Reviews (7)

How to face persecution
Every Christian should read this autobiography. It will help you understand what you might expect and how you should react in future persecutions, which might come from the populace (as Hollywood and the media stirs public hatred against Christians, especially Catholics), expansionist totalitarian regimes (now that they have found easy access to so many of our military secrets), or militant religious fundamentalists (as they are in Africa and Malaysia).

Fr. Ciszek is being investigated for possible canonization. He would be a saint along the lines of St. Peter, rather than along the lines of St. Therese of Lisieux. He volunteered for service in Stalinist Russia. He had always wanted to do the will of God, until he was severely challenged by repeated interrogations in prison in Stalinist Russia. His realization of his weakness was the turning point in his life, much as St. Peter's was after he denied Christ.

What we learn from this book is that we should accept and rely on God's will, with our eye on the ultimate goal (union with God), even in our seemingly insignificant daily activities. Now that you know what you would learn, you may decide that you need not read the book. Don't be deceived. You will not learn the lesson from reading that one sentence but rather by reading Fr. Ciszek's own account of his failings, his humility, and his reaction to adverse conditions in prison and out. His experiences, and his insight into his behavior, will burn the lesson into your brain. We all experience the same challenges and frustrations, albeit to a lesser intensity. For example, we are all sometimes placed with people who are obnoxious and overbearing, but not to the intensity of Communist prison guards. You can see how Father turns such circumstances into an opportunity to accede to God's will.

Father will teach you much about life. He will convince you that people can become so imbued with sin that they feel that society owes them something, thereby justifying their actions against society. He will also show that all work, even forced labor, is ennobling; that suffering is good; and that elaborate surroundings are not necessary for a devout Mass. He will show you that keeping people busy is effective in keeping them from a spiritual life - a lesson we might apply to ourselves or to our media-swamped teenagers. He also shows that the atheistic Communists were able to devise an effective moral code by brainwashing everyone, from childhood onward, to believe that living for others is what is good. Their moral code was not far from the mark, being the second great commandment. If they had included the first, reason rather than brainwashing could have been used.

With this book, you will humbly see your human weakness in the awesome sight of God.

Quite simply...one of the most inspiring stories I have read
Fr. Walter Ciszek's story of 23 years in Siberian prisons seems at first as if it will be a dismal tale.

Rather, Fr. Ciszek embraces his time in prison as God's will. His utter reliance on prayer and on God are truly inspiring.

Each chapter is not only moving, but provides the reader with a different lesson in faith. This book is powerful reading. You will not be disappointed.

How to become an ikon of Christ
Here are the reflections of an American Jesuit priest imprisoned in the Soviet Union from 1941 to 1963.He grew from a self-seeking creature into an inspiring priest. Early in his confinement he painfully learned how to pray. He learned how to be utterly submissive to God's will. This early experience transformed him and prepared him to dispense the forbidden Holy Mysteries to the Orthodox and Catholic "Church of Silence" imprisoned in the Siberian concentration camps. He became a true ikon of Christ! He fearlessly baptized and chrismated; heard confessions; celebrated the Divine Liturgy; distibuted communion; preached sermons, and prayed for the dead. Wherever he went, the people flocked to him. Very Orthodox and very American.

Perhaps the most inspiring book I have ever read.
Our parish priest referred to "He Leadeth Me" in his homily recently and I thought the book might be interesting. Little did I know that I would find Father Ciszek's message to be one of the most inspiring I have ever read. Throughout his terrible ordeal he never lost his faith in God. No matter what the Russian authorities attempted to do to him, Fr. Ciszek knew that by turning his life over to God and doing God's will he had nothing to fear. Fr. Ciszek found God where most of us would find only despair. I strongly recommend this book to everyone. I know you will be inspired by the message of God's love.

Superb
One of those few books that you read to the end and then return to the beginning to start again. ... Read more

Book Description

Eugenio Pacelli, Pope Pius XII, has long been the subject of controversy over his failure to speak out against Hitler's Final Solution. In Hitler's Pope, award-winning journalist and Roman Catholic John Cornwell shows that, even well before the Holocaust, Pope Pius XII was instrumental in negotiating an accord that helped the Nazis rise to unhindered power--and sealed the fate of the Jews in Europe.

Drawing upon secret Vatican and Jesuit archives to which he had exclusive access, Cornwell tells the full, tragic story of how narcissism, longstanding personal antipathy for the Jews, and political and spiritual ambition combined to make Pius the most dangerous churchman in history. A firm and final indictment of Pius XII's papacy, Hitler's Pope is also a searing exploration of its lingering consequences for the Catholic church today. ... Read more

Reviews (219)

An Fascinating account of a complex figure
The subject of the Pope's behaviour during the 2nd World War is a very sensitive topic. As the author notes, hundreds of millions world wide believe the Pope to Christ's vicar on Earth. The Pope's behavior while one of the most monsterous crimes humanity has ever witnessed is thus a highly personalised topic for many.

John Cornwell treats the topic with care and a balanced approach. I'm no expert on the subject, and my knowledge of the Church's relations with the Nazi regime restircted to general readings I've made about WW2 and the holocaust, but I've been impressed with the research and study of the author. His knowledge is rich, both in understanding and analysing historical event and documents (be it the Vatican Canon Law, Hitler's rise to power or international relationship during the war), and with regards to ancedotes and personnal information (He comments, amoung other things, about discussions between Pius XII and both T.S. Elliot and Orson Wells).

Perhaps the most fascinating of Cornwell's insights is his interpretation of Pius XII's actions as part of the trends in the modern Roman Catholic Church. Cornwell forwards a powerful arguement about the struggle of the church between modernisation and pluralism and the more traditional, authoriterian forces with in the church. Those, at least, ring true to me in light of recent decleration, such as the document on the Church's relations with the Jews.

The only weakness I could find was Cornwell's minimal consideration of the arguement that, had the Pope spoken out, many more would have suffered. This seems like a strong arguement for Pius XII's silence, and while it is mentioned, a more detailed analysis of it would have been welcome. Clearly, though, Pius XII did not feel the same about Communist Russia, which he justifiably apposed fiercely, as Cornwell aknowledges.

Eugenio Pacelli's character is very complex and hard to decipher, and I think that this book is an important step in comprehending him and his actions. I would recommand this book to anyone interested in the Roman Catholic Church, The Nazi regime, World War 2 or the holocaust - in short, to everyone.

This book does not let facts interfere with a good story!
If you like to read books that spread lies then this one is for you. The author is not concerned with facts and just wants to make a buck by spreading lies. I wish I could give this book negative stars! Oh well, Mr. Cornwell will have to face Jesus and account for his lies.

In this book the statements by the Pope and the Roman Catholic Church are constantly taken out of context. Based on this as a guidline for Mr. Cornwell's bias - and he is bias in all his books - he could easily write a book proving that Hitler was saving the Jews from the Americans and the other Allies who sought to exterminate them in WWII. It is rare to see an author who can manipulate facts and misquote whith such ease.

For the truth just read other books on the subject or look up the information from the sources he listed and 'see' the truth he overlooked on purpose.

I hope you pray for Mr. Cornwell, I will.

Historical Revisionism
John Cornwell's "Hitler's Pope" is a convincingly written story of the papacy of Eugenio Pacelli (Pius XII) during WWII, a period when the Vatican was completely surrounded by the capital of Mussolini's fascist Rome. Unfortunately the word "story" has profound meaning here, and no matter how convincing a historical statement is, it has no meaning if untrue, and the lies in this book are plentiful and outrageous.

The very title (an unbelievable insult), and the accompanying cover photo of Pacelli walking past a German guard at attention (a lie of visual implication) give a glimpse of the literary chicanery lurking between the covers of this book. The offensiveness of the title speaks for itself - and contrary to what the author would have you believe, the photo was taken when Pacelli was the papal nuncio in Germany, BEFORE Hitler came to power. The soldier in the familiar "Nazi-style" helmet would stand at attention for the entrance and exit of all dignitaries.

The author states in no uncertain terms that Pacelli was a villainous scoundrel, who not only didn't do or say anything to help the Jews, but actually collaborated with the Nazis. Nowhere does he tell of this Pope's heroic, behind-the-scenes rescue of thousands of Jews from the nazis. And nowhere does he answer the two definitive questions begging for an answer, "What SHOULD the Pope have done?" and "What GOOD would it have done?" The author seems to imply that he could have called out the Swiss Guard, defeated both Mussolini and Hitler, and saved all the Jews, while publicly denouncing evil in the world. If you, good reader, are interested in fiction, by all means read this book. But if you think this is factual, you're being fooled by a very successful revisionist of history and the truth.

How not to write history!
Ever since the German playwright Rolf Hochhuth published his play "Der Stellvertreter", pope Pius XII has been criticised because of his alleged silence over the Holocaust. However, historical enquiry time and again showed there is no evidence at all for this accusation. Pius XII repeatedly condemned national socialism in principle, as well as the genocide of the jewish people, be it that he, admittedly, used the not very outspoken language of international diplomacy; moreover, he was instrumental in the help catholics all over Europe tried to give to persecuted jews. - To avoid misunderstandings: of course, alas, there were catholics involved in persecution of the jewish people. On the other hand, there were catholics who tried to rescue jews, and they were the ones who got full support from the pope.-
In his book, Cornwell repeats all kinds of accusations against the pope that were made before, and most of them were already proven wrong before Cornwell published his book. Apparently, he does not know the relevant historical literature on the subject. He goes even further, and accuses Pius XII of anti-semitism; no one ever did this before, most likely because there is no evidence to support such an accusation. Cornwell does not provide this evidence either. Moreover, he choses to ignore vital evidence when he discusses other aspects of the policy of the Vatican during the Second World War; the evidence he does use is quoted very selectively - only if it confirms his own prejudices. In short, this book is a fine example of how not to write history.
In his last chapter, Cornwell gives away the reasons for this approach. Apparently, he disagrees with the policy of the current pope, and he tries to use the history of the church in his attack on John Paul II. However, if Cornwell disagrees with the current pope, he should adress the policy of this pope directly, and not through a dishonest distortion of history.

Catholics Receive Vindication
This book is very dry reading even for a son of two Holocaust survivors.
However, two things need to be mentioned: First, this book doesn't draw a clear line between helping Hitler and not trying hard enough to oppose Hitler. The author didn't prove that Pius intended to further the annihilation of Jews.
Second, the book absolutly proves a large number of Catholic clergy in high positions within Germany tried very hard to prevent Hitler's rise to power. ... Read more

Book Description

In this intimate, loving look at Corrie ten Boom during her last years you will hear the true story of her struggle to communicate her love for her God during five years of stroke-induced silence. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Corrie ten Boom - My Inspiration...
How wonderful to know how Corrie lived her last five years on earth. Her only goal in life was to bring others to Jesus, who she loved and lived for. Her relationship with Jesus and how she lived is something we should all strive for. What an inspirational book. It was like Corrie herself was talking to me. Though she is now in heaven God still uses her to speak to us.

Last days of Corrie ten Bonn
I had always wondered how Corrie ended her days on Earth. This book is a well written witness of how she overcame difficult situations in her last days and how she never stopped showing God's love, even when unable to speak. A must reading for all those who love Corrie's books and a message to cheer us during difficult times. ... Read more

Reviews (13)

If God is First all other will be added
I truely enjoyed this book. I just entered into LeTourneau University and my first assignment was to read this book. I have been so inspired by this book. R.G. Letourneau put God first and all other was added unto him. He was truely the christian I strive to be. In everything he did he placed God at the center and whatever happen to him whether good or bad he continued to believe it was God's will. Thank God for people like R.G. Letourneau. I truely have enjoyed his testimony.

My nomanie for man of the Century
I grew up in the shadow of this great man. I worked in the R.G. LeTourneau archives one summer as a teenager. Living in Longview, TX, I had the chance to be around his family and friends after his death in 1969. I read this book after my parents gave me a copy and learned much about his way of life and his inspiration. This is a man committed to God, his family, his country and to getting a job done. He had a sense of humility and pride that is not seen in this world today. His humility in that he never put himself first. His pride in that he always wanted the biggest, fastest and best. The only man I know of that drove a VW beatle to the airport to ride in his Lear Jet.

Much of what he built and what he stands for is not politically correct today. He was an industrialist making big heavy equipment. He invented machines that tore down juggles, cut down mountains, drilled for oil in the gulf. But the fact is that the America we know today would not be possible without him. We would still be using mules and the backs of thousands of workers to build roads if he never lived. His Christain stance is legendary. His giving was beyond what most people think is possible. He proves that it is possible. I have since met two other men who claim to match R.G.'s giving level. Both very prosperous.

The line that I took from the book that I often quote when I am addressing people on success is, "America is the most prosperous nation because it is the most productive nation. If it ever ceases to be the most productive, it will cease to be the most prosperous."

If you are looking for other books that mention R.G LeTourneau, then I have found him in two success books that were written in the sixties. J. Paul Getty's "How to Rich" and there is a facinating first hand story of him in Napoleon Hill's "Master Key to Riches"

Very Interesting, Inspiring, and Readable Book
This book, and its subject, were of particular interest to me as my own father worked for Mr. LeTourneau in the late 1950s and early '60s. My dad had so many wonderful things to say about what a pleasure it was to work for Mr. LeTourneau, I had to read this book for myself to find out what it was that made him so well-liked by his employees, which is quite a feat in our day and time.

I was impressed with Mr. LeTourneau's honesty and humility about his own shortcomings, about the mistakes he made (and how he learned from them what NOT to do the next time), his ingenuity, his imagination and vision, and his willingness to live on very little in order to accomplish his goals. I was even more impressed with the way he kept his priorities in order, attended church regularly and took part in its leadership, included his wife as a valued partner in his life, and also his children as they grew older.

I would recommend this book to anyone; even my reluctant 13-year-old reader (a son) thoroughly enjoyed this book. There were times that I got bogged down in some of Mr. LeTourneau's descriptions of the machines he invented, but my son enjoyed it all. One of the things that really struck me about Mr. LeTourneau's life was that he was born just before the turn of the twentieth century, yet he was always on the cutting edge of technology -- a real innovator. Kudos to his memory!

Mover makes a difference
If it weren't for my brother giving me a copy of R.G. LeTourneau's book Mover of Men and Mountains while I was in high school I would have never ended up where I did for college at LeTourneau University, the school he founded in Longview, TX.

I found the book very interesting (I've always been interested in technical information and didn't consider myself much into autobiographies but "Mover" really held my attention the whole time I was reading it.

It also includes several sections of pictures which really help you understand the scale of what Mr. LeTourneau did with God's help. I very strongly recoommend this book and I think you'll really enjoy it!

A Must Read !!!!!
I have an MBA with a distinction, was a consultant with a Big 6 firm, and even lectured in business at a university. However, it was the results seen in this book on R.G. LeTourneau's life combined with my experiences of working with entrepreneurs who trusted and focussed on God and the truly astound effects it had on their businesses and lives, that has made me realise that as humans we are really nothing. Even during the Great Depression, LeTourneau's business survived!! This book is a mind blower - it shows that 1 + God = a majority.

Also try Stanley Tam's "God Owns my Business" ... Read more

Book Description

Renowned art historian and television personality, Sister Wendy documents the lives and works of over 40 of the world's best--loved saints with her unique blend of humor and spiritual insight. Her reflections bring to life illuminated manuscripts, miniatures, and icons, dating back to the seventh century. The works depict people of great spirituality from the humble humanity of St. Anthony the Hermit to the courageous dignity of St. Agatha and the virgin martyrs. Sister Wendy's eloquent text discusses the art, while also chronicling the lives and ordeals of each saint, their feast days, iconographic emblems and the subjects of their patronage. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

wonderful pictures and stories!!!
Sister Wendy has put together a great book on Saints. I really enjoyed that she placed the saint's feast day, attributes, and what the saint is a patron to in the margins. Lovely stories and paintings. It's only fault is that it could have been much longer with more saints included.

Great, but I wanted so much more!
A beautifully constucted book for as far as it goes, but we Sister Wendy lovers are left wanting more! If anything, it seems too small in scale. Like a delicious meal that we're only allowed to take a couple bites of. This is actually a great thumbnail introduction to saints for all us non-Catholics. The usual great paintings with Sister Wendy's wonderful, insightful commentaries. But we wish for bigger visual and literary feast. Everything about the book is small scale. Some of the illustrations should have been blown up to a larger size. We wish Sister Wendy would have gone on longer in her commentaries. At 93 pages, we wish for at least 100 more. She shouldn't have limited her selections to paintings from just one Italian exhibition. For all its brevity, I highly recommend the book. Lasty, don't pass up any chance to snag a copy of the video version of this book which aired on PBS.

GOD BLESS SISTER WENDY!
Sister Wendy Beckett is a gifted story teller and artist. Her delightful paintings and her wonderfully original expressions bring Catholicism to all readers. This delightful book is truly one of a kind. Sister Wendy shares her love for painting and her gift for this medium in this work. Her loving recounting of the accounts of saints' lives will touch, amuse and delight all who are fortunate enough to encounter this wonderful book.

Sister Wendy shows a light touch, a gentle approach to imparting her faith journey and the information she has gathered over the years. The bright colors emphasize the light, bright, upbeat tone of this wonderful book. I can't recommend it highly enough. This is truly a keeper.

God bless Sister Wendy!

A Beautiful Little Book!
Sister Wendy's Book of Saints By Sister Wendy Beckett.
This is a beautiful little book (96 pages), all bright and shiny paper with brilliant colors that almost leap off the page. Sister Wendy, the nun who has made a trade mark out of her running in and out of art museums, has collected the images of saints to support both her love of art and her orthodox views on Catholicism. The book begins with St. Peter (Petrine privilege?) and works its way down to lesser-known saints.
With each portrait, Sister Wendy points out an interesting tidbit. For example, with the Evangelist, St. Mark, (page 17), Sister Wendy indicates that the artist has portrayed the saint forming a cross with his pen and his sharpening knife. She lightens the mood by describing the lion, in the painting, as resembling "... an imbecilic sheep gazing in wonderment..." at St. Mark. This lightening of the mood is intentional as Sister Wendy repeats it (page 24) when she describes the ox in St. Luke's portrait as "...an almost goofy ox".

Despite this levity, Sister Wendy comes across as quite serious about both the art depicting the saints and the theology of the saints she has chosen. In summary, I would be very happy to have this book given to me.

Fantastic
If the rating had 10 stars, i would have given it 10. Sister wendy provides lucid and clear pictures and text, good book for all ages ... Read more

Book Description

The heart-rending love story of Abelard and Heloise was one of the most talked about relationships in the Middle Ages, and is one of the greatest love stories of all time. Peter Abelard was arguably the greatest poet, philosopher, and religious teacher in all of twelfth-century Europe. In an age when women were rarely educated, Heloise was his most gifted young student. As master of the cathedral school at Notre Dame in Paris, Abelard was expected to be celibate; his career would be destroyed by marrying. In spite of this, Abelard and Heloise's private tutoring sessions inevitably turned to passionate romance, and their moments apart were spent writing love letters.

When Heloise became pregnant, her possessive guardian and uncle, Fulbert, angrily insisted that they marry. The ceremony was held in secret, but the rumor spread through Paris. Enemies confronted Heloise, who publicly denied the marriage in order to protect Abelard's career. Fearing for her safety, Abelard slipped Heloise out of the city and sent her to a convent. Robbed of his niece and his family's honor, Fulbert took revenge by having Abelard brutally castrated. Abelard retreated to a monastery, and the famous lovers now lived separate lives behind cloistered walls -- but their love, and their letters, continued.

For a long time, the only letters known to have survived dated from the later period of their separation. Then, astoundingly, a few years ago a young scholar identified 113 new letters between the pair. Lost for almost nine hundred years, these fresh missives provide an intriguing snapshot of the couple's clandestine passion that is erotic, poignant, and at times even funny.

James Burge is the first biographer to combine these astonishing new discoveries with the latest scholarship, resulting in a more complete biography; one that paints a fuller picture of Heloise as a woman who tested the cultural constraints of her time. Burge also addresses Abelard's theological disputes with other teachers, including Bernard of Clairvaux, which led to Abelard's eventual trial for heresy. But Heloise & Abelard is much more than a biography. It opens a window onto the enormous and exciting changes that took place in medieval Europe, even as it presents us with the richest telling yet of one of history's greatest love stories.

Reviews (10)

A life willingly laid down in India continues to bear fruit.
Amy Carmichael has been a spiritual mother to many more than the children she rescued from temple prostitution in India at the turn of the 19th century. Her influence extends much farther beyond her geographical location and lifetime. Through the pages of A CHANCE TO DIE by Elisabeth Elliot that influence will be even more magnified. Ms. Elliot very ably conveys the passion and discipline which harmoniously co-existed in Amy and drove her to single-handedly and successfully combat the traditions which enslaved the children she sought to rescue.

Amy's life is described from childhood, through the active mission years, and on into the last 20 years she spent as an invalid before her death. It is flesh and blood we see through it all; not some mystical saint who has achieved great spiritual heights unobtainable to the rest of us. We are allowed glimpses of her struggles, fears, doubts, failures, and blind spots as well as her triumphs. We see the growth made and insights obtained as a result of all the circumstances of her life. Amy saw "missions as a chance to die" to oneself so that Christ might be revealed. Ms. Elliot draws together all the events and details of Amy's life and beautifully weaves them together with writings from her books and journals, and interviews with those who knew her. Amy Carmichael has found a kindred spirit in Elisabeth Elliot and the reader is left with the desire to get to know both of these remarkable women better.

Great Encouragement for the Journey
When one views the life of Amy Carmichael, the only possible result can be to put the difficulties of contemporary life into perspective. Never enjoying robust good health and never entering into the comfort of marriage, Amy Carmichael gave her adult life to Christ by serving the children of her region of India. This book tells in exciting anecdotes and vivid narrative the life given over to a purpose and the amazing power of God revealed when she obeyed His voice in her life. Elliot's admiration for her subject shows through not in sentimentality, but in honesty regarding the idiosyncrasies and criticisms of the woman whose ministry still impacts the world today.

My Favorite
This is one of my favorite books. Probably one of the best that you will find in biographies of Amy Carmichael. This book has greatly impacted me and I return to it as a source of encouragement very often. Amma (indian for mother) had a passionate love for Jesus and her sole desire was to give Him her life. Mrs. Elliot shares very well of the path this desire brought her on, and the thousands of people whose lives were forever changed by it. Miss Carmichael has become one of my favorite authors as well. Praise the Lord! I hope you enjoy!

A Rare Godly Example for Every Christian
Here is a book that will challenge any Christian in any walk of life to deny themselves, take up their cross daily, and follow Jesus. The missionary life is, in fact, the normal Christian life for every Christian, for every Christian is an ambassador for Christ. As such, this biography will be a great help to any reader in focusing their hearts and minds on the God-given task before them (1 Peter 2:9)--whatever their walk of life. This book also gives much needed rebukes against those who support missions financially on the basis of numbers saved. This book re-affirms the biblical principle time and again that the Christian's work is not saving, but declaring. The work of saving is God's alone; and if no one is saved, the missionary must keep working and we must keep supporting. Finally: Is this book biased? Gee, I hope so. Biased for one who gave all for the lost and for the glory of God. If there is an unhealthy bias in the book, I don't see it. And if it is there, it doesn't matter; for the issue is not Elizabeth Elliot and her approach to Amy Carmichael. The issue is that Amy Carmichael has left us a Christlike example that is biblical. We need to follow her as she followed Christ. Forget any supposed bias and try living her life. Believe me, no one who spends their time trying to follow Christ as Amy did will have any time left to worry about possible bias. And the book shows Amy as a sinner, for sure. So the book does not gloss over Amy's faults. This is a must read; but be prepared to be convicted and challenged.

life and legacy of amy charmichael
This book was so encouraging to me on a practical level. I am a Christian mother of three little ones desiring to have God first in my life and my families life, but sometimes I don't see things as clearly as I should. Seeing Amy's practical example of seeking the Lord in every situation, whether in relationships or parenting her children was inspiring to me, and has motivated me to "seek" more diligently answers directly from God's word.

Also seeing from Amy's example of being a "Amma", and her wanting a different kind of life for her little one's has also been inspiring. It is so easy to get caught up in our cultures way of thinking in that we feel our children need this or that, when not focusing on the most important...our children need to see that God is real, practical and personal. Her type of relationship with God isn't impossible to have, therefore, through reading this book it has given me a stronger drive towards wanting this more initmate realtionship with a God who can meet all our needs. ... Read more

Book Description

As a child, Elias Chacour lived in a small Palestinian village in Galilee. The townspeople were proud of their ancient Christian heritage and lived at peace with their Jewish neighbors. But early in 1947, their idyllic lifestyle was swept away as tens of thousands of Palestinians were killed and nearly one million forced into refugee camps. An exile in his native land, Elias began a years-long struggle with his love for the Jewish people and the world's misunderstanding of his own people, the Palestinians. How was he to respond? He found his answer in the simple, haunting words of the Man of Galilee: "Blessed are the peacemakers." In Blood Brothers, Chacour blends his riveting life story with historical research to reveal a little-known side of the Arab-Israeli conflict and the birth of modern Israel. He touches on controversial questions such as "What behind-the-scenes politics touched off the turmoil in the Middle East?", "What does Bible prophecy really have to say?", and "Can bitter enemies ever be reconciled?"Originally published by Chosen Books in 1984 and now expanded with a new introduction by the author, a new foreword by former Secretary of State James A. Baker III, and a "Since Then" epilogue by writer David Hazard, this compelling book offers readers hope-filled insight into living at peace in the most volatile region of the world. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

darling
This is a must-read for anyone who is looking for a human perspective on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Chacour brings the story of personal pain, struggle and hope to the pages of his book. This book removes the story from the realm of politicians and mass movements and refocusses the story where it should be, on the individuals hurt by and caught in the chaos, tragedy and beauty that make up the story of the Holy Land. It is beautifully and captivatingly written, capturing the spirit of the land and people. It doesn't gloss over the violence, hardship or injustice. Nor does it leave the reader feeling jaded, hopeless, or helpless. I finished with a desire to read more, learn more about both sides of the conflict and its history. Having travelled in that area of the world before the outbreak of the current conflict, I can say that it does a great job of accurately portraying the place, the people, and the spirit that pervades both. Truly an inspiring work! ... Read more

Book Description

Alive with the raw energy of a journal and polished with the skill of a master storyteller, each chapter is an engaging dialogue between Sister Joan and many different wisdom sources. ... Read more

Book Description

The gripping and inspiring story of two extraordinary women--from their imprisonment by the Taliban to their rescue by U.S. Special Forces.

When Dayna Curry and Heather Mercer arrived in Afghanistan, they had come to help bring a better life and a little hope to some of the poorest and most oppressed people in the world. Within a few months, their lives were thrown into chaos as they became pawns in historic international events.They were arrested by the ruling Taliban government for teaching about Christianity to the people with whom they worked.In the middle of their trial, the events of September 11, 2001, led to the international war on terrorism, with the Taliban a primary target.While many feared Curry and Mercer could not survive in the midst of war, Americans nonetheless prayed for their safe return, and in November their prayers were answered.

In Prisoners of Hope, Dayna Curry and Heather Mercer tell the story of their work in Afghanistan, their love for the people they served, their arrest, trial, and imprisonment by the Taliban, and their rescue by U.S. Special Forces. The heart of the book will discuss how two middle-class American women decided to leave the comforts of home in exchange for the opportunity to serve the disadvantaged, and how their faith motivated them and sustained them through the events that followed.Their story is a magnificent narrative of ordinary women caught in extraordinary circumstances as a result of their commitment to serve the poorest and most oppressed women and children in the world. This book will be inspiring to those who seek a purpose greater than themselves. ... Read more

Reviews (51)

Mixed feelings
I see the reviews of this book are quite varied, from the obvious non-Christians to the staunch Christian supporters. On one hand, from a Christian perspective, here are two women who gave up their worldly lives to move to Afghanistan. How can most of us comprehand that? I can't, and I have traveled on mission trips all over E. Europe. On top of that, they were imprisoned by a known terrorist group, and became a nationwide story. They most definitely have an amazing story to tell, although I doubt they could ever truly convey their true thoughts and feelings. Given the subject, I think this is a very good read and inspirational. However, there is a down side. This is by no means a literary work of art. It is poorly edited, rushed, and in many places includes just plain uninteresting (relatively speaking) "day in the life" tales of what they ate, etc. It was written in diary form and definitely had a lot of fluff. As much as I hate to say it, and without going into detail, I am also not quite sure that the book accurately reflected the personalities of these two people who sacraficed so much. The bottom line is that what they were doing was Biblical, a great sacrafice, and made the world a better place. This is a great book to read simply because of what they experienced, hence the 4 stars. However, don't expect great writing, or editing.

A True Accounting
First, let me mention that these two young women never claimed to be writers. They have tried, in the best way possible, to relate their experiences in Afghanistan. I was pleased to be at a Women of Faith conference recently where they were the guest speakers. The humor that they were able to see in the different trials that they suffered was amazing. Second, there is always the possibility that the editors removed a majority of Christian references so as not to offend the non-Christians. This book is a well written documentary of their time. I was in awe of their initiative, and the faith that led them to service in Afghanistan. Well done, and if only there were more people like this (and I don't mean preaching the Gospel), but just those to go out and help then the world would be a much better place. This is an example to all that nobody is perfect, but you try and do the best that you can in whatever situation occurs.

I like it
this book is the best book i had ever read in my life time. this book is about two girls that did not have a strong faith about Jesus christ. when i started reading this book every thing in my life had change about me and jesus. my mother help me know how much Jesus means to me and how he make me happy and tells me that every thing is going to be ok. i allways read the bible more because i under stand what is going on in my life. i know that God is going to be with me no matter what.

Great Book
This is a book that would inspire other Christians to meditate upon that divinely instituted responsibility of evangelization and the showing off of love, which are hallmarks of a godly driven life. Totally recommended and one that should be included in a growing library of books dealing with missionary work and faith.

Thank you Dayna and Heather!
I could not put this book down - what an experience these girls had!! I also can not believe all the negative feedback these girls have received here. ??? Spys for President Bush? Dumb & Dumber? Twits? Give me a break! Either these commenters are jealous, intimidated, or non-christian - some say they are christian but I've learned that all who claim to be are not necessarily walking in the spirit. I know many who claim to be Christian and have never read the bible! Dayna & Heather the bible says that you will be persecuted..... 2 Timothy 3:12, Matt 24:9, John 15:20, Matt 5:10-12... "Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, For theirs is the kingdom of heaven... "Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake... "Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you."
You did a lot of good for many women and families - do not let anyone tell you different. You know different. You are not stupid, or naive. I commend you for all you went through to help these people - for doing good and for sharing your faith in Jesus. You picked up your cross and followed the great commission... Matt 28:12-20 Bless you! This book was great and I thank you for taking the time to write it - it is an inspiration to all and encouragement for many. I pray that my own children would follow in your example of faith. Your parents have been truly blessed. The proceeds from this book and your CD will help so many in Afghanistan - so much good has come from your imprisonment and trials. ... Read more

Amazon.com

There are certainly many studies of Saint Francis of Assisi that an interested reader might find and many of them immensely praiseworthy. But in reading G.K. Chesterton on Francis, you get two glories for one: first is an enlightening study of this most beloved of Christian saints and second is Chesterton himself, one of the great Christian writers of the 20th century, who converted to Roman Catholicism in 1922 because, it has been said, "only the Roman Church could produce a St. Francis of Assisi."Published shortly after his conversion, Chesterton wrote this book in part to reclaim Francis for the church. There are always those who want to claim Francis for their cause, Chesterton recognized, who also fail to understand the spiritual and intellectual ground upon which he stands. Chesterton would return Francis to Christ. As he summarizes, "however wild and romantic his gyrations might appear to many, [Francis] always hung on to reason by one invisible and indestructible hair.... The great saint was sane.... He was not a mere eccentric because he was always turning towards the center and heart of the maze; he took the queerest and most zigzag shortcuts through the wood, but he was always going home."

As one editor of Chesterton's puts it, "of St. Francis he might have said what he said about Blake: 'We always feel that he is saying something very plain and emphatic even when we have not the wildest notion of what it is.'" --Doug Thorpe ... Read more

Reviews (17)

A brilliant and unconventional biographical work
G.K. Chesterton's "St. Francis of Assisi" is not your conventional timeline of the events in a man's life. Instead, Chesterton focuses on Francis' relationship with God and his historical context, background and impact. I first read this book a year ago and have just read it again - it's one of those books that are so rich that you discover something new each time you pick it up. If you've ever read "The Little Flowers of St. Francis" (about the events in Francis' life), this is the book to read next. It is a great aid to understanding Francis as a person and not just as "the bird bath saint". I highly recommend this book.

A Rake on a Rake . . .
G.K. Chesterton is one of the most interesting people who ever lived. His prodigious output and outlandish appearance have made him an unforgettable part of Western culture. But in this book, we have the eccentric Chesterton writing about the even more astounding character of St. Francis of Assisi. Chesterton goes through several interesting sketches of St. Francis' life (which are interesting by themselves) and then draws all sorts of fantastic conclusions from the episodes. I strongly recommend this book to anyone who is curious about Chesterton's writing and Francis' life.

A thing of beauty...
G.K. Chesterton is one of the best Christian writers of the twentieth century. Prolific and artistic, he had the knack for combining a classic British commentary sense to any historical Christian subject, making it both the object of cultural interest and often historic reverence. As St. Francis of Assisi was one of the primary influences on Chesterton's decision to convert to Roman Catholicism (Chesterton once described his conversion as being largely due to wanting to belong to the same institution that had produced St. Francis), it makes sense that Chesterton would devote considerable energies toward this biography.

Chesterton said that there are essentially three ways to approach a biography of a figure such as St. Francis - one can be dispassionately objective (or at least as much as can pass for such a stance), looking at things from a 'purely' historical standpoint; one can go to the opposite extreme and treat the figure as an object of devotion and worship; or one can take a third path (and you've guessed correctly if you assumed this was Chesterton's route) of looking at the character as an interested outsider, someone in the modern world but still one involved in the same kinds of structures and virtues as the one being studied.

Chesterton's prose is snappy and lively, witty and bit sardonic at times. Chesterton is not afraid to digress to make his own points, and like the intellectual critic who cannot contain the myriad of responses to particular points, Chesterton treats us to a generous collection of tangential observations. One discovers, for instance, Chesterton's opinion of modern British history (that it reads more like journalism than like a developed narrative) - he makes the observation that journalists rarely think to publish a 'life' until the death of the subject; this of course cannot be helped in the case of Francis of Assisi, but the method of the media serves to highlight the difference in world-view between then and now.

This is a spiritual biography - it does not simply go from event to event in Francis' life, but rather looks as the development of his spirituality, his calling, his order and his influence in later church (and more general) history. In his discussion, he looks at miracles and poetic production, political realities and logical fallacies, ancient sentiments and present-day practices. Francis is seen in many ways as the Mirror of Christ (not quite the same thing as the WWJD fad of the current day, but approximating the sense in some regards), but this sets up an interesting logical situation - if Francis is like Christ, then Christ is in some ways like Francis. Chesterton points out the importance of the difference, likening it to the difference between creator and creature, but there is still the interesting development in history where some tried to make Francis a second Christ (something Francis himself would have opposed bitterly).

Fun, fascinating, spiritual without succumbing to kitsch, intellectual without being overblown, this book is a classic on Francis, and a classic by Chesterton, a small miracle of Francis (in the many sense of the term).

Better to read Nikos' St. Francis
I found this book to be over written and uninteresting. I much prefer the Nikos Kazantzakis book "St. Francis of Assisi". It's hard to find, but I heard Wayne Dyer mention it on PBS and I agree with him, it is very moving and life transforming.

"Refreshing and Witty"
This typical Chesterton work, is a short and insightful essay on the life of St Francis of Assisi, one of Christianity's greatest saints. While it is not a biography in the true sense of the word, it is, nevertheless, a refreshing and witty sketch St Francis' life and influence, all set behind the backdrop of his times. This is certainly a unique portrait of St Francis, and it is definitely worth reading. ... Read more

Book Description

The legendary Episcopal Bishop tells of his lifelong struggle to champion an authentic christianity based on love, not hatred. ... Read more

Reviews (41)

Thank God for Spong
Last year I read John Shelby Spong's book, "Why Christianity Must Change or Die: A Bishop Speaks to Believers in Exile" and was moved. I had thought that about the most I could expect from the Anglican tradition was a good cup of coffee after the service and yet here was an Episcopal bishop whose book fed me intellectually and, rarest of all, spiritually. In December I learned that his autobiography was to be published and bought it as soon as possible. I thoroughly enjoyed "Here I Stand: My Struggle for a Christianity of Integrity, Love and Equality".

The book moves along at a fast pace, blending the facts of his life with the stories that give them meaning. And the stories are fascinating. We read of the experiences that shaped him as a child, as a youth, as a young man. The racial conflicts he sought to ease in his early years as a priest. His stimulating approaches to preaching and education. His acceptance of gay and lesbian people and his support of them even at personal cost. And throughout the book, insightful looks into the workings of the Episcopal Church in America and the worldwide Anglican Communion.

I like the way he looks at himself, indeed it is his frank portrayal of his own weaknesses and mistakes that makes his descriptions of the weaknesses and mistakes of others believable.

Spong closes his book by saying, in part, "But above all else, I was throughout my life and am still today deeply convinced of the reality of God. Indeed, I am more deeply convinced of this reality at this moment than I have ever been before. I walk inside the wonder of this God in every experience of life. I have become more of a mystic than I ever thought possible for a rationalist like me. I still meet this God in the life of the one I call Lord and Christ, who is supremely important to my spiritual journey".

A wonderful man, a great book.

Thank God for Spong!
Last year I read John Shelby Spong's book, "Why Christianity Must Change or Die: A Bishop Speaks to Believers in Exile" and was moved. I had thought that about the most I could expect from the Anglican tradition was a good cup of coffee after the service and yet here was an Episcopal bishop whose book fed me intellectually and, rarest of all, spiritually. In December I learned that his autobiography was to be published and bought it as soon as possible. I thoroughly enjoyed "Here I Stand: My Struggle for a Christianity of Integrity, Love and Equality".

The book moves along at a fast pace, blending the facts of his life with the stories that give them meaning. And the stories are fascinating. We read of the experiences that shaped him as a child, as a youth, as a young man. The racial conflicts he sought to ease in his early years as a priest. His stimulating approaches to preaching and education. His acceptance of gay and lesbian people and his support of them even at personal cost. And throughout the book, insightful looks into the workings of the Episcopal Church in America and the worldwide Anglican Communion.

I like the way he looks at himself, indeed it is his frank portrayal of his own weaknesses and mistakes that makes his descriptions of the weaknesses and mistakes of others believable.

Spong closes his book by saying, in part, "But above all else, I was throughout my life and am still today deeply convinced of the reality of God. Indeed, I am more deeply convinced of this reality at this moment than I have ever been before. I walk inside the wonder of this God in every experience of life. I have become more of a mystic than I ever thought possible for a rationalist like me. I still meet this God in the life of the one I call Lord and Christ, who is supremely important to my spiritual journey".

A wonderful man, a great book.

Nothing to Stand On
In a postmodern era, where truth is relative and reality undefinable, this book provides quick and easy pain relief, kind of like taking morphine for cancer. For the most part, we all want to believe that there is a God or at least something out there; that way we don't feel like this life is such a waste. But if we believe in one system, especially one so "antiquated" as the Bible we will be mocked and ridiculed for being closed-minded and ignorant. But we grew up in Christian homes and are much more comfortable with "Christian" spirituality than, say, Eastern Transcendentalism. So what is the open-minded post modernist to do?

Enter John Shelby Spong (and others)...

Simple, by removing Christianity's belief that we are sinful, Christ no becomes pointless. By removing the parts of Christianity that cause so many people to stumble and which don't make sense in a world where everybody is equally right (see 1 Corinthians 1:18), now Christianity is poised to survive for millennia to come.

The problem is that the message of Christianity is the Gospel, the Good News. That Good News is that even though we have been found to be in rebellion to the Creator, Sustainer, and Judge over the universe, He made a way for us to be made right with Him: Christ. Christ came and died so that we would not be judged as the rebels that we are and cast out of His Presence and into eternal death. Sin is that rebellion; Christ is the only solution. Any religion, including a Savior-less Christianity that does not deal with our problem of sin will probably do quite a bit to make us feel better about our damned condition while we're here on earth, but we will still have to stand on our own merits before the Judge. It's like having cancer, ignoring the miracle cure, and taking morphine so that you can ignore the death that you are dying. Christ, rather, will remove your sin and your rebellion as far as the East is from the West. He will remove your death-bringing cancer of sin and give you the true relief of his grace, both now and for eternity.

Do not fall for Spong's appealing postmodern message. Realize that reality exists; if the God of the Bible is real, you must repent from your sins and place your only hope in Christ.

Originality is NOT Spong's strong suit
I am quite surprised that reviewers of this book to date make no mention of the seminal book which John Shelby Spong attempts to imitate--namely, historian Roland Bainton's excellent biography of Martin Luther--even to the point of imitating it's title--"Here I Stand!". Certainly, such implicit comparisons with the lives of two men invites critique as to the importance of the contributions of each. Unfortunately, I can not speak as highly for the contributions of the good Bishop from New Jersey to those of Luther as Bainton portrays him. I found Bishop Spong's attempt to cast himself as a "modern day" version of the 16th century Protestant Reformer in his everyday church polity struggles, frankly, more than a little pretentious and self-congratulatory in his own self-importance. Having neither the character of Luther nor his originality, Spong instead reflects commonplace misunderstandings of the church, its mission and history, which, are 1) far from the historical mark and 2) lack the academic subtelty and sophistication of serious study.

For those seeking a "pop" assessment of modern theology, a caricature instead of substance, this is your book. I suppose it is worth pointing out that ultimately, you get what you pay for, however. "Pop" assessments rarely provide more than snap-shots in time and are of limited sustained value as contributions to the Church. Fortunately, books like this have a tendency to pass quite quickly into used bookstores as bargain basement classics. Appropriately so, in my view.

Ray Timmermans
Bethel Seminary, San Diego

All Scholarship should be like this
All scholarship should be like this. It was so funny. I confess--I have something in common with most of the Rt. Rev. Spong's fans. Like them, I've read very little of what he's written. (For example, "Can A Bishop Be Wrong" has two five-star reviews from Spong fans who are under the impression that Spong wrote this book-- apparently, they feel comfortable praising Spong's work sight-unseen).
Don't get me wrong. I've tried to read Spong. But, alas, the Rt. Rev. S. is a ghastly writer. After a while, the charms of Spong's writing-- his relentless self-congratulation, his presenting of hackneyed 19th-century pop-biblical-criticism as his own daring innovation, his use of the passive voice to hide sweeping and questionable assertions ("...there is surprise at how insignificant were the theological issues dividing the two sides [of the Reformation]"), his utter lack of a sense of humor, his unforgivably poor skill with words-- begin to pall. I haven't yet met someone who can read an entire chapter of Spong at one sitting.

That's where another book comes in handy- "Can a Bishop Be Wrong?". The authors don't exhaustively categorize the intellectual sins of the Rt. Rev. Spong-- such a task could never be worth the trees killed. But they provide a good survey of his looking-glass kingdom. "Can A Bishop Be Wrong" isn't a work of Christian apologetics, because it doesn't have to be. Spong's main contention-- the foundation of all his work-- is his claim that no intelligent person of the twentieth century can be an orthodox Christian. To respond, one doesn't have to prove Christianity-- one just has to provide a counterexample. This book categorizes his errors and logical lapses with admirable thoroughness. Not an exhaustive thoroughness, to be sure, but sufficient to the silly task at hand.

This book has its flaws. As others have noted, it is a collection of essays, and they repeat some of the same points over and over. The authors sometimes let Spong goad them into anger. And they don't argue much against Spong's theological outlook-- but since Spong's outlook is just rehashed nineteenth-century "modernism", you can find plenty of orthodox arguments against heavier intellectual forces than Spong. (Try Chesterton's _The_Everlasting_Man_, for starters.)

This book has a limited market. Spong's fans will not be moved by what they read here, if they were inclined to try reading it. But to the traditional theist of whatever religion, who wonders whether he ought to read Spong and find out what all the fuss is about, this book offers a strong and well-reasoned answer: "Nope." ... Read more

Reviews (1)

A Real Gem
This is the story of a Buddhist monk who was born and raised in poverty in Sri Lanka, and through dedication to the teachings of the Buddha became one of the great figures in Buddhism in the United States and the world today. This is an inspirational, charming and delightfully accessible book about a good life, well lived. However, for anyone who expects to find a story full of easy living and religious perfection, this is not the place to come! Buddhist institutions are made of people, and those people are subject to the same anger, fear, pride and jealousy as anyone else is. Bhante tells many stories of his difficulties with entrenched Buddhist institutions. There is no perfection there.

Despite the fact that this is a kind of life that very few of us can relate to, so much of it is terribly familiar. Part of the beauty of this book is that it shows that we are all not so very different, that in the end we are all people, we all have problems, and that we all face the same challenges as human beings. The main reason that I love this book, however, is that what we are left with is the image of a good man who has lived an extraordinary life, but that this kind of life is within reach of all of us. Bhante G. does not, in the end, seem like a religious icon, so much as he seems like the better person in all of us. ... Read more

Book Description

Remarkable story of the savage persecuation of Christian in Korea during World War II, Ahn E. Sook stood alone among thousands of kneeling people.Her bold defiance of the tyrannical demand to bow to pagan Japanese shrines condemned her to a living death in the filth and degradation of a Japanese prison.This brave woman remained faithful to Christ in the face of brutality, oppression, and ruthlessness of her captors.The story of how she won many of her fellow prisoners to Christ, in the most deplorable conditions, is an inspirtation to all. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Awe Inspiring Story of an Incredible Woman
Verse 4:16 in the book of Esther provides the backdrop of a modern-day Esther who went to Japan to warn the Japanese against their idol/shrine worship. She had a heart for the Japanese people to bring them to a knowledge of Jesus Christ, but was instead thrown into prison because she refused to worship idols. Like a modern-day Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, she refused to bow to the shrine worship and was fully prepared to die. She lived by faith, prayer and leaning on Jesus during her long ordeal, and even though she was starved and tortured and ill, as it was for Daniel in the lion's den, God stopped the mouths and hands of her worse enemies in miraculous ways. She became a testimony to those in the prison and won many to Christ, from crazed murderers, to cruel prison guards, to a former geisha who became a missionary in the mountains. There were many moments of despair and longing for the deliverance of death, and Esther bemoans her weakness and hunger, and this all shows that she is weak, but that God is strong, with His strength made perfect through our weaknesses. All her trials and tribulations showed her how Jesus is faithful and never left her and finally delivered her when she was freed at the end of the war and escaped the Communists to South Korea. Her mother was a remarkable person, having led Esther to the LORD and kept her faith providing Esther with encouragement and prayer. This book will strengthen your faith and encourage you also when things get tough and you learn to lean on the everlasting arms. It is also hard to put down and my daughter read it all the way through in a day.

the Living Word
Although it has been years since reading the book, several impressions still remain.

One was the way scripture constantly came out in Esther Ahn's life. It was very real. Some readers, in their reading of fiction, may seek adventure and plot--this book has it in its recounting of imprisonment and persecution of a Christian in Korea--but seeing how the Word comes to her mind all the time, seeing how her life was built on this, is what made me love the book.

And the thing that hit me the most was: when I finished reading the book, I felt strongly: I WANT TO MEET HER MOTHER! Her mother wasn't one of the main characters in the book, but it was the mother who instilled in Esther Ahn her unshakable confidence in the Word and lifestyle of constant reference to it.

"I have never seen anything like this before," the senior officer, who was a Korean, said. "The daughter is great. The mother is greater."

What A Mighty God We Serve !
What a well written an awesome testimony of God Almighty. As on e reads this biographical collection one can clearly see the Hand of God in this faithful woman's life. We,in this current age, especially in the USA, can not really imagine what it means to stand for one's faith and be persecuted for it. After reading this account one can truly see that our God is the 'God of the Impossible' and His ways are so above ours. What an encouraging book. I can't wait to meet Esther Kim at heaven's gate!

Faith and forgiveness in action
In the face of the most brutal treatment and systematic persecution by her Japanese captors during WWII, Esther Kim puts into action the love of God that overcomes anguish, fear and incomprehensible evil. This is one of the most moving books I've ever read and was instrumental in my own personal search for a God who is real and who makes a difference.

It's inspiring. Esther is a true, honorable servant of God.
Some may think that reading a book about persecution is depressing, showing them a side of life that they hope to avoid. This book, though it describes hardships, leaves the reader feeling inspired. Esther describes her struggle to submit to God's will, and through her humility, the love God is clearly shining through her life.

This book is also a good source to learn about the history and therefore present relations between Korea and Japan. ... Read more

Reviews (27)

A close-up and personal look at heaven.
Get your questions on what heaven is like answered in this book. This is Jesse's personal revelation of an actual trip that he had when called to heaven to recieve a personal message from Jesus. Learn about Jesse's personal quest for God and what God has done for and through Jesse. My wife does not normally read but she sat down and read this book in an afternoon. Ever since then this book has been making the rounds through all of our friends and neighbors hands. Don't miss reading this book - it can electrify you in your walk with God!!!

An eyewitness account of the third heaven
You can read the whole book at one sitting. The highlight of this book is Jesse's EYEWITNESS account of his 5 hour 15 minutes earth time trip via CHARIOT type transportation (with his angel) to the third heaven. Jesse landed in PARADISE first where he spent time exploring the new found land with beautiful scenery - mountains, valleys, flowers, grass, tree of life, river of life, heavenly fragrance, no shadows, animals etc. Jesse also saw CHILDREN in Paradise. Jesse had to eat the FRUIT from the Tree of Life to impart strength to him throughout his entire trip, more so as he moved closer to the Throne Room. Then, Jesse moved on to the heavenly CITY where he saw the WALL OF JASPER and the names of the apostles as FOUNDATIONS. Jesse also saw the BOOK OF LIFE. His appointment with the great God Yahweh was in the THRONE ROOM, the center of heaven. He met and conversed with old testament characters like Abraham, King David (who happenned to be his other tour guide - could it be King David was Jesse's son, so King David guided the author who is also called Jesse?), prophet Jonah and one new testament character, the apostle Paul. Such conversations with saints is what the Apostle's Creed called: "COMMUNION OF THE SAINTS". It is NOT necromancy which is forbidden in Scripture. Of course, he met JESUS both in the heavenly city and in the Throne Room. Jesse's conversations with Jesus is outside the Throne Room cos he heard Jesus preached in the Throne Room. Jesse saw big holes in Jesus' feet where light was shining through. Jesse recorded his detailed conversations with the Apostle Paul, his Bible hero. SERVANTHOOD seems to be the MOTIVATION factor among the saints and angels alike in the third heaven. Jesse's THRONE ROOM experience is the CLIMAX of his trip. Our Father is very BIG. His face cannot be seen cos the Light emanating from Him is too intense and too bright. Jesse saw Father's huge hands of light and His feet. Jesse also saw his own MANSION and went inside to have a look at the furnishings of his own mansion in the heavenly city. All our heart's desire was catered for!! The KEY message Jesus wants Jesse to bring to us is that JESUS IS COMING BACK VERY SOON, much sooner than we think.

Horrible
Its amazing that people can read this garbage and believe it. It doesnt take a biblical scholar to figure out the foolishness of this book and of Duplantis' teachings in general. Typical Charismatic mumbo jumbo, everybody is in competition of having some supernatural experience just to make themselves more "spiritual" than others. You want to read a good book?
"The Gospel according to Jesus" by John MacArthur. Basic fundamental truth, not fantasy.

Heavenly Preview
Man, you wanna talk about a book you can't put down! I read this in one night (which isn't that great of a feat, since the book is only 185 pages of large type), and I was so excitied and pumped after I was finished that I wasn't able to sleep! I was that wired.
The first third of the book, roughly, regards Jesse's early years and his first encounters with the spiritual realm. These are extremely interesting tidbits, especially when Brother Jesse continues to live a heathen life style after these events. You really want to ask him, "WHAT IS YOUR PROBLEM?" Obviously, he straightens up later on...
Brother Jesse does all of this, of course, with his trademark humor. Even in print, this man is a mess. He is incredibly humorous...all I could think of is, "I'd gladly pay an expensive steak dinner to sit down with him and just talk about the Lord". It would be an expreience I'd not forget, I'm sure.
The main meat of the book, however, deals with the Brother Jesse being caught up into Heaven and meeting many of the biblical saints - Abraham, David, Paul, Jonah - and most importantly, our savior Jesus. He describes what they look like, how tall they were, their personalites, etc...Once you get to this point, where Jesse is on a tour of heaven guided by the king of Isreal, David, I challenge you to put this book down. I think it's impossible to do.
I came away with a better understanding of Jesus than I did before I read this book. I always viewed Him as a teacher, a gentle man of love. While He is indeed very much that, what I came away with after reading this book is that He is very much a preacher, a leader, an on-fire motivator, a being of unproachable integrity (I say "being" because Jesus is more than a man).
I can honestly say this book has changed me. I want a robe, not a gown, and after reading this book, I believe you'll feel the same way, as well.

I was enthralled and could not stop reading.
I am not a novel reader I mostly stick to periodicals and the Bible, maybe articles, but that is it. I picked this book up and rea