Christian Books

I am the author of this book. It is now officially out of print with Simon and Schuster, so the ones on used books on Amazon are the only place you may buy it. You will really like using this book for daily devotional. I am working on a revised edition.
David Edwards

This book is really cool. My college group is using it for small group study. It is easy to read, but great fun as well. I have learned so much. It is COOL.

I have read the book once, and I am now working through it again. It is great and I would encourage anyone to buy it. I have already learned so much.

I love this book. A great book. Good for all ages.

I bought this book on a chance that I would like it. I was right. It is easy to use,great to make you think and lots of ideas to share with others. You cannot go wrong with this one.

This powerful work is at once inspiring, frustrating and captivating. Kozol draws the reader into a world called Mott Haven that is filled with substance, love, service and hope. He poignantly describes the lives of children while blasting the manner in which we have chosen to deal with our most needy sectors of society. Kozol's gifted and powerful storytelling reminds us of several truths:

1. Segregation is potentially a bigger problem today than ever. White flight, private schools, school choice, home-schooling, virtual schools and lack of equitable access to technology are widening the gap.
2. Inequities in education must be addressed with the underlying belief that every child has the potential to achieve his/her dreams. Society must be responsible and held accountable for creating conditions ensuring that this occurs.
3. Teachers and students must all be able to work and learn in optimum conditions that safeguard and ensure dignity.
4. Although children appear to be resilient, we must protect their innocence, ensure they have the chance to dream and be inspired by their eternal optimism and hope. The real heroes of today are those who spend time with our children, listening to and nurturing their dreams.
5. We spend too much on our prison system and must figure out a way to divert that funding to education and healthcare so we can be proactive rather than reactive.

Kozol manages to convey the realities of inner city education by illuminating the complexities behind the daily challenges facing teachers and parents. His manner of connecting the problems to the institutions and practices that society has created to deal with those who do not "fit the system" provides a wake-up call to all of us who are working to make a difference in the lives of children. Kozol shows us that the system we have created is nurturing itself instead of helping people to break out of the vicious cycle characterized by lack of quality education, health care, meaningful work opportunities and dignity. We can no longer ignore the problems in the inner cities of America, not just because it makes economic sense but because it makes human sense to individually develop our most precious resources - our children. Community leaders, parents, educators, and corporate leaders should put this compelling book on the top of their "must read" list.

In Ordinary Resurrections, Jonathan Kozol deviates from his usual "gloves off" attack of the issues facing minority children. Instead of building the case against the inequitable system with facts and figures, as he has in previous work, he has chosen the subtle but effective approach of a storyteller. He paints a very descriptive portrait of the victims of continued segregation and racism that may inspire those in positions of influence to make more compassionate decisions regarding the lives of the children they serve.

Things that scream out to me from Kozol's book(s):

1) Incarceration vs. Education (do the math!)
The incarceration industry is thriving on blind public support. If taxpayers knew they were paying on the average ten to twenty times more to incarcerate supposed perpetrators of victimless crimes than it would cost to educate them, I'd bet they might even overlook their racist fears. The corporate/federal mentality that chooses to decide early on what these children will bring to the economy seems to prefer them as a product in this system versus potential contributors to something greater.

2) Resilience (despite our conditional "help")
In their innocent naiveté the children neglected by the system remain courageous, hopeful, and resilient. This resilience may diminish as they weather the inequities of the system that oppresses them, but it is often the attribute that enables them to succeed regardless of our preaching and teaching. Just imagine what heights they might reach if they continued to be nurtured as they are by the caring individuals in their lives now.

3) Compassion (essential)
As a beneficiary of white male privilege his reflections from the other side of the gap are poignant and insightful lessons for those of us too far removed from the reality that exists in many of our cities. Even after this racial inequity is acknowledged it is difficult for most of us to express empathy in ways that ring genuine. Kozol does! He is trusted and welcomed by the culture and community he strives to serve. His stories reflect a model for learning and practicing compassion which, in my opinion, may be the single most important factor in saving ourselves from extinction. Kozol repeatedly demonstrates the importance
of compassion in his work. Listen to him!

4) Racism, segregation, inequality (market view politics)
Racism is institutionalized in the United States despite the hope segregation was ending that the civil rights movements of the sixties inspired. "Kids notice that no politicians talk about this. They hear the politicians saying, "We're gonna have tougher standards in your separate-but-not-equal schools. We're gonna raise the bar of academic discipline in your separate-but-not-equal schools." But nobody says we're going to make them less separate and more equal. Nobody says that." - Kozol interview in Education World

5) Toxic environments (no one to litigate)
AIDS, asthma, drugs, violence, toxic pollution, poverty, malnutrition, lack of medical attention, apartheid economics, and neglect are common elements in the environment Kozol's children try to survive in. Basic needs must be satisfied before we can expect children to be receptive to that which we would have them learn. Kozol is issuing a wake-up call to the complacent masses that are either unaware or in denial that this situation is serious and threatens all of us socially, emotionally, and economically.

In my opinion, implications for educators that may be gleaned from Kozol's book include:
* The extreme importance of compassion in all aspects of dealing with children.
* Recognition that before we talk about diversity we need to spend a lot more
time in the conversation about racism.
* Locking people up is not rehabilitation and in the long run is socially,
emotionally, spiritually, and economically disastrous. Break the cycle of incarceration!

The Bronx has a long history. I'm always bumping into middle-aged and elderly professionals from the Bronx. Their mothers scrubbed floors; they went to City University. They now live in million-dollar condos in Manhattan. The ghetto is a conveyor belt for those who make up their minds to sacrifice their youth for future gain. Today's Bronx looks very much as Kozol describes. The very young are cute and inspiring, I suppose, but there must be a reason he leaves out the teens and their older brothers and sisters. The modern ghetto doesn't put a premium on discipline and learning. Kozol feeds into the victimology, seeing the community suffering from the failures of others to "do" right by them. Teachers know, however, that much would be improved if parents would simply make their children go to bed on time. Crime would be halved if kids were told to come in by 9. Early immigrants left the Bronx for the affluent suburbs, having devoted themselves to their children's education. Today it is rare indeed to meet a parent who has even one book in the house. Funding won't make up for this basic poverty of values.

Ordinary Resurrections is one of the most important books I've ever read and one of the most poignantly beautiful. It is an absolute must read for everyone who cares about children, the wide disparity in economic opportunity in the U.S., and who dares to hope for our future. Kozol movingly brings to life in his first-hand descriptive account the lives and conditions in their own words of children and their families who have been deliberately neglected, ignored, hidden away. This true story of their hope, strength, resilience, and beauty testifies to the dominance of the human spirit in the face of unspeakable abuse by government at every level and all systems that have failed them.

Jonathan Kozal has taken away the protective myth that America's school children are all treated equally, with dignity and given unvarying opportunities. In his latest book, ORDINARY RESURRECTIONS, Kozal's readers get a glimpse into a reality that replaces equal value with present day segregation to children of the poor. Although many in power would like to ignore the disgrace of how our underprivileged students are educationally treated in areas such as Mott Haven, New York, Kozal's first hand account of such inequality calls for a recognition and reformation of America's priorities. Told in the children's words, this book contributes awareness to the desperate need for compassion to and knowledge of the struggles of many American youth. The facts are both shocking and compelling, and will challenge the values one holds to necessitate action on our children's behalf. As Kozal states, the reality is that "...there are few areas in which the value we attribute to a child's life may be so clearly measured as in the decisions that we make about the money we believe it's worth investing in the education of one person's child as opposed to that of someone else's child." Once read, ORDINARY RESURRECTIONS destroys the bliss of ignorance. One is faced with the decision to powerfully act or despairingly ignore.

I liked "A Passion Most Pure," but I REALLY liked this book. Often I find that authors make a great beginning only to fizzle out as the series progresses, but this book was even better and I suspect the next one will be as good as, if not better, than even the first two in the series. I liked Charity O'Connor from the first book, even though some people didn't because I could understand why she tricked Mitch Dennehy into kissing her in order to get back at her sister, Faith, for taking Collin's affections.

This book takes off where the first one left off. Faith and Collin are engaged, and Charity remains in Ireland with her grandmother and great-grandmother. She loves her job and Mitch. But Mitch won't have anything to do with her since he blames her for breaking him and Faith apart. I can also understand Mitch's side too, which is what makes these two characters realistic and likeable. Charity uses her beauty to seduce him, but he wants a woman who follows God, so he keeps refusing her. It was fun to watch what ploy Charity would pull next, though it did eventually come at a heartbreaking price, which is often the case when we keep playing with sin.

Besides her usual fun and spirited personality (with a dash of humor), I enjoyed watching Charity as she progressed from pursuing her will to following God's. Her conversion doesn't happen right away and she swings back and forth. The desire for God does emerge but her own wishes get in the way, which I have found to be true in my life. It is very hard to follow God when His will doesn't match ours, and Julie Lessman did an excellent job of displaying this.

Mitch is strongly attracted to her, and he does love her, but he has to fight the temptation she offers. This makes for a whole lot of chemistry and kept me turning the pages. I give Julie Lessman many kudos for daring to write about sexual desire in a Christian love story. In both books now, she has demonstrated the beauty of sex and when it is and is not appropriate. The characters she has created have grabbed my heart and I can't wait to read book three.

First of all I highly recommend that you read A Passion Most Pure (the first in the series) before you read A Passion Redeemed. Not that Redeemed isn't amazing in its own right, but because you get so much more out of it when the two books are read in conjunction.

**Warning of you haven't read Pure then spoilers follow**

Redeemed picks up where Pure left off. Her family having returned to Boston Charity has remained in Ireland, determined to win over Mitch. Poor Mitch wants nothing to do with the girl who cost him his fiance, but doesn't really have much say in the matter when Charity sets her sights on him!

A lot of reviewers have already covered off key elements of the plot far better than I could so I'm just going to throw a couple of things in.

Julie is a master at conflicting the reader at how they want the story to end. By the last few chapters I was completely torn as to who I wanted Charity to end up with. I can't think of any other authors who do this with Julie's skill.

While we're there she is also a master a playing with the readers emotions - I have to admit that by the last thirty pages I didn't think it was going to be possible for Julie to 'redeem' Charity for me after 250 odd pages of her manipulation and selfishness. Yet somehow she did it...

Finally, if you're reading this you'll have probably have read Pure and know that Julie's characters are not limited to chaste kisses on the cheek. But if you aren't aware of that and this is as 'far' as you like your characters to go, this book will have you rather hot under the collar!

Like many others I am also desperate for May 2009 and the next book in the series - simply the title alone - A Passion Denied, has me intrigued.

Review for A Passion Redeemed by Julie Lessman
You know how you feel when you get a piece of really good chocolate? Not the stuff you get at the service station, but the kind from the specialty candy shops. You unwrap that piece and savor every bite, letting the rich flavor melt on your taste buds, and when it's gone, you want more, just one more piece, please. That's what it's like to read A Passion Redeemed by Julie Lessman. This book is filled with characters that will linger long after the book is finished.
Charity O'Connor--misguided in the past by her emotions, lack of faith and confusion about a father's love will steal your heart. You'll soon be cheering her on as she discovers what real faith, real love and living real is all about.
Mitch Dennehy--has had a rough road too, dumped by Charity's sister, Faith (A Passion Most Pure) has left him raw and hurting, but Faith left him with a strong faith of his own.
Once again, Lessman has found a place on my KEEPER shelf. This book will be reread again and again. This writer knows how to turn a phrase and keep the pages turning.

Julie Lessman's A Passion Redeemed is a wonderful book! Lessman writes emotion like the pro she is. And gives her readers more twists and turns than the wildest roller coaster ride. I can't wait for the next book in the Daughters of Boston series! Don't miss A Passion Redeemed!

In 1919 Dublin Charity O'Connor loves Mitch Dennehy, but he seems to ignore her. Desperate for him to reciprocate her feelings, she starts flirting with Mitch's enemy, black sheep Rigan Gallagher III, to make her beloved jealous and take notice of her.

Mitch is disturbed with Charity's behavior. He wants her and believes he is half way in love with her though he condemns her actions and worries what Rigan might do to her. Mitch is also is a deeply pious person and needs his woman to love and cherish God above herself or her mate. He knows Charity does not and her recent behavior affirms his belief.

The second Julie Lessman early twentieth century "Daughters of Boston" passion historical romance (see A PASSION SO PURE) is a superb character driven inspirational tale. Charity owns the story line as she goes from Machiavellian plotter using people to a profound feeling of shame until she gains faith and with that new wisdom. However, she also understands regretfully her new understanding of God's way may be too late for her when it comes to Mitch. A PASSION REDEEMED is a terific tale of redemption as a lost sheep finds conviction.

Harriet Klausner

Great book, it's an easy ready with great content for mom's who want to pray for their children with scriptural references. The 20 chapters are short and concise and promote discussion if you desire to use in a small group. I recommend every mom read/pray through this book.

This book is packed with great insights, I wish I had this book many many years earlier!

As the title said, it teaches parents how to use the Scriptures to pray for their kids, but it goes beyond that. It raises parents' awareness of every aspect of children's life in order to strengthen their characters. This is not a long book, but I spend a lot of time reading it, many chapters more than once. It prompts me to re-examine my way v.s. the Bible way.

This book is an excellent way to begin praying passionately for the hearts and lives of your children. In the few short weeks that I've had it, I have already seen God respond to my prayers. God has also used this book to reveal parenting truths to me. He has done this b/c I am directly reading his word and relating it to my child's life and my relationship with my child. It has also helped me while correcting my child. When I pray with my son after correcting him, I am no longer using generic prayers; I am praying with him the same prayers I am praying in private. I love that! It feels much more authentic to correct him with the same prayers that I use to petition God's throne on his behalf.

In Christ!

A helpful prayer guide! Something to help you stay focused and intentional in prayer. It is relevant as a mother and a grandmother. Find a quiet place to relax and meditate ~ your children are worth it!

This book covers a lot. The scriptures prayers are short and to the point.
I bought one book as a gift. After I had a chance to really look the book over, I ordered two more books. This book is a must for parents of any age. I am a grandmother and I will also be praying these scriptures for my grandchildren. Praying scripture is one of the most powerfull things we can do for our families. I am going to order more to have on hand to give to new moms.

I am pleased with Robert Bowman and J. Ed Komoszewski's treatment on the deity of Jesus. I have read a number of books on the person of Jesus, but I have never read one as chock-full of biblical documentation as this. Of course, none of the information in this book will come as a surprise to the committed Christian, as the deity of Christ is the cornerstone of our faith. But when one considers ALL the evidence compiled in this book, it baffles me how the Jehovah's Witness (and those belonging to other faiths that claim to uphold biblical authority) can say this was a doctrine made up by Constantine and Co. in the 4th century. Jesus is not just "a god," He's not an angel, He not the spirit brother of Lucifer. No, this is the God-man, Immanuel, and how fortunate we are that He dwelt among us. All of this is there for anyone to see. I love the acronym "HANDS" and the many resources we've been given, including the appendix A that includes many dozens of verses to support the claims made in this book. One final note: Because this book is very thorough, it is not easy to skim through and get full benefit. I suggest you go slowly, absorb the many verses found within its pages, and remind yourself how Jesus is both Lord and God forevermore!

In genre, this is an apologetic work. That means it is advocating a specific position and marshals the necessary evidence to support that position. The topic under consideration is the deity of Jesus of Nazareth as attested to by the New Testament. And, the preceding reader reviews here on Amazon have well made the point that this book is exceptionally successful in accomplishing its goals to the satisfaction of its target audience. And, its target audience is Christian laity. The authors, Bowman and Komoszewski, are professional apologists and, therefore, professional writers which is evident from their clean, to the point and accessible prose. The list of academic endorsements for this book is long and impressive. And, to the author's credit they spend no time excoriating their opponents.

That the target audience is the faithful and the perplexed speaks volumes about our postmodern era. Almost two thousand years ago, the original Christian apologetic works by Justin Martyr and his successors were aimed at those outside the faith who subscribed to a different "philosophy," polytheism or Judaism. This of course immediately raises the question of why the thrust of current Christian apologetics is almost exclusively inward looking. And quite simply put, Christian faith has been under assault from a variety of sources for the last fifty years or so. Rational skeptics, Jesus deniers, and surprisingly academics within the schools of theology and religious studies have raised doubts about Jesus and his deity and captured a wide audience and media attention . Their opinions range from outright denial of Jesus as a historical figure, to Jesus as a figure so surrounded by myth as to be unknowable, to Jesus as no more than a great teacher who was deified long after his death by his followers. It is probably this last opinion that has gained the most traction from academic sources such as the "Jesus Seminar" and fiction such as that of Dan Brown's, "De Vinci Code."

In a workmanlike, scholarly, and exhaustive fashion, "Putting Jesus in His Place" addresses the question of Jesus' deity as portrayed in the New Testament writings. What it finds is that the New Testament contains a myriad of references to the deity of Jesus and that these references in many instances are quite early. A well worked out typology is offered by the authors that divides these affirmations into five categories. Not only is this information convincing, but on numerous occasions, this book provides the reader with clear and insightful exegesis of N.T. passages. For example, the exposition of the concept of "coming" as a proof text for the pre-existence of the Son of God. End notes are extremely valuable and comprise nearly a quarter of the text. Advanced material as well as bibliographic references may be extracted from these notes if the reader wishes.

One star is duly subtracted because of dating issues regarding the composition of the N.T. books. Following J. A. T. Robinson, the authors date the entire New Testament prior to 70 C.E. While this is a tenable position, it is not the consensus scholarly view. Therefore, we may find the prayer of Stephen in Acts which almost certainly dates to within a decade of the crucifixion juxtaposed with a quote from the Revelation of John which may well date to circa 95 C.E. or 1 Peter which was probably written after 100 C.E. The books only deviation from conservative dating and authorship attributions is that Bowman and Komozewski state that the book of Hebrews was not an epistle of the apostle Paul. While this may be disconcerting to some, it in no way detracts from the authors' exposition of the many passages in the New Testament that date to within twenty-five years of Jesus' death, circa 33 C.E., and which attest to His divinity. Within the context of this books clearly stated objectives, the writers have provided a compelling document that is accessible to almost all.

I haven't yet had the opportunity to read the entire book, but after working through a few of the chapters, taking notes, etc., I can say with confidence that this book is essential reading for anyone interested in how the New Testament describes the person of Jesus.

The book provides a window into the thinking of the New Testament authors, in particular, as they draw on their Jewish background and their common understanding of God Almighty, and then apply that same understanding to Jesus of Nazareth. For example, in the Old Testament, in passages devoted to describing God's uniqueness (Isa 44:6-7ff), Creation is an act ascribed only to God (Isa 44:24); then, in the New Testament, we find Jesus engaged in Creation (e.g. John 1:3; Col 1:16-17). The book is extensive and detailed in terms of pointing out the various ways that the New Testament declares that Jesus is indeed divine, on the level of the Father. The evidence is overwhelming, and the conclusion can only be avoided by distancing oneself from Jewish belief and practice.

This book would make for a fine Sunday School series. The material is well-researched and footnoted, but is also presented within the framework of an easy-to-remember acrostic (H-A-N-D-S). It is also a nice complement to a shorter work by theologian Richard Bauckham - God Crucified : Monotheism and Christology in the New Testament. I would recommend reading Bauckham's book first, then following it with this one.

Ed Komoszewski and Robert Bowman should be congratulated on their fine work. Christians should keep an eye out for both authors. Bowman is prolific, and relevant to the topic of this book, has written some excellent books discussing the beliefs of Jehovah's Witnesses (who deny the full deity of Jesus), e.g. Why You Should Believe in the Trinity: An Answer to Jehovah's Witnesses. Komoszewski is the director of Christus Nexus, an organization of scholars devoted to educating the church in a time when the Scriptures and the person of Christ are constantly under attack. Don't miss his Reinventing Jesus.

Putting Jesus In His Place (PJIHP) is perhaps the most accessible book on Christology to come along since Raymond Brown's "An Introduction to New Testament Christology" -- but this is more than a mere introduction. J. Ed Komoszewski and Robert Bowman, Jr. introduce the interested layperson to Jesus but then bring us into an intimate relationship with him through what the New Testament and current scholarship have to say about him.

The authors have developed the acronym H.A.N.D.S. in order to help the reader memorize the various themes discussed in this book which show forth the deity of Christ. As a student in general, I appreciate any pedagogical tool that will help me to retain useful information, but as a Charismatic-Pentecostal in particular (the Trinitarian kind) I very much appreciate this specific acronym. As a Charismatic, I am accustomed to lifting my hands in worship and adoration of the Lord Jesus. I'm also accustomed to clapping and waving my hands in praise of him. I take the New Testament at its word when it speaks of laying hands on the sick and praying the prayer of faith, so as you can see, HANDS are an integral part of my faith. So when the authors set forth this acronym as a way to instill the Biblical teaching of Christ's deity, it really hit home!

As other reviewers have noted, the H.A.N.D.S. acronym stands for:

Honors
Attributes
Names
Deeds
Seat

Jesus shares all of these things with the Father and the way in which Komoszewski and Bowman go about proving this is nothing short of remarkable. Both authors are extremely gifted writers who for quite some time have been producing top quality material for a lay-audience. They examine not only the major passages of Scripture that many of us are familiar with with regard to this debate, but they also bring to our attention some more obscure passages. We've all seen countless apologists cite John 1:1 or Titus 2:13 in defense of the deity of Christ, but when was the last time you saw someone draw attention to Luke 8:39 (p. 204)? When was the last time you took into account the vast Old Testament material that speaks of Yahweh and the way it is appropriated and applied to Jesus in the New Testament? Think about it... Exactly... It's been a while, maybe even never. It would be impossible to say that no stone was left unturned, but in reading this volume one gets the sense that if there are some stones that haven't been looked under, they're few and far between.

This is a book that needs to be in the hands of every Bible Study teacher, every Pastor, every counter-cult Apologist, and every person interested in theological and biblical studies. Why?, you ask. Because there's not a book on the market that is so easily accessible which dialogues with the best of current scholarship (names like Larry Hurtado, Richard Bauckham, James Dunn, R.T. France, etc.), interacts with the best of current arguments against the deity of Christ (names like Greg Stafford, Jason BeDuhn, etc.), and which takes into account the various points of study that these men have chosen to focus on. Sure, you can find a book that deals with one or two of these themes, but you won't find anything that deals with all of them, and even if you did, it wouldn't be as readable as this!

It's also worth noting that the book is lined with helpful charts that will aid in your memorization. There's detailed endnotes for anyone who wants to dig deeper than the text itself (and trust me, that deep all on its own!). A Scripture index is included and my favorite extra, a recommended reading list. This list reads like the top shelf of my main bookcase, so I can attest to how good it really is.

There's simply not enough positive things to say about this book, but I will say this... There are going to be people who read this book and take exception to it. They'll give it bad reviews and chide about how the authors haven't made their case or have misrepresented x or y. So this is what I say... Get your own copy and find out for yourself. It's that simple and at the price Amazon has it for, you can't afford not to get it!

If you'd like to read my full multi-part review of Putting Jesus in His Place then you can visit the following site:

[...]

B"H

Is Jesus Christ God? Did he claim to be God or was this a fiction manufactured after his death? What circumstantial evidence is there that Jesus and his followers believed he was God or that even his opponents believed that Jesus claimed to be God?

"Putting Jesus in His Place: The Case for the Deity of Christ" is a new book by Robert Bowman and Edward Komoszewski. It is published by Kregel under an academic and professional label but I found the writing style to be very accessible. The authors write, "Our aim is to provide a comprehensive case from the New Testament for the deity of Christ," and they don't disappoint in their efforts.

Bowman and Komoszewski use the acronym "HANDS" to organize the material:

Jesus shares the honor due to God.
Jesus shares the attributes of God.
Jesus shares the names of God.
Jesus shares the deeds that God does.
Jesus shares the seat of God's throne.

As they work through these themes they frequently engage critics of Jesus divinity including everything from the Jesus Seminar types to the Jehovah's Witnesses. In the concluding chapter they write:

********

One of the most basic methods of journalism is to ask the "wh" questions: who, what, when, where, and why? (Sometimes a sixth question, "how?" is also asked.) We can apply these five question to the matter of the deity of Christ (arranged in a different order.)

1. Why? This question asks for the significance of the person to others.
2. When? This question asks for the time when the person was present and involved.
3. Who? This question ask for a person's name.
4. What? This question asks for an account of the person's activity.
5. Where? This question asks for the place where the person lives or was active.

You can see that these five questions correspond (perhaps a bit roughly) to the five lines of evidence for the deity of Christ discussed in this book. The honors that Jesus shares with God are the answer to the question of why knowing Jesus is God is significant. Perhaps the most basic of all Christ's divine attributes is that he existed when creation began and in fact is eternal. The names that Jesus shares with God, of course, tell us who he is. The deeds that Jesus does with God tell us what Jesus has done. Finally, that Jesus shares the seat of God's throne tells us where Jesus is.

That these five investigative questions correspond to the five categories of evidence for Christ's deity is not accidental. The information gathered from these five questions provides a complete picture of the facts pertaining to the identity of the person in question. (274-275)

********

Throughout the book there are helpful charts to highlight key points. At the end of the book is an appendix organized by each of the five themes with tables that summarize the evidence.

Apart from the apologetic applications of the book, there is helpful commentary on numerous difficult and controversial passages in the Bible. And as you might expect from an academic book, about one fifth of the contents is end notes. I suspect this book will be residing on my reference shelf for some time to come.

This book is great for beginners being introduced to philosophy and consciousness ideas, as well as seasoned readers of the genre. There is quite a bit of history of Panpsychism (and other world views) given, which the author says could be skipped if you are already familiar with the subject.

The author's writing style is easy to read, and he gives samples of upcoming ideas that keep you motivated to keep on reading. I got the sense that Mr. de Quincey is a talented teacher - I felt like he was giving me a personal lecture (in a good way!) as I was reading.

Although the book is definitely focused and has a point that he is trying to convey, I got the impression that Mr. de Quincey didn't have an agenda that he was trying to push on the reader. While reading the book, I got the impression that the author was taking the reader through the research and thought processes that lead him to his conclusion. It seemed like he came up with this conclusion naturally and rationally, rather than having a the conclusion in mind before starting his own research and gearing his studies towards his opinion.

Because of this, I think this book will appeal to open-minded materialists as well, since Mr. de Quincey presents himself in a very non-New Age manner. He keeps any farther reaching speculation (afterlife ideas, notion of a soul, etc.) to a minimum, which I thought was a refreshing change from the norm in books that propose a more Panpsychic view of the world.

This is the first part of a trilogy, so if you like this one be sure to read the rest.

Christian de Quincey's book "Radical Nature" fell into my hands at just about the right time to heighten that curious sense of synchronicity when things seem to have an underlying harmony and purpose, and I thoroughly enjoyed his body of thought.

Perhaps this book arrives at the right time for many people who want to liberate themselves from the clutches of the old materialistic paradigm. It will help them in this endeavor, because Dr. de Quincey respects and appreciates the achievements of all the great thinkers who have come before whether they would have agreed with him or not.

As the great P. Feyerabend has pointed out, philosophers of science often tend to overlook that science itself is a story and not a problem of logic. Dr. de Quincey does not make this mistake. He takes his ideas further and talks of the unfolding story of the cosmos, how it is intelligible to us precisely because we are inseparably connected to it, part and parcel of its essence and its being. We can make sense of it all, because it is sensible; everything, the whole cosmos including its very last spec of matter, is "intrinsically sentient" he declares. Matter and psyche coexist as an inseparable whole.

Dr. de Quincey has labored hard to pull together all the different strands of human knowledge from the fields of science, philosophy and psychology, and he presents them in his beautifully clear understanding. His well argued and carefully outlined thoughts on the nature of matter and consciousness especially the mind/body split are designed to put Humpty Dumpty back together again when nobody thought this could be done. I actually feel liberated and, in some sense vindicated after finishing this book, since it strengthens and validates in strong ways feelings and thoughts I had for quite some time. I learned a lot reading this work, and the best thing is, it actually made me a happier person.

In this book, de Quincey's knowledge, experience, passion and scholarship catapults our understanding of consciousness into a view which dissolves boundries between matter and mind. His clarity and eloquence of expression helps to bridge the gap between pure feeling and the written word.

My favorite quote from the book: "Stories Matter, Matter Stories" (also a chapter heading) says a lot about this book which is chuck-full of wisdom. His ideas are well supported and come across with the simplicity of "common sense."

When I read this book, I rushed over to Amazon and bought Christian de Quincey's other book Radical Knowing.

I totally agree with his witty critique of "physics envy" . . . Consciousness is not a sub-atomic virtual energy field although, as he correctly points out, it is the experiencer of energy, of vibrations, of fields, and waves. His slogan "Consciousness knows. Energy flows" says it all.

His thought and writing are so fine and so beautifully intelligent, and I responded with feeling. I particularly want to compliment de Quincey on his amazing explanation of the great philosopher Whitehead. I have heard that he is the hardest philosopher to understand. But Radical Nature does a great job untangling difficult ideas. After reading this, I find Whitehead the easiest philosopher to understand now--particularly the mind-body connection. People should come to this book with a feeling sense . . . reading while listening to our bodies. Dr. de Quincey's teaching has more than a touch of real alchemy. The more I read his books, the more I know I am calibrating a great mind who can communicate in an exciting and profound way. I kept having to put the book down because it inspired cascades of ideas and contexts that made complexity unravel in a life affirming, powerful way. This book, and Radical Knowing perhaps even more, is positively juicy, a term not usually used for top scholarship in consciousness exploration. Dr. de Quincey is particularly adept bringing a grounded, welcoming order to complex, abstract philosophical language. In the end, I landed right where he wanted me to...wanting and able to read and know more. Both books added so much value and richness to my life and merit every bit of attention.

This book was a valuable addition to my ongoing search to make sense out of my world. I owned it for some time before I read it. Then I bought Radical Knowing and liked it even better. (I reviewed it in July)

De Quincey puts into words deep feelings I have had all my life about my connection to nature. His research seems to be impeccable. I can only read so much and it really helps to read an author who does so much of it for me.

I am not a scientist or a philosopher so some of the arguments between different schools of opinions don't mean a lot to me. What I enjoy are new ideas put in language that is readable and enjoyable. This book fulfilled those requirements.

I read this book in like two days...it has what I've always looked for in developing a brotherhood of believers....what a great read! I loved it, and plan on starting a Samson Society in my home town....

Great book. Best "Men's Book" I have read. Insightful and funny. Any man looking for friendship and brotherhood, this is the book.

This is an entertaining and well written book addressing topics not often spoke about inside church walls. I will highly recommend to anyone and I am getting about 10 copies to give to my friends.

This is a five star book for guys in and out of recovery. A must read for all Christian men serious about their spiritual future.

Nate Larkin has offered a very helpful addition to the library of resources for Christian men. His writing style is very engaging, and he is an excellent story-teller with a wonderful (if somewhat irreverent) sense of humor. Especially as a first-time author, I was most impressed and look forward to reading more from him in the future.

The first part of "Samson and the Pirate Monks" details Larkin's biography, including a host of honest admissions and even shocking incidents. The second part of the book describes the establishment of the Samson Society, a collection of gatherings of men across the country based loosely on the principles of 12-step recovery programs but infused with a substantial dose of Christian language and biblical wisdom.

Larkin's brutal honesty is most helpful and unfortunately rare in the church. His willingness to bear his soul and unveil some very dirty laundry in such a public forum is commendable. This passion for candor propels many of the mandates of the Samson Societies. I also appreciated healthy doses of humility peppered throughout the book.

My critiques of this book are two-fold and relatively minor. On some level, it felt like some sort of subtle sales-pitch for the Samson Society, especially the second half of the book. Ironically, Samson Societies have no budgets and collect no fees, so the motivation clearly isn't monetary. But I am always uncomfortable when an author goes beyond sharing their successes and begins to prescribe the exact solution for everyone else's woes. My second criticism is the tendency of Larkin and other contributing authors to carelessly discredit the validity of any previous installments of the modern men's movement as utterly useless. Though I do believe that the Samson Society has captured some helpful elements of relating as men that have been sorely missing in many men's gatherings, this does not mean that these other gatherings have been devoid of value, which is never explicitly stated but frequently implied.

These critiques notwithstanding, I am glad to have read this book. Larkin shares struggles that many men have surely endured, and he offers many insightful suggestions to walk through these issues in the light of God's grace, in Christian community with other broken men who want to more fully experience the life that God planned for them. Though I'm not yet convinced that forming my own Samson Society is the only answer, I do hope to apply some of Larkin's ideas to my own life and pursue more meaningful relationships with other Christian men, confident that God has much more in store than so many of us are experiencing.

woderfull,Rabbi Chefitz is a wonderfull story teller and this novel is profaund ,really enjoy it!

The fictional rabbi at the center of this novel is a thoroughly modern mystic who is all too aware that some lessons can be dangerous if the teacher doesn't meet the student where he/she stands. Goldberg's "Bee Season" suggested that mystical strains of Judaism could propel American fiction; Chefitz's "Seventh Telling" proves that American fiction can teach mystical Judaism. "The Seventh Telling" is the more ambitious and more successful of the two novels. It is the best book I've read this year and the only book for which I've ever been moved to offer a testimonial.

This is a powerful,beautifully written novel that has the ability to speak to the reader in many different ways. The first time I read it was for pleasure and I could not put it down. I literally finished the last page and went back to the first page to read it again. Each reading has given me a different level of understanding and I am sure that when I read it again I will learn on still another level. What a rarity for Kabballah to be made so accessible and what a surprise to have it in the form of a very readable novel. You will be swept up in the lives of the characters and captivated by the stories. I am looking forward to the sequel that is due out next year!

I don't know why this book called my name as I chanced upon it at a bookstore. But, it did. I picked it up, began reading, read at every opportunity, ordered the sequel before I was finished, moved right on to the sequel, and am now re-reading the first book. I even e-mailed Mitchell Chefitz (he answered my e-mail, by the way). I hardly recognize myself.

This book is transformative. It took this hard-headed realist into the nature of mysticism, slowly, evenly and intelligently. (I think the ancient kabbalists were on to quantum mechanics well before the 20th century physicists were.) It can be read on so many levels that there is something in it for everybody.

It changed my view of death. Read it.

Certain books call to me. Most books I won't buy until I've read and analyzed all the reviews on Amazon, but this book I picked up in a bookstore, read til the store closed, and then at every opportunity until I finished it. The narrative is real enough to be believable, but strongly tinged with the mystical, and works at many different levels. The telling of stories to teach and heal is an art and science, and Mitch Chefitz has mastered both ends of the spectrum with this extraordinary work.

The novel is full of realistic Southern charm and characters. If you love Southern novels, don't miss out on this one! Shadow of Dreams by Eva Marie Everson and G. W. Francis Chadwick is a well-written, well-developed novel full of foreshadowing. The main character serves as an excellent example of what happens to many young teens glamorized by the big city and running from problems at home. Instead of the prodigal son, the main character, Katie, is the prodigal daughter. I couldn't wait to find out what was going to happen to Katie and her husband, and the bad guys. I loved the way the authors used literature for clues. I also loved the way the small-town Georgia guys protected their own and took care of the big-city guys. These authors do not preach, but they certainly know how to spin a tale that could serve to help others. These authors offer much insight, and a reflective reader will benefit from the experience of having read this novel. I have ordered all three Shadows books from Amazon, and I can't wait to read the other two. A good, reflective reader will find that this book is about many things that connect to life in such a way, it can't help but be realistic. The characters are realistic, not mere shells of characters. The way they talk and the things they say provide that realistic touch to make them come to life. I think this book would make a good movie; in fact, a three-part series.

Eva Marie's series is fabulous. I couldn't wait to find the time to read the next page. I fell in love with Katie and hope there are plans to read more of her. Eva Marie's 3 books in this series is filled with exciting plot twists, suspense, and drew me closer to the Lord, plus making me even more appreciative of my wonderful husband. These books are delightful!

Once more Eva Marie Everson and G.W. Francis Chadwick put together a best seller in this story of Katie and her struggle to keep her faith and continue living life even while not knowing if her husband is dead or alive. In the end, it leaves you waiting anxiously for the next book in the series.
I have actually been given the privilege of reading the first three chapters of Shadows of Light, book 3, and I can honestly say it promises not to disappoint!! You won't want to miss this one!

Everson and Chadwick have once again written a suspense-filled drama in their sequel, Summon the Shadows. Their behind the scenes look at a world unknown to most Christians evoke a predictable variety of emotions: anger, disgust, pity, compassion, hopefulness-while they weave yet another unpredictable fiction plot. The haunting question throughout the book keeps the reader hoping for an answer at the end: "What REALLY happened to Ben, Katie's beloved husband? Is he really dead? Clues say "maybe not," but reality says, "probably so." Will the three call girls ever make it in the "real" world? Can Katie hold out and hold on to the inner strength and faith she has found? You may have to wait until the very end to get any glimmer of an answer to those questions. Which opens the door to yet another sequel......

Couldn't keep this one to myself. I read it and immediately passed it on to a friend. : ) She also loved it. Gritty, real, and powerful.

This is an awesome, easy read book. Just perfect for the caregiver you know! It is uplifting. Strength is renewed on every page! Caregivers everywhere need this on their night stand or breakfast table!

This book is small enough to fit in most purses, so I take mine with me everhwhere I go. It is especially helpful when waiting in doctors offices, hosptials, etc. I would recommend it for anyone who is a Caregiver.

Thenty-Third Psalm is a book of hlpful information and uplifting stories. I enjoyed it very much and brought one for a friend.

If you're a caregiver, or you minister to caregivers, you will be blessed by the stories and compassion within the pages of this gem.

Carmen Leal understands that even the most loving, committed caregiver experiences a sense of isolation and exhaustion. The Twenty-Third Psalm for Caregivers reflects her sense of empathy. She has walked in those shoes, and writes: "A caregiver's job often seems thankless as we bathe, feed, comfort, fight battles, cut through red tape, and give direction. I'm sure our heavenly Father, our Caregiver, often feels His job is thankless as He cares for us."

Fifteen stories represent fifteen distinct facets of God's own character as He lovingly and gently shepherds us, including The Shepherd Who Cares...The Shepherd Who Directs...The Shepherd of Peace...and The Shepherd Who Heals. Carmen shares stories of her own caregiving experience, as well as the experiences of others who have walked this long, tiring road. Through it all, she weaves a golden thread of hope and healing. For an inspiring introduction to the book, view this Flash movie:
http://thetwentythirdpsalm.com/movie

This is book 1 of an exciting new series by Carmen Leal. Beautifully designed and small enough to slip inside a purse or briefcase, it's inspirational reading at its best. Even for those who are not living the life of a caregiver, The Twenty-Third Psalm for Caregivers offers a beautiful glimpse into God's heart, and how completely and personally He loves us all.
~Bonnie Bruno~