General Practice Books

I purchase this book as a present to those I know are about to have a baby boy.
Six years ago I presented this to my son and his wife. They were being badgered into circumcising by the doctors and hosptal. I credit this information for savng my grandson from being damaged for life.

I applaud this book for bringing attention to this topic. The American way is to create problems, then sell you something to solve your problems. Like routine circumcisions, then later in life taking Viagra and other various sexual enhancers. Kudos to Ronald Goldman. It's good to see him pick up the pieces after his daughter's murder.

"Just as expected, seventy-two percent of the male students are circumcised. At Clem's party I had been reminded of the promiscuous way in which American doctors circumcise males in childhood, a practice I highly disapprove of...it constitutes, in [an] advertiser's phrase, 'a rape of the penis'. Until the forties, only the upper or educated classes were circumcised in America. The REAL people were spared this humiliation. But during the affluent postwar years the operation became standard procedure, making money for doctors as well as allowing the American mother to mutilate her son in order that he might never forget her early power over him..."

Gore Vidal
MYRA BRECKINRIDGE

If there was ever an issue that metaphorically encapsulates the Achilles heel of Western society, it turns out that this may be it, above all others. The title of this incredible, clearly thought out, brilliantly edited and masterfully written book may lead you to believe that it is all about a seemingly benign issue. Make no mistake: what this book is actually about are

1) the actual definition of the surgical practice and

2) the social, economic, sociological, psychological and anthropological forces that go into us seeing it as other than what it is.

Dr. Goldman effectively teaches in this book, from the anthropological perspectives of such luminaries as Ashley Montagu and Margaret Mead, that circumcision is a practice that is older than all recorded history and religions. (The practice was actually regimented and ritualized by the Egyptian priests and pharohs, millenia before the advent of Judaism.) Yet the practice, in and out of a religious context, continues. Dr. Goldman shows us from the purely medical/health/surgical perspective (with an avalanche of evidence and corroborative opinions in the medical profession) that circumcision is a practice that has little to no medical health value, and was once actually called a cure for masturbation and cancer by last century's medical community. Yet the implausible and unscientific theories justifying its existence keep coming up, and the practice continues. Dr. Goldman shows us, amazingly, from an internationally sociological and cultural perspective, that the United States is the only industrialized nation in the modern world that has the overwhelming majority of its infant boys be subjected to the practice. Yet the practice continues. Dr. Goldman shows us, from an ethics in medicine perspective, that circumcision is a practice that, by virtue of the harm done to infant children physically and psychologically--with little to no up side beyond the money going to obstetricians and pediatricians for the procedure--completely rips to shreds any conception of the Hippocratic oath and turns the entire life of any doctor who performs them routinely into a profoundly dangerous lie.

Yet, the practice continues.

It is an old anthropologist's dictum that the most important thing to know about a culture is what it takes for granted. Dr. Ronald Goldman, with CIRCUMCISION, THE HIDDEN TRAUMA gives us not only the hidden, true anatomy of the surgical process, along with the actual complete and (heretofore to my knowledge in everyday America) unknown anatomy of the human male, but also the secret architecture of the social forces and weaknesses that make up the ritualised American denial of the inherently violent nature of its existence. Dr. Goldman shows in this both innovatively and exhaustively researched book that the entire surgical procedure of circumcision depends on the total invalidation of the soul of the infant male child and their personhood for its existence in medicine. Only paleolithic theories of the child feeling no pain and suffering no lasting or remembered traumatic side effects from the procedure--WHICH ROUTINELY INVOLVES THE USE OF NO ANESTHESIA--justify its medical practice; and fly in the face of all kinds of logic while doing so.

I along with most of the country have never seen actual pictures of or witnessed a circumcision; part of the reason I saw no problem with it when I picked this book up. The *pictures* in this book alone of children in the process of being circumcised, however, will change your way of looking at the practice forever--as it has changed me and mine forever. Picture an adult male going through the process of circumcision, complete with his hands, arms and legs forceably bound in industrial strength velcro to keep him from being able to interrupt a surgical process performed on his perfectly healthy sex organ against his will--again, *without anesthesia*--and the first thought that will probably come to your mind is one of two things: the electric chair, or Nazi Germany.

Which by definition takes away the mystery of how BOTH in the 20th century could have come into existence.

I discovered Dr. Goldman's work in the bibliography of one of the seminal books by the psychologist champion of the human child Alice Miller (author of, among other classics in the field, FOR YOUR OWN GOOD, BANISHED KNOWLEDGE and PRISONERS OF CHILDHOOD--THE DRAMA OF THE GIFTED CHILD). Between this, Alice Miller's work, and William Dufty's SUGAR BLUES, I feel as if I have the answer to why our culture can move so far forward and fall so far backward on the evolutionary ladder at the same time. The door separating Western culture from the embrace of higher consciousness, as told to us by poets, mystics,yogis, leaders of ancient religions, transpersonal psychologists and theoretical physicist/philosophers, is our view of the spiritual and physical completeness of the human child--and the actions we take upholding that view.

That door is locked with a dead bolt called CIRCUMCISION. And even unlocking the door, as Europe has already shown us, does not by definition mean opening it. But without unlocking it opening it isn't posible.

Read this if you have to in small doses, but read it; it will change the way you view our world.

Because this unique book exposes significant issues about male circumcision that medical professionals and religious practitioners have long tried to ignore, I cannot recommend it highly enough, not only for the victims of this questionable medical procedure and religious rite, but also for the perpetrators and potential perpetrators of a primitive cultural tradition that causes great harm in our society. As a victim of neonatal genital mutilation myself, I have spent much of my life trying to come to terms with both the physical and psychological trauma involved, in part, by surveying the relevant literature on the topic. However, while I have found many books and articles that deal unapologetically with the physical trauma involved in both male and female genital cutting, as well as the psychological trauma that accompanies female circumcision, this book is, to my knowledge, the first and only published resource that delves into the psychological trauma to which males are subjected through this bizarre procedure. In his well-written study and analysis of the psychological aspects of male circumcision, Dr. Goldman, who is himself Jewish, indeed uncovers the hidden trauma that medical professionals and religious practitioners have so long denied, and he gives voice to those many victims of male circumcision whose post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms have been dismissed by those same professionals and practitioners for whom questioning the wisdom and safety of an age-old ritual would be self-indicting. In this country, the practice of female circumcision has been outlawed because, as a tradition foreign to our Judeo-Christian heritage, its harmful results are deemed self-evident. Unfortunately, many more psychological studies and academic publications confirming Dr. Goldman's findings will probably be necessary before the harmful results of male circumcision are finally accepted similarly as self-evident, and American males are given the same legal rights to genital integrity now granted to females through the U.S. legal system. Nonetheless, Dr. Goldman's book is a significant first step in providing a clear rationale for granting men equal protection under the law.

I just want to read a book that is fair about circumcision. Unfortunately, they don't exist. All books are either extremely for or against. This one is no different.

Fathers Troubles is a wonderful read and Carter Taylor Seaton knows how to tell a story. Her main character, Lawrence Burgher, manages in his short life to acquire and lose a fortune in the boom and bust years of the 1920's and 30's. Much of the story takes place in the coalfields of southern West Virginia that she describes well and in fine detail.
But Lawrence Burgher's troubles affect his wife, children and their families well into the century. The tale Carter Seaton tells is how those generations deal with or fail to deal with his legacy.
The author says, "Fathers Troubles is neither classical memoir nor pure fiction". This reader finds Father's Troubles to be a story of a time, place and people the author knows well.
Ren Parziale

I found the story engrossing from the beginning because of the way Carter focused on details of how life was lived in 1891 all the way through the 1930's. I was able to imagine daily life and get a better grasp on how Mr. Burgher's decisions might have affected his family. It is a sad tale for the Burghers, but found Maggie's reconciliation and self-realization regarding her mother touching and perhaps the most important lesson of the novel.
Since Carter is a family friend I was very excited to read her book. That it took place mostly in Huntington, WV was a bonus as it is my hometown, and I have a lot of fond memories from there.

I picked this book up at Tamarack on the West Virginia Turnpike in the WV books and music section. I was totally mesmerized from the opening page.If this is an example of her first novel, sign me up for an advance copy of number two!! This is a must read!! Frances Case

What a wonderful and easy read for the summer or any time. Carter brings you carefully into her story and keeps you there with intrigue and passion for her story.
Being from Huntington, WV and knowing several members of the family but not the story, the descriptions brought the story up close and personal for me. How excited I was to figure out Eileen was my mother's good friend.
Hope there is another book in Carter's horizon.

This book is a must read for everyone. It combines all the elements of a wonderful story with historical and local information that is facinating.

The story combines the past showing how an intelligent man, Lawrence Burgher, driven by the love he had for his wife and children and the ambition to "be somebody" can end up making choices that are clouded by that ambition. Even though he had no intentions of embezzlement, he was caught up in a web of lies that he just could not untangle. The present aspect of the book shows how Maggie's mother let the tragedies of her youth dictate how she lived her life and how she treated others.

There are many lessons to be learned from this book and Carter Seaton has woven all the lessons into a remarkable and enjoyable read.

This is an interesting and educational explanation of what it means to be Muslim. If you are ready to leave the media stereotypes behind and truly get insight into a world religion with billions of followers, this is the book to read. I highly recommend it. Growing up as a Muslim American, I can finally recommend a book that explains, with sensitivity and intelligence, to my friends that Islam is not a religion of hate and intolerance, but a religion of peace.

I could not put this book down and managed to read it in two days despite being the mother of a newborn! I appreciate the author's clarifications of which practices are rooted in the Qur'an and which are merely cultural practices that have been mistakenly attributed to Islam. Once you understand that there is a difference, it's easy to see that an individual can successfully be both a Muslim and an American. This book is well-researched, but that doesn't mean it's boring. This book was a joy to read and I have already recommended it to many friends

For an extremely informative, open, friendly, down-to-earth, real, heart-warming, fun journey into Islam and being Muslim in America, you MUST read The Muslim Next Door!

There is a growing body of literature that aims to introduce Islam to Americans. Some of the best include Karen Armstrong's "Muhammad: A Biography of the Prophet", Michael Sells' "Approaching the Qur'an: The early revelations", and Imam Feisal Abdul Rauf's "What's Right with Islam is What's Right With America." Sumbul Ali-Karamali's book is different from these other titles in that it written in an engaging style that feels like you are sitting down with the author over a cup of tea to talk about faith. Written out of her personal experience as an American Muslim woman, the author gets to the heart of the questions and concerns that many Americans have about Islam, a religion that is too little understood. This book goes along way in helping to bridge the gap of misunderstanding that exits in the minds of too many Americans about the religion of Islam.

...that an informative book about Islam can be funny? For once, its true. Reading this book made me chuckle while I learned about Islam and Muslims. Hard to put down!

After the Bible, this is the best book written for the church today. Bar None. If this book (the ideas in it) would be taken seriously, it will change the church in America - maybe save it from being like the church in Europe. I've recommended it to every single pastor I know.
Rev. Karen Walters

This is one of those books that you could read at any pace, but to really nudge out the details of the pages you really have to do alot of reflection. What i really like about the book was it opened up avenues for fresh questions and perspective. I found that by preasenting their concepts of ministry tried with real stories makes the book authentic. I love this. It gave a realistic vibe to it.

I was interested in this book because my church is launching a daughter church. The insights that Burke has are so dead on. My husband's Bible study decided to go through the book a chapter at a time, using the discussion questions at the end of each one. The questions are good - really make you think about how the church should look in this culture. I work in a non-profit organization. The entire staff bought the book and we've been using it during staff meetings. This book is accessible, but not "dumbed down" at all.

Great book. I got the book from the library and have been using it for a college class. The book is very good and has actually casued me to rethink some of my ideas about non-christians. There are excellent stories in the book. It reminds me of how Jesus taught; in parables. I have never written a review here, but this book impressed me quite a bit.

Starting a church based on the principle that people should feel safe to express themselves exactly as they are without any semblance of pretense, Burke wrote No Perfect People Allowed to chronicle how he dealt with the messiness that inevitably follows. The book is at its best when Burke simply relates stories of his interactions with authentic people and talks about how he approached each situation and why, but it stumbles when he starts talking about broader principles and the bigger picture. At the end of the book, Burke laments that the church has historically emphasized pastors as instruments of instruction while neglecting to enlist people with leadership gifts into the role, and one certainly gets the impression that Burke himself is more gifted as a leader than a teacher. His examples of practice are greatly superior to his contextualization of them. For example, while he has a reasonable grasp on interacting with people of the postmodern generation, Burke's short theoretical explanation of postmodernism is atrociously awful and carries the potential to mislead ministry leaders who may not have the academic background to discern how far offbase he is.

This is a great book about the simplicity of prayer, anytime... anywhere..
Joyce's teaching has impacting me in a great way and this book is solid teaching on prayer.

The chapter on love has answered many questions I had. I am a Christian seeking to be more and more like my Divine Father and this book has helped me. I recommend this book to anyone who is a christian and those who has an open mind to Divine truths and who seek a deep fellowship with God.

I know the title might not sound that juicy. Prayer is not that exciting. Wrong! Read this book if you want to wash away all the garbage you believe about not praying good enough or correctly. Joyce encourages us to identify the originator of all those thoughts and he lives down below. An encouragment to read.

Joyce Meyer has a great way of getting her point across in this book. She is so down to earth and explains things so clearly for everyone to understand. I know how to pray but I have learned so much more from reading this book.
Everyone should spend the time and the money to read this book it will open many doors for you to GOD!!!
Please read it is.... sensational!!!

I really Loved this Book it helped alot.I need a note book for all i learned and want to high light!!recommend greatly!!!

If you are a dormant Christian as I am and are looking to ignite your spiritual life, this is a great book to start with. I accidentally ran in to this book when I needed it most. I could say, I had hit rock bottom, and this book gave me a lift. I am now in a mission of reading all of Joyce Myers books and finding the purpose of my life.

Thank you Joyce!

Birrell's book is a beauty. He's gone in-depth, into the heart of prayer. I couldn't put this book down until I'd read it through the first time.

So many people misunderstand prayer that, in the sessions I do with clients, I often begin by removing the coercive influence caused by outlining how another person "should" live. Having facilitated the clearing out of truckloads of this stuff, I'm wary of prayer professionals.

But Birrell has written a how-to about authentic giving, free of hooks and agendas.

Clearly this book was a labor of love. May it create ever more love for millions of book buyers and those they care about!

Do we always get what we are praying for? Do we open enough space for the best to flow and blossom? Do we recognize the blessings and the healings we do receive? And do we recognize that each appreciation is a blessing in itself? Birrell Walsh is giving a taste, just enough to whet our interest, and a bright guidance into the ways of prayer developed by various religions.

Easy and fun to read, Dr. Walsh's *Praying for Others* is woven on solid and amazing erudition. Rich with stories and personal experiences, the book is a wonderful and competent guide through diverse traditions and their powerful healing practices.

Years ago a friend asked me, "Why should I be taught how to pray?" And she is right, the prayers for those we love flow spontaneously out from the heart, often even unnoticed. And those *we* don't love are loved by others, and so on... Thus walk the prayers for others.

Yet another friend said once, "Sometimes I wish I knew ten different ways how to pray," and there are many situations in which it is extremely helpful to have a choice of different practices and different forms of prayer. Many people have opened their hearts over the centuries, and the way each did so may open a path we did not yet know. *Praying for Others* offers such a precious bouquet of possibilities, which I find exceptionally useful.

Birrell Walsh's PRAYING FOR OTHERS is a masterpiece of graceful prose that creates a space from which to appreciate a wide variety of connections to the divine. The prayer practices of many faiths are touched upon and presented with great compassion, from the metta blessing in Buddhism, to body-talking shamanism, to Reiki, to prayer with Jesus, to Jewish mystical ascension... and much more.

PRAYING FOR OTHERS is truly a smorgasbord of prayer, from which the reader may sample exotic prayer treats from around the world as well as more familiar approaches to connecting with divine healing energy. Heartfelt real-life prayer stories are included throughout, which gives the book a warm feeling of comfort and non-judgment. There are pitfalls to prayer, as anyone knows who's ever succumbed to feeling called to over-vigilance in praying for anyone and everything who needs help, or who's suffered a great loss and wondered why prayer failed this time. Walsh lovingly embraces all these experiences and more, sharing gentle wisdom in such a way that we too, may find grace in even our darkest hours.

The end result of reading PRAYING FOR OTHERS is nothing short of miraculous, as one discovers that by simply reading this book, one has received the many blessings of prayer.

-- Cynthia Sue Larson, author of "AURA ADVANTAGE: How the Colors in Your Aura Can Help You Attain What You Desire and Attract Success"

having read a number of other reviews here, i find much agreement with all of them. but what is most marvelous to me about "Praying for Others" is that it is the real thing... it IS itself a prayer, for prayer. there is no push... no sales job, no explanations and justifications, no convincing, and no "should this or that". it just is. there. waiting for us to sit down and open into it.

we live in busy, crazy-making times. it's not always easy to slow down, spread out, take notice and care for others in the subtle, powerful ways this book reveals. no amount of convincing will work, and this book rightfully won't go there. it just IS a prayer... IS a gentle wish and personal story of people praying for others. it is one guy, one point of contact and entry, resting in the company of others, all praying for the benefit of others. in this book, birrell walsh makes a little space for us to come sit with him. he introduces us to some remarkable others, includes us in their conversations, shares with us some details of their many and various practices -- and allows us to be reflective, practical, serious, and playful. this book and these people ARE -- and make space for -- all of these, for us and for others.

this is one of two books i carried literally half-way around the world in travels this year. it is a place i return to often, to sit with its stories and people. it is a spark for my practice and a gift i will be giving this holiday season. it is the real deal, a genuine prayer in and of itself, without any hooks or hype or judgment... an ocean that lets us play at its edges, reflect on its surface, or go deep to touch and be touched, all in good company, with others.

As it says in the blurb on the cover of this wonderful book by Birrell Walsh, praying is something we all do, whoever we are and whatever method we use. Walsh's accounts of the diverse prayer and blessing practices of different traditions clearly stem from his own deep interest, personal experience and whole-heartedly inclusive perspective. His writing style is easy to read and humerous and makes a challenging topic very accessible.

Although I am familiar with most of the practices Walsh describes, there are some, eg Reiki, which I would not previously have included in the prayer category. I personally found these nudges to my existing frame of reference both stimulating and enormously positive. How encouraging it is to think of prayer in the broader context, as a path open and available to all of us everyday, every minute, and absolutly not restricted to the 'religious' sphere.

Birrell Walsh's book gently presents us with the sure knowledge that through praying for others there is indeed something we can all do that WILL help. At the present time, with the world as we know it critically threatened by the consequences of human actions, it is good to read of the power and efficacy of prayer and blessing practices, to be reminded that we can ourselves intercede in this way and, above all, to learn somthing of how much praying is actually being done and in how many many different ways.

I have read a lot of books about raising boys, most of them written especially for fathers. This is the first book I have come across especially for moms. As a single mother with a son to raise I have been looking for a book like this.

I really enjoyed this book. Although it is written to speak to mothers who raise their children by them selves, as a stay at home mom of a 2yo, I found the information in the book helpful. My biggest take away is to have a conversation with boys while you are moving, it registers in their brains better if you are active with them. What a great tip to help me be a better mom.

I was having a lot of trouble with my relationship with my 9 yr. old son, so I bought this book (as well as The Mommy Manual by Barbara Curtis), and although I've only just read the first chapter, I've already learned a few things about boys (and men) that I didn't understand before, and I can look at my son with a little more understanding now. I recommend this book to all moms who have sons (or a husband for that matter!) :)

This book was exactly what I was looking for. The author provides a Christian view into how moms can help instill desirable traits in her son. It was full of great tips for single moms. It was realistic, honest, and encouraging. A must-read for moms of boys!

As a mom of two boys, I have found this book to be an eye opener. It is written in a simple yet delightful way. I recommend it for anyone who has boys or who work with boys.

If you are looking for the best book on expository preaching...YOU FOUND IT!! This was a required textbook for one of my seminary classes, and I absolutely loved reading it. No other book that I have read so far and I've read quite a few about preaching, really explains the "HOW-TO" of expository preaching! I highly recommend this book to all pastors, teachers and laymen.

Introduction

"In this book, I pass on a method to those learning to preach or to experienced people who want to brush up on the basics" (14). So says Dr. Haddon Robinson as he offers this second edition of this classic volume known as Biblical Preaching: The Development and Delivery of Expository Messages. Though first published in 1980, this work is still a staple in homiletics departments and pastors' studies across the world.

Robinson received his Ph.D. at the University of Illinois and serves as the Harold John Ockenga Distinguished Professor of Preaching at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. Prior to this position, he served as president and professor of homiletics at Denver Seminary after teaching homiletics at Dallas Theological Seminary for nineteen years.

Summary

Chapter One, entitled "The Case for Expository Preaching," Robinson begins by saying, "This is a book about expository preaching, but it may have been written for a depressed market." In this chapter, Robinson shows the lack of regard for expository preaching in evangelical circles, then outlines the church's need for this manner of preaching and exactly what expository preaching is. Chapter Two, entitled "What's the Big Idea?" displays the importance of an expositor to mine out one main concept or idea. He defines an idea as something which "enables us to see what was previously unclear" (39). He also notes that "an idea begins in the mind when things ordinarily separated come together to form unity that either did not exist before or was not recognized previously" (39).

In Chapter Three, entitled "Tools of the Trade," Robinson introduces three stages in preparing expository sermons: "choosing the passage to be preached" (53), studying the passage and gathering the notes (58), then proceeding to "relate the parts to each other to determine the exegetical idea and its development" (66). Chapter Four, entitled "The Road from Text to Sermon," includes stage four which is "analyzing the exegetical idea" (75).

In Chapter Five, entitled "The Arrow and the Target," Robinson covers stages five and six in the development of expository preaching: "Formulating the Homiletical Idea" in which he encourages preachers to state their exegetical idea in "the most exact, memorable sentence possible" (103); and determining the purpose for the sermon. "A purpose differs from a sermon idea, therefore, in the same way that a target differs from the arrow; as taking a trip differs from studying a map; as baking a pie differs from reading a recipe" (107).

In Chapter Six, entitled, "The Shapes Sermons Take," Robinson helps the preacher decide how to accomplish the purpose of the sermon as well as outlining the sermon (stages seven and eight, respectively). Chapter Seven addresses filling in the sermon outline and, as Robinson states in his title, "making dry bones live" (139). Chapter Eight has the provocative title, "Start with a Band and Quit All Over," which deals with the preparation of introductions and conclusions.

Chapter Nine, entitled, "The Dress of Thought," Robinson notes, "Gift or not, we must use words, and the only question is whether we will use them poorly or well" (184). He helps the preacher in areas such as transitions, clarity of thought, developing a personal style, and the use of metaphors. The last chapter, "How to Preach So People Will Listen," deals with the delivery of the sermon itself. Robinson says that sermons "live only when they are preached. A sermon ineptly delivered arrives stillborn" (201).

Critical Analysis

With engaging writing and timely humor, Robinson seeks to communicate one prominent theme: "expository preaching is the communication of a biblical concept" (35). Even though one would be more persuaded by his thoughts had he served more in the preaching ministry of a local church (he served at Dallas Youth for Christ from 1952-55, then as Associate Pastor at the First Baptist Church of Medford, Oregon from 1956-19581), his principles of preparing and preaching expository sermons are tremendous and will serve the Church of Jesus Christ and his ministers very well indeed.

One of the strengths of this work is its pastoral nature. Preachers are not called to be lecturers and are not simply called to preach the Word of God. Preachers are called to preach the Word of God to God's people. Robinson rightly observes that "we must preach to a world addressed by the TV commentator, the newspaper columnist, and the playwright" (29). In the Preface to the Second Edition, Robinson notes how the culture has changed since 1980 when this work was first published. "Television and the computer have influenced the ways we learn and think. Narrative preaching has come into vogue and reflects the reality that listeners in a television culture think with pictures in their heads" (10). While he may go too far in giving room for narrative preaching, he rightly assesses 21st century culture. This culture is the world in which the expositor preaches. So not only does Robinson note that "as shepherds, we relate to the hurts, cries, and fears of our flocks," we must also understand the external issues to which our people are exposed every hour of every day.

Along with this area of pastoral ministry in connection with preaching, Robinson also gives more room to the role and responsibility of the listener. He notes:

Expositors may be respected for their exegetical abilities and their diligent preparation, but these qualities do not transform any of them into a Protestant pope who speaks ex cathedra. Listeners also have a responsibility to match the sermon to the biblical text. As Henry David Thoreau wrote, "It takes two to speak the truth -- one to speak, and another to hear." ... If a congregation is to grow, it must share the struggle (24).

Robinson notes that the average listener in the pew hopes you will answer this one question: "So what? What difference does it make" (86)? Before this question is in the congregants' hearts, this question must be answered in the study as he asks, "Exactly what is the biblical writer talking about (66)?" The shared struggle starts with the preacher in the study as he wrestles with God to find out his intended meaning.

Another strength in this work is the engaging humor Robinson employs in this volume. While many would consider reading a book on expositional preaching boring (even some preachers may feel this way!), Robinson's use of humor helps hook the reader in order that the reader may approach this material with ease. This example, though mentioned earlier, stands as a great example of opening up the very first chapter with humor: "This is a book about preaching, but it may have been written for a depressed market" (17). In the preface to the first edition, he makes this observation:

If I can claim any qualification, it is this: I am a good listener. During two decades in the classroom I have evaluated nearly six thousand student sermons. My friends marvel that after listening to hundreds of fledgling preachers stumble through their first sermons, I am not an atheist (14).

In another example after he acknowledges his debt to all who have influenced his thinking on expositional preaching, he closes the paragraph by noting, "Since all of these and others influenced me deeply, it is only fair that for weaknesses in this volume they should shoulder a large share of the blame" (15)! This brand of humor disarms the critic and relaxes those who initially approach the topic of expository preaching with any misgivings or fears.

One weakness is a quote located in the Preface to the Second Edition about his view of women ministers, a view which has changed since his first edition in 1980. He notes:

I've also changed my language to reflect my theology. God doesn't distribute gifts by gender. Both women and men have the ability and the responsibility to communicate God's Word. I have always believed that, but the language in my first book reflected a distinct male bias. . . . In this revision I hope I have demonstrated the fruits of my repentance (10).

Robinson's theology is on display when, in an explanation of how our outlines should have development, he plays the part of a listener who asks of the preacher, "What evidence does she have for that statement" (140)? Here again he opens the door for us to peer into his theological framework which allows for women ministers. If Robinson had titled this book, "Biblical Teaching," then the reader would understand the necessity for this revision. Many men and women in our churches teach, but the New Testament sets parameters on who teaches whom and where (1 Corinthians 14:33-35, 1 Timothy 2:11-13). For twenty-seven years however, this book has borne the title, "Biblical Preaching." When Robinson notes that the theology he has is "my theology," this reviewer is troubled by the use of the `my.' For someone who claims to look to authorial intent, the description of his views seems too self-centered. This reviewer believes that his theology has strayed in this area from Scripture.

Conclusion

Robinson excels in bringing a topic which many would deem dry and gives it life by coupling his extensive homiletical and hermeneutical knowledge with picturesque wit. Aside from the one weakness mentioned above, this book is a must-read for every pastor and aspiring preacher of the Gospel.

This is Robinson's highly revered "how to" preaching textbook. He presents a ten-step process of sermon preparation in his typically precise style. No word is wasted. In many respects numerous other books on preaching are building on this one, trying to offer some clarification or slight adjustment. That is certainly not true of all, but of many.

The emphasis throughout is on preaching a thoroughly Biblical message, through effective communication, in a way that is entirely relevant to the specific contemporary audience. The "Big Idea" is central to the philosophy and the procedure of preaching. So the ten steps move from understanding the text to the point of an accurate and clearly defined exegetical idea, through the process of developing the homiletical idea with clear purpose, to the practical matters of sermon shape and effective content. Although there are other books that deal in detail with issues of delivery, Robinson's brief section on delivery is helpfully succinct.

I think it is fair to say that anyone interested in the subject of preaching should have this book. Robinson's combination of Biblical commitment, expertise in communication theory, and renown as a teacher of preaching, effectively blend to make this a very effective book. The book does not deal with everything as fully as one might like, for example it would be nice to have more examples and demonstration of Biblical exegesis. However, this book remains the number one book in its field with good reason!

This review deals with the 2nd edition, a great book made even better.

[...]

This is a great book on expository preaching. While it covers the basics, I believe that it does so in such a way that it will benefit even very experienced preachers. For those who are relatively new to preaching, this tool will foster good habits. For those who are more seasoned, it will sharpen the mind regarding some things that are often taken for granted or done almost unconsciously. The text is well-respected for a reason.

I thought I knew about preaching the Bible before I read this book but relised how ignorant I had been. It helped me to get down to some basic but vital principles of studying and preparation.

This book is a must read for those in recovery but I think it would help almost anyone. I got it from someone who bought 10 copies and gave them to everyone close to her. Now I want to buy 10 copies and give it to those I care about. The twelve steps are presented to you in a way that allows you to appreciate the journey. Trudging the road to happy destiny, I couldn't put the book down! I'm starting to read it again and have formed a group w/several other women, we will meet monthly and go through each chapter so we can continue to grow together -- one day at a time. Bless you Tyler and Bob...and Edward Bear wherever you are!

I thought the flow of conversation in this book made for interesting reading and discussion. A good read for anyone in recovery. Do you need a sponsor? This book answers the question clearly. Yes. A poignant look at how we are all in this together and here to help those who remind us of how we used to be.

I started this book not sure if I am an alcoholic, not sure of anything. The help and hope and LIFE giving forces that come tumbling out of these pages have less to do with alcohol than you may think. As Tyler says, "alcohol is a neutral substance - it is like Pepsi, Gatorade...." It isn't about the drink. It is about the soul.
I have read it 5 times. I have bought 4 copies and given them to the people in my life that I really do love. I will re-read this book countless times for the rest of my life and along with my Thanks be to God, will be Thanks be to Tyler.

I was doing my weekly service committment answering phones at the Santa Cruz County, CA., Central Office, and in walks this dynamite, enthusiastic lady with 14 months sober. I've got eight years and have been hitting my second bottom. Agony! We talk and she tells me about this book, which I proceed to order - and IT'S about second bottoms! A perfect book for me. I've seen stuff in it that puts things in the right light - like a passage from the Tao that reads: "The Proverb has it that/The way of light often looks dark./The way that goes forward appears to go backward./The flat path looks hilly./The power that is lofty looks like an abyss./The power that stands firm looks flimsy./What is in its pure state looks faded./Great talents ripen late./Great sound is silent./Great form is shapeless./The Tao is hidden and nameless./ Yet it alone knows how to render help and fulfill." Well, I tell ya, folks. That really made sense to me. It's about giving up the struggle and letting God, because this AA Higher Power is just like that, and always kind.
I'll finish this review with a little plug for the people at Evanco who took my order and sent this used book to me in very good shape and in very good time. Great people!

Keep Coming Back!
Thomas

I just ordered my 9th or 10th copy of this book. I've lost count. I keep giving it away because it is the most helpful book on recovery I have ever read. I seriously want Tyler to be my sponsor but I guess he's pretty busy. P.S. The Deadly Fears and Needs books are also excellent (in fact I just re-ordered those too!!!) I'm beginning to think I should buy these books by the gross. If you are at all interested in improving your spiritual life and wondering what its all about, this is the book for you. You don't have to be a recovering alcoholic to get it but if you know a recovering alcholic this is the perfect present. You might also want to pick up the Velveteen Rabbit. Thank you Edward Bear.

Being over 20 something I had a hard time with the first few chapters, because I totally agreed with everything the author said. I don't think disillusionment with the church is something that is reserved only for the 20 something group. It runs the generational gammet. Chapter nine had me in tears and the rest of the book was pure perfection. A must read for everyone inside and outside of the church.

This book was an absolute page turner for me. I empathized with the author as a believer, yes, but definitely as a pastor's daughter who has seen the church from almost a 360 degree view. Dear Church sheds light on those issues that keep many looking from a distance, yet they remain reluctant to fully dive in. On the other hand, it calls believers to conviction with the simple reminder that "We are the church." And, the church is Christ's bride. Our commitment is (or should be) "for better or worse."

Every believer may benefit from adding this one to their library. However, it is surely a must for Christian leaders in the church or in the community, Worship Leaders, Pastors, Pastors' family, and anyone else who has gone beyond the realm of frustration. May you be blessed my this young woman's transparency!

Summary

With witty humor and in a cleverly constructed format, Sarah Cunningham writes a series of letters on her generation's disillusionment with the church. Telling things as they are, these letters are addressed simply as "Dear Church". Cunningham begins by recounting her own story of disillusionment with the church and then shares a list of characteristics she has found to be true about twentysomethings - who make up the so-called "disillusioned generation". Following, she explains our disillusionment and proposes a way for hope in the end.

One of Cunningham's particularly astute observations comes from her list of twentysomething characteristics. She points out that because of today's technology - which allows us to "get the dinner dishes done and still make it to the movie on time" - we live in a "both-and" culture that has pervaded not only our society, but also our politics and spirituality. As a result, we do not feel threatened by polar opposites but perhaps thrive off the differences. I appreciate Cunningham's mention of so many "groups" who are often excluded by the church because I believe that it is in the context of twentysomethings' "both-and" culture - as well as our resistance to identity labels - that the postmodern generation has come to value inclusiveness.

Review

Cunningham's fundamental question regards the identity of the church. What or who is the church? Her raw reflections realize that the church is human, that "thanks to the imperfect nature of its participants, every kind of local church we imagine or bring to expression is marked by human flaws, missed expectations, and disillusionment" (2006:108). This statement most plainly means that the church is the people themselves, not the building nor the institutional structure. The quote also brings to the table what Cunningham raises as a major reason for our disillusionment: unreasonable, unhealthy expectations up to which no human could possibly live! Implicitly tying this to the characteristic need among twentysomethings for authenticity, she writes that we must honestly admit the flaws that are present in the church. Finally, the quote leads to the book's conclusion that the church is not to be the hope of the world. Rather, Jesus is! We are merely flawed reflections of Jesus, trying to live by his example but failing miserably at it.

By her poignant understanding that the church is the people, Cunningham creatively places the responsibility for disillusionment not on a distant, faceless institutional church but on each individual comprising it, including - and perhaps even especially - on those who have been disillusioned. In her words: "We all do our part in contributing to the church's shared mistakes, but when it comes time to take the blame, we seem to lose our individuality. All of a sudden, the church is just one faceless, nameless, ownerless institution that can't own up to its failures" (140). Therefore, we must each collectively take responsibility for the mistakes of the church, owning up to the reality whether we are to blame or not. Indeed, I would agree that ownership of the church - or the lack thereof when it comes to our collective faults - is key toward developing serious credibility, not only with the church, but also - and I believe more importantly - with the world. Dedicating an entire chapter to the dangers of dwelling on our disillusionment and the need for forgiveness, she calls attention to the fact that any solution process will necessarily involve pain. However, that "suffering is actually linked to the production of hope" (135). We must understand this reality in order to keep moving forward and not run away when the difficult moments arrive.

In a sense, Cunningham's conclusion borders on the simplistic. While she introduces a solution - to live as Christ - I wish she would have analyzed it in the context of postmodernism, using her list of Generation X and Y characteristics. What is it about twentysomethings that might call for a slightly different solution? What are some practical steps we can take - specific to our generation - toward living like Jesus? Indeed, Cunningham does not directly address the postmodern issue other than to base the book on her extensive correspondence with a diversity of postmodern twentysomethings. At the same time, perhaps a simplistic solution is best, since that is what the reader may remember best in order to apply to complex contexts.

My final comment is this: What about those who are just plain disinterested in church?

Dear twentysomethings, oldersomethings and younger. I read this book when I was eighteen years of age and cannot express to you how deeply moved I was. When beginning the book, the first thing I saw was someone just like me, getting everything off their chest about the Church today and was completely reading my mind.I must say, in the beginning it was very nice to let out even my own anger with the Church as I read through these pages, but as I read on, it became a tool for me. She began to uncover how these problems and issues we face with the Church today can be of great use and in turn be the exact opposite of what we thought. This is a book I thought was going to make me feel all good inside about not wanting to go to Church anymore and make me feel right about my rebellion and frustrations with the church. I came to find the exact opposite with her convincing people that maybe leaving the Church isn't the best thing and showing how to truly forgive. It's a beautiful book that you will relate to whether you are twentysomething or not. This book brought me great hope and insight. What a blessings I have received!

Shalom

First, I was extremely excited when the names and places of my (and now Sarah's) hometown of Jackson, MI showed up. I have been away from home for four years now, pursuing my M.Div. degree while pastoring a small, rural church in Ohio and I miss home. The nature and substance of the letters struck a deep chord with things I have observed, experienced, and criticized from within the system to which she writes. However...

Part of my dilemma as Christian/pastor/worship leader/theologian/dad/etc. is the undertone of Sarah's book (which echoes the very words I have heard from many people in my own generation (X) and after) that take the form of complaint regarding "boring worship services." She makes valid points about the word "service" and the like that we associate with "going to church." But what I fear is the ignorance (and I mean this word in it's true sense: the act of ignoring) of the word "worship." The Sunday gathering is not, as the Boomers started and everyone after swallowed hook, line, and sinker, feeding time. It is not designed (nor has it ever been so until contemporary services came along) to give anyone an encounter with God, an emotional/spiritual high, or some divine insight. To be sure, any one or all of these MAY happen, but that is not the intention of the gathering. It is WORSHIP, it is an offering of ourselves TO God, an intentional giving of our attention to God, a recognition of the, for lack of a better word, hierarchy of the relationship. Worship is not an expectant waiting for God to come to me, it is me coming before God. It is not a time to receive, it is a time to give.

I can hear the heads shaking everywhere now, so please don't misunderstand. God does desire relationship with us. God does desire our relationship to each other. This is why love of God and love of neighbor are, in Jesus' teaching, the greatest and second greatest commandment (note that the greatest is our love TO God with all our heart, mind, soul, etc.). I am deeply excited that the dialogue of God's people is finally taking this relational turn. But I beg you to consider how you would feel about a relationship with another person who only came to you in order to GET from you.

Keep seeking, keep loving, be at peace and be blessed.