Kingdom Disciples by Tony Evans

Anything written by Tony Evans is worth reading. "Kingdom Disciples" is not an exception. Dr. Evans states that there is something missing from Christianity today and it is discipleship. Most Christians lack the tools necessary to live fully as heaven's representatives on earth.

This book outlines the foundation of kingdom discipleship, the formation of kingdom discipleship, and the function of kingdom discipleship. Each topic is further discussed and insights into how to encourage leaders in the local church to develop disciples are outlined. There is also a guide at the end of the book to encourage people to take action steps in the areas of discipleship. More resources are available at the Urban Alternative as described in the appendix.

I would highly recommend this book for church leaders and anyone interested in fully living out the Christian faith, in
growing spiritually and serving others in the community.

I received this book from Moody Publishers for this honest review.     

Jesus in the Courtroom by John W. Mauck, JD

Jesus functioned as a lawyer, advocate and judge is the premise that begins this book. The author goes on to say that the ultimate purpose of the law or the Torah is to lead humans to both love God and neighbor. These statements are backed up by Scripture and shows how the lawyers of Jesus's day lost sight of the real purpose of the law. Jesus  acted as a legal reformer to show that God is a God of justice and mercy who loves His world.

The book uses examples from the present day which illustrates this point. There are resources listed for pastors as well as a list of Christian legal organizations which help people in their area of need.

I received this book from Moody Publishers for this honest review.

We Stood Upon Stars by Roger W. Thompson

I thoroughly enjoyed this book which is a collection of thoughts on the beautiful outdoors, life and loss. Each chapter is illustrated by a map of the location described in the chapter. The detailed maps  add  a special touch to each chapter. Observations about the meaning of spending time in nature, relationships and the meaning and purpose of life and interwoven throughout. These essays inspire the reader to visit the places described as well as reflect on the spiritual truths contained within the writings.

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

The Heirs by Susan Rieger

Eleanor and Rupert seemingly have a happy marriage amid the upper class of Manhattan. Six months after Rupert dies and leaves behind a grieving widow and five adult sons, a woman unknown to them claims Rupert had another family and had two other sons with her. As they all process this news, family secrets and lies become uncovered. This tangled tale of family dynamics and legacy reveals the inner most thoughts and actions of all of the family members and those caught up in the periphery of their lives. Whether family loyalty is enough to see them all through this difficult time is a question that needs to be answered.

The writing is good but some of the content may be offensive to some readers. I would not consider this literary fiction but more of a popular fiction genre. I received this book from Blogging for Books for this review.
  

Alexander Hamilton by Ron Chernow

I felt a sense of accomplishment when I finished "Alexander Hamilton." This over 700 page book is a fascinating look at the life of Alexander Hamilton and the basis for the overwhelmingly popular musical, "Hamilton." Not only do you learn a lot about who Alexander Hamilton was, you also get a glimpse into the politics of the day. Not surprising to learn that things have not really changed when it comes to opposing parties lashing out at each other. Hamilton was guilty of that as was John Adams, James Madison and Thomas Jefferson to name a few.

It was a challenging read, but I would recommend it to anyone who wants to learn more about not only Alexander Hamilton but also the founding of the country. Too often he is overlooked, but is credited for writings which formed the basis of the constitution as well as the establishment of the Department of the Treasury.  Alexander Hamilton was an imperfect person but a genius in many ways and we in the United States have a lot to thank him for.  

The Road to Paradise by Karen Barnett

This is a delightful summer read that takes place in Mount Rainer National Park in 1927. Margaret Lane, daughter of a prominent senator and amateur naturalist, uses her father's influence to obtain a position at the park. Chief Ranger Ford Brayden is not enthralled with the idea of a female ranger, but Margaret's enthusiasm for the park and its natural beauty wins him over.

Margaret or Margie as she is known to her friends is also escaping a controlling ex-fiancé whose desire to control her and her father leads to the possible commercialization of the park. Ford is still struggling with the climbing death of his father two years prior. Ford struggles with trusting God and Margie struggles with her growing attraction to Ford and his not sharing her faith in God.  The plot thickens as Margie and Ford try to work through their differences when it comes to faith as well as try to thwart the plans to destroy  the beauty of the park.

This is an entertaining read for those who especially enjoy nature and the great beauty of our national parks. I received this book from Blogging for Books for this honest review.
    

Included in Christ by Heather Holleman

I have read another book by this author which  I thoroughly enjoyed and looked forward to see what this study has to offer. I was not disappointed. Her writing style is engaging and there is so much information in the introduction to peak the reader's interest. The book of Ephesians as a document is according to one theologian, "the most influential ever written." That alone got my attention. The study is divided into 8 weeks with homework to do 5 days of the week.

As the reader goes through the study, there are a number of words which create the focus for each week. These include the words chosen, seated, strengthened, renewed, filled and proclaiming. There is also an emphasis on writing your our stories as you work through this study. The two kinds of stories described are the Savior story and the shadow narrative.

I would highly recommend this study for an individual or in a group. I received this book from Moody Publishers in exchange for this honest review.