Spiritual Warfare: Christians, Demonization, and Deliverance
Feb 22, 2012 Book Reviews
Spiritual Warfare:
Christians, Demonization, and Deliverance
Dr. Karl I. Payne
WND Books
Admittedly, this is the first book I have read on the subject of spiritual warfare. More and more the subject has been coming up in my interactions with other Christians and at home. I have always a more skeptical approach to the subject and never considered it much more than a character of the more charismatic individuals. I had nothing against it but I did not see myself in a daily battle as I was hearing described to me.
While I am not purporting that Dr. Payne’s book radically changed my view on the subject, I would say that it has enlightened me in many ways. Dr. Payne’s presentation of spiritual warfare and scripture has helped to demystify the subject and it has been a key piece in the puzzle of my understanding of the battle. The book is clearly written and soundly scriptural.
I found that Dr. Payne’s style of writing was very descriptive and it was easy to understand the basic tenants of spiritual warfare from a biblical viewpoint. The only downside is that at times I feel Dr. Payne is too “prescriptive.” In the confrontation chapter Dr. Payne actually includes scripts to follow when conducting spiritual warfare. Dr. Payne does however provide qualifiers that should discourage the amateur (or spiritual immature) from practicing spiritual counseling or more intercessory practices.
Truly, the subject is too important to ignore, and “Spiritual Warfare” is a solid resources to arm you for the battle. I highly recommend Dr. Payne’s book as long as you prayerfully consider the confrontation chapter before engaging in a regular practice of confronting the demonic world head on.
- Ken W.
“Get It On: What It Means to Lead the Way”
Oct 24, 2011 Book Reviews
Get It On:
What It Means to Lead the Way
Keni Thomas
BH Publishing Group
I recall very well the events of the battle of Mogadishu, and what would later be known most famously as the “Black Hawk Down” battle. At the time, I was serving in the Army National Guard and had recently deployed to Desert Storm. I remember sitting in shock as I watched the video streaming across the TV and wondering what in the world were even doing in this place. My thoughts were a clear indication of my lack of knowledge of the situation that would subsequently be enlightened through the book and movie of the same title.
The situation in Mogadishu was complicated, the battle was intense, and the men were courageous. That is where Keni Thomas’ new book comes in to the story. Keni was a part of the special operations team that was deployed to Mogadishu. His book chronicles the events of that battle along side an analysis on leadership from his perspective.
Keni uses examples of leadership from his fellow soldiers and correlates these characteristics with biblical examples of leadership. I love how he melds the two together to bring the character of God’s word to life. One of my favorite quotes from the book is in the introduction when Keni purports that the definition of leadership does not say anything about rank, seniority, tenure, or hierarchy etc., and I quote, “Remember, it’s never the title or the position that defines a great leader. It is the example you set” (p. 5). It is with this introduction that Keni also sets the biblical tone of the book relating to the courageous leadership of the apostle Paul.
No offense, but “Get It On” is a man’s book. Meaning that it comes from a man’s perspective and it is told in a way that a man would most likely be drawn to. There is a small amount of military jargon and some fairly graphic details that the faint of heart would not prefer. However, I strongly believe that today’s men need to heed the lessons of leadership that Keni writes about. Men of the church in particular, need to step up and lead in a Godly manner. “Get it On” reinforces this idea; with its inclusion of spiritual warfare, and the call from Ephesians to put on the full amour of God, “Get It On” is as much a call-to-arms as it is a biography.
Keni Thomas is now a country artist and speaker, through which he takes his message of leadership to places he never imagined. This too is another fundamental part of Keni’s life story. It was not chance that put Keni in the midst of such a frightening and life-threatening situation. It was not simply for nothing that Keni lost close friends in the same battle. It was for a distinct purpose as Keni discovered during much soul searching. After reading the novel, I believe that he is doing a respectable job sharing his testimony and he is bringing honor to those who fought and perished in the battle of Mogadishu as well.
Ken W.
http://www.bhpublishinggroup.com/books/products.asp?p=9781433672743
https://www.facebook.com/kenithomas
Not a Fan
Sep 27, 2011 Book Reviews
Not a Fan
Kyle Idleman
Zondervan Press
Nearly a year ago I previewed a DVD study by Ildeman of the same title. The DVD used culturally relevant videos to portray the differences of being a fan and being a follower of Jesus. The idea for such a series and subsequent book were derived from a study that Idleman read. The study painted a picture of a public that was more than willing to be a “fan” of Jesus, but fell way short when it came to honestly following Jesus at all cost. While a committed relationship to Christ is not a new concept, the actuality of it is still not as prevalent as it aught to be. Therefore, Idleman follows up the DVD series with a short novel on the subject matter of moving into a fully committed “following” of Jesus.
The book, “Not A Fan,” is an easy but challenging read. It is very theologically sound, but not overly profound. Meaning that it gives you practical challenges and ways to grown in your relationship with Christ. It’s practical, not preachy. Idleman is very much to the point and he uses real-world examples to make his points. The text very much stresses the point of intimacy over knowledge, without neglecting the importance of having some knowledge of whom you are following. Meaning that even though there is a real (or perceived) intimacy, it should not rule out the constant learning and study that a committed follower needs to engage in grow even closer in intimacy with Jesus.
As I have stated, this is not a new concept, yet Idleman presents it in a new and interesting format. “Not A Fan” makes you think about your relationship and ask the hard questions about your own relationship with Christ. As Idleman writes, there is a time when you have to “Define the Relationship” and challenge yourself to be more than a distance admirer.
The text along with the DVD series and study guide make for an excellent small group study. It is well written book with accessible language, practical applications, and it is personally challenging, but not condemning. To discover more on the book and the author check out http://notafan.com/.
- Ken W.
Andrew Peterson – The Wingfeather Saga
Sep 3, 2011 Book Reviews
Monster in the Hollows
The Wingfeather Saga – Book Three
Andrew Peterson
Rabbit Room Press
I was familiar with Andrew Peterson’s music, but I was not aware of his “other” life as an author. Peterson first wrote a children’s novel, titled “The Ballad of Matthew’s Begats,” before starting work on the “Wingfeather Saga.” The saga began in 2008 with “On the Edge of the Sea of Darkness” and has since progressed to the present release of “The Monster in the Hollows.”
After receiving a review copy of the latest book, I was asked if I had plans of reviewing the book. My immediate thought was “how can I review book three, if I had not read books one and two?” I posed that question and was promptly gifted with books one and two. Sigh.. I looked at the task now as more daunting than anything. I have enjoyed watching movies based on books like the “Narnia” and “Lord of the Rings,” but I had never gotten into reading them.
However, with an in-person interview coming up, I decided I better start reading the first book, “On the Edge of the Sea of Darkness” before meeting Peterson in person. I had, therefore, taken the first book along with me to Lifest where I would be meeting Peterson after a set on the Café stage. I started reading the book late one evening and could not stop. I read in my tent by the light of my flashlight as the last of the rock music rang out from the Edge stage next to my tent. I straightway picked up the book in the morning and carried it with me everywhere during the day. Between speakers, artist interviews and a plethora of concerts, I would read chapter after chapter, finishing up by dinnertime. I immediately regretted not bring the next two books with me.
The story was so well written that I was immediately drawn into the lives of the main characters. At the end of each chapter, I was so hung up on the story that I had to keep going. At times the peril was so intense that I could not bear to not know how things were going to turn out.
During the interview I spoke with Peterson about his influences and I was not surprised to hear that the “Narnia” series was an inspiration. Rather, the act of reading said series to his own children was an inspiration to Peterson to write his own books. Peterson confessed that he wanted to be an author before he ever wanted to be a musician, but jokingly he stated that “girls were more impressed with musicians than authors,” so guitars and music trumped his early desires to be an author.
However, since he was an acclaimed songwriter, Peterson entered the fold of novel writing with a bit of “swagger” as he described it. It was over confidence as he explained that was quickly subdued as he discovered the amount of work it took to write a novel compared to a song. Peterson said that most days it was nine hours of writing with a goal of 2000 – 3000 words a day. It was much different than writing a song.
The concept of the “Wingfeather” saga actually started with Peterson mapping out the land and a few characters before he seriously thought out the main characters or story. At first Peterson expected the saga to unfold over five novels but as it progressed that shrunk to four instead.
The amount of characters, creatures, and lands are so immense that I seriously do not know how he can keep track of them all. Peterson admitted himself that sometimes he would be reminded of an unanswered question or plot point via comments on Facebook. If you check out the official website there is a good amount of information on all of this. Personally, I think there is certainly enough interest for a companion book with all of this information and more.
As I mentioned earlier, I had not been an avid reader of fantasy. I spoke with Peterson about this and how others may look down upon the genre as not worthy and somewhat pointless for Christian edification. I pointed out how the first novel had subtle Christian themes, but nothing real obvious as readers may expect from him as a Christian musician. Peterson eloquently addressed this question and stressed the importance of viewing all “art” as a gift from God, whether it be music, movies, or books.
Peterson also mentioned that as it is with music, a good book could often catch people with their guard down. Even if it is subtle hints of truth, it is much easier to slip those in while people are absorbed in a good book or song. As with many of the popular fantasy novels, Peterson’s books address good –vs- evil in an entertaining and enlightening way. As Peterson explained, “darkness is my way of telling the truth.” While there is a good amount of peril – in my words – in the “Wingfeather Saga” the light (or goodness) always prevails.
And as Peterson concluded, with a quote from G.K. Chesterton, “Fairy tales are more than true; not because they tell us that dragons exist, but because they tell us that dragons can be beaten.”
The third book in the series, “The Monster in the Hollows,” has been on the shelves since May, 2011. I now wait eagerly for the conclusion of the saga with the fourth book looking to be released by Christmas 2012. Peterson stated that before starting work on the last novel, he must first write and record his next CD. After that he intends to start working on the final installment.
For more information on the “Wingfeather Saga” check out http://wingfeathersaga.com/.
- Ken W.
Jeremy Camp – I Still Believe
Sep 3, 2011 Book Reviews
Jeremy Camp
I Still Believe: Discovering the Hope and Healing I the Midst of Life’s Deepest Valleys
Jeremy Camp LLC
Those familiar with Jeremy Camp’s music are also very familiar with his back-story, a story of a tragic loss and an amazing journey of faith through it all. Camp has long shared his experience of meeting his first wife Melissa and her terminal battle with cancer. His testimony has touched many lives and his music has delivered a message of hope in the throngs of such struggles.
While I have read about his life, and I have seen him live and heard the testimony myself, the book has enlightened me to so many more details of his life. It begins with the conversion of his own parents, setting the foundation of his faith at an early age. The book also goes into much more detail of how he met Melissa and how their relationship grew in Christ, which carried them through some really tough times. It was a combination of Camp’s foundation and Melissa’s Superhero-like faith in God, that helped Camp to carry on. It was both heartwarming and heartbreaking to read of their journey together.
“I Still Believe” gives you a very personal look into the life of Jeremy and his family. It was inspiring to read of the spiritual victories in his life, his families and his new life with his wife Adie and their children. Adie also adds to the story with some of her own personal insight and perspective as she came into a very delicate situation while she herself was in a spiritual lull.
I particularly liked how Camp explained how songs were birthed from this experience, and it gives me a greater appreciation for the songs he mentioned. I also like how he incorporated a lot of scripture that was influential in this journey. I think the personal nature of the book will inspire any reader, especially those who have experienced similar tragedies in their lives.
Check out Camp’s official website for more on “I Still Believe,” including a sample chapter from the book. http://jeremycamp.com/store/i-still-believe-book-132
- Ken W.
@stickyJesus
Jul 10, 2011 Book Reviews
@stickyJesus
Tami Heim & Toni Birdsong
Digital Scribe Press
@stickyJesus is meant to be a manual of sorts for living out your faith online. It offers cultural insight into many aspects of social media such as Facebook and Twitter. Along with the roadmap to the confusing land of social media, the book also addresses biblical concerns with living out your faith – or the lack of – online.
The book definitely has the potential to be a productive tool for pastors or parents wanting to learn more about the inner workings of social media and how to guide others through the jungle. There are tips on being safe online and on how to use social media as an outreach.
The main problem though with books on the subject of the Internet or social media is that by they time they are printed they are out of date. While @stickyJesus gives you a guided tour of sites like Facebook and Twiter, many of the features or layouts have already changed. However, the foundation of understanding social media is still relevant, and with so many youth living out their very lives (it seems) online, one cannot ignore the implications of how these sites influence your faith.
@stickyJesus is a valuable resource to getting a right start online.
Ken
W.
The 11 Be Attitudes of Prosperity
Mar 10, 2011 Book Reviews
The 11 Be Attitudes of Prosperity
Author: David B. White
Ingram Book Company
Admittedly, I was slightly hesitant to consider this book simply because the title implies monetary prosperity. My initial prejudice was that this book would fall in line with the TV evangelist touting get-rich-sermons. However, I decided to crack it open and take a closer look anyways. And what I found was a complete surprise.
In the media materials the author himself addresses this very concern, asserting that too many people look to the world for financial advice rather than Godly counsel. Rather than giving you some feel-good misused bible quotes, the author uses solid biblical teaching to make many valid points of a eternal prosperity.
The use of scripture is quite heavy as well as practical examples from historical figures like Henry Ford and Albert Einstein. I found that the financial advice was very easy to understand as it was written at a level that the average (non-accountant) person can both enjoy and learn from.
Having now browsed through all of the chapters I can safely recommend this books for those who want to know what it means to seek God and trust in God with financial matters. It is really about the “attitude” of prosperity and not the gold pot at the end of the rainbow.
Author David B. White is a Certified Public Accountant and tax attorney. White also is a professional speaker, having addressed divers groups of people from churches to Fortune 500 companies. White brings all of this background and 34 years of practice to a sensible and well-written text. “The 11 Be Attitudes of Prosperity” will be distributed through the Ingram Book Company. You can find more information on the official website at http://www.the11beattitudesofprosperity.com/ .
- Ken W.
Healing Prayer On Holy Ground
Feb 2, 2011 Book Reviews
Healing Prayer On Holy Ground
Mark W. Sheehan, M.D., with Chris Sheehan
Creation House
Dr. Mark Sheehan is a veteran cardiologist with nearly 30 years of experience in medicine. Dr. Sheehan’s journey as recorded in his book started with an invitation to support a medical based ministry, first financially and then eventually hands-on in the country of Cambodia. Dr. Sheehan co-founded “Jeremiah’s Hope,” a faith based ministry in the country of Cambodia. (http://www.cmmcjh.com)
“Healing Prayer On Holy Ground” is a narrative so to speak of his experience of infusing faith and his profession. Dr. Sheehan uses personal stories of healing to prove his point and he lectures on the necessity of prayer and his focus on humbleness in such a prestigious profession is refreshing. He also speaks with facts and figures on the state of faith in society and he speaks with authority about the God given gift of science, “I believe science is a gift from God” (p. 121).
This book puts a proper perspective on the importance of prayer and trust or dependence on God when it comes to our health (and beyond really). Aside from sharing his experience through this book the Dr. also mentors and trains young doctors on the care of patients.
More information on “Healing Prayer On Holy Ground” can be found at http://www.hpohg.com.
- Ken W.
Jingle Ducks & The Real Night Before Christmas
Nov 26, 2010 Book Reviews, CD Reviews
Jingle Ducks & The Real Night Before Christmas
Cedarmont Kids
The newest children’s project by Cedarmont Kids features Jimmy “Duck” Adkins and avid bluegrass artist and storyteller. The CD is full of fun Christmas classics in Jimmy the Duck’s quacking voice including the loveable “Jingle Bells,” “Holly Jolly Christmas,” and the Caribbean inspired “Feliz Navidad.” It also includes some sing-along songs like “Go Tell It On The Mountain,” “Joy to the World,” and the spirited “Mary Had a Baby.” You can also relive the contemporary classic “Grandma Got Run Over Like a Reindeer,” which, like Barney, will never go away.
Another special track on the CD is a recited poem called “The Real Night Before Christmas.” This poem inspired the companion book of the same title and it is told from the perspective of Jimmy the Duck. The book is a colorful representation of the narrative of Christ’s birth. Together they make a great Christmas offering for young children. Both are highly entertaining and uplifting at the same time.
- Ken W.
Surprised By Worship
Oct 28, 2010 Book Reviews
Title: Surprised By Worship
Author: Travis Cottrell
Publisher: Zondervan
As an award winning worship artist, Travis Cottrell absolutely has something to say about the significance of worship. Most significantly he writes about moments of worship that have occurred at the least likely times – least likely when we try to control what we think “worship” is. Travis writes about the unexpected joy when a song moves you to the point of goose bumps and worshiping God when things are tough and not just during the good times.
Specifically, he writes about worship in death and at a time when we are grieving the loss of a loved one. It is totally opposite of what the world sees as appropriate, but it is a comfort that those in Christ know and can worship with joy and confidence. More common than death is the everyday challenges we face in tough economic times and Travis writes about how easy it is to worship when things are going well, but he expounds on the surprise when we can earnestly worship when things are not going so well.
Each chapter brings new “surprises” and while death and hard times are more profound, I did enjoy his discourse on worshiping the arts beyond music. Ultimately, the book uncovers the greatest roadblock to worship as us. It speaks of surrender and it enlightens the reader of the importance of trusting God (worship) and facing the unknown with great anticipation of the promises of God.
I am not that familiar with Travis Cottrell personally, but I found “Surprised By Worship” to be an easy and interesting read. For fans it gives you a very personal insight into the man behind the music. Certainly, as a known worship artist and a worship leader for Beth Moore’s ministry, the book will do well within his own sphere of influence, but for those less familiar it may not be as meaningful because much of it is based around his personal life.
Check out http://traviscottrell.com for more information.
- Ken W.
