Culture by A.W.Tozer

A.W. Tozer was a self-taught theologian who was also a pastor, teacher and writer. He died in 1963 and was called a modern day prophet for his deep conviction, Spirit-filled words, and challenging writings. This book is a compilation of his works that pertain to living as a Christian in a hostile culture. Much of what he says is timeless in its application.

He encourages the Christian to be in the world but not of the world; to not compromise Biblical truth and to expect trials and hardships for one's commitment to Christ. His words are both challenging and convicting. It is a worthwhile and thought provoking read.

I received this book from Moody Publishers for this review   

The Tunnels by Greg Mitchell

This is a engaging book focused on a brief period of time in 1962 as attempts were made to made tunnels under the Berlin Wall to help people escape from East Berlin into West Berlin. Some of these attempts were successful and some were not. What I don't believe is widely known is that both CBS and NBC financed some of the tunneling that went on during that time.

This is a well researched and interesting read about what was happening in Berlin during that time as well as in the United States as the fear of communism grew. NBC was successful in filming some of the tunneling and the film was eventually released after much opposition from the Kennedy administration.

A fascinating look at a period of history of which I was not aware. I received this book from Blogging for Books for this review.
 

31 Verses To Write On Your Heart

I always look forward to a book by Liz Curtis Higgs and I was not disappointed with this book. She shares 31 favorite Scripture verses in this book which could be used as a daily devotional for one month or as a group study. A study guide is included in the back of the book.   

Each verse is examined in depth which adds to the meaning behind each verse. Suggestions for using different translations of the Bible and tips on memorizing Scripture are also included. I would recommend this for any woman who wants to commit Scripture verses to memory or start a group to encourage others to join in doing the same.

I received this book from Blogging for Books for this review.

On The Block by Doug Logan

For anyone involved in urban ministry or for anyone just desiring to reach out in their neighborhood,  this book is for you. It will both challenge you and encourage you. To begin with Doug Logan uses the examples of Adam, Nehemiah, Jesus and Paul to illustrate the steps needed in missional engagement. First we must go to engage the people on our block just as God reaches out to us as sinful people. Then like Nehemiah, we need to step into people's pain and grief and grieve with them before their hearts can be transformed. We also have to build teamwork in what is done and look to God for hope to rebuild a city. Following the example of Jesus we need to be sensitive to the culture of our neighborhood and understand that missional engagement is not just for pastors and missionaries, but for all followers of Christ. And then like Paul, we need to identify the idols of the culture, show the true nature of God, expose how the culture is absent of truth, show how the idols cannot represent God, and preach the resurrection of Jesus.

Doug Logan uses these principles as he shares his story of planting a church in Camden, New Jersey. Although the stories he shares take place in the urban setting, the principles he shares is applicable to anyone who wants to reach out in their own neighborhood. 

I received this book from Moody Publishers for this review.