“Redeeming Pleasure” by Jeremy Jernigan

In this “post modern” generation, the terms “seeking pleasure” and “seeking God” are often considered to be mutually exclusive. However, pastor and author Jeremy Jernigan takes the reader outside the proverbial box. He addresses a number of issues that challenge the church of today. Creation theology, homosexuality in the church, parenting, entertainment, among others.

The message contained within is man’s pursuit of these things “of the flesh” demonstrates how we seek pleasure to fill various voids in life that are ultimately fulfilled only by the pleasure of a real relationship with Jesus Christ.

“Redeeming Pleasure” isn’t necessarily a title that would jump into my hands from the shelf of my local Christian bookstore. However, Pastor Jernigan offers some compelling arguments across the range of topics. While Jernigan’s theology is more liberal than my own, I still appreciate his zeal. This is a well-researched volume and fairly presented with strong scriptural support.

In this regard, for those seeking a new view of the relationship between seeking pleasure and seeking God, I can commend this work to you.

I received an advance reader’s copy of this title from the publisher in exchange for a fair, honest and timely review. There are no other ties or expectations from the publisher, author or this reviewer.

Ready for a Couple Sleepless Nights?

The Forge imprint of Tom Doherty Associates has found an excellent source of future mystery thrillers. Author Michael Ransom is, first and foremost, a scientist specializing in toxicogenomics and pharmacogenetics. His prior written work has appeared in various medical journals. “The Ripper Gene” marks his debut plunge into the genre of Mystery/Thrillers. And a noble effort it is.

Though not wanting to sound so similar to other reviewers, I can’t help but to also tell you that this book grabs you in the first few pages. And more impressively, it doesn’t let you go until the very end with an unexpected outcome. Mr. Ransom does a very good job weaving knowledge of his own field of work into a thrilling story line. Together, fact and fiction blend into a very readable and entertaining mystery. Michael Ransom is a gifted writer.

As a result of the information presented above, I must give this book the highest rating and to highly commend the volume for your reading enjoyment. Anyone who enjoys forensics and science paired with mystery will thoroughly this tale. And after reading, I am looking forward to the next publication from Michael Ransom. 5 STARS

I received an advance readers copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a timely and honest review. There are no other connections or expectations from the author, publisher, or this reviewer.

“God Speaks” by Dr. Craig A. Evans

First, may I say that I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a honest and timely review. I have no other associations or expectations from either the publisher or the author.

Upon the first receipt of this book, I tried to start reading it a couple of times before it really caught my interest. Dr. Craig Evans is a renowned Biblical scholar. For the more academic among us, I believe they will find this to be an excellent work, chocked full of important data. The casual reader or newbie Christian may find himself scratching his head, trying to understand all the data..

This is a well-written book that should be well received by the theological community. I say the next thing, not to cast negativity on the volume, but to try to clarify a point. My personal reading of this book was difficult. I found myself reading the same paragraph two and three times in my effort to understand. I believe that the content of this book will be “over the heads” of the average reader looking to learn. It’s entirely academic, showing little of the author’s personality. But, with this subject, that is perfectly acceptable.

The author’s purpose, I believe, is to equip Christians to understand and defend the Gospel in this post-modern world. Dr. Evans does an excellent job in summarily outlining his argument for such things as the Creation Story, the Source of Christ’s authority, the Last Days, etc.

My favorite part of the book was Part 3, “Common Questions About the Bible”. A chapter is devoted to understanding the violence in the Bible. And, another chapter identifies numerous non-Canon tangibles that support the Bible’s content, meaning, and authority. Examples of these would include: the Rosetta Stone, Egyptian inscriptions, the Davidic era ruins in Jerusalem, the Dead Sea Scrolls, and many more that the secular, scientific community cannot refute.

I believe that “God Speaks” is an analysis of a centuries long love story. It’s about God’s love, His mercy, His longing for relationship with His People.

I give this book 4-Stars because it is well written and documented, but at the same time, a bit un-accessible to the young Christian and the general population. Hey, if you want to learn more about the Bible than you could ever imagined, this book should be on your library shelf.

A New Way To Tackle Our Weight

“The Skinny Life: the secret to physical, emotional, and spiritual fitness” is a well written book by Crystal Dwyer Hansen. She happens to be married to Mark Victor Hansen, he of “Chicken Soup for the Soul” fame.

First, I believe Mrs. Hansen is an accomplished writer in her own style apart from her husband. I see many similarities in their writing styles, which are uplifting, educational, and inspirational. What was pleasing for me, was that this book doesn’t have half of its pages filled with recipes for oddball concoctions that we will never eat.

Indeed, Crystal focuses on the whole man model (not only body, but mind and spirit as well). Though millions daily work on the mind and spirit in their meditative work, Bible Study work, and other self-healing activities, few have taken diet as part of that tri-partite man to accomplish great things. Other writers have already discussed the various parts of the book, and have talked about the “Thief Foods” and the”Saint Foods”. Perhaps readers may not care for those monikers. It’ just a good positive way, in my opinion, to address foods that are good for you and foods that are bad for you. One may identify them as “food that will kill you” and “foods that won’t kill you”.

Please don’t get caught up in semantics. In a time that our culture is adopting terms like “Mindfulness”, this book addresses a mindful process of getting your weight (as well as the rest of your life) in control by adopting habits that will maintain and improve your life. The Skinny Life style doesn’t require scales, tape measures, food scales, or measuring cups. This change in lifestyle focuses on what causes one to over eat, and developing disciplined habits that promote physical and emotional fulfillment, and stop using food as a “comfort food”.

I do recommend this book. Especially to chronic dieters who’ve tried everything from cabbage soup to zero carb fads that keeps the dieter on the roller coast of weight. This plan shows the reader a new way to live by being mindful of ones activities and their consequences.I received an advanced readers copy of this book from the publisher, in exchange for an honest and timely review. There is no further relationship between this reviewer and the publisher or author.

“Happiness According to Jesus” by Bobby Schuller

I was pleasantly surprised when I stared  reading this excellent work by Robert Schuller’s grandson.  I expected to read another “possibility thinking” book.  The possibility thinking movement began during the life and ministry of Norman Vincent Peale at the Marble Collegiate Church on New York City’s Fifth Avenue. At that time, Peale’s theology took hold across the world, and Peale’s name was forever linked to the Positive Thinking movement.  Dr. Peale was, at the time, one of America’s most admired preachers.

In 1955, a young Dutch-American farm boy from Iowa brought his brand of positive thinking to California, and eventually, the world.  The farm boys fame and congregation was born at a drive-in movie facility.  Every Sunday, worshipers would drive in, hang the speaker on the car’s window and listened as Schuller stood atop the concession and delivered his own brand of positive theology, which he called “Possibility Thinking”,

Now, 60 years later, that same congregation, better known as the Crystal Cathedral, still exists; just in a smaller version. Today, that congregation is pastored by Robert V. (Bobby) Schuller.  A young, up and coming minister.

This is Bobby’s second book.  The book is based on The Sermon on the Mount, as the author shows us a fresh approach to studying Christ’s best known sermon. He tries to show us, as the subtitle suggests, ‘What it Means to Be Blessed’.

Bobby has risen from his possibility thinking roots, and delivers a very readable and thorough account of how The Sermon on the Mount can be seen through 21st Century eyes.

The book is a study of the 6th and 7th Chapters of Matthew, but the underlying theme throughout takes us back to Matthew 6:33: “Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you.”

“Happiness According to Jesus” is a departure from the classic Schuller ‘think good thoughts’ theology, with strong commentary and good theology.  I believe this book will let the world meet Bobby Schuller for the first time and recognize him as a seriously minister of the Gospel, and establish him among the group of great young Christian thinkers in the mode of David Platt, Mark Casto, Graig Groschel, Francis Chan, and other voices of tomorrow.

“Happiness According to Jesus is a wonderful, inspirational and quick read.  I highly recommend it.

I received a copy of this book as an ARC from the publisher in exchange for a timely and honest review.  No relationships exist between the publisher, author, and this reviewer.

Happy Reading!

Empire’s End by Jerry B. Jenkins

Before I discuss this particular book, allow me to sing the praises of author, Jerry B. Jenkins. Mr. Jenkins first rose to fame in my eyes when he co-authored the “Left Behind” series with Tim LaHaye.  Jerry Jenkins is one of the most prolific and popular Christian writers of our day.  You can be assured that a book by Jenkins will be enjoyable, thrilling, historically and scripturally accurate, and inspirational.  One of my favorite authors.

Mr. Jenkins does not disappoint in his latest effort on the life of the Apostle Paul and the crumbling of the Roman Empire.  A learned scholar, Saul of Tarsus was a Hebrew Zealot, set on the destruction of this new movement called “Christianity”.

But, we know the story of his famous journey to Damascus.  In a literal blink of an eye, Christ’s greatest persecutor became Christ’s greatest Apostle.

The book is historical fiction, true to its Biblical roots and true to the historical facts of the day.  It is a great piece of fiction and will have a wide range of appeal to a wide range of readers.  I always try to withhold any spoilers in my reviews. Just know that Jerry Jenkins has provided us with another excellent story about one of the greatest times in human history.  His grand imagination has allowed us to listen in to a life transformed by the light of our Lord.  And that same light led to the downfall of an evil empire.

I received this book as an ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest and timely review.  There are no other connections between this reviewer, the publisher, or the author.  This review will also appear on Amazon.com and Goodreads.com.  Happy reading!!

He has not only hit a home run with “Empire’s End”, he’s hit for “the cycle”.

GET THIS BOOK!!  It bears my personal Seal of Approval. 🙂

“The Miracles in You” by Mark Victor Hansen

I’ve never really been a huge fan of the “Chicken Soup” series. But, I found myself reading Mark Victor Hansen’s newest volume with great enjoyment and satisfaction.

Here is a stylistic departure from the “Chicken Soup” series. An engaged reader will find him/her self stopping, and re-reading the last sentence, paragraph or page in order to fully understand, and absorb the many truths pointed out in this book.

The theme of this book is that miracles abound all around us, and it’s our own change of perspective that helps us recognize, receive, and bless ourselves and others through the miracles God sends our direction every day. Stories of famous and not so famous people are included to prove the existence and connectiveness of miracles. One of my favorite examples is a story about a young shoe store clerk named Dwight L. Moody. The flow of the blessings begins with Rev. Moody’s Sunday School teacher and the tree of miracles that spreads down to the Reverend Billy Graham and his subsequent offspring. Many more examples help the reader learn, know, and understand the source and perpetuation of miracles.

We also are treated to the teaching that ‘there are no ‘co-incidences’ in this life. And we are taught that a single miracle, in a single person’s life, can create a ripple effect that could touch hundreds, thousands, or even millions.

Mr. Hanson’s writing is inspiring. So, who knows, I just may have to go back and pick up a copy or two of the “Chicken Soup” series!

Therefore, I heartily commend this book for your reading pleasure, encouragement, and inspiration. I consider it a sure 5-Star read.

I received this volume as an advanced reader’s copy (ARC) from the publisher in exchange for a timely and honest review. I have no ties to the author or publisher, and no expectations beyond this review. This will also be posted on Amazon.com, my blog: jonreviewsbooks1.wordpress.com, and other publishing resources.

“Fallen: Out of the Sex Industry and Into the Arms of the Savior”

“Fallen” is, at times, a dark memoir, and at other times it is hopeful and inspirational. Written by Annie Lobert, a former sex worker (i.e., stripper, escort, and prostitute. It chronicles the mis-adventures of a beautiful teenager who grew up in a terribly dysfunctional family, was sexually abused, and just wanted to be loved.

To go into great detail of the book would present way too many spoilers. Let’s just say that it is an autobiographical look of how far one can fall into depravity because of sin, association, and poor decisions. However, it is also a look of how one can be raised from the gutter to new life through the grace of Christ’s atonement.

This book isn’t for young people. At the same time it may be appropriate for a parent to share with a teen who may be walking a moral tightrope. I think this book is a must read for every parent of teenagers. I thought I was pretty well “in the know” about stuff like this. But I quickly found out that I was quite wrong.

I can’t say that I “LOVED” the book, because of its frightening and disturbing content. But, I did find the book very enlightening and educational.

You will, though, rejoice with Annie as she works to remove herself from her behaviors and her addictions. It is, at the end of the day, a book of grace.

I received a copy of this book as an ARC from the publisher (Worthy Publishing) in exchange for an honest and timely review. I have no ties with the author or publisher. You will also find this review on Amazon.com, and my blog: jonreviewsbooks1@wordpress.com.

Jesus, Jihad, and Peace by Dr. Michael Youssef (Worthy Publishing)

May I commend to you, “Jesus, Jihad, and Peace” by Michael Youssef.

I am a big fan of books regarding Biblical Prophecy. It seems I learn something new with each reading. This book, however, ranks as one of the best ever, at least in my opinion.

Every book on prophecy will discuss the current Middle East Theatre, as does Dr. Youssef. What sets this is apart from others is the fact that the author grew up in the the Middle Eastern powder keg. With amazing clarity, Dr. Youssef not only discusses Iran, Iraq, Israel, ISIS, and radical Islam. But, with his unique understanding, having grown up in The Epicenter (a term first used by writer Joel C. Rosenburg), Michael Youssef shows a peek of “why” all this stuff is going on.

He gets us into the minds of radical Jihadists. As we understand their culture of violence and Jihad, beginning centuries ago, we begin to understand their mindsets and motivations for their actions. Don’t get me wrong. Just because I better understand it does not mean that I condone nor agree with their practices. Islam is NOT a religion of peace. It has been hijacked by evil, barbaric leaders who even kill their own.

There are few books that I just can’t put down. However, this is one of the few. An enjoyable, yet frightening, read. A 5 star piece of work.

I received a copy of this book as an ARC from the publisher in exchange for a fair and timely review. I have no other associations with the author or the publisher. This review may also be found on Amazon.com and my blog: jonreviewsbooks1@Wordpress.com.

The Miracle of the Kurds by Stephen Mansfield

Stephen Mansfield is one of my favorite authors/commentators out there.  I enjoy Stephen as host of the daily Derek Prince Ministries broadcasts.  I enjoyed earlier books, such as “The Mormonizing of America”, “Lincoln’s Battle with God” and others.  To date, Mr. Mansfield’s book for men, “Mansfield’s Book of Manly Men” is perhaps the best book I’ve read in the past couple of years.

I mention the above titles to remind rules that Mr. Mansfield is a very prolific writer of a vast array of subjects, with a very unique viewpoint of today’s society.

Stephen Mansfield’s latest book, “The Miracle of the Kurds” does not disappoint.  In the past, I’d heard of the Kurdish people.  I knew they “resided” in the mountains of Northern Iraq.  More recently, I heard about the Kurdish Peshmerga battling in Syria and against ISIS.

Mansfield introduces us to a people with a rich 2,000+ year history.  Kurd’s have lived through wars, pestilence, and persecution. Yet, they remain a proud and strong people about whom we have much to learn.  This is a culture that has bounced back and thrived after, in 1991, they were marked for genocide by the Iraqi government led by Saddam Hussein.  Their story is remarkable, and the author goes to great lengths to learn everything he can about them.

There is a large settlement of Kurds in Nashville, Tennessee.  A large bulk of the author’s research was gained and confirmed from these new Americans.

Chapter 9 (on page 151) begins:

“The road to freedom for an oppressed people seems always to require the defining violent episode.  We can wish this weren’t true, but history is too full of examples to deny the principle.  The terrible moment seems to serve a purpose.  It becomes not only a monument to the oppression of a people but also the galvanizing experience necessary for their deliverance.  Black South Africans have their Soweto.  Native Americans have their Trail of Tears or Wounded Knee.  African Americans have their thousands of lynchings.  India has its Amritsar.  So the pattern continues.  The Kurds have their episode too: Halabjah.  As long as Kurds live upon the earth, so too will the memory of Halabjah…”

This fine volume does a great job in introducing the Kurdish people to us.  And, as a result, Mr. Stephen Mansfield continues to be among my favorite author and cultural commentator.  I commend this book to you.

This reviewer received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.  I have no other ties to the author or publisher.  Copies of this review appear on Amazon.com, Goodreads.com, and my blog: jonreviewsbooks1.wordpress.com.  Your feedback is appreciated. Thank you.