Following Christ

by Joseph M. Stowell

Do you want your life to count for Christ? Would you like to make a real impact for God's kingdom in this world? You can and you don't have to be a great leader for it to happen. Just a good follower. In Following Christ , Joseph Stowell shows why Christ's command to "Follow me" isn't merely the starting point of Christianity. It's the very heartbeat of vibrant, effective faith. And it's not just for a few gifted leaders, but for all believers. "Christianity is a relationship, an adventure, a passionate pursuit of Christ," says Stowell. "Followers escape the drudgery of a system of rituals and regulations, and revel in the discovery of the ever-interesting Christ." Stowell shows you what happens when an ordinary man or woman pursues not the trappings of Christianity, but Christ himself. You'll discover: This inspiring book cuts through the side-issues of Christianity to reveal its true, compelling object: Jesus Christ. As his fully devoted follower, you'll discover a dynamic and refreshing way of living one that will sustain you through life's valleys and provide breathtaking spiritual vistas from its peaks. It's Christianity the way God intended it, marked by simplicity. Vigorous faith. Purpose and direction. Soul-winning impact on those around you. And above all, a joyous, growing closeness with Christ.

Genres: Christian Living, Christian, Christian Non Fiction, Christianity, God, Nonfiction

240 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 1996

About the author

Dr. Joseph M. Stowell serves as the 11th President of Cornerstone University in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Comprised of approximately 2500 undergraduate and graduate students, Cornerstone is a Christ-centered university with a passion for global influence through the transforming power of the gospel. The University is committed to creating an environment where students thrive both spiritually and intellectually as they prepare themselves to influence our world as followers of Jesus.

An internationally recognized conference speaker, Joe has also written numerous books including "The Trouble with Jesus, Simply Jesus and You, The Upside of Down" and "Eternity." Joe also serves with RBC Ministries, partnering in media productions, writing, and outreach to pastors. His "Strength for the Journey" web ministry, www.getmorestrength.org, features daily devotionals, weekly messages and commentary, downloadable Bible study curriculum, and an audio library of his most requested messages. Joe serves on the Board of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and Wheaton College, and has a distinguished career in higher education and church leadership.

From 1987-2005, he served as the president of Moody Bible Institute, and as teaching pastor at the 10,000-member Harvest Bible Chapel in suburban Chicago from 2005 to early 2008 prior to assuming the presidency at Cornerstone University. He is a graduate of Cedarville University and Dallas Theological Seminary and was honored with a doctor of divinity degree from The Master's College in 1987. Joe and his wife Martie are the parents of three adult children and ten grandchildren.

Reviews

[Tom Park · Rating 3 out of 5]

While this book had a lot of good material, for some reason I found it to be very slow reading. Laid it down many times. I just believe there are books out there that cover the same thing but have a stronger appeal to the reader.

[Sam · Rating 4 out of 5]

Following Christ was an excellent book. An easy road with lots of insight into what it really means to follow Christ. Practical and well written.

[Tina Randall · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must-read if you long to be an authentic follower of Christ Jesus.

[Cody · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overly simple at times, but challenging. Especially good for new Christians who want to understand the basics of discipleship.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really gets you thinking. Every one should read this book.

[Jared · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent. Brought about a new understanding as to the different between being a Christian and being a follower of Christ.

[Ross Heinricy]

I took on the "task" of reading this book as part of a men's Bible study I attended at Eastanallee Baptist Church. I have read other books by the author Joesph Stowell, and I have always found his books to be an easy read as far as style, but also a challenging read as far as content, and with this book I was not disappointed.

I enjoyed the book from beginning to end, with the exception of what seemed to be some monotonous moment around 3/4 of the way through. Let me share some thoughts that I highlighted in the book as I read it:

Gandhi was asked by a lose friend, "If you admire Christ so much, why don't you become a Christian?" Gandhi reportedly replied, "When I meet a Christian who is a follower of Christ, I may consider it." pg9

Followers escape the boredom and drudgery of a system of rituals and regulationsand revel in the discovery of this intriguing Person! pg 12

I am a follower not a fan! (not in the book)

One of the rewards of following Christ is the simplicity and wonder it brings to life. pg 22

Starting out is easy staying on the road with Him is the challenge. pg 23

Leading is a temporary assignment; following is a lifelong calling! pg 40

If you are looking for good examples of follow-ship read the book "Foxes Book of Martyrs" (not in the book)

A life that isolates itself from meaningful relationships is morally at risk. pg87

Christ seeks to radically alter the essence and expression of both the content and and the context of our lives. pg 97

Eternity is the benchmark by which every earthly issue is measured. pg 98

Our commitment to follow Christ does not bestow instant perfection. Moving from the call to the cause takes time. pg 119 * sanctification is a process (not in book)

Yet, as difficult as these are, to be a fully devoted follower means that we are making marked progress in the areas of servanthood, sensitivity, and seeing. pg 120

Followers go "wherever" Christ leads them - and its the "wherever" that is so challenging. pg 139

One of the most telling signs that we are indeed living as true followers is our oneness...followers of Christ are colleagues in the cause of Christ. pg 167

Those early followers ceased to be consumed with their differences when they became consumed with Christ. pg 169

There is no place in follower-ship for self-inflicted crosses. Looking for crosses so that we can appear to more committed is not a virtue. pg 207

It will be worth it all when we see Jesus, Life's trials will seem so small when we see Christ; one glimpse of His dear face, all sorrow will erase, so bravely run the race till we see Christ! pg 212