Wednesday, July 21, 2010

Jesus Manifesto Book Review

The Christian church is falling apart and in desperate need of a revival. According to professor Sweet (The Church in Emerging Culture: Five Perspectives) and bestselling author Viola (From Eternity to Here), what is lacking is a groundbreaking revelation of Christ that boggles the mind and enraptures the heart. Expanding on the authors 2009 online manifesto, this insistent, impassioned essay condemns as pharisaic those preachers who forgo a Christ-centered theology in favor of a cute, singular slogan or mission. The authors urge churches to focus on the man who embodies the entire religion. To do so, readers must learn the subtle distinction between following Christ and realizing Christ already lives within them. Some may find this message controversial, even pantheistic. Yet the biblical passages show the message is rooted in Scripture. The authors provide a lot to digest, but quotations from poets and philosophers break up the text and help readers grasp abstract concepts. Though most applicable to pastors and seminarians, all Christian readers will discover a new perspective and deeper purpose.

I received a copy of this book for review purposes and wasn't sure how I was going to like it. I have to say I was pleasantly surprised:) The authors do an excellent job in writing and I had no problem following along and understanding what was being talked about. I am always kind of leery about this type of book because many times when someone writes about not following Christ but that Christ lives in us. It almost sounds like you don't have to follow Christ at all. But the authors were very plain and clear about when you let Christ live through you, you will follow Him and let Him lead you. This would be a great book for someone who studies or for a Church library. Definitely a good read.

I received a copy of this book from BookSneeze for review purposes. I did not receive any monetary compensation.

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