good job of covering them all. ...
Tyndale House Publishers :: Religious aspects :: Religion - Christian Living :: Religion :: Interpersonal relations :: Christianity - Christian Life - Interpersonal Relationships :: Christ :: The DNA of Relationships

The Barbarian Way - Unleash the Untamed Faith Within

4 stars (Oh Yeah!) - Great book for anybody who is burdened for the lost and believes they are being called by God to do more than the Christian next door. I recommend this book to everyone thinking of going into ministry or missions, or for anyone who knows someone already involved. Maybe it will help you understand why they act like they do. Peace! 4 stars (Where Do We Go From Here?) - McManus says it like it is. The church has become a tame, domesticated version of what Jesus seemed to introduce. Nearly every page of this book highlights invaluable concepts for the Christian life as it was meant to be lived. I can relate to the author; I was born and raised to walk the barbarian way--living my faith in a way that demands obedience at any cost. While others have tackled similar subjects, they often times seem to be full of bitterness and rebellion toward the church at large. McManus never gives off that sense of a grudge; instead, he wants to raise the church from its slumber. His "barbarian" way is a way of sacrifice and servitude. This is no mamby-pamby gospel that he's talking about. This is a commitment to a life lived for Jesus, no matter the cost. I loved everything this book had to say. My only complaint is what it didn't say. It didn't give us any practical ways to walk the barbarian way while dealing with the existing church. How do we make these concepts real without seeming divisive? Or, if we are to be divisive for a purpose, how do we go about it with Godly accountability? These are issues I've wrestled with for years. This book encouraged me to keep wrestling, but it failed to answer some of my deepest questions. For those who are still "civilized," this book might change your world. For those still trying to reconcile McManus' concepts with everyday church life, you will be inspired. The question remains, though...Where do we go from here? 5 stars (Insightful and quick read...) - Erwin McManus once again demonstrates how he underst...
Nelson Books :: Religion & Christian Life :: Spirituality - General :: Religion - Prayer & Spirituality :: Religion - Christian Living :: Religion :: Christianity - Discipl :: The Barbarian Way - Unleash the Untamed Faith Within

The Sacred Romance- Drawing Closer to the Heart of God

5 stars (...Out of the dark night he leaps like a stranger to cripple and to bless...) - My guess is that readers who think they already have a good handle on life and Christian doctrine will probably be disappointed with this book. Likewise, this book will disappoint readers who want to see concepts like faith, hope, love, idolatry, grace, election, predestination, etc., expressed in religious language with which they are familiar, and not in language (and metaphors) in which people of our culture commonly express what is important to us and what drives us. Many thoughtful, ardent, traditionally-minded, well-meaning Catholics, Calvinists, etc., will not like this book. Readers, however, who are desperately asking questions like, "Why do I have to hurt so much? When can I finally get out of the situation I am in? Why am I so burned out even though I have done everything I know to be faithful to Christ? How can I be so lonely? Why does this addiction keep re-surfacing? What is God doing here?" will probably find this book a God-send. I re-read this book recently at precisely such a time in my life, and it was wonderful. It reminded me that God is not after my religious devotion and doctrinal comformity, he wants my *heart*, the deepest center of myself, and that he may well invade my life in a way that hurts me, that strikes me as ruthless and devastating, in order to get it. God is committed to my sharing and radiating his glory--nothing less. Amazing. In my view, one of the best aspects of this book is its emphasis not just on what God has promised to share with us (beauty, intimacy, adventure, glory), but *when* he will share it. Yes, we get a substantial foretaste now, but our deepest longings will be finally, fully satisfied only when we see him. Until Jesus comes back, God will mess with our lives and our idols in order to make sure that we don't get distracted by anything less than the awesome destiny he is preparing for us. As eloquently expressed toward th...
Nelson Books :: Religion & Christian Life :: Christian Living :: Spirituality - General :: Spiritual life :: Religion - Christian Living :: Religion :: Christianity - Christian L :: The Sacred Romance- Drawing Closer to the Heart of God

The Lutheran Handbook- A Field Guide to Church Stuff- Everyday Stuff- And the Bible

4 stars (great read) - good intro to the religion for curious readers. also very humorous for those who are lutherans! 5 stars (This is a Fascinating book!) - What a great little book! Anyone negotiating the Lutheran church (especially the ELCA) will enjoy it as it covers, in a concise and occasionally humorous manner, all the things you need to know, want to know and already know about the church. I particularly enjoyed the simple way the Reformation and Martin Luther were presented. It is packed full of interesting items such as: Comparative religion History of the church Anatomy of a Baptism How to receive communion How to stay awake during the sermon How to share your faith How to identify a miracle What to bring to a potluck The top 10 Bible miracles and their meanings The five biggest misconceptions about the Bible The list goes on and on. There are also illustrations, maps, diagrams and other essential tips. This is informative and fun and a book you'll want to keep and give as a gift. Armchair Interviews says: You don't have to be a Lutheran to enjoy and receive benefit from this book. Actually this is a light-hearted look at all things Lutheran. Frankly it is wonderful -- and it's a hoot! 4 stars (Short, sweet chapters get the point across . . . the basics of Lutheranism) - I love this little book! Modeled on the "Worst-Case Scenario Survival" handbooks, it covers basic Christian tenants with a focus on Lutheranism. It's published by Augsburg Fortress, the publishing arm of the ELCA, however it's not overtly ELCA (I think LCMS and WELS Lutherans could appreciate it also). It's probably geared to young adults, but anyone can benefit from it. It covers important basics in a clear, concise way and, in many cases, with a light-hearted tone. It's refreshing to read the chapters about things you've known all your life, like how to pray. The chapters covering the seasons of the church year, comparing various denominations, 60 essential Bible stories, and ...
Augsburg Fortress Publishers :: Religion - Denominations - Religions :: Religion - Christian Education :: Religion :: Inspirational - Gifts :: Christianity - Theology - General :: Christianity :: The Lutheran Handbook- A Field Guide to Church Stuff- Everyday Stuff- And the Bible

The Pilgrim-s Progress in Modern English Pure Gold Classics

3 stars (Pilgrims Progress is a Classic) - You can't go wrong with Pilgrims Progress, but this version leaves a little to be desired. The text is printed in a tiny font, numerous biblical references are added - which I don't recall from my first reading of PP years ago. That this version is called "Modern English" is a bit of a stretch - may have been modern a hundred years ago. 5 stars (Extremely well written.) - Usually when someone attempts to re-invent the wheel it results in confusion and an ineffective product, never coming close to the original concept. That is not the case with Pilgrim's Progress in Modern English. The same devotion and effort it took to compose the original is evident in this masterful reproduction, NOTHING is lost in the translation. 5 stars (The Best-known Allegory of Every Christian's Life Journey) - The Pilgrim's Progress is one of my favorite books and was originally written by a 17th century Puritan, John Bunyan, from his cell prison in a trying time of persecution. Rich in solid Biblical theology, it is the best-known and well-loved allegory of every Christian's life journey. It tells the story of a pilgrim named Christian as he walked a journey from the City of Destruction (where he lived before his conversion) to the Celestial City (an allegory of heaven), sharing with us the many challenges and obstacles he faced along the way. However, it also shares of the wonderful, joyful experiences and comfort Christian encountered in his long treacherous journey. As a believer, reading this book reminded me that I, too, am walking in a similar spiritual journey as Christian did. There are so many experiences Christian faced that I can relate with. For example, in the beginning we see how the pilgrim carried a heavy burden on his back and met a man named Evangelist. Evangelist shared with him about the only One who can lift off his burden. This allegory teaches us the Biblical truth that we, too, have carried an overwhelming burde...
Bridge-Logos Publishers :: Religious - General :: Religion :: Literature - Classics & Criticism :: History :: Fiction :: Christianity - Literature :: Christian pilgrims and pilgrimages :: Chr :: The Pilgrim-s Progress in Modern English (Pure Gold Classics)

To Live Is Christ- Member Book

5 stars (Beth Moore is always excellent) - I really can't explain how helpful Beth Moore's workbook studies have been in my life. They've helped me to find a discipline with God that I never had before. I've learned so much about the Bible, and more specifically, about the real, true, loving God who cares so much for me and for you. If you're at all considering this study, please try it. I think you'll like it. Beth Moore seems to really try hard to keep her studies accurate, relevant, meaningful, and NOT shallow. They're as deep as you want to go with them. They're not fluffy stuff, they're studies that honor God and the women who love Him by assuming that you have a brain, that you love God, and that you want to be closer to Him, and frankly, that you're human with human weaknesses. Beth understands women, because she doesn't seem to be afraid to really be a real woman after God's own heart. 5 stars (Awesome study of Paul's life journey to Live in Christ) - What an awesome, in-depth look at the life of Paul! Beth Moore has obviously studied scripture with a prayerful heart to allow God to reveal this study through her. I have been challenged and enlightened through her words. Be ready to have your heart changed and experience a greater love of the Lord. ...
Lifeway Christian Resources :: Religious :: Religion :: Inspirational - General :: Christianity - History - General :: Biography & Autobiography :: Beth Moore :: :: To Live Is Christ- Member Book

Every Man-s Battle - Winning the War on Sexual Temptation One Victory at a Time The Every Man Serie

5 stars (A great book) - A great book with a practical approach to a sensitive area for all men. 5 stars (Great tool to overcome sexual temptation) - This is an incredible book. It totally helped me to overcome my struggles with pornography and sexual temptation in general. It gives the reader tools to fight the battle. I'd highly recommend it. It's changed my life and the lives of others I know. If you struggle at all in this area, it's the book for you. 2 stars (Agreed) - Hello, my name is Michael Campbell, and having used this book in a study group I agree that it is totally a mixed bag. I feel her review is right on, and dont really have that much to add to it. Luckily it was a quick read (each of the 6 sections takes only 20 or 30 minutes to read) and so I dont feel I wasted a lot of time on it. If you struggle with sexual purity then this is for you. If not invest your time in the Bible or another wonderful book Gods Politics by Wallis. God bless! Mike Campbell ...
WaterBrook Press :: Religion & Counseling :: Temptation :: Sex :: Religious life :: Religious aspects :: Religion - Christian Living :: Religion :: Counseling :: Christianity - Theology :: Every Man-s Battle - Winning the War on Sexual Temptation One Victory at a Time (The Every Man Serie

The Ragamuffin Gospel

5 stars (I'm thankful God loves Ragamuffins.) - This is a thought-provoking book, worth reading slowly. The message is pretty simple -- but not easy to internalize. I used the book as a daily spiritual meditation for a time. Then some friends and I reread it and met together weekly to discuss it. There is much in common with Phil Yancey's "What's So Amazing About Grace?" It mixes stories from the author's experience with spiritual insight about God acting in human affairs. The main point is that Christians need to honestly consider God's love and grace and appreciate it for what it is. It is human nature to resist God's grace, to try and prove oneself really "good" and "spiritual", but this is foolishness. Instead, ragamuffins focus on God's grace and enjoy God. If this were EASY to do, you could stop with this review. You wouldn't need Yancey or Manning to explain it again and again. But I find I really need people like Brennan Manning to lay it out for me.... The book has caused some controversy. Both Protestants and Catholics have claimed that it argues for "casual grace" or even that Manning is a universalist. Those charges are false (Manning deals with them in an appendix) but not everyone will agree with Manning's message. The author, a former Catholic priest, an alcoholic, divorced -- has painfully proven himself a ragamuffin and God is still in love with him, so maybe God can work in you and me? Enjoy the book. 5 stars (Enjoyable Read) - There is just something that stays with you when you read a book by Brennan Manning. Before digesting the Ragamuffin Gospel, I had never heard of the author. After reading the book, I was challenged to remove God from the box I had put him in, and I was drawn to explore more of Manning's writings. The Ragamuffin Gospel isn't just another book that will fill you full of God's expectations, and cram your "to do for God" list full of activities. Nor will the Ragamuffin Gospel remind you of all the Christ...
Multnomah :: Christianity :: Spirituality :: Grace (Theology) :: Christian Life :: Religion & Inspirational :: CHRISTIAN LIVING & PRACTICAL LIFE & GENERAL :: Theology :: Spiritu :: The Ragamuffin Gospel

The Three Battlegrounds

4 stars (amen) - this book is a great read. once you get started you cant put it down. spiritual warfare is real!!! 5 stars (This is Truth) - Francis Fragipane is the most talented, gifted, and inspired Christian author alive today. He speaks a deep Truth, which is extremely challenging. This book is not for lightweights or those who are looking to become a Christian. It is a book for those people who are fearless in the pursuit of Truth. You must value freedom from deceit more than anything else to fully benefit from this book. Those who are under deceit, and wish to remain that way, should not read this book. This book will tear apart deceit and reveal the demons who rest inside of it. The demons will tell you to throw the book in a fire, and reject everything it says. This book is the demon's enemy. It is the friend of Jesus, who is the source for all Truth. 2 stars (Perpetuates common misunderstandings of Spirtual Warfare) - I read this book some years ago. And while there may be some usable content, the book contains a common misconception about spiritual warfare. Modern spirtual warfare teaching is correct in that we are in a battle. But we have to know who we are fighting against, what our weapons are and where this battle takes place. First, whom are we fighting and where? There is no doubt that we are in a battle against pricipalities, powers, etc, but where do we fight them? Are there any scriptures that give us permission to pull down spirits over whole cities? No, there are none. Second, it is interesting that in EVERY case where spiritual warfare is mentioned in the New Testament, it is always connected to our MIND...our thoughts! The primary way satan and his cohorts affect the Christian is through his or her mind. You do not have to get into an airplane and ascend to 30,000 feet in order to do "warfare" with the devil. He is already defeated. The only weapon satan can use against anyone is D-E-C-E-P-T-I-O-N. This is why the renewing of ou...
Arrow Publications :: Spiritual Warfare :: Christianity :: Religion - Spiritual Warfare :: Religion :: Christianity - Spiritual Warfare :: Francis Frangipane :: :: The Three Battlegrounds

Celebration of Discipline- The Path to Spiritual Growth- 25th Anniversary Edition

5 stars (The title is not an oxymoron) - The writer of Hebrews tells us in chapter 12 that no discipline seems pleasant at the time we are receiving it, but if we can receive it, learn from it, and apply it, then it will produce "a harvest of righteousness and peace" in our lives. Richard J. Foster gives his readers a beautiful and inspiring look at how spiritual disciplines work in our lives and cause us to become deeper and stronger people in Christ and His Word. In so doing, the process of discipline becomes precious--even joyful--to the mature believer who embraces it. There is a beauty in the simplicity of Foster's words and in the actions that he advocates. There are...to paraphrase a popular television exercise commercial..."no high impact gyrations, no tricky dance moves" here in this book. It's just good, solid, basic information that will bring about real results. But, it's far from dry. Foster is a patient and empathetic teacher. This special 25th anniversary edition is beautifully done, spare but elegant (a lot like the prose inside). This is one of those books that's not only a must for every Christian's bookshelf, but a must to read and apply. In a world full of noise and confusion, Foster offers a doorway into a "place of quiet rest, near to the heart of God." 4 stars (significant challenges...) - Since college, when a number of my dormmates read through this book, I have desired to partake in a 'Celebration of Discipline.' When a fellow brother suggested that I choose something that several of us could study together my thoughts we immediately thrust to this work. I knew I would need the accountability of a group to not just read but seek to apply the principals present by Richard Foster. The book is separated into 12 individual disciplines and further broken down into three groups, 'The Inward Disciplines,' The Outward Disciplines' and 'The Corporate Disciplines.' Foster opens with a warning, encouragement and guidelines for emba...
HarperSanFrancisco :: Religion & Spirituality :: Spirituality - General :: Spiritual life :: Religion - Prayer & Spirituality :: Religion :: Inspirational - General :: Christianity - C :: Celebration of Discipline- The Path to Spiritual Growth- 25th Anniversary Edition

Lies Women Believe- And the Truth that Sets Them Free

4 stars (The Real Truth) - I think this is a good book for those people who are willing to take a deep look at themselves. I didn't agree with everything in the book, but many of the points that were made were eye openers. It might help, as well, for the less scholarly reader to have the workbook because a list of relevant scriptures aren't as readily available in the book. 3 stars (Almost great) - When I saw a book called "lies women believe" I thought my prayers had been answered! This book would have been ideal if they had left it at that but they had to go and spoil it with the nonsense about the truth that sets them free. A shame. 4 stars (Potentially Life Changing Book) - I had been a longtime listener to Nancy Leigh DeMoss's radio series (Revive our Hearts) on WAVA in the DC area and I finally picked up this book after hearing her talk about it for a long time. I loved the simple language and her forthrightness in going right to the heart of many of the 'lies' we believe today. And this book really hit home for me. I had known for some time that as Christians we are called to follow a different path than those who would live exclusively in the world and follow worldly ways. But no one before had ever specifically come out and said "When you buy into the American consumerist mentality that more things will make you happy, that is Satan speaking! That is a lie -- that you can find fulfillment in things! Only God's grace is sufficient for you! Christ alone can make you happy and to some degree, you will always feel unfulfilled until that day that you come home to His heavenly kingdom. Only there will you feel completely fulfilled." I absolutely LOVED the literary device that she used throughout the book. She starts each chapter with a letter from Eve to her friends, talking about the difficulties she has encountered since being thrown out of the garden of eden -- the difficulties with the children, the difficulties with her husband, her feelings of ...
Moody Publishers :: Religion - Christian Living :: Religion :: Christianity - Christian Life - Women's Issues :: Christianity - Christian Life - General :: Elisabeth Elliot :: Nanc :: Lies Women Believe- And the Truth that Sets Them Free