Religion Books

I would highly recommend this seller. Thank you from another Amazon seller. Great job!!

New Textbook arrived earlier than the stated mailing date. Amazon saved me $8 from the price at the HS bookstore and I received free shipping.

I loved this book and it has a lot of helpful advice for anyone who is struggling to be happy. It has helped at least two of my friends and myself to focus on what DeMello calls being "aware" or understanding why things make you happy or unhappy and how to overcome the unhappy times.

It has some excellent opinions about love as letting the object be free, rather than what many call love which is really manipulation, control, and covetness.

De Mello's awareness of reality and ability to communicate on a level that all can understand is very refreshing in this age of over-analysis. The art of living in the now, forgetting the past, stop worrying about might or might not come to pass is the key to true happiness that De Mello makes my heart soar.

This is the essence Tony De Mello's writings. I have read his other book 'Love' many years ago and have embraced his insight and wisdom for living. 'Awareness' is a great book to have for quick reference or as as a daily meditation when you want to contemplate an issue that you are facing. It has helped me relax and enjoy life rather than trying to control it.

I was raised Catholic, which is fine, but I never was blessed to meet a single priest who was really aware. Of course, what do I mean by what I just said? Everybody is aware, right?

Wrong...almost no one is aware, because "everybody is thinking that they are somebody" when if they were truly aware they would clearly know that an idea of self is just an idea and nothing more. Please excuse me when I say,"Oh my goodness, the mind has taken over the world and we are all prisoners who are being subjected to brainmaking techniques that are causing us to believe that the things we see and perceive define who we are and what everything is." Nonsense. "I Am" is all that can truly be said about who or what I am or anyone is. Anthony De Mello realized this Truth and he passionately and concisely shares it. Apparently the Vatican wasn't pleased that one of its fellows was awake like Jesus. Can't afford another Jesus running around while the church is busy telling you to wait for his future return to save you.

Does Awareness need to be saved from anything? Is awareness threatened by what it is aware of (the come and go offerings of life experience)? Since you are that essence of knowing power, do you need to be saved? No, unless you would prefer to give up your obvious freedom for something limited that can only be known as such because Awareness Is. Yes Tony, boy are we asleep. I love Anthony's direct uncompromising style of exposition. Why not blurt the truth out directly. The clergy and its followers have missed the boat to reality by living in the mind, the past, the future, the image-nation. Wake up wanna-be holy ones, holiness is right here, right now.

Thank you Anthony for speaking gracefully about the One awareness that loves all beings and their things. After all, how does all of this drama appear in the first place?

Yes, I agree, through the You that is I for all...Awareness. Nothing is more fun than being aware and being That Alone, thus Awareness in any form is the best form that I know, simply because...I know I know etc.etc.etc.eternally

Sundance Burke, Author, Free Spirit: A Guide to Enlightened Being

This book will definately give you a fresh perspective on life and your relationships, with those around you and yourself. The short chapters make it easy to read just a few minutes at a time.

Been going through all his works, text and audio cds, and he's a breath of fresh air, smart, wise, funny and very relaxing. Highly recommend it.

The cd itself is good, good information if you are on this path, but Tolle's laughing in the background is a little off putting. It is more of a snort than a laugh, so at first I wasn't sure what he was doing. If you can get past that though it is good.

We really believe that people are born very special no matter what is their background; the pollution of life, ego, Maya, we our selves changed our natural of being in peace. We can feel peace every where " in the sky, birds, children, " but not in our selves because our ego just want to shut it down , once again in a moment of silence we remember that we are alive, no matter what are the circumstances . we are here, no matter how much we think we are suffering.. this CD taught me how to let go ? yes , and accept my self the way I am , also I have to thank God that I really have everything, I don't need more I just want peace.. In some how you feel this is not easy.. if so,this CD will make it so easy with the real examples that touch every human life, we are not suffering from life , life is great, our ego what made our diamond become less in shine and now is the time to polish this natural Diamond. Buy it you will love it.

Zoooz

After reading his books, it's fantastic to see Eckhart in the flesh, teaching in his wonderful slow and calm manner. If there's any doubt that he is a 'realised' human being this evaporates when you experience his teachings. This is a wonderful companion to his books, adding to their transformational effect. Also, it's worth checking out his recommended reading list on his website for many other wonderful books, such as The Fall The Fall: The Evidence for a Golden Age, 6,000 years of Insanity and the Dawning of a New Eraand Awareness.

I bought this CD set after reading "A New Earth" and just before starting "The Power of Now." I love these CDs because Mr. Tolle is so enjoyable to listen to. Also, the CDs are a good way for me to review the basic concepts behind Tolle's most recent works, and Tolle also helps you understand how to live in the present. My only word of advice is that I would definitely not purchase these CDs unless you have already read "The Power of Now" or "A New Earth," as some of what Tolle discusses would be difficult (at least for me) to understand without such background. Again, I have listened to these CDs over and over and wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone who is a Tolle fan.

So, the lingering question here, is, "Can Christians be possessed?" For the sake of peace can we that believers are "controlled"? I would say, yes. Sadly, for years I avoided the whole demon/devil doctrine. Somewhere in my early forties, in utter defeat over besetting sins, I found this book. I am not a fan of formula christianity but I will say emphatically (and scripturally) that we can renounce the Enemy in the authority of Christ's name and power. Chris Adsit put it succinctly when he wrote that believers get it all mixed up. We run from the devil and try to resist temptation. It should be just the opposite. There is Power in the name of Christ and in His shed blood. We are to use that directly against demonic attack and demonic bondage. The beginning of the end of demonic strongholds in my life started with this book. I will caution you that it is a means to an end and not an end in itself. When you clean house, so to speak, you need to put in new "furniture" and not leave it empty to be taken over once again.

This book by Dr. Neil T Anderson has been a very helpful tool for me as far as thoughts are concerned and I have learned and am still learning that it is not a sin to have bad thoughts, it's if you act on them, We have a real enemy trying to destroy us..... J.E.M

This book, by far, is the best book I've read so far for understanding the enemy attacks and how to break sin/bondage in your life and overcome irrational thinking and self discipline issues! I knew that this book was going to set me free from sin or bad habits when every time I sat down to read it I would be distracted. I would get sleepy or the phone would ring or SOMETHING to interrupt my read. If the enemy doesn't want me reading this book, then this book is a threat and has information for taking a foothold back and that just made me want to read it more!

The book is easy to read, it has great prayers in it to read outloud and/or to copy. Sometimes reading the prayers outloud is easier than trying to figure out what to pray yourself.

Also, this book taught me things I didn't know from going to church, so it digs deeper into the spirtual warfare around you that holds you in bondage.

I recommend this book to ANYONE! One of my MUST HAVES as a Christian.

PS. When you get this book, don't let the enemy distract you. Don't let it get lost. Get it. Read it. Pray about it. There are things in this book the enemy doesn't want you to know that will set you FREE and bring you closer and in sync with God.

A+++++++++++++

This was an excellent book on breaking free from the things that hold us back. Beating the strongholds in life goes beyond the natural into the supernatural. This is a must read for beleivers who are struggling in life.

Very good book for people who want to be free from evil thoughts and know who to live with Jesus in a free and biblical way. Very usufel book as it lets you know who really you are in Jesus Christ and you are hollified and justified in Him, you just need to believe in this fact that whatever you are, you are a king and one of the knig's sons. It reveals facts which the enemy alaways to keep them away from our mind that Jesus Christ came for me and every one has a big folder in His mind. I recommend that book for everyone who wants to take very serious decisions in his life as that book taught me that first I should be purified by the Holy Spirit from my sins, then I will be able to take my decisions without any bondage.

This is a must read for anyone who wishes to learn more about Kingdom Building in a Covenantal sense...

Jesus says they will know us by how we love one another.... This book tells us exactly how to do just that.

I received my books in great shape and in a very timely fashion. Would order from this place again...Thanks so much!!

Just started book ,but am truly amazed at simplicity yet depth of information to live and serve as a Christian in this life. Am anxious to finish and apply.

I was given this book by a mentor of mine and told that it would be extremely helpful. The problem is that I saw it was deemed a "counseling" book on the back, so I moved on for a while before I picked it up and read it. I continued to see the book on the "Best Seller's" list at many sites that I admire, so I finally picked the book up and started to read. I have to be honest, if I were to try and write all that I learned this review would turn into a novel itself.

Paul David Tripp really unpacks a three part effort.

One: To show me who I am
Two: Who others are
Three: How to practically minister to them, and accept their ministering to me

This book gets to the root of the issues and he even starts with the theological impact of understanding who God is and then who we are, namely: we aren't perfect, we need change, and we need help in that changing process from Christ and others.

This book not only unfolds what we are to do in daily ministering opportunities, but he unpacks the practical ways to do them. One of my favorite quotes in the book is that:

"We often say we need to preach the Word, but we also need to counsel the Word."

That is what this book is all about. It is how to counsel the Word of God to those in everyday life that need change just like you and I. What will hinder this book is that some will think it is only for the pastor or counselor, but it's intention is for all believers and it is written that way and is desperately needed for today's church.

I have already used the book and will continue to go back to it to try and unpack my shortcomings and also to help others do the same when they are in need of ministering. I know this is not the "hot topic" of discussion around the water cooler, but this book is much more needed in today's world that wants to only deal with actions instead of the root of those actions, namely, our darkened heart in need of the power of Christ. You will learn how to effectively and biblically (synonymous terms) counsel another as they ask a simple question or are having everyday life problems, instead of giving a "pat" answer or reciting Scripture and telling them to pray about it. I cannot recommend this book more highly.

I was only about ten pages into this book before I realized that it was very, very good. And it kept getting better. It is not only theologically sound in the sense of not containing noticeable errors, but also deals with its subject matter in a theologically astute way. And in addition to being theologically sound, it is pastoral and practical. I have no doubt that I will return to it again and again in pastoral ministry.

The main idea of the book is that all believers should be doing what Tripp calls "personal ministry," helping people to see themselves and their situations in a biblical light, and work to be conformed more to the image of Christ. Most of his stories and application have to do with pastoral ministry or professional Christian counseling, but the principles could apply just as well to a small group leader, or any Christian who wishes to be used by God to minister to others. In examining our lives, we (and the people we counsel) need to understand the fundamental teachings of the Bible on God and humanity. We have to understand that we are fallen, that sin has pervaded every aspect of our lives. As a result we sin, we suffer from the effects of others' sin, and we respond sinfully to that suffering. Sin is not an occasional mix-up in an otherwise well-functioning system; it is a constant reality that is at play in every situation we deal with. We must also understand, though, that as believers we have been fundamentally changed by the gospel. We have been clothed in the righteousness of Christ, and we have been filled with the Holy Spirit, so that we really are able to fight against the power of sin ad walk in increasing obedience to God's commands. In short, all of us are "people in need of change," God gives us the means by which to change, and we are called to help each other change.

This book is a great introduction to personal ministry, especially for a pastor. The examples were a little dramatic, and it could be discouraging for someone who isn't dealing with marriages that are falling apart or people who were abused as children. But Tripp's principles are a great paradigm for any Christian who desires to minister to others and build deeper relationships within the body of Christ.

I purchased this book as the basis for a short small group study. It has actually been one of the best Bible studies in which I have participated. For anyone who has ever questioned his/her own value or worth, this study provides many direct Biblical references confirming the truths that each of us is completely loved, completely forgiven, fully pleasing, totally accepted, and absolutely complete in Christ!

I am overall pleased with the book. Though I was not expecting all the highlighting inside. Inadequate description.
But the book is amazing.

This book was mandatory reading for one of my classes in college about 15 years ago and it revolutionized my concept of self-worth and value. I have given hundreds of copies to friends and families over the ensuing decade and a half and have seen it change their hearts and lives as well. I doubt any self help workshops or seminars could begin to impart the knowledge and freedom that this book does.

I came to a place in my life where I needed to find my significance in God, versus in man...As not knowing how to find my worth in God I found this book very helpful in my quest. Any words of wisdom based on scripture that helps one grow as a Christian is well worth the journey!

I don't know how I managed to pick up this book, because I was searching for truth, not personal significance. But what a happy discovery! It was here I first learned principles both foundational and pertinent to my quest - for instance, that the focus of the Christian life is Christ, not rules and regulations, and that trying to make up for bad deeds with good ones does nothing more than send us into a useless "guilt-and-penance spiral."

I immediately began rereading this book upon completion. It has given me a new outlook on my sobriety and spirituality as well as the wisdom of the ages. I look forward to reading it again and again as I trudge the happy road of destiny.

The Spirituality of Imperfection: Storytelling and the Search for Meaning

This clearly establishes the important differences between "religion" and spirituality. An expansive read and reference source to store with your most prized literature.

This book is an excellent guide to wholeness through story telling, but in addition to that it guides you through the steps necessary to make a personal relationship with your higher power closer.
Don Busick

When Ernest Kurtz was preparing his well proportioned Jewish Rabbi stories for what became this "spirituality" book, I traveled to Reno to hear his talk. It was polished, entertaining, and challenging. But when this book emerged, I found he had turned the rabbinical stories into a formula for "spirituality" that promoted his "not-god-ness" thesis of A.A. and recovery approaches.God and Alcoholism: Our Growing Opportunity in the 21st Century. There is the usual "spiritual but not religious" talk. But there is little if any recognition that it was God to whom the early Christian AAs looked for "spirituality," for their relationship with God, and for the growth in fellowship with Him and Jesus Christ. And these were enhanced through Bible study, prayer, seeking guidance, and reading Christian literature.By the Power of God: A Guide To Early A.A. Groups and Forming Similar Groups Today (Why It Worked; A.A. History). Admittedly these two authors are talking the talk of secularism and universalism, but their dogmatic assertions as to the efficacy of a philosophy of "imperfection" run counter to my understanding of how early AAs were cured by the power of God and to what history proves.Cured! Proven Help for Alcoholics and Addicts And still can be, if they choose.A New Way Out: New Path - Familiar Road Signs - Our Creator's Guidance

I found this book at a retreat (Manresa) a few years ago and have purchased at least a couple dozen of these books for friends since then, with consistently enthusiastic feedback.

I really don't have the proper words to capture the meaning or importance of this book. It's a slow, intense, delicious read ... kind of like eating a very rich Belgian chocolate.

If you like this book, then you may like this one, too:
The Song of the Bird

I apologize for this long review. I feel very passionate about the subject covered in this book and I feel that I would be amiss if I did not state my humble opinion, pointed as it may be. So please forgive the loquacious effort that I humbly offer in hopes that others will read this book and find themselves changed for the better as I have.

I found it very interesting to read through the fifty-something reviews on this book before writing this review. The catch with books like Mr. Piper's 'don't waste your life' is that it generally creates a very LARGE reaction in one of 2 extremes; convicting and life changing, or unmoving, condemning or perhaps hard to swallow. If someone who is not a christian, or perhaps not a member of the denomination of Mr. Piper (basically a Reformist), writes a review about this, chances are it won't be a good review, so that review isn't fair. If a believer, or a member of Mr. Piper's denomination writes a review, and they agree with the book, that review may not be fair.

So... What to do...? My recommendation is enter with an open mind, finish the book, verifying or contradicting what you have read with scripture and arrive at the conclusion God has for you; you will find answers, you will spend time in the word of God, and you will grow closer to the Saviour. So that is a win for all, regardless.

Now, as for the book, it is a clear presentation of what Mr. Piper believes we are able to do with Christ's promised assistance; live a life that is glorifying to God. How? Mr. Piper presents, and supports with scriputre, basic but difficult (because we are sinners) principles such as "only what's done for Christ will last", "learning the severe discipline of reading the bible", "loving people means pointing them to the all-satisfying God".

Other principles suggested by Mr Piper for living a life that is glorifying to the Lord are, "Christ crucified, the blazing center of the glory of God" (John 3:16), "deserving nothing but inheriting everything-WHY?", "spreading a passion for Christ crucified-by teaching (in other words, we are called to explain, as Mr. Piper more eloquently states it, "live and speak in such a way that the worth of 'Christ Crucified' is seen and savored by more and more people."), "Magnify Christ through pain" (this was a very real subject for me as I have been out of work for 4 months with a back injury and just had spine surgery 2 weeks ago; and only by God's providence did my family survive this ordeal because worker's compensation rejected my claim and disability still hasn't kicked in, so I understand the concept of suffering (and I don't mean the physical pain, though that was not fun), I mean worry, stess, but then I come back to the Lord and pray and know that he will care for my family and provide a peace that is other-wordly {not a real word? hopefully you get the point} even as I was laid off because I couldn't work in a physical job during a recession that was hammering the company that I worked for; but the Lord still provides; my opportunity to witness to people based upon this experience has been dynamic and I thank the Lord for the grace that he gave me to speak up without fear).

More concepts include "how is dying gain" (an understanding that death is the point at which we are united with our creator), "how we handle loss shows who our treasure is" (again, I have no income, but because of our struggles of the past few months, I understand that monetary gain is meant to bless others; I recommend Randy Alcorn's 'The Treasure Principle' regarding this topic), "there is a difference between sacrifice and suicide" (an interesting thought; Mr. Piper states "[it] is not wrong to pray for healing, to take medicine, to put locks on your doors, to flee unruly mobs...It is presumption to jump off the temple while quoting scriputre promises that God will catch you."; bascially, protect yourselves, trust in the Lord, but don't be ignorant to what God expects from us in caring for ourselves; the obvious exception here being the many missionaries who are specifically called to just such a dangerous life, but guided by the Lord, they are able to trust that He is in control of their life).

The book is broken in to a Preface, 10 chapters, and a Final Note, all of which are seperated in to short, easily digestable sections. Mr. Piper does not cram anything down your throat as you read. It is a simple and straight-forward read. Everything is scripturally backed; verse references included. This is a study of what God has instructed each of us to do to glorify Him. We are called to live our lives for His glory; read the bible and you will see scriptures, chapters, books, Old and New Testament, explaining the Lord's plan for his children.

As a believer, I found this book very encouraging and spiritually convicting; a microscope through which I saw where I can strive to do better in living my life for the glory of God. If one is not a believer, and I am not judging, I am attempting to see from a differnt angle how the book would be recieved, it might be a very difficult study of a "radical" faith; that seems to be what I remember thinking several years ago before accepting Christ.

Cafeteria christians (a term that is harsh, but makes a point; those who pick and choose the parts of the bible that they like and leave out the rest so that life is easy for them) may also have a problem with this book as it is a call to arms, a wake-up call, a blaring reminder that we are here on this earth for a greater purpose than to serve ourselves. We are all sinners. We are born sinners. We remain sinners until death. The only thing that saves us is the exceptional grace of a God that loves his creation despite the fact that we have turned our backs on him in search of our own gain; Harsh?, yes! True?, yes! And I am guilty of it myself. Because even after we accept Christ, we continue to sin. Only upon entry in to heaven will we cease to sin, so perhaps its not so harsh a term after all, just true. But again, not judgement. I am the worst of sinners and dare not point out sin in others that I am not committed to doing so with.

A few final thoughts. I could write every concept, every principle, every chapter title, but that would really get old. I will sum up this review with a few interesting facts and personal thoughts about the book.

Mr. Piper thoughtfully places each principle in a understandable, real-life, human-experience, 'been-there-done-that', light, with personal anecdotes, testimonies from believers, and quotes from many current church leaders and authors of differing denominations who present their ministry through written word tactfully and with the same biblically-sound, scripturally-based, Christ-glorifying, humility as Mr. Piper.

Many of the quotes transcribed within this book come from many of histories best known authors and theologians. Some of these men are:
C.S. Lewis, Oxford shcolar and author extroidinaire, writer of the Christ-analogous 'The Chronicles of Narnia' as well as many biblically-centerd, scripturally-based, studies such as ''C.S. Lewis & the Search for Rational Religion', 'Mere Christianity', ''Surprised by Joy', and 'Christian Reflections', to name a few.

John Bunyan was a man who spent 12 years in prison because he would not agree to stop preaching. What a sacrifice for the Lord's ministry; Bunyan wrote of the experience, "[the] parting with my wife and poor children hath often been to me in this place as the pulling of Flesh from my bones." I can empathize, on a smaller scale, not having been in prison, but having faced a similar decision 3 years ago; God or my family. My wife threatened to leave after I was saved because she didn't understand, but God, in his grace, saved my marriage when it was on the brink of shattering and brought my wife in to his fold and we just recently celebrated our 10th anniversary, and I still have my 2 beautiful daughters with me every day, praise be to God.
Bunyan would go on to pen one of the best known works of fiction ever written, some do not even realize that, as with Lewis' 'Chronicles', the work is a parable, a personification of christian faith, suffering and, ultimate victory; the book was 'The Pilgrim's Progress'. Bunyan would, again like Lewis, author many sound and biblical studies such as 'Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners' and 'Seasonable Counsels, or Advice to Sufferers'.

Jonathan Edwards is quoted several times. Edwards was a 18th century preacher and theologian (and, FYI, one time president of Princeton University). He has so many published works that there are literally volumes of his writings and transcripts of sermons which provide an interesting glimpse in to the world of reformists in the early days of the United States.

I believe that the greatest disagreements and the biggest complaints about this book fall right here, under Reformation theories such as 'Predestination', 'Total Depravity', or the like. Certainly, churches must have doctrine, it is a requirement (perhaps consequence is a better word) of fallen man, but the doctrines have become so intensely opposed denominationally that God is actually lost in the midst of disagreement. It is sad that the Church (as in the world-wide body of Christ) should have so many disagreements when we are all so fortunate as to be saved; Christ bought OUR salvation by suffering OUR punishment on Calvary, why on earth do WE get lost in doctrine and dogma. Unfortunately, as sinners, we have allowed doctrine, which is authored by man alone, to override scripture, which was penned as inspired by God. We allow our arrogance to close our minds to Christ's mission; it is not about denomination, doctrine or dogma, rather, it is about saving as many souls as possible from eternal seperation from the Creator.

Finally, and again controversially (as with Edwards, probably a great reason for disagreement with what is presented herein), we have many quotes from the man who led the Protestant Reformation, Martin Luther.

So, to finally sum up (and thank you to those who actually read my lengthy, heart-felt testimony) I believe that this book holds a great many truths that will inspire open hearts to serve the Lord with more fervor, love and grace.

Honestly, having read the other reviews, I can't understand why people of different faiths would review this book, although I am glad they read it. I might read a book about atheists or agnostics in order to understand why they believe what they believe, but I wouldn't write a review and criticise the book based on my differing religious beliefs. That seems a bit unfair; but, who ever said life would be fair.

God Bless!!!

One of the best books I have ever read. This book is amazingly convicting. Don't waste your life when you could give it to the Lord. When you stand before the throne of God you want to make sure you have done all you can do with your life. This book changed the way I thought about life. Read it, be convicted, and share the message of the gospel... the best kept secret in the universe, with the most precious reward.

This book changed my life. Before I read it, I was wandering in life without a specific purpose. The title of this book was so powerful to me; I realized that I desired not to waste my life. While I was reading this book, I saw God more clearly than I ever had, and for the first time, I felt a bubbling up of affection in my heart for God. I previously did not understand what people meant by the phrase "I love God." Now I understand. I do love God, and I love life, and I want to live my life to share this love and joy with everyone I know, so that we can have good times in Heaven forever.

This edition of Don't Waste Your Life is the nicest edition, makes a great gift. I have given away at least 10 copies of this book to people I care about. Pastor Piper's message on the DVD is astounding: I have never heard anyone talk about suffering and death so unabashedly.

Like all his books, John Piper asks hard questions and then presses you for an answer. While he encourages you to think, to reflect, to consider, to - as the Berean's did - search the Scriptures to see if these things are true, John delivers his message with a sense of immediacy and urgency that will not be denied. You will find yourself waking in the night thinking about some well-turned phrase, question, or to ask yourself, "What IF..." I loved this book and bought WHAT JESUS DEMANDS OF THE WORLD after reading it.

This book will be dog-earred, bookmarked, highlighted, and discussed. It compells you to talk about it. Buy it.

As my title suggests, this book is written for Christians. Our mission is to make much of Christ, and to glorify Him. As John the Baptist said "He [Jesus] must become greater; I must become less" (John 3:30). This book which is so beautifully written by Pastor John Piper elegantly conveys this ever-important message to Christians as a wake-up call. Why are we finding so much joy in worldly things which do not last if Christ is our true Treasure? Is it perhaps because we are not fully living in fellowship with Him? Mr. Piper addresses so many crucial questions in our pursuit to glorify God and defends the idea that "God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in Him". It seems that this truth has the potential to completely change for the better how many Christians live their lives, and this is the reason why John Piper has written this book. If you want to be inspired to live your life the way God intended for you to live it and to bring Him the glory through all circumstances, then this is a must-read for you! Pick up a copy, read it, and then pass it along to others! And, most of all, don't waste your life, because you have help from the risen Christ to live a life not wasted! Let us pray along with John Piper and say "As God lives, and is all I ever need, I will mot waste my life...through Jesus Christ, AMEN".

Originally ordered as supplemental reading for a classes. All nurses should have a copy.

The book is in great shape and was shipped quickly. The seller is extremely warm and friendly. Nice business.

I like the concepts in this book - semester based small group experiences, definite start and finish date, clear timelines for recruitment, leader development, content planning and promotion/sign-up months. They certainly make you think if you've only read a handful of Small-group books, and take on some assumptions that are incorrect about the how-to and why of small groups.
The only things I didn't like were the sometimes infomercial style of writing, a couple of places where they seemed to explain things that didn't need explaining but left off things that needed more expansion, and the belief that the concepts were an "entirely new approach" to small group ministry - unique would perhaps be a better word(agian infomercial wording).
All-in-all, I highly recommend this book to anyone thinking about small group ministry.

This is by far the best book I have ever read on building authentic and meaningful community in the church (and as a Pastor of 11 years - I have read a lot). After reading this book I bought four more copies for other people in my church to read.

This semester based system that Searcy and his staff has come up with makes complete sense and is something that any church no matter what the size could implement. Also what I like about this system is that it looks to take care of both the "attendees" and the leaders. Also, the focus on spiritual depth and being missional, makes the small group system very healthy.

I got the opportunity to spend a week at this church with Nelson Searcy for a Masters class and he is the real deal. If you are looking for something fresh in the area of small groups and a system that is simple and not overly complex, you need to check this book out.

Searcy and Thomas have written an outstanding book on starting or developing a small groups program within the local church. The material presented demonstrates a depth of insight that only comes from experience - it's easy to see how Journey Church in New York City went from a handful of people to over 1100 in worship attendance and over 1200 people in almost 100 small groups in just a few years. The book is easy to read, very well organized, very practical, yet gives the important `why' behind each of the main ideas presented. (I would characterize his other book Fusion: Turning First-Time Guests into Fully-Engaged Members of Your Church in the same way.) The material is covered in several sections within two parts: the Activate Mindset, and the Activate System. The first half talks about several novel principles and shares some solid insight in sidebars and examples. The second half is really nuts-and-bolts on how to apply this approach not just as a set of disconnected ideas, but as a complete system that can be put in place. It doesn't tell the reader what needs to be covered or try to set an agenda for the groups, so there is still a lot of freedom for application and customization of the system to best match the needs of the church.

Part One: The Activate Mindset
* Rethinking Small Group Methodology
- Think Inside Out... Not Outside In
- Think Larger... Not Smaller
- Think Friendship... Not Intimacy
* Rethinking Small Group Structure
- Think Short-Term... Not Long-Term
- Think Promotion Months... Not Ongoing Sign-ups
- Think Church of small groups... Not with small groups
* Rethinking Small Group Strategy
- Think Easy... Not Hard
- Think Ahead... Not Behind
- Think Full Staff Participation... Not Staff Specialist
* Rethinking Small-Group Leadership
- Think Apprentice... Not Expert
- Think Decentralization... Not Staff Control
- Think Leader Multiplication... Not Group Multiplication

Part Two: The Activate System
* Focusing Your Groups (with 5 Focus steps)
* Forming Your Groups (with 3 Forming steps)
* Filling Your Groups (with 11 Fill factors)
* Facilitating Your Groups (with 5 Principles)

Some may be put off by the subtitle `An Entirely New Approach to Small Groups'. That type of marketing line seems to be best left for readers and reviewers to decide, but the material in the book is not as self-promotional as the title. I had previously read several books by Donahue and others stressing being a Church of Small Groups (not with). What I particularly liked about Activate was that several foundational principles were in common with these other books, while several aspects of the approach were quite different - and Searcy and Thomas discuss the reasons why. (For example, the approach to sign-ups and promotion is different in the Activate system, but with a good rationale.)

I would strongly recommend that pastors and/or those responsible for starting or growing a small groups ministry read `Activate' in addition to the excellent books from other successful practitioners in small group ministry (e.g. Bill Donahue and Andy Stanley, including Building a Church of Small Groups: A Place Where Nobody Stands Alone and Creating Community: Five Keys to Building a Small Group Culture).

This book is awesome. The first chapter alone is worth it's weight in gold. I found myself having a continual "A-Ha" moment. It has been a complete paradigm sift for me and my staff. It's so obvious and yet almost exactly opposite of anything I had been taught before on Small Groups.
Our entire staff had been through Nelson's small group seminar and we totally revamped our small group ministry. We immediately went from dozens in small groups to Hundreds literally. The book goes into so much more detail and explanation than the seminar.
I would strongly encourage anyone who is serious about Small Groups to get this book. You will be glad you did

What I loved about this book is that it doesn't just tell us "People need to be in community". Instead, it tells us how to lead people into a small group experience and how to manage the groups system as a staff. Nelson and Kerrick have written a book for people in the trenches of the local church because that's where they are as well. I highly recommend this you buy this book for yourself and for your entire church staff!