This classic by Ray Stedman moves you beyond religion, doctrine, rules, and rituals into the life-changing experience of being genuinely and intimately connected with Christ. He shows you how to live a life of faith with integrity - a life that attracts people and compels them to seek its Source.
Raymond Charles Stedman was an evangelical Christian pastor and author. He was a long-time pastor of Peninsula Bible Church in Palo Alto, California, and author of several books.
By the only account that I have heard, Mr. Stedman was a person of substance. Regarding this book, I had difficulty (though perhaps not attributable to him) finding substance. I kept reading about how the bible has within contained all, yet paradox kept being presented. In fact, the last chapter employs the very word 'paradox.' What absolutely was made clear was Stedman's deep study of and recall of the bible.
Excellent book. I appreciate Stedman's work and this book did not disappoint. This is a book that is required reading for a local Christian community, which is what inspired me to get it and read it. I recommend it for any new believer that is trying to gain insight into the walk of the Christ-follower.
This so very helpful and deals with an issue of nominal in contemporary Christianity that so weakens the church today. The counter to this is understanding the effective, life changing effect of the gospel of the in dwelling Christ. This brings glory to Him and joy to those believers who proves these truths true.
Ray gives a great explanation of the process of what happens when we become a Christian and the transformation that takes in us. If you want a further understanding of this, Authentic Christianity is a must read.
One can’t help oneself experience the tensions of life, yet there is another option that sustains us. It’s to live by faith. I’ve read and reflected on it, and then years later, returned to draw from this book.
The book cover states that this is an "in-depth" study of 2 Corinthians. But it is so much more.It challenges the reader to become more Christlike, but realizes that it's a journey. The theme of this book: "Nothing coming from us; everything coming from God." In the first chapter, Stedman gives us the challenge, "The eternal life that Jesus brings to us is radical, not superficial. It is humble, not self-promoting. It is compassionate, not indifferent. It is courageous, not timid or retiring. It is a far cry indeed from the mild compatibility, agreeability and affability that passes for Christianity in thousands of churches across the land." My favorite chapter was one titled, "Pots, Pressures and Power" about the hidden treasure, "Christ in us." Our motivations to become an authentic Christian are the fear of God and the love of Christ. I found this book very encouraging.
I read this book at a time when I was struggling with a physical problem and I really absorbed the message about depending on God moment by moment. I have to say this was a pivotal and life-changing book for me because it forever changed my perception of life and how to relate to God. I highly recommend it.
Excellent book - living a life of faith with intregrity - reminded me of all the reasons why our faith is life-changing - and to share that gift with others in a gentle way.