Daran Lemon

Dec 13

The Grace of God by Andy Stanley - Book Review

I’ve been a Christian all my life. In fact, I’m a missionary. I tell you that to give you perspective. I thought I could explain the theme and concept of grace through the Bible as well as anybody. Andy Stanley’s thorough yet very easy to read, “The Grace of God” not only defines grace simply but take reader deeper through the story of grace weaved in Scripture. Instead of ignoring any apparent discrepancies of an Old Testament God vs the New Testament God, Andy tackles the tough topic like a middle linebacker meeting the running back in the hole on 4th and inches. What you come away with is not an explaining away but reassurance that even in the Old Testament full of laws and bloodshed “don’t stand in contrast to grace; they are introduced within the story of God’s grace.”

As a former youth pastor and missionary, I’ve seen too many people slip into rule based Christianity. I wish every one of them could read chapter four, “Redeemed by Grace.” The law is put into perspective. Andy points out that our modern mindset is to jump to the “thou shall nots”, “simply stated: obedience gets you in, disobedience keeps you out.” Grace is a subject that I believe too many Christians take for granted and don’t have complete freedom because of a lack of receiving the fullness of God’s grace.

I would have given “The Grace of God” a perfect rating but for a few times when Andy seems to want the reader to use his imagination to make a point instead of letting the Scripture speak for itself. Though I do believe our imagination can be used by God, it’s difficult to make that jump for it to form our theology. Overall though, this is minor.

Get the book, and allow the Spirit of God to teach you about grace all over again. You will not regret it.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Nov 08

There's nothing wrong with having a plan -

In a church/ministry context there are lots of plans for everything. The plans always seem reactionary, addressing something. How about sticking to the mission?

Oct 21

Even though I was barely one at the time, as a baseball fan growing up this I remember seeing this highlight innumerable times. Pretty exciting stuff and I’m NO Red Sox fan. But yes, I did my own reenactments in the back yard.

This year I am hoping for a Cardinals moment that can get at least close to the thrill represented here and win the Series.

siphotos:

On this day in 1975, Red Sox catcher Carton Fisk hit one of the most dramatic home runs in baseball history. In the bottom of the 12th inning of Game 6 of the World Series, Fisk hit a long drive that appeared to be heading to foul territory. As he ran to first base, the catcher jumped and waved at the ball to remain fair. The ball obliged, hitting the foul pole and giving the Red Sox a memorable win. Unfortunately for Boston fans, the Reds went onto win the Series, four games to three. (AP)

VERDUCCI: LaRussa, Pujols stumble as Rangers beat Cardinals
REITER: Rangers rediscover their identity just in time
VIDEO: Game Highlights | Both managers under microscope