Carter Books

Since we have been Christians for many years, both my wife and I have been distressed over the "Show Time" type of Christianity that now exists in many churches. We have attended services in a church which has "Broadway Style" (words taken from the church bulletin) presentations. One Christmas, this same church had a "Rock around the Christmas Tree" presentation (including the music, tree, and dancing).

I bought MacArthur's book with the hope that it would provide us with some insights and solutions to this problem of worldliness in the church. The first seven chapters give good insight into the pragmatic, "market-driven" church so common in our day. They are worthwhile reading.

The problem I had with his book comes in chapter eight. I'm expecting some insight into the root of this problem. However, the only answer I get is, "The very reason many contemporary churches embrace pragmatic methodology is they lack understanding of God's sovereignty in the salvation of the elect." He spends a whole chapter discussing his Calvinistic view.

The classic statement he makes is, ". . . those who reject the biblical doctrine of sovereignty. . ." It isn't a question of rejecting sovereignty (Who in their right mind would doubt that the God of the Bible is sovereign in all that He does?). There are many godly Christians, missionaries, and churches who believe that God in his sovereignty has given to man the power of genuine choice. Giving man choice does not take away from God's glory or sovereignty.

His solution, it seems, is that "many contemporary churches" should get more "understanding of God's sovereignty in the salvation of the elect." He seems to say that accepting his Calvinistic belief regarding "salvation of the elect" would solve the problem of pragmatism in today's churches. If he means to say that, how does one account for worldliness in strongly Calvinistic churches? Frankly, I don't think that worldliness (or un-worldliness) in a church is determined by the churches view on Calvinism. The eighth chapter left me disappointed; otherwise, it is a very good book.

R.S. Miller

First MacArthur book I read, which changed my life. Well studied and saturated in The Word of God. Thank you, Sir!

I was looking for books that would explain some of the criticisms aimed at CGM churches, such as Willow Creek and Saddleback. This book, published in 1993 doesn't name either of these by name and I thought it would give a relatively objective view having been written earlier than most others of this type.

MacArther takes aim at CGM churches and may be one of the first authors to do so. Of special interest to me is the appendix that gives some insight into Charles Spurgeon and the Downgrade Controversy. This is probably the best part of the entire book, and takes up a substantial portion of it. This is a good commentary and brief biographical treatment of Spurgeon for those of us who are not very familiar with him but only through some very good quotations.

However, MacArther's treatment of CGM churches begins to wear thin about midway through the second chapter. Some of his arguments start to make him sound more like a pharisee than someone bringing in the light. He objects to the forms of worship, the subject of worship, the absence of substance, the user-friendly message, the seeker-friendly concept...and these are all well and fine, but most of these arguments can be found for free all over the internet. He seems to go on a bit long in order to flesh out chapters that could be shorter, but of course this is sort of par for the course with most preachers!

MacArther makes his point but as a champion of institutional churchianity, he must draw up short of pointing out that these megachurches are merely the next logical steps for an institution where the clergy is always more exhalted, more revered and more siognificant than the laity "sheep." So while the reader may be freed from a downgraded institution, the person will still be in bondage to MacArther's brand of institution which puts them in a pew, staring at the back of the heads of others and viewing things going on at the front. As long as the preacher and the Sunday preaching remain the staple diet of people who call themselves Christians, it will continue to be a movement that is in decline, no matter the size or flavor.

I find this to be one of MacArthur's more compelling book. His awareness of the threats to the pure gospel is sharp; his use of Scripture to expose the dangers is on target; his exegesis is truly admirable; the relevancy of this book speaks volume.

I told a pastor friend of mine that he MUST read this book. Everyone who is in ministry or getting ready to answer God's call to ministry ought to read this book. It will safeguard you from a lot of dangers that lurk, wearing the robe of evangelicalism or falsely so-called.

I especiall like the last few chapters that emphasize the sovereignty of God in salvation and the building of his church. The church belongs to the Lord. He purchased it with his own blood. He is its rightful head. He knows how to build it and what it should look like. He has commissioned us to preach the pure gospel. Thank Lord, for the likes of Spurgeon and MacArthur.

The brilliance of John MacArthur's book, "Ashamed of the Gospel" is that it was written long before Rick Warren and Bill Hybels were household names. MacArthur, like Spurgeon a century ago, is one of our generation's leading apologist for defending the faith and the intregrity of biblical doctrines.

The evangelical church that I knew (until about 1995) was a place where the gospel was upheld and the bible was looked at as the infallible, inspired Word of God. This evangelical church largely arose because of the apostasy that invaded the mainline denominations some 80-100 years ago. Now that same apostasy has invaded Evangelicalism and the term "evangelical" no longer has any firm meaning in my mind.

Blame it on many factors. One key factor are pastors who figured out they could obtain larger churches, prominence, and prestige by preaching a "partial Christianity" that contains bits and pieces of the truth, and downplays or ignores the other doctrines that don't appeal to the masses. Rick Warren is especially dangerous as he surveyed his potential audience to discover what they wanted preached. Of course, that model works in today's consumer mentality. Rick has placed man's needs above God's words.

Another blame is on people themselves. They don't want to hear truth and the marketplace has rewarded pastors who placate people's needs to be "churched" but not taught anything controversial or difficult to believe. Mixed together, [heathen pagans plus limp-willed pastors] and you get a pretty good understanding of what evangelicalism has become.

God will never be denied a witness in any generation and John MacArthur is one of a diminishing number of sound bible teachers today who dares to take an unpopular and difficult stand when communicating God's message.

Especially powerful in this book was beginning on page 121 and Paul's exposition of the gospel in the Book of Romans. Paul's approach to the gospel begins with the bad news of man's sin and God's wrath. It is hard to appreciate the good news of the gospel unless one fully understands just how wicked and needing of a savior we are. The seeker-sensitive movement always ignores this point and immediately jumps to the good news. Consequently we have many people in today's seeker-sensitive church who are getting "saved", but they have no idea from what.

Another chapter of note is Chapter 7 on Paul preaching on Mars Hill in Acts Ch. 17. MacArthur makes the case that many church leaders read more into the text about pragmatism than is there. Paul did not compromise his message while preaching in the open marketplace of the day; today's preachers are compromising right and left. Paul was direct; he didn't win many converts. Look at the seeker-sensitive movement today attracting millions. One thing we know about biblical truth is that if the masses are running to some book or teaching, be cautious. That is a flashing warning sign that deception is nearby.

I can't wait to read MacArthur's new book, "The Truth War."

I bought this book for my girlfriend and I found myself reading it and was very involved into the story. I think this is a book for everyone. I would recamend this book to everyone.

Amidst all of the calamity, lust, sex, & promiscuity that is in the world, this is a book that can bring about change. Thank you Shellie for keepin' it real. It took strength that truly had to come from God to tell your story.

Having had some of the same experiences of the author Shellie Warren, all I could say is WOW and that I must MOVE in sharing this word. Her book has prompted me to start planning on speaking with young adults and late teens at my place of worship and at the local H.S.'s to get the word out. We must equip our young people with information to make better choices in life. That's the very reason that God allowed her to write this book!



I am firm, when I say "This Book Will Bring About Change !!!"

Kudos to Shellie R. Warren on writing such a powerful message filled book. The author of this book could be anyone of us because in some form or fashion we all have been a victim of poor decision making that led to unhealthy relationships etc.
"Inside of Me" is just another example of not being able to have a testimony without the test. It's a must read for all ages and genders.

This is an awesome book for all to read. The experiences that Shellie shares are as real as it gets. It should be shared with young men and women to let them know that they will have choices to make and their decisions will have an impact on thier lives as well as others around them. I am proud of Shellie for being brave enough to share with us her experiences so that hopefully we can avoid some of the things that she endured. To all thinking about purchasing the book----Just Do It--It is priceless!! God Bless you Shellie and continue to share your awesome gift !!

Its not by accident that after about 35 reviews, nearly all have given this book 5 stars. What is there to say that hasn't already been said? I have seen alot of comments that say "this is a must read for women"... just to clarify, this is a book "for everyone- men and women." I am a 24 year old guy and read this book in 2 days. God has certainly blessed Shellie with tremendous writing ability. You will not be dissapointed with this book...

I enjoyed this book because I am a cancer survivor. Mr. Jordan also
discussed and gave an inside look into political events that happened
events over 2 decades ago, which I found to be interesting.

I read this book years ago and never forgot this brave uplifting man as he fought his battle with cancer. I am greatly saddened to hear of his passing today. His words will live on for anyone facing life's greatest challenges.

Hamilton Jordan tells of his inspiring victory over the deadly disease that affects us all in one way or another - cancer. He also tells the intriguing and compelling history of his brief tenure in the White House under Jimmy Carter as well as the inspiring story of his uncle, who fought racism in rural Georgia ahead of his time.

But above all, this book provided me with a shot in the arm while I was in the hospital for over a month with pneumonia. Feeling somewhat down, this book really lifted my spirits.
Jordan proves that a positive outlook and one deeply rooted in prayer and faith in God immensely helps those in dire medical circumstances. I am a walking monument and a true believer of the power of prayer and faith in God.

I highly recommend this book to everyone - whether you're sick or not. It is ineffably a book that leaves you with a warm fuzzy feeling after you put it down. A great gift to someone you love - including yourself.

I have several relatives with cancer,including my son who is a childhood leukemia surviver. I bought this book expecting to learn more about dealing with the diagnosis of the "Big C". I got that and much, much more.

This book is an inspiration for those touched by cancer, but also an inspiration to see how seemingly small decisions or details in life can a have huge impact. It also is an insider's view of what life in the Deep South was like in the mid-19th century.

Whether you read this book to better understand how to deal with cancer, how to face difficult circumstances in general, or how how a single person can make a huge difference in the lives of others, or just an interesting read you will not be disappointed.

Not many books kept me up past my bedtime but this ranks as one of them. Jordan is frank, lucid and at times funny but I would prefer if he elaborates on his tenure as chief of staff further. I'm sure the conversation he had with Carter in his old car campaining for this little known person then would interest a lot of people...well he left that part out.
This book is about hope and doing something about it.

This is a good book for those who want to learn about the Orthodox practice of halacha, but doesn't always seem to have a positive view of the other systems. So good but slantied.

This book is as relevant today as it was when first written. A very good read.

Useful, informative introduction to Judaism. Helpful and well-written. I am not Jewish but this book helped me a lot to get a basic understanding of the practices and beliefs of Judaism. I think it would help other non-Jews too despite what some other reviewers said. If it assumes prior knowledge I honestly didn't notice and it's easy enough to look up vocabulary words if that's the biggest hurdle. That's what Wikipedia is for, right?

"To Be a Jew" was the first "Jewish" book I bought when I initially became interested in becoming Jewish. Although I originally chose this book due to it and Telushkin's "Jewish Literacy" being the only "Jewish" books available in my rural town's bookstore, "To Be a Jew" has proven to be an excellent resource over the past twenty years. I have since had to buy a new copy to replace the first one as this is a book that we commonly refer to in our home.
I would also highly recommend "To Pray as a Jew" and "To Raise a Jewish Child" once you have completed "To Be a Jew"

This book is a great resource for those living a Jewish lifestyle. If you were not raised as a practicing Jew this book is a MUST for you! You will learn about how to live out your Jewish identity throughout the pages of this wonderful book! Nicely written with great Table of Contents. Strongly recommend for anyone new to Judaism or returning to their faith.

What a treasure! I've just started reading, "A Woman's Journey". Women everywhere share the same hopes and dreams. I feel a real connectedness with the women in these stories. I celebrate their triumphs, share their sorrows, and learn life lessons. A rare gift that continues to give hope and heal the broken.

I've read every "how-to" book there is on the market and never felt as inspired or as encouraged as I did after reading "A Woman's Journey". That's because every woman in this book is ordinary -- they're not psychologists, or therapists, or magical, mystical healers. They are simply like you and me; like my best friend; like my next-door neighbor. They struggle, they fail, they pull themselves up only to fall down again. Yet every one of them has something extraordinarily uplifting to say about life, about love and about faith. I've given "A Woman's Journey" to every significant woman in my life, along with a quite a few men who have the desire to better understand and appreciate the feelings of their wives, girlfriends, mothers and daughters. I'd like to thank each and every author who contributed to this anthology. God bless you for sharing your hearts along with your hope.

God Allows U-Turns: A Woman's Journey is heartening experience. I would recommend reading onr or two stories a day as a part of your devotions or have one as a bedtime snack. They are an encouraging reminder of God's love for us, no matter what.

I just finished reading the third book in this series. The true stories in this book were filled with such hope. These ordinary people showed me what real faith and love was all about. I was deeply touched. I had to have many tissues handy while reading this one. I'm looking forward to buying several copies of this one for family and friends for Christmas. This volume really reaches out to woman of all walks of life. I related to many of these stories. I can't wait for Volume four to come out at the end of the month. (Aug, 2002) American Moments.

Reading this book made me laugh, cry, and feel proud to be a woman. These stories reflect triumph in the lives of the writers and transmit hope to the readers.

The reader won't find judgment or preaching here, just women with the insight to experience God's wonder. You can't read this book without increasing your ability to accept new gifts from God.

I'll be giving this book to women in our family as they graduate, marry and celebrate other important events in their lives.

In. My. Purse.

All. The. Time.

Seriously ---- This book is amazing. It has a permanent home in my purse... (it's not too small, not too big - just right) And I use it almost daily....or at least a few times per week. Sometimes I'm in a bad place and need a quick inspirational message, and sometimes I just feel like feeling better about something....Whatever the reason, you will LOVE THIS BOOK. I ordered 5 more after I got it to give to friends and family...that's how much I love it. I know when some open it they will think "ummm....ok..?" at first....but they end up thanking me later.

GET THIS BOOK you wont be sorry!

this book has been so helpful at valuable to me so many tough times like i'm going through now. the messages are short but powerful. this book will certainly help you restore your peace. like another poster said mine is getting worn out.

Each time my spirt is down, or I'm going through a situation, I turn to this book. I hold the book in my right hand by its spine, fan the pages with my left hand to stop at randum. The passages I've read, I have felt its deep spirtual feeling and I understand its meaning. Then I reflect on my situation and the passage fits. It helps me to understanding whats going on. It uplifts my spirit to deal with my situation. It give me insight to view my problem from a different angle. It also assures me that what I am currently going through will end. I will get through it. In my view, its a powerfull book. I have read several other books by Iyanla, even watched her talk show (sorry that went off the air), but like the bible, I keep Faith In The Valley near by.

This is my FAVORITE book by Iyanla Vanzant because of: It's size(small enough for your tiny purse), its lack of preach-i-ness and how the index is organized by subject. I feel its a synopsis of all the subjects covered in her other books. I also feel the book is applicable to women of ALL cultures. You can use it as a daily guide or you can use the index to find a subject for which you could use guidance.

I can not express how insightful and helpful this book is! It really makes you look deep into the reason(s) why you thought you needed a book of affirmations in the first place. This book is perfect for those "why me" and "I really can't take any more" moments when you feel like life, and everything in it, needs to give you a break. If you're a woman experiencing a lot of change in your life and it seems like you just can't handle another crisis (or is it a crisis afterall?), this is the book for you. I carry it in my purse!

When Meredith testified to have her dad sent to jail, he was supposed to serve 9 years. This meant Meredith had 9 years of safety and could move away when she turned 18. She never thought that her dad would get out in only 3 years for "good behavior". So Meredith is stuck at home with a mother that doesn't believe her and a father who is about to get out of prison. She has two friends in which she can confide; the wheelchair-ridden, Andy, who is her best friend and the guy she is in love with and there is also a retired cop in the same apartment complex, Nigel, who wants Meredith's dad put back in jail. Each friend is trying to help her in the only way that they know how. There is also her grandmother, Leah Louisa, who is the mayor and wants Meredith to live with her. But, if Meredith lives with her, will she be able to save others that is at her father's grasp?



This book is a gripping and powerful novel. All of the characters are so realistic that it is scary at times. There are also flashbacks in the book that are just as enthralling and telling of the story and how it got to where it is. Even though this book is honest, it's not too graphic. You understand why Meredith tries to run away. Then, when she comes back to help save others, you appreciate her. She's just a scared 15 year-old trying to take on more of the world than anyone should, much less someone her age. Laura is an amazing writer and is treading in water that is rarely touched. She did a wonderful job making you believe these characters. This is an earnest book that should be picked up!


[...]

This book left me raw. As a High School guidance counselor, I would like to believe that I would know how to help a teenager in this situation. I keep reading literature about kids in trouble to make sure I keep these issues- rape, abuse, loss, death, betrayal, and molestation in my head enough so that hopefully I recognize it when I see it and am able to help. This book is so compelling--Even though I was tired when I picked it up, I read the whole thing in one sitting. I'm not sure it helps me understand how to help--- but it does remind me that these issues are all around us-- and often times those people who have developed strategies to keep people at bay are the very ones that need our help and compassion the most. I will keep this visible on my book shelf--ready to pass on to the right kid.

I actually listened to the book on tape and found that I did not want to stop listening to it. I kept staying in my car to listen to more of it!

All I have to say is that I have finished this book and I find myself just reading the reviews here to get more of the book.

Definitely recommended for a mature audience. Her story is psychologically accurate for a girl in this situation. I recommend this book to everyone.

This book is very good and though provoking. It will make you feel afraid for Merideth

this book caught and held me on the first page.
12 year old girls Merdith had pressed charges against her father for child molestation. they had thier evidence and there were other children in the neighborhood who had been asulted my her father.
the police promised her and all the other children 9 years of safety. of him locked behind bars.
3 years later her father is realesed from prison early due to good behavior...
Merdith knows that he will try again, and that its only a matter of time. her mother calls it and accident. a mistake. Now merdith must rely on her neighbors abd best friend who also lost his innocence to her father.
Merdith knows she must do SOMTHING. but is she willing to sacrifice herself?

it took me all the self comtrol i have to not start reading the dialougr out loud in public. Merdiths charecter is one of a kind and unforgettable. this eggy lost and strong herion will have you begging for more.

do urself a favor.
Read the danm book.

Did Forrest Carter have character flaws? Well so did Ricard Wagner.

These are the best two westerns I've ever read. For all his faults, Carter could write.

I loved the movie, but the book was far better.

Forrest Carter did a great job depicting the violence of the post-civil war era. Especially in the South Central part of the country that was never written about in our history books. A very descriptive representation of how things really were. No wonder Clint Eastwood bought the rights to the book for his movie.

Steve Thompson

Great story. Great action. Much grittier than the movie, this book doesn't pull punches when it comes to blood-lettin' the in the finest traditions of the Missouri guerilla-outlaw turned Texan. The characters are well-developed and the "code" underlying Wales' and Lone Watie's partnership is richly detailed. Louis L'Amour and Zane Grey novels are for politically correct sissies. This book and its two novels tell it like it really was. If you like westerns, you'll find this to be one of the best you've ever read!

I READ BOTH BOOKS AS SOON AS I GOT IT. IF FOUND BOTH BOOKS VERY EASY TO READ AND VERY HARD TO PUT DOWN. I RECOMMEND THIS BOOK TO ANYONE WHO LIKES REALISTIC WESTERN / REAL LIFE TYPE STORIES.

EXCELLENT READ.

This is absolutely fantastic western fiction. The struggle of a post-war confederate guerrilla moves with great speed and energy. It is easy to understand why Clint Eastwood tried to capture this on film, but (no surprise) the book is much better. Only one other western on my Top Ten Books list: The Virginian. Carter's book is THAT good.

amazing amazing amazing. get it, get it now! Perfect for those starting out or those needing quick access to info. contains everything

Great book, has everything you need to know and more about the backstage theatre just a useful book to have handy

The Backstage Handbook is the most comprehensive guide to technical theatre...and could serve as a reference beyond the stage. I was absolutely amazed at the sheer volume of information the author could fit in such a small book. It really has everything imaginable. It covers tools and machines as well as common production techniques. In addition, the Backstage Handbook covers the math and science needed behind the scenes. Need to know how to make a dodecahedron? This book will tell you how to scribe one inside a circle. The handbook also covers architectural details that are common for most American & European styles. I just received the handbook and my students and I have dubbed it the "bible" because of it's binding, but most definitely the content! This is a must-have for anybody who has a need for knowledge of practical math and science applications.

This book is an excellent resource for anyone working behind the scenes as a stage hand or anyone in show business.

This is an unusual book and I haven't seen another like it. I bought a couple of copies for co-workers in the TV studio I manage. Good reference.

It's about time someone has put in writting what everyone has been thinking. This is great eye opener for those in business or thinking about starting a business. We have all experienced "Dead People Working." Wheather a fellow worker,employee or perhaps our self. BOOM! can explode your business into what you first dreamed it could be. Get it NOW!

I truly don't understand what the fuss is all about. In terms of background, I am a successful entrepreneur and business owner who has read a hundred of these types of books. I found this book vague, rather remedial and the authors simply regurgitated the same old stuff. It sounds very much like their book "Guts" which was actually a pretty good read. I feel you would be much better off re-reading one of the classics like Think & Grow Rich, an early book by Dale Carnegie or a true new classic like Visionary Life or Visionary Business by Marc Allen. Trust me .... you will thank me.

Kevin and Jackie tell it like it is in BOOM! They have the highest respect for us as people because they believe we are responsible for our choices and that we can change them to make the biggest contributions to others we can in life. This book confront you with choices and principles that you can't hide from, and provides numerous inspiring and heart warming examples of real people who have lived out those principles. You'll be a different person for the better after reading this book!

This book is an explosion of ideas that will change the way you do business and change the way you live your life. I'm definitely adding this book to my recommended reading list for my Corporate Culture Class at UCSD. Kevin and Jackie should be proud of this "dynamite" book!

Having been in the business world for nearly 30 years and in a leadership role for over 25 years, I've long credited being an avid reader as an integral part of my success. In nearly 30 years of reading, I have never followed reading a book by purchasing 50 copies for our leadership team and valued stakeholders in our business, but that is exactly what I did after reading BOOM. The message in BOOM! could not be delivered in any more of a timely fashion and effective method. I urge, no demand that you read BOOM as quickly as you can if indeed you are interested in taking your performance to an unprecedented level. Fantastic job to the Freiberg's on delivering a "must read" to business leaders. Allen M. Fredrickson, President/CEO Signature Performance, Inc.