Book Description
Churches have tried all kinds of ways to attract new and younger members - revised vision statements, hipper worship, contemporary music, livelier sermons, bigger and better auditoriums. But there are still so many people who aren't being reached, who don't want to come to church. And the truth is that attendance at church on Sundays does not necessarily transform lives; God's presence in our hearts is what changes us. Leaders and laypeople everywhere are realizing that they need new and more powerful ways to help them spread God's Word. According to international church starter and pastor Neil Cole, if we want to connect with young people and those who are not coming to church, we must go where people congregate. Cole shows readers how to plant the seeds of the Kingdom of God in the places where life happens and where culture is formed - restaurants, bars, coffeehouses, parks, locker rooms,and neighborhoods. Organic Church offers a hands-on guide for demystifying this new model of church and shows the practical aspects of implementing it.
Customer Reviews:
Superb Summary of "Missional Church".......2007-10-09
I've been looking for a great summary of the missional church concept -- here I've finally found it. Neil Cole calls the reader back to the Biblical roots of church, cutting through traditional paradigms and dated ecclesiology. While maintaining a fresh relevance to the 21st century, the author communicates a way of doing church that is so Scriptural it appears new.
This book is NOT another formula of how to organize, lead or manage a local church. Instead, it is a radical departure from a dying, dated ministry model to one that is Biblically sound yet culturally relevant. I recommend this book highly -- it's definitely a keeper for me!
Four star review.......2007-08-27
Haven't read the book yet but leafing through it it looks good and attention holding...
Really real - and really effective .......2007-07-23
I saw organic church on a bookshelf a couple of years ago. I avoided it because of the title (remember don't judge a book by it's cover?). It seemed a little trendy - maybe even too pop culture. I was looking for some good discipleship material when I came across another book that I had read by Neil Cole (author). When I discovered that this was the same author of Organic Church, I thought that I would give it a quick read.
Organic Church was maybe the best book that I have ever read! It connected the book of Acts with the 21st century. It was inspiring and innovative. And it has put me in a postition to reconsider what it means to be a disciple and to make disciples. It is a very honest and very realistic look at church as we know it. It exposes the weakness in the church, and doesn't hide it's own weaknesses. It is not theoretic, analytic, or synthetic - it's just real - natural. It ends up that being organic means being effective.
What makes a church?.......2007-05-18
I enjoyed Cole's thinking outside the pizza box, his passion for evangelism, and his rather sound explanations of new testament era churches. He does a good job in explaining the biblical idea about the priesthood of believers. I liked the critical thinking about engaging the culture.
But, What makes a church?
It didn't go into much detail about the individual churches themselves, how they are structured, or what makes them definably different than a traditional small group. It read as if any small group of people that organized themselves would have been called a church. Perhaps he lays out further development somewhere and I've not yet come across it.
I'm not sure what separates these little churches from small groups disconnected from a church. He doesn't interact with the rich theological history of the marks of a church, which in my confessional tradition (Presbyterian) are
1. The pure preaching of the Word of God as sound doctrine,
2. Administration of the sacraments,
3. The exercise of discipline
The point here is not to debate tradition, the validity of how many marks define the church visible or invisible, but rather how to blend the material in the book into the richness of good sound theological tradition.
Pastor Chris
Touching the Heart of the matter.......2007-05-12
This book is awesome. I am a connoisseur of faith in Jesus having started churches and or served in a variety of capacities for more years than I can remember. I've always puzzled over our present western practice of church and the visible practice of church in its origination. What we read in the New Testament is more like a release of a plague of God spreading eveywhere, delivered in power from believer to unbeliever in live demonstrations of the Ascended Jesus.
Finally - a 'go to'model of Jesus that is free to once again spread the life of Christ in a plague like viral fashion, unencumbered by grasps of men for control and power and to make a name for themselves - "Look at me, I'm king of the hill." Church as a business is one of the most foolish concepts we've ever adopted.
Read this book. It will ruin you if you let it. And then you can get on with serving Christ and not something else. It's possible if the western church doesn't go this way by choice, it may still end up going this way, but by some other means. Either way, the model may well be the most correct I've seen, and the most viral in bringing "the Cure" to our fellow diseased travelers here on planet earth.
Book Description
LysaTerKeurst knows what it means to walk in faith, starting from the cry she uttered years ago, “How do I take my broken life and allow God to use it for His glory,” to her current position as president of Proverbs 31 Ministry.
Walking in Faith will change the way the reader...
- recognizes God’s opportunities for growth
- hears God speak through His Word
- understands herself as a unique creation of her Heavenly Father
- survives life’s hardest places
Lysa’s new book is filled with stories, Scripture, and encouragement for readers to discover the deeper truths of God.
As a bonus, Lysa has provided a Bible study section to help readers apply the principles in Walking by Faith.
Customer Reviews:
Keep Following Your Dreams.......2007-04-15
This book is all about following your dreams. If God has given you the desire to be used by Him in ministry to others, you must read this book. It is a step-by-step guide to encourage you and challenge you to follow God's call on your life. It is full of inspiring, personal stories and will encourage you to join God in the most excellent adventure of stepping out in faith as you discover and follow your dreams.
As I began reading this book, I honestly couldn't put it down. TerKeurst spoke to my heart and her words sparked in me the desire to pick up my dreams after putting them down for a time.
Another Wonderful Lesson for Christian Women.......2007-02-15
This book is wonderfully insightful for anyone who is interested in becoming closer to God. He is truly working through Lysa.
Right book, right author, right time.......2005-09-21
God always seems to come through. As old dreams have had to be left, and my life seems to be a blank slate for the future, the Lord answered my heart's cry of, "NOW WHAT, God??" with this book. It could not have come at a better time, but then, God knew that.
Mrs. Terkeurst has written an encouraging, thought provoking book for those of us stepping out(somtimes unwillingly) into uncharted wilderness. I am a visual learner, and her straight forward writing style, stories and analogies are easy for me to mentally "see" thus making the concepts easier to grasp. This and her book Radically Obedient, Radically Blessed are two of my all time favorites. Mrs. Terkeurst, bless you, my dear.
Book Description
Help for those who have been harmed by Christians–and those who have inflicted the wounds. Throughout history, Christians have done considerable damage to others–both independently and in the name of Christ. Each time this occurs, one of God’s precious creations is wounded and the church’s witness to the world is grievously weakened.
For years, unbelievers and Christians have rejected the church because of damaging encounters with a Christian, a Christian leader, or a group of Christians. No matter how much we wish to reverse the damage, however, we cannot reach the unchurched with the life-changing message of the gospel–nor can we protect those still within the body–unless we insist upon dramatic changes within our church communities.
Targeting every person who has ever been hurt by a Christian–as well as those believers responsible for inflicting such damaging wounds–author Dave Burchett calls for a new way of relating that will bring healing to the church and transform our witness to the world.
Customer Reviews:
Every Pastor of a Church needs to read this.......2007-09-19
I bought this book thinking it would justify my anger towards another Christian who had hurt me. As I keep reading I realized that I had done my share of causing pain in other people as well. This book is very humbling without making you feel condemned or judged. Dave Burchett wrote this book in a very candid, easy to read manner. I am going to buy several more copies to give out to other people that I know would benefit. Especially, those who are skeptical of religion and "church people".
Great!.......2007-05-07
This is a really good book that helps to highlight where we all go wrong and gives ideas to change that. Of course only Christ can give us the power to love one another--since we often do not even like one another.
Take a look at how the world might see you as a Christian.......2007-03-19
This book was easy to read and it points out things that by human nature we all tend to do. The problem is is saying you are a Christian and continue to do them without trying to stop or improve. Dave shines the light on himself and Christians in general making sure we are aware of what we say or do and how "un-churched" people get a bad view of what a Christian is or should be. I would recommed reading this along with 12 Steps for the Recovering Pharisee (like me) by John Fischer. Pass the book around when you are done with it.
a must read for every christian .......2007-01-24
I love this book., It should be required reading for every christian.
What NOT to do to others!
Beyond my expectation!.......2007-01-24
The seller lives up to their promise--new condition and arrived on schedule. I will definitely order from Good Steward Books in the future.
Keep up the good work!
Amazon.com
As though blowing oxygen upon the dying embers of a fire, pastor Jim Cymbala revived a broken-down church in a rough-shod inner-city neighborhood through Christian faith. Twenty-five years ago, the Brooklyn Tabernacle could barely draw 26 people to a Sunday service. Nowadays the congregation is 6,000 strong--filled with converted prostitutes, pimps, drug addicts, and homeless people, as well as yuppies and wholesome families. Although he's quick to give God credit for this miraculous success story, Cymbala admits that there may be a few human decisions that led to this Christian triumph. Most significantly, he made sure his church community embraced everyone, from all walks of life--no matter how distasteful or foreign. "Christians often hesitate to reach out to those who are different," according to Cymbala. "They want God to clean the fish before they catch them. If someone's gold ring is attached to an unusual body part, if the person doesn't smell the best or the skin color is not the same, Christians tend to hesitate." Thus, Cymbala encouraged his congregation to adopt the very same tolerant and accepting attitude as their God does. The results? Let's just say a church thrives in Brooklyn. Accomplished cowriter Dean Merrill helps this tender true story stay satisfying and highly readable. --Gail Hudson
Book Description
Pastor Jim Cymbala shares the lessons he learned when the Spirit ignited his heart and began to move through his people. This book is for anyone seeking to live at the center of God's purposes, through experiencing the power of his Spirit. This softcover edition includes a study guide.
Customer Reviews:
An Appeal to the Power of Prayer.......2007-08-15
The Brooklyn Tabernacle's commitment to prayer is well-represented in the work. Rev. Cymbala is truly a humble man of God who seeks not to elevate himself but the Mighty God he and his Church serves. In addition to the rich Scripture that is cited in this work, there are numerous testimonies to the power of prayer, and historical accounts of church leaders who made prayer a number one priority as well. I also appreciated the simple plea of prayer that Rev. Cymbala ascribes to. Today, there are a number of church leaders who promote special techniques for prayer such as position, geographic location, and so on. How refreshing it was to hear a pastor appeal to calling on the name of the Lord that rested on the grace of God and His mercy rather than an individual's unique performance.
Fresh Wind and Fresh Fire is a book, which will leave one in awe to the power of God that is released when people unite and call upon the Name of the Lord.
Excellent Prayer Motivator!.......2007-07-25
I lead a weekly prayer group at my church and was becoming discouraged due to poor participation from the congregation. After 2 1/2 years I was getting ready to throw in the towl, but reading Pastor Cymbala's book has breathed new life into me! This book was a major encouragement to me, both in my personal prayer life as well as my corporate rone. While the book is written very simply and does not go too deep into theology, it presents some wonderful insights into the power of prayer and how God has hard-wired this world to work through the prayers of His children. Would highly recommend this book for all believers, especially those in leadership roles.
A Fresh Approach.......2007-04-27
Jim Cymbala brings us back to the basics of the early church. He demonstrates what happens when a church really starts to pray. The power talked about in the early church is still there.
Jim shows how we just have to let go of our formulas and programs, and we have to admit that our approach is not really calling down God's power. Real brokenness is essential for God's power to really flow, brokenness and a dedication to praying. This is what leads to spiritual breakthrough.
This is definitely a story of most of today's churches, and Jim shows us a way to focus on God's power. Do you believe that "great sermon" may stand in the way of god's moving?
The book is very readable.
Fresh Wind Fresh Fire CD.......2007-03-23
This CD Book was practically new (may have been new). The price was right and it was shipped in a timely manner. The people who sold this CD Book to me are top shelf in my book. Thank you.
YES! BUY IT!.......2007-02-15
Enough reviews that tell how good this book is, they are true! Just wanted to add to theirs in case someone wants to see what books I reccomend!
Customer Reviews:
Worth Every Penny...and Then Some.......2007-01-05
This is the best book of it's kind I have ever read. I sat down and read it, cover to cover, in one sitting. And then I read it a second time a week later to pick up anything I missed. I suggest any pre-med student does the same!
This book covers everything a pre-med student needs to do in his/her undergraduate years to prepare for and be accepted into medical school. It also completely explains the process of applying to medical school and how medical school works. I have read several books of its type, and it is the only one that would recommend so strongly. The pre-med student will be able to refer to this book again and again during the undergraduate years, and probably, even during in medical school.
Like I said...worth every penny, and then some.
University of Auburn.......2006-07-19
The quality of the hat is very good and it is sewn very well.
A Balanced Approach to Medical School & Life.......2005-06-20
This is a great resource for those who want to go into medicine but don't want to sacrifice balance in their daily lives and relationships. Medical school and a career in medicine can cause a lot of stress, and the author shares some practical advice for making the experience more positive, focused, and productive. The valuable inside tips on the how to's of the application and school search procedure are a must for anyone seriously considering applying to med school.
Good Read.......2005-04-09
I am a senior in high school planning to do pre med at a four year university. This is would be considered an excellent read if you have no idea about the basic requirements and challenges of medical school. On the other hand, if you already have a solid background on what it takes to become a physician then the material is very repititive.
Personally, I had a thorough knowledge of medicine before I read this book. But the timeline that is provided in the book that suggests a courseload seemed to be very useful. I am definitely going to use this book as a reference when I am ready to apply to medical school.
Customer Reviews:
Fit for its era........2007-05-20
An inspirational as well as an instructional book. This book is a good read for all who seek or need an inspirational push. You don't have to suffer from low self-esteem and lack of motivation to read "You Can Make It Happen". It is an easy to read and down to earth book. I have recommended this book to one of my family members.
A great book.......2004-08-21
I saw this book in a store for about $2.50 and thought to myself what could it hurt to purchase "You can make it happen". Well purchasing Mr. Graham's book turned me around to the point that I see my vision for the future and what it has to offer me. I started by purchasing a day planner and already positive results have come into my life along with some positive thinking people. There are still many areas in my life that need to grow and improve, but we have to start somewhere. I would like to thank Mr. Graham for giving me the blueprint to success.
Average, at best.......2004-03-16
Stedman's approach to motivating his readers is one all to common. I found this book only to be full of cliches - pointing out the obvious and reinforcing it like a nagging schoolteacher.
The bottom line is that this book lacks creativity; it is completely unoriginal and provides no means of inspiration to those whom read it.
You Can Make it Happens Rocks!.......2003-11-05
I love Stedman's proactive philosophy about life and great success examples (the Dr J story is awesome). He reinforces the importance of taking action and having a plan to get what you want. It is the same theme in my dating book, SMART Man Hunting: How to Get Out There, Get Dates and Get Mr. Right! - i.e. if you want to find the right mate, you need a dating plan and focus. You Can Make it Happen rocks! I highly recommend this book!
Practical nine-step.......2003-09-12
This book is very valuable and can be useful guideline to you if you still cannot find out your right direction in life. Stedman Graham??s nine-step could probably help you to find out because those nine steps are clear and easy to follow.
Stedman Graham successfully put abstract ideas (how to succeed) into concrete instructions (the 9-step) with examples. It lets us more easily to understand what to do and how to do in order to be a successful person. Also, those nine steps are really practical in the reality and suitable for everyone who want to be outstanding.
In this book, Stedman Graham likes encouraging us to ask ourselves questions. It is good because it helps us to make sure that we are in the right track and really moving forward to success. Besides, although Stedman Graham is an American and most examples are happened in America, his concepts are also applicable in Asian countries, such as china.
To sum up, I think it is worthwhile to spend some time to read this book and find out our own objective in life and then plan to achieve it.
Average customer rating:
- Would this book be appropriate for middle schoolers?
- ...
- A good read and full of insight
- hip-hop generation guide to success
- GREAT BOOK...
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Make It Happen: The Hip-Hop Generation Guide to Success
Kevin Liles , and
Samantha Marshall
Manufacturer: Atria
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
 Entertainers | Arts & Literature | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books
Business | Professionals & Academics | Biographies & Memoirs | Subjects | Books
Motivation & Self-Improvement | Business Life | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books
General | Job Hunting & Careers | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books
Guides | Job Hunting & Careers | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books
General | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books
General | Music | Entertainment | Subjects | Books
General | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
General | Performing Arts | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 0743497368 |
Book Description
Kevin Liles rose from intern to president of Def Jam Records in only nine years. Today, at age thirty-seven, he is executive vice president of the Warner Music Group and has helped discover and direct the careers of stars such as Jay-Z and Ludacris.
Liles' meteoric climb from urban street kid with hip-hop aspirations to one of the most successful and influential executives in the music industry is far more than a rags-to-riches story. It is a tribute to Liles' incredible work ethic, wisdom and confidence in doing his thing his way -- the hip-hop way.
"Every real success story in hip hop comes down to the same thing: someone who finds the will, focus and drive to achieve," Liles writes in Make It Happen: The Hip-Hop Generation Guide to Success. "It doesn't matter if you are male or female. It doesn't matter what race or religion you are. It doesn't matter what hustle you choose." What does matter, Liles says, is that you fight against the odds to realize a dream and be the best that you can be. You empower yourself and make it happen.
Kevin Liles presents ten rules of business success, which range from "Find Your Will" and "The Blueprint" to "Don't Let Cash Rule" and "Play Your Position." As he outlines his philosophy, Liles shares how he put his principles to work, chronicling his journey to the top and the stories of others -- executives, artists, mentors and friends -- he has worked with along the way.
Make It Happen is both an American success story and a guidebook for the road to having a career and a life you love.
Download Description
"Kevin Liles rose from intern to president of Def Jam Records in only nine years. Today, at age thirty-seven, he is executive vice president of the Warner Music Group and has helped discover and direct the careers of stars such as Jay-Z and Ludacris. Liles' meteoric climb from urban street kid with hip-hop aspirations to one of the most successful and influential executives in the music industry is far more than a rags-to-riches story. It is a tribute to Liles' incredible work ethic, wisdom and confidence in doing his thing his way -- the hip-hop way. ""Every real success story in hip hop comes down to the same thing: someone who finds the will, focus and drive to achieve,"" Liles writes in Make It Happen: The Hip-Hop Generation Guide to Success. ""It doesn't matter if you are male or female. It doesn't matter what race or religion you are. It doesn't matter what hustle you choose."" What does matter, Liles says, is that you fight against the odds to realize a dream and be the best that you can be. You empower yourself and make it happen. Kevin Liles presents ten rules of business success, which range from ""Find Your Will"" and ""The Blueprint"" to ""Don't Let Cash Rule"" and ""Play Your Position."" As he outlines his philosophy, Liles shares how he put his principles to work, chronicling his journey to the top and the stories of others -- executives, artists, mentors and friends -- he has worked with along the way. Make It Happen is both an American success story and a guidebook for the road to having a career and a life you love. "
Customer Reviews:
Would this book be appropriate for middle schoolers?.......2007-04-20
I teach middle school in a diverse setting, and I'm interested in perhaps brining this book into my classroom. Is there any content in it that would be inappropriate for that age group (sexual content, profanity)?
..........2006-12-13
I had been waiting for a success book to be written for the hip hop generation by the hip hop generation, along came Kevin Liles.
Given Kevin's high position in the music industry he was able to give insight from on the hustle it took to get there and the hustles hes observed of others. Might I add that that point in itself, his observation of others hustles, is what saved this book from being an autobiography (that wouldnt be a bad thing anyways).
Normaly I dont like too many stories in success books but Kevin is definitly the exception. From lessons learned playing Guts with Lebron James to that reasoning behind his reaction to Dame Dash barking on him on the infamous scene of The HardKnock Life Tour.
The one thing I like about this book also is that it wasnt all about getting money. It wasnt materialistic as most success books. Work hard, play hard seems to be able to sum up his philosophy.
The principles and attitudes Kevin shares arent simply for someone hoping to make it big in music either, they can be applied in anywhere.
A good read and full of insight.......2006-03-30
I was surprised I bought this book but wasnt disappointed when I did. It is not something I'd generally think I would enjoy but Kevin tells an interesting story and one worth reading. He takes you inside his culture and it is an eye opening journey that I am glad I took. His tips we've heard before but bear repeating and overall the message is a really good one. I enjoyed this and you will too.
hip-hop generation guide to success.......2006-03-22
Great book. I give it out to my clients. Excellent for young adults trying to find appropriate direction and alternatives for their lives and future. Liles makes one realize that with hard work, one can make a difference for themselves. The only complaint is that I wish he would write a book of guidance for teens with more simplistic language so that it can be read by various grade levels.
GREAT BOOK..........2006-03-11
I was skeptical at first, thinking that it was another book in which the author boasts about how great they are. That said, I was proven wrong, (which goes to show, you CAN'T judge a book by it's cover). I wish that I had a book like this when I was younger, one that illustrated exactly how one should embrace their career.
Mr. Liles was definitely a go-getter who made his own destiny happen. Throughout his journey, Kevin illustrates his determination to learn the business; he lived and breathed hip-hop, it is something he has to be a part of. You get to see and understand his success as well as what he considers his blunders (which are minimal)and the lessons he learned in making them. All while climbing to the top of Def Jam Records.
I suggest that if you are looking for a gift for that up and coming graduate (High Schooler, College Grad), especially one who seems to be heading toward the creative path, I would purchase this book for them. I stand corrected, I would purchase this book for anyone who clearly wants to understand what it takes to get to the top (whether it's through a company if not their own business).
Customer Reviews:
One of my favorite books .......2007-02-14
One of my favorite books on prayer. Not so much an exposition on prayer, but an encouragement to seek deep, Spirit-filled prayer. Written by a Christian and Missionary Alliance pastor. I've often wondered why we as Evangelicals spend much of our meetings with singing and preaching, but little time praying. Imagine if our meetings were at least half the time in intercessory prayer; genuine, deep prayer for each other, our community, and our world!
Book Description
With the acute need for affordable housing—a national crisis—we need workable solutions. In the U.S. there are an estimated 3.5 million homeless men, women and children each year. One in four U.S. households reported spending more on their housing than is considered affordable (30 percent of household income according to the federal government). This crisis affects very low- to middle-income households and companies unable to pay salaries that adequately cover housing costs—and therefore cannot recruit and retain their brightest and best employees.
Churches are effectively addressing the housing crisis from Washington State—where the largest apple producer has built 150 single-family homes for their employees— to New York City—where an alliance of 60 churches has now built 4,000 homes. In New York, the investment of low-income homeowners has transformed Brooklyn and South Bronx, dramatically decreasing crime, recreating the kind community pride that continues to infuse health and vitality to all sectors of those communities—public schools, local businesses, and thriving congregations.
The national affordable housing crisis is something congregations and faith-based groups often want to address, yet feel powerless to do so in the face of this daunting and confusing problem. Making Housing Happen provides workable solutions illustrated by true stories that inspire as well as provide a theological basis for a housing ministry. Each story features a different model of how affordability was achieved, a different denomination, and different geographic locations that span the United States. This book is about vision and faith—trusting God to do more than any church imagined in meeting the needs of homeless families, the working poor, and even middle-income earners such as teachers and police officers, who cannot afford to live in the city they serve. Its three parts, "The Foundation," "The Tangible Structures," and "The Intangible Structures" motivate the reader to action.
Customer Reviews:
What we've been waiting for.......2007-01-14
Jill integrates the stories of people across the nation who are looking beyond their own interests to engage through the challenges on behalf of those less fortunate. This is such a timely work in light of our escalating housing crisis. She brings to light those who refuse to "look the other way" who go beyond, "isn't it a good idea" or "someone ought to. . ." to partner with Christ's mandate to remember "the least of these."
Excellent source for examples.......2007-01-06
In this day of pontification, this book is a welcome relief with real examples. It's practical and informative. It's a worthwhile read!
Safe and Sanitary Housing.......2006-12-30
Wayne Lusvardi rating seems to be based on his disagreement with Jill's philosophy, and is not a review of the book itself. He is more concerned about the loss of his property values than with the squalor that the poor and lower middle class experience. He blames migrants, who cannot afford the $1300 monthly rents and $2600 deposits for driving up those rents.
The chapters in Jill's book illustrate the approaches used around the country that have worked and have made it possible for many to people to have access to safe and sanitary housing, something most of us take for granted.
The book should be read by everyone who is interested in affordable housing, even those who think that the Protestant work ethic and American Capitalism are in the Bible. It might spark an idea that is consistent with your own philosophy.
Worldly-based housing affordability models.......2006-12-28
Through her new book, Jill Shook, a housing activist in Pasadena, California, has become the de facto spokesperson of the Evangelical Left's new social movement to combat the so-called "affordable housing crisis." The book jacket contains endorsements by many leaders of the Evangelical Left - Tony Campolo, Ronald J. Sider, and oddly has a preface by Dr. John Perkins, who doesn't fit the label. I found Shook's book problematic on both empirical and theological grounds.
In Shook's hometown of Pasadena the reality of housing affordability is the reverse of what Shook portrays. One-third of the population by the U.S. Census is low income, mostly migrants from Mexico (God bless them). If there truly was an "affordable housing crisis" for the poor, how could one third of the populous afford housing in such an upscale suburban community? By doubling-up in housing and gobbling up the lowest rungs on the housing affordability ladder, migrants have driven up rents, driven the working class out of affordable housing and driven the homeless out of former flophouses.
Contra Shook's notion that scattered gentrification drives the poor out of affordable housing, California court decisions, urban riots partly fomented by those on the political Left, anti-landlord enforcement of eviction and relocation laws, and rent control have made migrants into a protected class in the first concentric ring of neighborhoods surrounding Los Angeles. Moreover, Shook has no comprehension that her advocacy of inclusionary housing, "smart-growth," rent control, landlord divestiture of properties to the poor, and her opposition to gentrification actually will worsen the affordable housing crisis rather than lessen it.
Many of the housing projects described in Shook's book entailed the removal of older, "affordable" housing units at lower densities and replacement with luxury housing at higher densities, with some units set aside for low income occupants subsidized by the rents of other tenants. Since when do we consider the entitlement to luxury housing (or a luxury car or gourmet food) a religious or Christian obligation? Shook and her co-authors fail to tell readers that nearly all of the "faith-based" affordable housing case studies in her book relied on government funding.
Theologically problematic is Shook's disguising of the neo-Marxist advocacy model of Saul Alinsky and the Industrial Areas Foundation as what she calls the Biblical "Nehemiah Strategy" (Chap.15). The theological underpinning for her cafeteria of affordable housing models is mostly based on the Old Testament concept of "justice," by which she means wealth redistribution by coercive government. The highly selective use of Christian scripture in the book to support secular political methods and agendas is problematic.
Shook is oblivious to Jesus' observation that "man does not live by bread (or housing) alone." As such she doesn't recognize that religiosity (i.e., Max Weber's Protestant Work Ethic) can be conducive to affording housing in a capitalist society.
Her advocacy of compulsory "inclusionary housing," which diminishes the value of land of small property owners (not real estate developers) without "just" compensation, is contrary to the commandment "thou shall not steal." Even Shook's Biblical preference for homeless migrants runs against the moral of the scriptural story of King David confiscating a sheep from a rich man to give to a traveler in II Samuel 12.
The short chapter by Millard Fuller on Habitat for Humanity is worthwhile.
A Christian approach to such a complex issue as housing affordability in a modern technological society should entail the necessity of economic and sociological competency; but also an understanding that even our best efforts may lead to unintended consequences for which we need humility, grace and repentance not moral superiority and works righteousness.
Average customer rating:
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Where Is God When Bad Things Happen?
Luis Palau
Manufacturer: Doubleday
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
Grief & Bereavement | Death & Grief | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books
General | Christian Living | Christianity | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
Self Help | Protestantism | Christianity | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
General | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
Palau, Luis | ( P ) | Authors, A-Z | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:
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When God Doesn't Make Sense
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Where Is God When It Hurts?
ASIN: 0385492634
Release Date: 1999-03-16 |
Book Description
Suffering. Its stubborn inevitability prompts our deepest doubts about life as well as a profound search for meaning. Why do we suffer? Why must we lose the ones we love? Why must each of us face sickness and death? If God exists, where is God when these things happen?
International evangelist Luis Palau has seen desperate suffering in the lives of millions of people all over the world and has experienced it in his own life. In
Where Is God When Bad Things Happen?, Palau helps those in pain come to grips with the crushing adversities of life by directing them to the limitless resources found in God. Without sidestepping the most difficult questions or slipping into the pat answers of a merely intellectual faith, Palau provides encouragement and hope to those who sorely need both.
Although helpful to readers already committed in their faith, this book is especially intended for those who are still searching and who wonder where God could be in times of trouble. Instead of an academic treatise on "the problem of evil,"
Where Is God When Bad Things Happen? is an empathetic exploration of divine action in the midst of terrible pain.
Customer Reviews:
An extremely useful book.......2000-11-15
Many books have been published about the same topic. But no one can come close to this book. One needs practical resolution when in bad time. This book offers exactly this. It is preachy but it is good preaching. Highly recommended
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