Christian Books

What can I say? Max Lucado is a gifted writer who takes spiritual concepts and puts them into understandable and easy-to-grasp stories illustrations.

Max Lucado is a premier story teller. The message that Christ knows how we humans feel and that he is close enough to call on whenever we need him is uplifting and comforting.

i haven't read max lucado books in awhile and I have read quite some of them. I have to say that this is one of his best written. The chapters are short but they are meaningful, each one of them that applies to different people.

This a great book. I love the way Max writes. It's very unique and refreshing. He really brings the stories to life.

This is my first Max Lucado book and I loved it! It took me a while to read it because I don't read that often but something made me keep coming back to try and finish it. He made everything so simple and easy to understand. The real life examples were great! I would recommend it to anyone!

certainly made me think, most of us cannot imagine life without electricity, but here we have people who learn to manage. I don't think I would have done as well as them.

In this second book Terri Blackstock continues her story of a world thrown into chaos by way of a "starpluse" which has rendered the use of all modern technology useless. Terri Blackstock explores how our world might "look" if this were to happen, how some grow in their faith, love, and selflessness while others grow in their selfishness, sin, and evil. A griping story of orphaned children in a world devoid of "services" to deal with such an occurance and a family willing to sacrifice everything to help these children, their community, and to serve God in any way he asks.

It was as fantastic as the first book. Can't wait to get book # 3!

Spellbinding and interesting! Safe to listen to with older kids in the car too! Love the fact that the family is living out their faith and that the daughter struggles with being bound to a non-believer. We couldn't wait to get back in the car and hear what was next. (Caution: a few scenes have drug use, gun use)

Three months into the world wide technology outage, the Branning family and their neighbors are beginning to get the hang of surviving. They are bartering for what they need and digging a neighborhood well.

But then they are robbed. Jeff chases after the thieves and discovers they are four children, siblings, who have been living alone for months. Against their better judgment, the Brannings feel compelled to care for these kids. Where is their mother? And will the Brannings be able to feed these extra mouths?

If I were viewing this series as a mystery series, I'd be highly disappointed. While there are some mysteries surrounding the kids, they develop in fits and starts. And the climax of that story is pretty weak. Instead, this is a novel about survival and what humans will do when faced with the end of our civilization. As a result, it is fascinating and page turning. I had a hard time putting the book down. The characters are real, and I found myself asking if I would have the faith and compassion to respond as they did multiple times over the course of the novel.

This book relies heavily on the events of the first in the series. There is a recap and character guide in the first few pages, so you could jump in here if you needed to. But I'd advise you to read them in order. And there are some great develops as far as the overall story goes in this book that made me look forward to the third.

This is another challenging and captivating novel from a great writer. If you want a great read, consider this series.

Bell finds a great balance between characterization and plot that keeps the reader caring about his characters while unable to put down the book from the pace of his stories. No Legal Grounds follows this well-balanced formula and is guaranteed to keep you up until you finish it.

In this legal thriller, Attorney Sam Trask finds himself and his family victimized by an old college acquaintance Nicky Oberlin. At first, Nicky's desire to reconnect with Trask seems innocent enough but soon places Trask in a fight for life. When Trask and his family's lives are threatened, he follows the legal route trying to protect his family. When this fails, Trask toys with taking protection into his own hands. In his struggle, we can see how easy it might be to follow the wrong path and become a vigilante. Especially when Bell paints a picture of complete failure and despair in Trask's life.

The book also follows the rebellion of Trask's teenage daughter, Heather. She leaves home to find her way in the music business, succumbing to many temptations that would keep her parents awake at night if they knew what she was up to. The dynamics between Trask, his wife, and daughter are very realistically portrayed and give insight on how difficult it is to raise a teenager today. Through all of this, Trask questions his faith while Heather begins to find her way to faith.

I have read many of Bell's books and have never been disappointed in any of them. As a writer, he gives me concrete examples of how to craft a novel. His characters always resonate with me, in that he creates ordinary people who find themselves in extraordinary situations, giving me the chance to take this journey with them and ponder what I would do in their shoes without the pain in my own life.

I have always enjoyed legal thrillers. No Legal Grounds has its share of legal jargon that keeps the story true to the genre, but the difference in this book than many other legal thrillers is that the life outside the courtroom is the real story. Love, family, faith, and hope are the threads that kept me reading No Legal Grounds. Pick it up, you won't be disappointed.

This compelling page-turner contains the kind of past-paced thriller I have come to expect from James Scott Bell, with themes that will force readers to make a through self-examination of their motives and desires. The questions that arise are common to all: What would I do if facing an ugly villain determined to harass and attack me? How far would I go to seek justice? What would I do if the system seemed powerless to prevent this menace from carrying out his diabolical plans? And the one that haunts us all: Are my priorities in the right place, or have I allowed my pursuit of vocational success override the importance of loved ones? I highly recommend this top-rate piece of fiction.

It feels strange to "discover" an author after he's written more than 15 books, but it is a joy nonetheless. James Scott Bell not only has an exceptional talent for writing, but he has that rare knack for creating stories that are as fresh as today's news. And he is able to keep you up way past your bedtime, eagerly turning pages to read just one more segment --- all this while avoiding the vulgar language that many authors rely on to define their characters. While ethical questions and Christian values are raised throughout the book, they blend perfectly and would earn nods even from non-believers.

NO LEGAL GROUNDS is Bell's latest legal thriller and is sure to increase his fan base. The theme poses the age-old question: why do bad things happen to good people? At age 47, attorney Sam Trask prayed, I go to church and raise my children according to your word, Lord. You keep them from doing anything harmful. You mold them into successful citizens. Right? Isn't that it? "Then why was his daughter running into ruination? Why was evil intruding in his house?" And evil was definitely intruding, not only in his house but also in his work and in the lives of his family.

The intrusion began innocently enough with an email from an all-but-forgotten old college acquaintance, Nicky Oberlin. He wanted to get together, buy Sam a cup of coffee and hash over old times. Facing two very important cases, Sam had no inclination to respond and deleted the message. But Nicky was persistent and eventually cajoled Sam into meeting him. The author's talent for characterization soon allows readers to realize that Nicky is up to no good. And, sure enough, before long he reveals himself to be an unbalanced personification of evil bent on destroying Sam and Sam's family at any cost.

The law that Sam has revered and worked within for years is helpless because Nicky has done nothing to warrant investigation. Should Sam take matters into his own hands? Should he take the advice of a private eye that he hires and allow him to "take care" of Nicky for good? Meanwhile, Sam's 17-year-old daughter, Heather, has hit the height of her rebellion and is estranged from the family, living with a friend who does drugs, drinks to excess and supports her rebellion. Sam's wife, Linda, and their 12-year-old son, Max, are as supportive as they can be, but they are terrified for Sam after they learn that Nicky knows where they live and that he can get into their home when they are not there.

The heart-pounding conclusion is worthy of the best of today's contemporary authors. With both Sam and Heather in the hands of a madman, death seems a certainty. Yet, despite seemingly impossible odds, courage, faith and determination bring about a dynamic and satisfying ending. If you are looking for real-life earthy stories without the smut factors, get started on books by James Scott Bell.

--- Reviewed by Maggie Harding

This book is a real nail-biter and keeps you on the edge of your seat. Every turn of the page leads into another area of suspense. James Scott Bell's expert knowledge of the law is evident and is keenly woven throughout the story. Best thriller I've read in a long time. Don't
miss this one!

NO LEGAL GROUNDS is James Scott Bell's latest thriller. James Trask is a successful lawyer about to begin work on the biggest case of his life. At home, he is learning how to cultivate his new found faith and to reign in Heather, his rebellious teenage daugter. One day, James hears from an old college buddy, Nicky Oberlin. Nicky wants to meet with James to go over old times, except there weren't really old times. James recalled Nicky, but knew they were never more than acquaintences. James meets with Nicky over coffee, and finds that Nicky intends to rekindle their friendship whether James likes it or not.

Despite his best efforts, Nicky continues to call James, showup at Little League games, harrass his wife and give all indications that he's never going away. James turns to a private eye and a district attorney for help, but soon realizes he may have to take his family's safety into his own hands.

The "stalker" plot has never been one of my favorites, but Bell immediately ups the stakes in the novel by creating a family on the verge of disaster. James is about to lose a case that means a lot to him, and his daughter has dreams of being a rock star, and abandoning her family in the process. Bell hooked me into caring about the family, so when Nicky Oberlin comes along, I'm even more concerned with the Trask family surviving.

Some reviewers on Amazon criticized the story line involving Heather and her suicidal thoughts and contemplation of losing her virginity. Everyone will agree there is evil in the world, and I guess there will always be debate on how much of this "evil" should be portrayed in a Christian novel. In my opinion, Bell never goes to far, and always shows the hope beyond the despair. He weaves a strong element of faith throughout the novel and shows that prayer can be a powerful weapon.

NO LEGAL GROUNDS is another Bell novel that delivers. I look forward to his next book. He continues to tackle tough issues and deliver entertaining legal thrillers.

This is a wonderful book that recounts the testimony of several people who have had their lives changed by Eucharistic Adoration.

Whether you are a committed Adorer already or have never even heard of Adoration, this book will both entertain and amaze you and it will encourage you ever closer to Christ.

This book is very spiritually instructional while at the same time remaining entertaining and easy to read - you will learn about some of the deepest theology of the Church in a way that is easily understood and creates a longing within the reader to grow in faith and love of God.

I enjoyed every page of this book! It is an exceptional witness!

A selection of personal testimonies to the graces received through eucharistic adoration, of individuals from diverse professional and intellectual backgrounds. Light reading - profound and lasting change experienced by all those interviewed.

I was gratified to see this wonderful set of accounts of the practice of Adoration. The publisher says that this is "a movement sweeping the Catholic Church," but Adoration of Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament of the Altar is a very old practice. What is new is that so many parishes are advocating the practice, some even 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to great spiritual effect among their people. (Dioceses which have Perpetual Adoration are noticing a great increase in quality vocations to the priesthood, some the Church desperately needs in these times.) This will inspire Catholics and inform Catholics and non-Catholics alike as to this powerful form of meditative prayer.

This book is a series of interviews with 9 different people talking about their experiences in Eucharistic adoration. This is a powerful & well written book once I started reading it I didn't want to put the book down. These people showed how adoration has given them a stronger faith and a deeper love of Jesus. These are people from all walks of life and with different experiences, some are converts, some have suffered greatly, but they all tell about the peace they have found in christ through the eucharist. This book has inspired me to spend time every day in adoration. I recommend this book to anyone interested in a deeper prayer life.

This is an inspirational book that shows ordinary people whose lives are changed through Eucharistic Adoration.

Quite simply, EVERYONE should read this book.

This is the first of Kathryn Mackel's books I have read, and I am impressed with her imagination. She creates a world that is intriguing and shows definite parallels with a creation fallen from its original beauty due to the curse of sin. She also shows the hope of restoration of the creation by the valiant acts of Christians.

In Outriders, the world has been devastated by a war in which most technology has been destroyed. Bands of warriors called Traxx roam the countryside. To populate their army, they capture the few remaining humans, and through genetic engineering, they turn the humans into grotesque monsters. However, a remnant of humans escaped and has been kept safe in an underwater ark. Little by little, these people, called birthrighters, are released back onto the earth and commissioned to help establish an outpost of humane civilization in this barren world. These birthrighters must battle the warriors of Traxx while they rely in their faith in God. There are clear spiritual overtones in this battle of good and evil, and the use of genetic engineering is ripped from today's headlines. The Birthrighter characters are developed well, and they are shown to have their own internal struggles in fighting against their own selfish desires, while they are fighting the Traxx. There is quite a bit of striking imagery, including an archway of thorns that protects the stronghold of the Traxx warriors.

I am looking forward to reading the second book in this series, Trackers

Awesome read I can't wait to read the next one!!!

You're going to be disappointed if you read the first 2 books in this series. You might notice that I gave both of these books 5 star ratings and wonder why I'd say this. Well, WestBow Press, at the time I write this, has elected to not publish the 3rd and final book in this series. You're going to be disappointed in the light that Outriders and Trackers are so good that you'll feel a certain emptiness knowing that book 3 is unlikely (not impossible) to be forthcoming.

I love the post apocalyptic sub-genre of mainstream science fiction as well as Christian science fiction in general and this series falls into both of those categories. It exceeded my expectations in terms of plot and character development to the extent that I've actually caught myself daydreaming about the story. Off hand I can only recall a couple of stories that have had that effect on me, "The Stand" by Steven King, and "The Time Machine" by H. G. Wells. "Outriders" and "Trackers" are definitely well worth reading even knowing that the story may never be finished.

This was overall a very enjoyable read, but there were a few points that keep me from fully enjoying the story despite several interesting characters and an interesting world.

First, much of this 'new' world revolves around genetic manipulation and mutation, but the author seems to know very little about the subject even though it's foundational to her version of the future. In the story, _adult_ humans are routinely made into monstrous beings by unknowledgeable men using a seemingly inexhaustible supply of 'potions.' These potions were found in destroyed labs long ago and are really ancient cell-lines. Somehow, despite storage in primitive conditions and at least a hundred years passing, they still work perfectly. Not only that, but they can conveniently be administered by drinking the potion or by putting it under the skin with needles. If you don't give a fig about the scientific impossibility of that premise, you should have no problem.

Second, a big deal is made about how dangerous this world is and how the rooks wouldn't stand a chance on their own for several days (which brings up the question of how all of the first-evers survived for so long). The rooks are saved from death several times by Niki, they are shown as initially overwhelmed by this wide expanse of world, and they supposedly think highly of Niki and the other first-evers. These rooks are supposedly the top of their class and devoted to God, though only Cooper shows a hint of this being true. With all that being true, I had a hard time understanding why all three rooks totally disobeyed Niki's orders right from the start. Yes, Niki was a bit harsh at times, but they deserved worse for their constant disobedience since it was risking all their lives.

It is also established that everyone at Horesh is fairly used to following Brady's crazy battle plans and that they always work. Yet, at the end, suddenly _everybody_ from Horesh starts to disobey his commands during a rather lopsided battle. I kept wondering why everyone started disobeying him now (much to their harm) when they had been obedient for years and knew how important it was for them to do so in order to succeed. It is never explained, nor is punishment ever handed out.

All that said, the book is better than I just made it sound. The above are really minor points, though the story would have been stronger if it had addressed them.

Kathryn Mackel invites us into a post-modern future where the future of mankind is bleak at best. The land has been ravaged by nuclear war and deadly toxins have made much of Earth uninhabitable. Evil men hold seats of power and they have perverted God's creation through DNA manipulation, a process known as transmogrification. Innocent men, women, and children are continually taken captive and subjected to these horrific tests and experiments. Man has forsaken his Creator, and evil ravishes the land. However, there is hope.

A remnant of believers has built a modern day ark that is hides beneath the polar ice caps. They teach and train their children in the ways of the Lord, with the hope that they can impact the world above. As the children mature they are sent to the surface to live as Outriders and Trackers. Their mission is to scout the land and teach a lost world a message of hope it so desperately needs. Can they make a difference before mankind is truly lost?

This is a wonderful fantasy series that is chocked full of action, suspense, and heart. Mackel gives us a frightening glimpse into the future of mankind that is both original and eye-opening. The story seems to wander a bit at times, but overall the plot development is cohesive and effective. Mackel's strength is in the action sequences which are thrilling and full of excitement. Violence and gore are effectively used to draw readers into the heart of the battles. The heroes of this story are teens and young adults who have nothing to rely on but their training and a deep faith in God. Their faith is inspiring and encouraging as time and time again they trust in God, no matter how difficult the task.

This series is highly recommended for fans of fantasy and science fiction. Much of this material is intense and intended for mature readers, but it is appropriate for older teens. The lessons of strong faith and discipleship found in this series are worthwhile for adults and teenagers alike. (From Christian Library Journal)

Michael D. O'Brien is a masterful storyteller. He has compiled a stunning series, Children of the Last Days, of which Plague Journal is the second. I am now just beyond half way through Eclipse of the Sun, the third. I have two more to go, and by then perhaps he will have written some more. While I'm reviewing his work, I'd like to applaud his latest work : Island of the World. That was a "watershed" book for me.There are not words to convey the power and authority which which he strings words together. It is compelling fiction. Any one choosing to read Michael D. O'Brien's work will be in for a major treat as well as learning experience.

Michael O'Brien has a tendency to overwrite his books (one of his very few flaws as a writer). But in Plague Journal, he reined himself in (or finally got an editor who did) and the result is a book that is no less packed with plot tension, cultural criticism, and character development than his other tomes.

The middle book of a trilogy of books about the Delaney family (starting with Strangers and Sojourners and ending with Eclipse of the Sun), Plague Journal also fits within O'Brien's larger series, which he calls Children of the Last Days. The first of those is the explosive novel Father Elijah.

While Plague Journal is my personal favorite. I recommend reading it after Father Elijah and Strangers and Sojourners, since it needs the other two to provide its context in O'Brien's view of the Last Days.

And O'Brien's view is a bleak one. The government has become the tool of the antichrist, whether it knows it or not, and an honest journalist (even one who doesn't have a living faith in God) can't get an honest shake, but is hunted down.

Swift, sharp, and poigniant, O'Brien provides his readers with everything that Left Behind readers should have gotten but didn't and without all of the silly speculations. This is good literature that shapes the heart and the mind Christianly.

Michael D. O'Brien's novels are among the best I have ever read. Plague Journal is the (chronologically speaking) 2nd book in the Children of the Last Days series. Which should be read: 1. Strangers and Sojourners, 2. Plague Journal, 3. Eclipse of the Sun, and the other 3 in any order (although I'd personally read Father Elijah 4th, Sophia House 5th, and A Cry of Stone last--which is the least connected to the other books). They are deep and thought provoking books, and will make you look at the current trends in society in a whole new light. Although there is an element of action/adventure in this story, it is by no means mindless entertainment. The action/adventure element is always secondary to the philosophical/spiritual element that we see and partake of in the lives and thoughts of the characters; in much the same way as the murder/mystery element in Crime and Punishment is secondary to the philosophical/spiritual element.
I've grown up a Protestant, but these books (along with other influences) have made me take a good hard look at Catholicism. I'd say I'm 9 tenths converted--and almost ready to take that last step. But whatever your religion, denomination, or lack thereof, do yourself a favor and read these books.

O'Brien's "Children of the Last Days" series shows what the apocalypse might be like through Catholic eyes. "Plague Journal" shows what an average man would go through when he sees the very land he loves slowly but surely choke off all joy and life in the name of an efficient government. The main character's actions and thoughts make you slow down and wonder what you'd do. Also, not all the characters automatically do the right thing. Each of their actions has a consequence, whether good or bad, and they have to put up with those consequences, which is more realistic. There's no flashy deux ex machina, but God works through the characters in a way that's somehow more majestic than simply suspending laws of nature to make sure the good guy wins. I highly recommend this book no matter what religion you follow. You will laugh, cry, and think.

As I'm sure most reviewers have said, be sure you read Strangers and Sojourners first; PJ is the second in the series. Also, it is good to read Father Elijah too; it occurs about the same time as PJ.

I read PJ in a week. It is one of the most moving books I've read, but I was reluctant to heed its message in the beginning. In this world of half-truths and deceptions where everyone is a partially educated philosopher and politician, PJ really does show the need to not believe everything we heard or read.

Should we be constantly paranoid? Not really. But a healthy skepticism is necessary.

I enjoy being able to carry this in my purse. I use it several times a week. There are some very good applications in the book.

If you're looking for another book "like this one", I recommend DEAR JESUS. It's even better than this one and is the same small size for your purse or desk.

Beth Moore's inspirational words and accompanying scripture "raise me up" on a daily basis. I don't know how she does it, but her writings always seem to hit me where I live. Excellent daily devotinal!

The book is very thoughtful and stimulating. Helps one to actually think about Christ, your moment by moment gift of life, and most of all, to be thankful and humble, if you read the words with your true heart.

This little devotional is a wonderful little book. It is dated of course by the day. So you can use it year after year. The mighty wisdom of Beth Moore is such in inspiration to keep you close to God. I admit some days I don't get my devotional in, but its easy to catch up on or pick up where the next day begins. Love it!!!!!!!

I enjoyed the book very much. There are features that can be used daily.
I'm so glad I found an almost new condition copy on Amazon.

This relatively short book is something of a classic. Written very clearly, The Pursuit... is a combined description and analysis of Medieval millenial movements. Cohn begins with concise section describing the historic roots of millenial movements in relevant texts from the Jewish tradition and the early Church fathers. He then moves on to a chronologically based description and analysis of major millenial movements in Northern and Central Europe from the 12th century to the early Reformation. This includes both some fairly obscure movements and well known episodes like the Anabaptist commune in Reformation Munster. Cohn establishes the Millenarian traditional as rooted deeply in the traditions of the early church. Important aspects include the Church's emphasis on a life of self-denial and poverty as important to salvation, particular eschatological interpretations of some scriptures, and a constant tension between popular enthusiasms and the institutional church. The heartlands of millenial movements in Northern and Central Europe are shown to be areas stressed by rapid social changes, particularly the Rhine Valley and the Low Countries during periods of proto-industrialization and urbanization with the attendent dissolution of feudal bonds and impoverishment of many peasants. The millenial traditons lent themselves particularly well to combined religous-political movements emphasizing egalitarianism and often violent attacks on Jews, the established clergy and the upper classes. These movements were often provoked by particular social stresses such as famines or plague outbreaks. The initial arrival of the Black Death, for example, evoked millenial movements notable for their savage anti-Semitism and slaughters of Jews in many parts of Europe. Another common predisposing factor was relatively weak central government, which Cohn sees as an important factor in late Medieval and Early Reformation Germany. Cohn shows nicely how these basec features recurred across centuries, sustained probably by submerged popular traditions.
Over the course of the Middle Ages, additional features emerge. These include a mystical tradition in which adepts can acquire antinomian freedom from conventional morality and an emphasis on recovery on a lost Golden Age or prelapsarian egalitarian state of nature. These features, coupled with the prior traditions of milleniarianism and egalitarianism, made for violent outbreaks during periods of social stress. The Anabaptist seizure of Munster and the Taborite uprisings in Bohemia being good examples.
Cohn compares these phenomena explicitly with modern secular mass movements, notably the Leninist version of Marxism. The analogies are drawn well and as others have shown nicely, its fair to see Marxism as a secularized descendent of the millenarian tradition.

A scholarly work giving an insight into (Non mainstream) Christian people's attempts to predict both the timing and the intent of a millennium.It has left the Holy Roman church virtually intact despite the attacks made against it; that is it does not pass judgement on the attitudes, teaching and actions of the church during the period presented.

I believed a history book such as this one would not get revised and ordered an old print of 1972 for an alluring bargain. Now I know better, but I was lucky. There was at least one revision, in 1969 of this 1957 book. Among other changes an entire chapter got included.

This by the time of this review half a century old book is on millennianism. Which has nothing to do with the last or the "current" turn of the calendar, but with the expectation of a paradisical kingdom to get introduced by the (returning) messiah, no matter when. Which would last for a millennium. The time frame is half a millennium, from the 11th to the 16th century. The book largely concentrates on north-western Europe, specifically France, Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands, Bohemia and England. Only occasionally referencing other territories.

Talk is about the crusades, especially from below. Poor masses embarrassing the official knights for their anarchic conduct, such as cannibalism and genociding Jews and Muslims, but also the rich Christian clergy. This book is primarily about the medievil class struggle. Ultra exploitation and general greed causing desperate mass movements with religious hope and frenzy. Norman Cohn elaborates on the social conditions and transformations from peasantry to urbanization, thus putting historical data into context. While most other authors highlight official history, i.e. the history of kings and popes etc., Norman Cohn focuses on the poor revolting. I have never before heard about a shepherds' crusade, yet there were two of them. Some of those crusades were directed against the Christian clergy and the establishment in general. That's why even today, official history lessons aren't that eager to teach about them. Some insurrections described include the flagellants (who were also genociding Jews), Beguines and Beghards (who inspired the term beggars), Thomas Müntzer, Anabaptists and all sorts of self-declared saviors. Their followers largely jumped out of the frying pan into the fire. Often literally, as the establishment punished with the stake quite liberally. But also for the mostly quick turnovers of the high aspirations of the brave new worlds into lethal absolutism. As such, the ancient Greek-Roman derived ideas of communism turned sour before the 20th century, namely in the European medievil Imes.

Many of the previous reviews put attention to the above. I have three thoughts about that. First, this book has been written and published during the heyday of McCarthyism. Obviously till today it is possible to read the book as anti-communist exclusively. Yet - second -, the author didn't critizise communism alone. In fact, the central focus is rather on the capitalist condition, which caused those mass movements in the first place. He isn't only warning about the dangers of system changes, but also of NOT changing at all. The Bible warns against greed at many places and unequality in general. The opposite has been and still is the condition of the world we live in. No system change is an easy quick fix. Because our meme pool functions within the very same parameters of greed, power and constructs of separation. Even in communism, no matter wether religious or anti-religious, some people quickly become more equal than others. This book is a warning against absolutism. Forcing one's views into other peoples' throats. It is a warning against ever more radical conditions and views until everybody (else) is fed up with those conditions, pushes them from the pedestal ENTIRELY and when in lack of a solution relying on the previous model. Which hadn't been reformed in the first place for nothing. That way, society is circling within the very same dysfunctionality, but under the illusion of system changes. The question therefore is: Were the Dark Ages' wannabe reformers too radical or not radical enough?

Both. As the third thing is that this book doesn't only critisize the radicals, but also the persecuting establishment (which executed atheists just the same). Both persecuting the mystics as sick. Who get described in this book as gnostics, stoics, Free Spirits, Ranters, Spanish Brotherhood of Muslims, Amaurians and by other terms. Unsurprisingly many reviewers blind these mystics as the same ill-advised fanatics. But the book isn't saying that. Though not really pointing out the opposite directly either. The reason for the misoverstanding is that mystics sound crazy to the masses of today no less than the absolutist loonies. Yet, they hold the key to enter the road for a real change. The basic message being: Everything in existence is God/Allah/Jah/the universe, etc, all separations are constructs of the illusory human mind. Overstanding that, equal treatment establishes itself on a different plain than a nice should-be command. The book does provide some mystical texts, including on the divinity of every human, every living thing, in fact everything and a hint of the illusion of the separation of genders (p. 325). The latter of which I find most interesting, as I wasn't aware that medievil Europe harbored a subculture knowing this. Eurocentered, the author puts all of these mystics in the derivation line of Neo-Platonism. Whereas in reality, all of this is derived from ancient Black Egypt.

Unfortunately the book isn't going into what sprang into my mind as a theory immediately and continuously while reading this book. The major religious concern of the masses is against greed and exploitation, still hinting at the Sodom story rather in this context. Whereas today, greed and exploitation isn't such a religious concern anymore. In fact, communism has become severely anti-religious. But the Sodom story is still featuring majorly in religious preachings. But in a completely different context. Most certainly the Noah-Ham story has been misinterpreted in order to justify the exploitation of slavery shortly thereafter. The book doesn't go into it, but mentions that the populace fought adamantly for the abolishment of serfdom anywhere - based on the Bible. It seems obvious that the Sodom story has been misinterpreted to divert attention away from "Thou shall not be greedy!" in the first place, away from the detesting of the rich, who included the Church. In that way the medievil subject of the book hasn't lost its topicality at all indeed.

If you want to find out more about general modern mysticism, read for example The Mystical Journey from Jesus to Christ and based on science From Science to God: A Physicist's Journey into the Mystery of Consciousness. On the schemes of exploitation no matter the superficial system, read Putting It All Together: World Conquest, Global Genocide & African Liberation.

This is an excellent book. According to the above it could be so much more - not only describing history, but changing the present. At the Imes of having been written, those issues couldn't get written about. As I-and-I (we) haven't left the Dark Ages yet, not really. "We" only think we have...

Cohn's "Pursuit of the Millennium" has aged well and nearing 50 years of age it is deservedly a classic. Its subjet might be considered by some to be esoteric: it deals with prophets from middle age Europe who led others to believe that the end of times was at hand, and that they had been chosen by God to purify the world in preparation for the Kingdom of the Last Days, and with pantheistic mystical anarchists who believed that they could do no evil because they had connected with their divine essences. In most cases these figures are virtual unknowns even for people who like history. The few that still turn up are Thomas Müntzer, the leader of the rebellious peasants who were exterminated in the Battle of Frankenhausen (a character in the historical fiction pastiche "Q" by Luther Blisset) and John of Leyden, the tailor who created a totalitarian kingdom of saints in Münster. For the revolutionary millennarians the tale is a bit repetitive, and it usually went like this: a former priest or a hermit with a violent disposition concludes, after meditating for a long time, that he is living at the end of times and that he is God/ he is a god/ he has been chosen by God or a god to lead the just and the good in a final, apocalyptic, war against Antichrist and his followers, to usher in the millennium of the saints announced by John the Divine, prior to the end of the world and the final reckoning. The hermit or defrocked priest finds some followers and eventually is able to take hold of a town or a castle, which he converts into a stronghold with the help of the rootless rabble. Then he proceeds to plunder from the rich (nobles and clergy) and to purge the unredeemed. Eventually the powers-that-be get their act together and dispatch an army of knights who, after a bloody fight are able to capture the prophet and his main followers, who usually are burnt or beheaded after enduring torture. It is peculiar that even thought they are always defeated and crushed, the sort of people who are drawn to this type of leader will rise up to follow them again and again.

Cohn's book tells the story in just the right detail. He shows that certain regions were particularly sensitive to the millennarian prophets. Many such arose in the Northwestern corner of Europe (Northeastern France, the Benelux countries, the Rhineland in Germany). He also shows that generally poor people have had rational aims: to use pressure in order to improve their lot by acquisition of certain rights. Only a minority has felt the attraction of millennarian revolutions, and these usually have been uprooted people without a settled role. Also, these revolutionary initiatives were able to succeed (even if for a short while) only in times of chaos or unrest (i.e., the Crusades, visitations of the plague or black death, economic crises, etc.). Usually the self-appointed prophets used the social disruption in order to further their cause and take advantage from the momentary weakness of defenders of the status quo.

Cohn is a sober commentator who shows that recent historians have sometimes ignored the evidence to further a political agenda. Thus, leftist historians sometimes refused to acknowledge some activities of the prophets whom they regarded as protorevolutionaries (such as their inclination to institutionalized promiscuity or their remarkably violent language), probably in order to maintain their status as predecessors of current "progressives".

An interesting conclusion from the reading of the book is that, contrary to what many think, ideas are not a neutral good to be chosen by informed customers in an efficient marketplace. Some ideas appeal to dark places in people's minds: these are dangerous ideas, and parents and teachers would do well to instruct their children, so that they do not succumb. One such idea is that "God" is in everything, and that when a person becomes aware of this he or she becomes entirely free and can follow his or her desires without any negative ethical implication. Another way of putting this is that nothing is good or bad, but thinking makes it so, as Hamlet said. This type of belief might lead a person to the most brutal behaviors without any perception that they had done ill. This is a very common opinion nowadays, and in fact both the millennarists and the mystical anarchists have their successors nowadays. Today, the center of millennarian agitation is surely the USA, were many people believe that the Book of Revelation (Apocalypse) is a play-by-play description of the end of the world and that they will live to see it happen. And many new age sects (including Scientology) appear to hold the belief that we can become gods and be free of conventional morality and ethics.

In his conclusion Cohn suggests that many radical movements of the XX century are in fact new versions of the old millennarian revolutionary heresies. There can be no doubt that this is the case: human motivations change little over time. What changes is the language in which they are articulated. In a religious era, the language and imagery were religious. in a godless age the language attempts to be scientific and logical. But underneath there beats the same old hope: the hope to see evil punished and evildoers destroyed, to be part of a chosen elite with a new understanding of the nature of reality, and an exhilarating vision of a better future through hardship and strife. We can all empathise with these feelings. Action movies, comic books, tragedies, country music and soap operas resonate for many of us because they take their inspiration from some of these elements. I only regret that Cohn did not expand the point, although other authors have done so, most notably Michel Burleigh, who in his recent two volume history on the clashes between politics and religion from the French Revolution to our days has shown that much of what passes for politics is in reality religion by another name, and how the most revolutionary creeds of the XX century were really millennarian sects.

And Cohn's perspective is so pertinent that it even explains the rise of Islamic fundamentalism tinged with visions of a holy war that will redeem the world and turn into the Umma, the community of the believers. The followers of fundamentalism have been the large masses of uprooted peasants without a clear role in a modernizing world, and their leaders have been intellectuals or semi-intellectuals who can understand how the world works but want no part of it, other than to redeem it in an apocalytic struggle. Their counterparts in other religions are very similar to them: people who want to find a meaning for lives that provide none, people who are sensitive to unfairness and who instinctively resonate with violence and retribution, people who yearn for zoroastrian visions of entirely distinct good and bad. As ever, for these people, the new millennium of peace and joy is just around the corner, although sadly it can only come about on mountains of corpses and through rivers of blood.

I have read this book several times: And each time I do; I am still amazed at the brilliant historical research of Christian millennial movements that Norman Cohn gave to the world. This book is timeless, and serves as a great warning to everyone. The apocalyptic movements from the earliest times of Christianity, to the Reformation was not only dangerous in its extremism, but what amazes me, is that it still among us: civilized though we may think we are. Everything is served up in this great book: flagellants, false messiahs, heretical saints, crazed visionaries, and insane prophets of doom. The belief that the apostles lived a life of poverty, and that all men had to share led to a struggle of class warfare, which in turn led to many wars and spilt blood. All in the name of God.

The pages of history are filled with the names of men whose desire for power, be it political or religious, lead many others into the abyss: Those whose own despair with the world around them are led to believe in the false messages and sense of security of divine righteousness. And as such, much blood has been spilled by these deceitful and crazed false teachings. These corrupters of truth have not gone away, they are still among us: No matter what their religion. And that is why this book is as important now, as when it was first published.

In the book, Norman Cohn's research gives light into the revolutionary millennial cults that spread into dangerous movements. Part of this was the mistrust of the established Church in Europe during the middle ages, and resentment of the aristocracy, whose ties and deep connections to the Church was seen as one of depriving the people of a truer and better life. And although these were legitimate complaints by the people, the fact that through there own despair, they were led by others to seek out equality in its most extreme form, is truly frightening. The millennial movements gained most of their members from the poor, and unskilled urban dwellers who were uprooted due to famine in many cases. Seeking the Kingdom of Heaven and God, however, led by demagogues and fanatics, the book goes into much detail of how, where and why these cults thrived. Highly highly recommended. [Stars: 5+]

In many versions of the Bible, Jesus' words are written in red ink to emphasize their importance. It brings attention to His words and underscores their urgency.

Red Letters is a call to action, an urgent book calling on Christians to get off their collective bums and return to their roots. In the first and second centuries, Christian groups had a reputation for kindness to the poor, widows, and the downtrodden. But today's Christians largely ignore a vast population of the suffering: those suffering from the AIDS crisis in Africa.
Although written for Christians, Tom Davis' message is universal to all faiths (and even the faithless): thousands of Africans are dying daily because of disease and starvation. He throws out statistics at a frenetic pace. Children are being orphaned at an alarming rate; they struggle to survive without parents at ages of five and six. For a loaf of bread, a ten-year-old sells her body and risks infection. Most African countries lack the infrastructure and the funding to care for these dying and parentless, even though medicine is more affordable than ever. Misinformation abounds; Davis recalls hearing from men who believe that if they have sex with a virgin, they'll be cured of HIV. (Uh...WHAT?) It's a self-propagating cycle of suffering and misery.
Davis wants to stir his audiences' emotion and sympathy, and he largely succeeds. Indeed, after a few chapters I wanted him to dive right into a "What You Can Do To Fix This Problem" solution manual, but there were many more chapters of depressing, grim facts to read first. Eventually he did share good news: if each of us in wealthier countries started giving just five dollars a month to help those in Africa, we could make a huge difference. His literature is targeted at Christians, with reminders of Jesus' call to his followers to be good Samaritans and care for the unloved. However, I think this is really a call to everyone to be the best they can be, and to recall what it means to be charitable. When so many are suffering, and so little sacrifice on our part can make such a big impact, what excuse do Americans have?
In spite of common protests that it's all futile, Davis (and Bono, who is frequently cited) believes that we really can change the world. He lays out a plan that he calls 5forFifty. It requests those of us who have been blessed with plenty to:

1. Give 5 minutes a day to pray for those infected by HIV/AIDS.
2. Give 5 hours a day to fast for those suffering from HIV/AIDS.
3. Give 5 dollars a month to the Five for 50 Fund and support worthy causes.
4. Give 5 days a year to travel overseas and help alleviate poverty and suffering.
5. Give 5 people an opportunity to join you on your journey.
-- http://www.fivefor50.com/

Tom Davis' blog can be found here: http://tomdavis.typepad.com/
In addition to talking about his book, he writes about his experiences in orphanages in Russia and in Swaziland, one of the areas hardest-hit by AIDS. He often posts video and photographs, and it's definitely worth checking out.

Living A Faith That Bleeds
Tom Davis
David C. Cook, 2008
ISBN: 9780781445351
5 stars
Inspiring...
Tom Davis's book Red Letters focuses on Jesus' words. Jesus showed compassion; he offered hope. He touched lives wherever he went. He was not passive or inactive. If we are to imitate him, to be his hands and feet, then, we should offer the same compassion, hope, and kindness that he offered.
There is much suffering in our world. What is the Christian's response to HIV, starvation, and calamity? Tom Davis begins his introduction with a statement sure to grab the attention of the reader. "The Christian church owes an apology to the almost fifty million individuals in our world currently infected with HIV/AIDS."
Davis' writes with great compassion. His words ring with authority and compassion. He attempts to challenge the readers to step out of the church pews, to step out of the church walls into the real world. Reach out a helping hand in the name of the Lord.
I want to give Red Letters a big Amen! Tom Davis gets his point across in a concise manner. I recommend Red Letters to Christians.

This book is life changing! I could not put it down, and finished it in a couple of hours. As Christians, we are called and commanded to care for the orphans and the widows. We are told that which we did for the least among us, we also did for our Lord. This books shares real life examples of how to live out your faith in this day and age.

Social concern is a hot topic these days. Fires seem to be burning in the hearts of men and women who are tired of injustice and who seek to make this world a better place. Author Tom Davis invites us to join him on his own journey of living life as Jesus would, reaching out to widows, orphans, and the poor. Davis reminds us that we are to be "doers" of the Word, not only hearers.
This book is powerful. It's definitely not a "feel good" book, but after reading it you will be called to change for lifestyle...not only for your own benefit, but for the good of others.

A child becomes an orphan every 14 seconds because of AIDS.

The number of children orphaned by AIDS is expected to exceed 25 million by 2010.

With these realities, someone is desperately needed to "stand in the gap" (Eze 22:30) on behalf of Christ's church for the children and adults in the world suffering with HIV/AIDS, especially those affected most in Africa. Author and President of Children's Hopechest, Tom Davis, has answered this call. In his book, RED LETTERS: Living a Faith That Bleeds, effectively persuades all of Christ's followers to be Jesus' hands and feet to our neighbors effected by HIV/AIDS in Africa and around the world and provides practical steps on how each follower of Christ can begin to do this. In RED LETTERS, Tom Davis beautifully captures and portrays God's heart for the poor and oppressed, namely those living with HIV/AIDS in Africa, and what it means for those who confess to be Christ-followers to live out their faith by being Christ to the hurting world. Through his gift of storytelling, Tom brings the reader into the lives of those suffering because of HIV/AIDS. Tom builds a bridge by helping the reader relate to those suffering, by putting faces, names and stories on individuals who were once merely seen as statistics. Being confronted with the reality of the enormity of the HIV/AIDS pandemic, it is easy to become overwhelmed and frozen by not knowing where to start ministering. Tom clearly gives the reader practical ways to help and minister to the children, women and men in Africa and around the world who are suffering because of HIV/AIDS.
I was deeply moved, encouraged, inspired and empowered by RED LETTERS. Just like Tom's other book, Fields of the Fatherless, I am sure I will use RED LETTERS time and time again in my ministry to orphans. I enthusiastically recommend every Christian read this book and then give it to a friend to read. RED LETTERS will inspire and empower you to see Christ in others and, by living the words of Jesus, become His hands and feet to your neighbors, those suffering because of HIV/AIDS in Africa, the orphan, the widow, the stranger and those living right next door. Please purchase this book (by purchasing it you will feed and orphan for a month), read it, and live the words of Christ.
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The entire redemption series is amazing. It touches a woman's heart and soul. I cried and rejoiced along with the Baxter family. I recommend this to all Christian fiction readers.

I really enjoyed Karen Kingsbury. I happened upon her by mistake. I first read the Firstborn series which I found out later was the next series after the Redemption series. I was so intrigued by the "Baxters" that I had to find the "beginning". Karen has a way to make you cry, laugh, and cheer for everyone. She has brought me peace in my life and I thank God for her ability to write with such emotion. I will cry the day her series with the Baxters comes to and end. I feel that they are a part of my family. Thank you Karen and keep up the good work.

I'm 50 years old and have never been interested in reading fiction until I was introduced to Karen Kingsbury's books. I just finished the Redemption series and am looking forward to starting the "F" series!
Katie
Tennessee

I had to reorder this for I thought it was on CD, but it was on tape which I couldn't listen to. I ended up buying it on CD so that I could listen to it. I enjoyed the CD for it was in a series about the Baxter's and their family. In this one a granddaughter almost drowns but is saved by the grace of God. There are family problems but they are worked through and weddings take place which could ony happen because of God.

I cannot begin to tell you how it has enriched my life by reading these books in series order. I have had some of the ups and downs mentioned in normal lives of her characters and not only read them for entertainment. I find myself praying over scripture references about situations close to my own realm of life. She will touch and gladden you heart but remember start at the beginning and know the Baxter family!