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Rumors of God: Experience the Kind of Faith You've Only Heard About
Where is the life God promised us? Life is busy. We live like slaves to our fast-paced, suffocating schedules. We spend our energy and time in triviality, relegating God to the background. He seems distant to us, and we resist the idea that God wants to give, say, and show us more; we dismiss it as rumor. But Jesus calls us to a better way. Another dream- an unimagined future. Close the gap between what you hear about and what you see. Rumors is filled with the same forward-thinking spirit that defines its authors, Jon Tyson and Darren Whitehead. ?Louie Giglio, pastor, Passion City Church Both challenging and encouraging, Rumors of God will reintroduce you to a God worth talking about. ?Gabe Lyons, author, The Next Christians , founder, Q, coauthor, UnChristian This book invites us to find the rumors of God all around us. Read it, but be ready to be changed. ?Scot McKnight, author, Jesus Calls, We Follow and Jesus Creed for Students For those who are jaded by the church, or have become cynical about the power of the Gospel in our time, Rumors of God is a great antidote. ?Alan Hirsch, author, dreamer, activist (www.theforgottenways.org) Foreword by Bill Hybels, founding and senior pastor of Willow Creek Community Church in South Barrington, Ill., and chairman of the board for the Willow Creek Association. The two upstart Aussies from tiny towns half a world away wind up leading high impact churches in two of the most significant cities in North America. Only God. Darren Whitehead and Jon Tyson are deep thinking Christ followers with a bias for action in the world. A rare combination these days. They are both leaders and communicators, visionaries and "get stuff done for God" guys. Extremely rare. I have had the privilege of working closely with Darren at Willow Creek Community Church for over 7 years. He is thoughtful, relationally intelligent and one of the hardest working young leaders I know. In Rumors of God, Darren and Jon have some how succeeded in slipping 3D glasses over our eyes. The results are that passages from scripture come alive in ways that will impact readers for a long time. I salute the efforts of these young mates and pray that readers will be as stretched in their minds and hearts as I have been.
208 pages, Paperback
First published July 19, 2011
27 people are currently reading
241 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
September 8, 2025
i’ll read anything Jon Tyson touches. this was good - lots of reinforcing ideas and concepts i’m very familiar with, so not much for me to reflect upon or challenge myself with here.
February 17, 2022
Darren Whitehead and Jon Tyson are two of my favorite pastors. I have listened to them almost every week for almost 2 years. It’s not just their knowledge or understanding of God’s Word or church that I admire—their real, personal love for Jesus and the desire to see His fame and mighty deeds done on everyone’s lives is what inspires me.
I read this slowly over the last few past few months but wish I’d read it a little quicker so I could keep everything front of mind.
Suggest this for anyone who needs a breath of fresh air and a oh-yeah-this-is-what-God-is-really-all-about!
I read this slowly over the last few past few months but wish I’d read it a little quicker so I could keep everything front of mind.
Suggest this for anyone who needs a breath of fresh air and a oh-yeah-this-is-what-God-is-really-all-about!
September 3, 2021
Another spectacular read by Jon Tyson and Darren Whitehead. Both men are pastors, writers, Aussies… and both have incredible stories to tell to make this an incredible book - seeking the deeper relationship of faith and the work of the Lord. Incredibly informative, well-written, and evident that God is at work in NYC, as well as all over the world.
June 18, 2017
If you've lost hope in yourself, Jesus, or the church... Read this book! There are rumors of God doing something magnificent in our time. And I believe with all of my heart that they are true. Do it again, Lord, in our day and through us.
December 30, 2016
Written by two Aussie blokes pastoring in the US, one in New York, the other in (now) Nashville. They've lived most of their adult lives in the US, having left Australia because they wanted to be at the front of a great movement of God and figured such a movement may well start in America as so many others have done.
The book, written now 5 years ago, but still very relevant today, looks at the jadedness of the Christian church. "There's got to be more" to being a Christian and walking with Jesus is a common expression of angst these days and one I know I cried out a few years ago. The stories the two authors share attempt to illustrate "an unimagined future" for believers. They do this by addressing a different "rumour". These cover such topics as: Abundant Life, Another Dream, Generosity, Love, Grace, Community and Justice to mention most of them. Each chapter could have been an individual sermon, connected by a common voice (even though two authors), and structure involving a relevant story and applicable scripture.
The setup is excellent and full of hope. The authors do a great job outlining the cause of our jadedness and painting a picture of a future that we dream about. There were a number of "wow" moments for me where their insight and/or interpretation of Scripture were particularly eye-opening. In particular, Chapter 4 ("Rumors of Love") provided an excellent study of the Ephesian church as John outlined in Revelation. Chapter 7 ("Rumors of Commitment") gave an excellent perspective on the impact independent living and thinking has had on the church.
This was very readable and the authors passion and love of Jesus, the Church and His Word were clearly evident. What I found a little lacking was any real detail around the "how" to realise the future. What may have added to the message were a series of vignettes of people or churches that were "living the future". Hence, providing a form of role modelling for the rest of us.
In saying that this is a good book that adds to the literature about living the abundant life Jesus encourages us to live in walking with Him.
The book, written now 5 years ago, but still very relevant today, looks at the jadedness of the Christian church. "There's got to be more" to being a Christian and walking with Jesus is a common expression of angst these days and one I know I cried out a few years ago. The stories the two authors share attempt to illustrate "an unimagined future" for believers. They do this by addressing a different "rumour". These cover such topics as: Abundant Life, Another Dream, Generosity, Love, Grace, Community and Justice to mention most of them. Each chapter could have been an individual sermon, connected by a common voice (even though two authors), and structure involving a relevant story and applicable scripture.
The setup is excellent and full of hope. The authors do a great job outlining the cause of our jadedness and painting a picture of a future that we dream about. There were a number of "wow" moments for me where their insight and/or interpretation of Scripture were particularly eye-opening. In particular, Chapter 4 ("Rumors of Love") provided an excellent study of the Ephesian church as John outlined in Revelation. Chapter 7 ("Rumors of Commitment") gave an excellent perspective on the impact independent living and thinking has had on the church.
This was very readable and the authors passion and love of Jesus, the Church and His Word were clearly evident. What I found a little lacking was any real detail around the "how" to realise the future. What may have added to the message were a series of vignettes of people or churches that were "living the future". Hence, providing a form of role modelling for the rest of us.
In saying that this is a good book that adds to the literature about living the abundant life Jesus encourages us to live in walking with Him.
January 5, 2025
As a review, Rumors of God has been hard to assess. The book is about modern life and how to be a better Christian. As a book, it attempts to disciple Christians by looking at problems within the modern world and then attempting to apply how Christianity solves these issues.
One of the infuriating things about the book is the anti-capitalist position without mentioning capitalism once. It is a bit like mentioning fish without mentioning water. I remembered though that I am a Left-wing Christian and so the hermeneutics I have would not be appropriate for fully appreciating this book. The book attempts to refute elements of the American capitalist system such as how dreams of the American dream are controlling or how adverts are psychologically controlling as argued by the American Psychology Association. Chapter 3 The Great Reversal lists out how destructive consumerism is on the planet and how planned obsolescence and perceived obsolescence damage society. Derrida is mentioned in his gift and giver economy paradigm. Chapter 7 Radical Individual looks at how individualism goes back far but doesn't mention capitalism nor Protestantism for this creation.
I could go on. This book gives a critique of capitalism and the structure of society from a capitalist framework but its solution to this is... Christian community? One of these examples is how Kelly moves from New York to small town Oklahoma in Chapter 2 as an example of challenging the consumerist system. Except the politics of small town America pushes for the continuation of capitalism and so supports the system that this book tries to oppose.
Maybe I am thinking too critically about this book. But when the main narrative and discourse of this book is that society is bad because of the economic system and yet this economic system is not once critically evaluated, I suspect this book is failing to give a good analysis.
The other part of the book that infuriated me was the analogies. An example of this is Chapter 6 Giving up your Rights, where the Assyrians are compared as "biblical era- Nazis". This accusation of course comes from "historians" in a classic weasel-word from no citation. This comparison to the Nazis is bafflingly ignorant. For one, gen0cide has been practiced by many different empires throughout human history. Assyrians wouldn't be alone in carrying it out. Secondly, the comment undermines itself by arguing that the Assyrians forced intermarriage between Assyrians and Israelites, something that is totally different to Nazi Germany whose racist ideas led to vi0lence of the de*ths of millions. By equating Assyrians with Nazis, the authors fail to understand the true horror of Nazi Germany. Not good.
I give this book a two star review. I would recommend this book for a leftist trying to share Leftist views to a Christian conservative friend who supports capitalism. This then becomes a useful book in trying to move the political dial for people who support capitalist tendencies in Christian circles. Other than that, the book lacks a strong analysis.
One of the infuriating things about the book is the anti-capitalist position without mentioning capitalism once. It is a bit like mentioning fish without mentioning water. I remembered though that I am a Left-wing Christian and so the hermeneutics I have would not be appropriate for fully appreciating this book. The book attempts to refute elements of the American capitalist system such as how dreams of the American dream are controlling or how adverts are psychologically controlling as argued by the American Psychology Association. Chapter 3 The Great Reversal lists out how destructive consumerism is on the planet and how planned obsolescence and perceived obsolescence damage society. Derrida is mentioned in his gift and giver economy paradigm. Chapter 7 Radical Individual looks at how individualism goes back far but doesn't mention capitalism nor Protestantism for this creation.
I could go on. This book gives a critique of capitalism and the structure of society from a capitalist framework but its solution to this is... Christian community? One of these examples is how Kelly moves from New York to small town Oklahoma in Chapter 2 as an example of challenging the consumerist system. Except the politics of small town America pushes for the continuation of capitalism and so supports the system that this book tries to oppose.
Maybe I am thinking too critically about this book. But when the main narrative and discourse of this book is that society is bad because of the economic system and yet this economic system is not once critically evaluated, I suspect this book is failing to give a good analysis.
The other part of the book that infuriated me was the analogies. An example of this is Chapter 6 Giving up your Rights, where the Assyrians are compared as "biblical era- Nazis". This accusation of course comes from "historians" in a classic weasel-word from no citation. This comparison to the Nazis is bafflingly ignorant. For one, gen0cide has been practiced by many different empires throughout human history. Assyrians wouldn't be alone in carrying it out. Secondly, the comment undermines itself by arguing that the Assyrians forced intermarriage between Assyrians and Israelites, something that is totally different to Nazi Germany whose racist ideas led to vi0lence of the de*ths of millions. By equating Assyrians with Nazis, the authors fail to understand the true horror of Nazi Germany. Not good.
I give this book a two star review. I would recommend this book for a leftist trying to share Leftist views to a Christian conservative friend who supports capitalism. This then becomes a useful book in trying to move the political dial for people who support capitalist tendencies in Christian circles. Other than that, the book lacks a strong analysis.
July 12, 2016
It's no secret that one of the most maligned "institutions" of our day is the church. Most people have a jaded view of the church. Some of that can be blamed on people's misunderstandings and misapprehensions; far more of the blame falls upon the people who comprise churches for failing to come anywhere near the New Testament expectation of how the church is to function. It is one thing to be a fallible, sinful human being; it is quite another to continually willfully distort what God established.
Nevertheless, God continues to expect His people to associate with one another on the basis of their shared walk in Christ (1 John 1:7). And congregations of God's people, for all of their faults, still do provide blessings and have the opportunity to provide many more.
Such is the premise of a new book by Darren Whitehead and Jon Tyson, Rumors of God: Experience the Kind of Faith You've Only Heard About. The authors are Australians who happen to work at large Evangelical churches in the Chicago suburbs and in New York City, respectively.
The book serves as both critique and encouragement for Christians in their personal faith and in their participation within the Body of Christ. Subjects addressed include finding true life in Christ; the insidious influence of marketing, advertising, and consumerism, and their impact on believers in terms of how they view themselves, their goals in life, and where they direct their resources; what it means to truly depend on God and His love; great emphasis on grace; the challenge of individualism and God's mandate for community; the need to work for justice; and the hope that is provided through Christ.
Many of the premises of the book are similar to material that is being popularized within Evangelicalism, particularly to the younger generations. The influence of Timothy Keller can be ascertained here; much of what is said is entirely consistent with David Platt's Radical books, and Gabe Lyons of Q ideas is one of the people who writes praise for the book. In this sense most of the material is fully consistent with the recent emphases on faith, love, grace, and justice within Evangelical Christianity.
There are some interesting nuggets in the book that go beyond what some others have written. The demonstration that Greek dikaiosune, often translated "righteousness," also incorporates the idea of justice (thus fusing the Hebrew tsdaqa, "righteousness," and mishpat, "justice") is valuable information and does change the way one views many New Testament passages. The critique of marketing and consumerism not just in terms of where we expend our resources but also in terms of forming one's imagination and goals in life is also rather profound in application.
And I would be remiss to not note some challenges. As Evangelicals, there is evidence of the faith only and imputed righteousness positions, although their discussion of grace and the human condition, as written, is Biblically consistent. In chapter 6, the authors use Jonah and the Assyrians to discuss the challenges of forgiveness and prejudice. The imagined scenario of Hitler becoming repentant for killing people and thus being able to be forgiven was quite good, and the intent of the authors in the use of the Jonah example is right on. Nevertheless, in their discussion of the Jonah story, it seems that they use later historical events to describe why Jonah feels as he does about the Assyrians; they also speak of Assyrians moving in and marrying Israelite women so as to create the Samaritan ethnic group in Israel, based on Shane Hipps and Dan Carlin as sources. I'm still trying to figure out how one extrapolates that from 2 Kings 17; it would seem from 2 Kings 17 that the Assyrians almost fully exile all Israel from its land and import foreigners who learn of YHWH from a Levite sent back to Israel by Assyria (2 Kings 17:23-41). Perhaps the information comes from Josephus; but how can one separate truth from propaganda? Granted, 2 Kings 17 is rather prejudiced against the Samaritans, but it at least comes from much closer in time to the events specified than Josephus and whatever Samaritan accounts existed from the first century CE. Chapter 10 is a retelling of the story of Jesus meeting the disciples on the road to Emmaus in Luke 24. The authors make much of a possible connection between the two going to Emmaus and Emmaus as the place where Judas Maccabeus won his great victory over the Seleucids. It is an interesting theory, but entirely uncorroborated; one can imagine a hundred other reasons why the two disciples were going there.
Rumors of God is built on the premise of the "rumor"-- a murmuring, a report that some things might be happening-- and the authors invite the reader to turn the "rumors" regarding God, Jesus, love, hope, grace, justice, generosity, forgiveness, etc. into realities in their lives. Even if one is well-versed in the present emphases in Evangelicalism, this book is still a good reminder of what is really important in life. It maintains a good mixture of encouragement and critique, balancing both the good and the not so good within the current "Christian" environment. Rumors of God will challenge you and hopefully inspire you toward greater faithfulness toward God and living in relationship with Him in obedient service.
*-- book received as part of early review program
Nevertheless, God continues to expect His people to associate with one another on the basis of their shared walk in Christ (1 John 1:7). And congregations of God's people, for all of their faults, still do provide blessings and have the opportunity to provide many more.
Such is the premise of a new book by Darren Whitehead and Jon Tyson, Rumors of God: Experience the Kind of Faith You've Only Heard About. The authors are Australians who happen to work at large Evangelical churches in the Chicago suburbs and in New York City, respectively.
The book serves as both critique and encouragement for Christians in their personal faith and in their participation within the Body of Christ. Subjects addressed include finding true life in Christ; the insidious influence of marketing, advertising, and consumerism, and their impact on believers in terms of how they view themselves, their goals in life, and where they direct their resources; what it means to truly depend on God and His love; great emphasis on grace; the challenge of individualism and God's mandate for community; the need to work for justice; and the hope that is provided through Christ.
Many of the premises of the book are similar to material that is being popularized within Evangelicalism, particularly to the younger generations. The influence of Timothy Keller can be ascertained here; much of what is said is entirely consistent with David Platt's Radical books, and Gabe Lyons of Q ideas is one of the people who writes praise for the book. In this sense most of the material is fully consistent with the recent emphases on faith, love, grace, and justice within Evangelical Christianity.
There are some interesting nuggets in the book that go beyond what some others have written. The demonstration that Greek dikaiosune, often translated "righteousness," also incorporates the idea of justice (thus fusing the Hebrew tsdaqa, "righteousness," and mishpat, "justice") is valuable information and does change the way one views many New Testament passages. The critique of marketing and consumerism not just in terms of where we expend our resources but also in terms of forming one's imagination and goals in life is also rather profound in application.
And I would be remiss to not note some challenges. As Evangelicals, there is evidence of the faith only and imputed righteousness positions, although their discussion of grace and the human condition, as written, is Biblically consistent. In chapter 6, the authors use Jonah and the Assyrians to discuss the challenges of forgiveness and prejudice. The imagined scenario of Hitler becoming repentant for killing people and thus being able to be forgiven was quite good, and the intent of the authors in the use of the Jonah example is right on. Nevertheless, in their discussion of the Jonah story, it seems that they use later historical events to describe why Jonah feels as he does about the Assyrians; they also speak of Assyrians moving in and marrying Israelite women so as to create the Samaritan ethnic group in Israel, based on Shane Hipps and Dan Carlin as sources. I'm still trying to figure out how one extrapolates that from 2 Kings 17; it would seem from 2 Kings 17 that the Assyrians almost fully exile all Israel from its land and import foreigners who learn of YHWH from a Levite sent back to Israel by Assyria (2 Kings 17:23-41). Perhaps the information comes from Josephus; but how can one separate truth from propaganda? Granted, 2 Kings 17 is rather prejudiced against the Samaritans, but it at least comes from much closer in time to the events specified than Josephus and whatever Samaritan accounts existed from the first century CE. Chapter 10 is a retelling of the story of Jesus meeting the disciples on the road to Emmaus in Luke 24. The authors make much of a possible connection between the two going to Emmaus and Emmaus as the place where Judas Maccabeus won his great victory over the Seleucids. It is an interesting theory, but entirely uncorroborated; one can imagine a hundred other reasons why the two disciples were going there.
Rumors of God is built on the premise of the "rumor"-- a murmuring, a report that some things might be happening-- and the authors invite the reader to turn the "rumors" regarding God, Jesus, love, hope, grace, justice, generosity, forgiveness, etc. into realities in their lives. Even if one is well-versed in the present emphases in Evangelicalism, this book is still a good reminder of what is really important in life. It maintains a good mixture of encouragement and critique, balancing both the good and the not so good within the current "Christian" environment. Rumors of God will challenge you and hopefully inspire you toward greater faithfulness toward God and living in relationship with Him in obedient service.
*-- book received as part of early review program
August 17, 2019
Highly recommended. Each chapter is thought-provoking, encouraging and challenging. I especially like the author's focus on grace and on justice. One of my favorite Christian nonfiction books I've read this year.
August 17, 2018
Incredible Book
This book really opens up your eyes and reminds you that God is still in the business of changing lives and moving mountains.
This book really opens up your eyes and reminds you that God is still in the business of changing lives and moving mountains.
January 30, 2020
Well worth a read
September 1, 2020
GREAT & EASY READ
Great read! Meant to be read alongside the other book. "with". This book will definitely inspire you to another level of depth in your relationship with God.
Great read! Meant to be read alongside the other book. "with". This book will definitely inspire you to another level of depth in your relationship with God.
August 25, 2022
There is so much I love about this book. It’s clear and concise and full of truth from the Word and examples of how to apply today.
September 18, 2022
This book is amazing.
August 28, 2023
Loved the practical insight of a story greater than ours… a gospel story with practical insight and real life stories/examples.
December 18, 2024
Love all things by Jon Tyson! This was no exception. It will ignite your passion and convict you with relevant truths about our culture. A great read for believers.
February 1, 2025
This book holds such valuable insight into the more grittier sides of discipleship to Jesus. What does it really look like? What is the heart posture? How far does faithfulness take you vs. desire?
August 27, 2011
Life is busy. We live like slaves to our fast-paced, suffocating schedules. There’s so much more that God wants to give, tell and show us, but we simply don’t ask. We spend our energy and time in triviality, splashing in the shallow end of our souls. – Pg. 19
Aren’t we searching for something more in our lives? We seek it in new television shows or newer video games. We bury our noses in other realities hoping to find that fulfillment. We put the responsibility on churches to fill us and, “live like slaves to our fast-paced, suffocating schedules. We spend our energy and time in triviality, relegating God to the background. (back cover).”
“He seems distant to us, and we resist the idea that God wants to give, say, and show us more; we dismiss it as rumor. But Jesus calls us to a better way. Another dream—an unimagined future. Close the gap between what you hear about and what you see.” – back flap
In my short years as a blogger, I have read many church-bashing blogs. Some blogs have merely caused me to feel compassion for the obvious and real hurt that the writer still feels, and others have simply made me angry. What we don’t realize is how much we’re nailing Jesus in the foot by our unintentional efforts to sabotage our church family. We are more apt to preach the bad that happens in church than to preach the good. In the introduction of this book, Darren and Jon talk about what they believe about church:
“We wrote this book because we love the church. Many have the sense that the greatest days of the church are in the past. We humbly disagree. This book is our small rebellion against that notion. We believe that if you listen to the rumors of God, you will hear that God is doing something new in the church. We long to confirm those rumors with our lives.” – Pg. Xvi
Right away I am wooed by his words. How I long to hear those rumors and see God do some amazing things in our churches. Our culture has done a good job in raising a new generation to live with a focus on “me,” and what’s most amazing is how much this generation yearns for truth in the crystal-clear sense; not the muddied water they’d been drinking for so many years. Slowly, the authors rip through our defenses layer-by-layer. “Or the better question may be, why aren’t more of us receiving, finding and opening? (pg. 19),” the author says pointing the finger back at us.
The book is not your typical, build-your-self-esteem book filled with useless advice and words that fail to fulfill the promise written on the back flap. I could relate to it, and I know many in my Praise and Coffee group could relate to it. I know my readers can relate to it. It’s more than a book, but pages of deep thought peeling away our bitterness and shallow reasoning of what we think about church. God, I agree, IS doing something new with church in America. In one paragraph, the author shows HOW God is working in church:
"As I walked to the front of the sanctuary, I bumped into a woman who had recently come to Christ. A former atheist, she wanted to tell me about what she was discovering about her new identity as a child of God. I was high-fived by one of the students in our youth group, a kid from the projects who had recently become a Christian, while a Wall Street broker prayed with a friend who was in crisis…As I looked around the room I was overwhelmed. I could not think of another room in the whole city where the recently homeless, famous, lost, newly found, rich, poor, and everything in between could raise their voices and sing as one.” – Pg. 118
Overall, this book is a great read for those (as Alan Hirsch is quoted as saying), “…who are jaded by the church, or have become cynical about the power of the Gospel in our time, Rumors of God is a great antidote.” As a leader of a para-church ministry, I see this book’s great usefulness in softening the bruises of those hurt by church and disillusioned by mans’ idea of God. How can we bring others to the family of Christ if as a family we can’t get along and reflect the kind of love Scripture speaks about? How can we show Christ if we can’t forgive our church family for hurting us?
Who will take that first step if not us?
*Book Provided by The Publisher To Review
Aren’t we searching for something more in our lives? We seek it in new television shows or newer video games. We bury our noses in other realities hoping to find that fulfillment. We put the responsibility on churches to fill us and, “live like slaves to our fast-paced, suffocating schedules. We spend our energy and time in triviality, relegating God to the background. (back cover).”
“He seems distant to us, and we resist the idea that God wants to give, say, and show us more; we dismiss it as rumor. But Jesus calls us to a better way. Another dream—an unimagined future. Close the gap between what you hear about and what you see.” – back flap
In my short years as a blogger, I have read many church-bashing blogs. Some blogs have merely caused me to feel compassion for the obvious and real hurt that the writer still feels, and others have simply made me angry. What we don’t realize is how much we’re nailing Jesus in the foot by our unintentional efforts to sabotage our church family. We are more apt to preach the bad that happens in church than to preach the good. In the introduction of this book, Darren and Jon talk about what they believe about church:
“We wrote this book because we love the church. Many have the sense that the greatest days of the church are in the past. We humbly disagree. This book is our small rebellion against that notion. We believe that if you listen to the rumors of God, you will hear that God is doing something new in the church. We long to confirm those rumors with our lives.” – Pg. Xvi
Right away I am wooed by his words. How I long to hear those rumors and see God do some amazing things in our churches. Our culture has done a good job in raising a new generation to live with a focus on “me,” and what’s most amazing is how much this generation yearns for truth in the crystal-clear sense; not the muddied water they’d been drinking for so many years. Slowly, the authors rip through our defenses layer-by-layer. “Or the better question may be, why aren’t more of us receiving, finding and opening? (pg. 19),” the author says pointing the finger back at us.
The book is not your typical, build-your-self-esteem book filled with useless advice and words that fail to fulfill the promise written on the back flap. I could relate to it, and I know many in my Praise and Coffee group could relate to it. I know my readers can relate to it. It’s more than a book, but pages of deep thought peeling away our bitterness and shallow reasoning of what we think about church. God, I agree, IS doing something new with church in America. In one paragraph, the author shows HOW God is working in church:
"As I walked to the front of the sanctuary, I bumped into a woman who had recently come to Christ. A former atheist, she wanted to tell me about what she was discovering about her new identity as a child of God. I was high-fived by one of the students in our youth group, a kid from the projects who had recently become a Christian, while a Wall Street broker prayed with a friend who was in crisis…As I looked around the room I was overwhelmed. I could not think of another room in the whole city where the recently homeless, famous, lost, newly found, rich, poor, and everything in between could raise their voices and sing as one.” – Pg. 118
Overall, this book is a great read for those (as Alan Hirsch is quoted as saying), “…who are jaded by the church, or have become cynical about the power of the Gospel in our time, Rumors of God is a great antidote.” As a leader of a para-church ministry, I see this book’s great usefulness in softening the bruises of those hurt by church and disillusioned by mans’ idea of God. How can we bring others to the family of Christ if as a family we can’t get along and reflect the kind of love Scripture speaks about? How can we show Christ if we can’t forgive our church family for hurting us?
Who will take that first step if not us?
*Book Provided by The Publisher To Review
January 7, 2016
Where is God?
People no longer look for God in churches.
Indeed, most people look for him anywhere but in churches.
They look for him in shopping malls, on the links, in movie theaters, and in bottom lines.
They look for him without even knowing that they are looking for him, seeking happiness and fulfillment in a wide assortment of things and activities.
Even those faithful few who retain their weekly Sunday morning rituals seem unable to find God in their midst.
There are many who would suggest that the church has failed in its calling to make God known to neighborhoods and nations.
This assessment is correct if current statistics about church attendance and affiliation are accurate.
Many folks, both Christian and otherwise, have given up on the church.
They are hungry for God, but their appetites are not sated.
They are seeking but not finding.
God, it seems, has left the building.
Rumors of God
Enter Darren Whitehead and Jon Tyson, two guys who are self-professed lovers of the church. While they are honest about the failures of the church as an institution, they are passionate about reclaiming the church as a community called to be Christ’s hands and feet to our broken world. They want to start a “small revolution” with their claim that just as God is not yet done with the church so too should we open ourselves to the new work that God is doing.
In their new book, Rumors of God, Whitehead and Tyson share many hope-filled stories and observations about the future God is bringing into the present in and through his people. Indeed, the stories are the primary strength of the book. The margins of my copy are filled with many a “yes!” and “amen!” It is difficult not to share their hopeful excitement when reading these stories. Through them we get a taste of the reality of God’s loving-kindness and radical forgiveness and see the beauty of restored relationships.
I also appreciated the time the authors spent considering the negative effects of modernism, consumerism and individualism in our church and culture. This deserves our attention because Whitehead and Tyson are directly confronting the most problematic issues affecting North American evangelicalism. While I would have preferred a more detailed and in-depth analysis of these issues, by keeping theirs concise, White and Tyson keep their focus and audience. The length and content make the book simultaneously accessible and challenging, hopefully prompting the reader to further thinking and reading – a “suggested reading list” at the end of the book would have been particularly helpful.
While no new theological ground is covered, Rumors of God is definitely worth a read. It is suitable for devotional reading and small group discussion and certainly worth passing on those who are struggling with their relationship with the church. Although Whitehead and Tyson will end up preaching to the choir of evangelicals of a similar perspective that will do little to change the hearts and minds of our more doctrinaire brothers and sisters, Rumors of God deserves a wide readership, especially among those who, like Whitehead and Tyson, love the church.
God may have left the building, but, as Whitehead and Tyson show, he is certainly on the move.
“Book has been provided courtesy of Thomas Nelson and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Thomas Nelson”.
People no longer look for God in churches.
Indeed, most people look for him anywhere but in churches.
They look for him in shopping malls, on the links, in movie theaters, and in bottom lines.
They look for him without even knowing that they are looking for him, seeking happiness and fulfillment in a wide assortment of things and activities.
Even those faithful few who retain their weekly Sunday morning rituals seem unable to find God in their midst.
There are many who would suggest that the church has failed in its calling to make God known to neighborhoods and nations.
This assessment is correct if current statistics about church attendance and affiliation are accurate.
Many folks, both Christian and otherwise, have given up on the church.
They are hungry for God, but their appetites are not sated.
They are seeking but not finding.
God, it seems, has left the building.
Rumors of God
Enter Darren Whitehead and Jon Tyson, two guys who are self-professed lovers of the church. While they are honest about the failures of the church as an institution, they are passionate about reclaiming the church as a community called to be Christ’s hands and feet to our broken world. They want to start a “small revolution” with their claim that just as God is not yet done with the church so too should we open ourselves to the new work that God is doing.
In their new book, Rumors of God, Whitehead and Tyson share many hope-filled stories and observations about the future God is bringing into the present in and through his people. Indeed, the stories are the primary strength of the book. The margins of my copy are filled with many a “yes!” and “amen!” It is difficult not to share their hopeful excitement when reading these stories. Through them we get a taste of the reality of God’s loving-kindness and radical forgiveness and see the beauty of restored relationships.
I also appreciated the time the authors spent considering the negative effects of modernism, consumerism and individualism in our church and culture. This deserves our attention because Whitehead and Tyson are directly confronting the most problematic issues affecting North American evangelicalism. While I would have preferred a more detailed and in-depth analysis of these issues, by keeping theirs concise, White and Tyson keep their focus and audience. The length and content make the book simultaneously accessible and challenging, hopefully prompting the reader to further thinking and reading – a “suggested reading list” at the end of the book would have been particularly helpful.
While no new theological ground is covered, Rumors of God is definitely worth a read. It is suitable for devotional reading and small group discussion and certainly worth passing on those who are struggling with their relationship with the church. Although Whitehead and Tyson will end up preaching to the choir of evangelicals of a similar perspective that will do little to change the hearts and minds of our more doctrinaire brothers and sisters, Rumors of God deserves a wide readership, especially among those who, like Whitehead and Tyson, love the church.
God may have left the building, but, as Whitehead and Tyson show, he is certainly on the move.
“Book has been provided courtesy of Thomas Nelson and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc. Available at your favourite bookseller from Thomas Nelson”.
September 28, 2011
Rumors of God is a book of Biblical possibilities with modern day testimonies of those possibilities being fulfilled. Whitehead and Tyson, best friends from Australia and now both living in the U.S. and ministering in major arenas of influence, dedicate each chapter of their book to a “rumor” of God working to save and mobilize people in certain Biblical ways. Each chapter is subtitled “Rumors of_________” and covers such topics as abundant life, another dream (or a heavenly focus as opposed to an earthly focus), generosity, love, grace, freedom, commitment, community, justice, and hope. At the end of the book they suggest that in order to experience these dimensions of our faith, mediocre, American Christians need to begin to actually offer regular and ongoing prayer.
Personally, I found that this book provoked a lot of different feelings inside of me, such as a longing to live out some of the things the authors highlight – like doing works of justice and entering into deeper community with other believers. And I also felt convicted at certain points in the book. However, I don’t really personally feel that this book will have a lasting effect on my life, and if so, only subtly.
One point about the book that I question is the story at the beginning of the book about a mediocre Christian that goes on an international mission trip and then comes back and is desiring to do something greater in America than what she had been doing before. She eventually finds herself in a strip club, doing make-up for strippers before they go out to do their job. As she does their make-up for them, she shares the gospel with them. The story relates how eventually one of the strippers becomes a Christian and even stops stripping. This is a touching testimony, of course, but then the story goes on to relate how the former stripper and the former mediocre Christian continue ministering to the other women by putting make-up on for them before their job. The story testifies that eventually they even begin to play Christian/praise music in the make-up room. I thought this story was interesting because it doesn’t really tell us the outcome of the former stripper, or the other strippers. I mean, it’s obvious that they are being touched in some way, and that’s a a somewhat neat testimony. But it seems kind of funny because it seems like the strippers have become “Christian” strippers with their Christian music playing in the make-up room before they go out to strip.
Besides this one awkward point, I feel like the book could be useful and inspiring for others. For me, it’s not really anything new. But for others, it may be good.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Personally, I found that this book provoked a lot of different feelings inside of me, such as a longing to live out some of the things the authors highlight – like doing works of justice and entering into deeper community with other believers. And I also felt convicted at certain points in the book. However, I don’t really personally feel that this book will have a lasting effect on my life, and if so, only subtly.
One point about the book that I question is the story at the beginning of the book about a mediocre Christian that goes on an international mission trip and then comes back and is desiring to do something greater in America than what she had been doing before. She eventually finds herself in a strip club, doing make-up for strippers before they go out to do their job. As she does their make-up for them, she shares the gospel with them. The story relates how eventually one of the strippers becomes a Christian and even stops stripping. This is a touching testimony, of course, but then the story goes on to relate how the former stripper and the former mediocre Christian continue ministering to the other women by putting make-up on for them before their job. The story testifies that eventually they even begin to play Christian/praise music in the make-up room. I thought this story was interesting because it doesn’t really tell us the outcome of the former stripper, or the other strippers. I mean, it’s obvious that they are being touched in some way, and that’s a a somewhat neat testimony. But it seems kind of funny because it seems like the strippers have become “Christian” strippers with their Christian music playing in the make-up room before they go out to strip.
Besides this one awkward point, I feel like the book could be useful and inspiring for others. For me, it’s not really anything new. But for others, it may be good.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
February 27, 2013
Darren Whitehead and Jon Tyson, two Aussie transplants to America, one to New York and one to the Chicago area, provide the reader with a challenging message on the need to refocus every aspect of our lives to how God would have us live. To a large extent Rumors of God is yet another effort to awaken the sleeping giant that is the church to actually live out the Christian walk and not succumb to the temptation to focus on matters of a temporary nature. Such an approach places this book in the same vein as that of other recent books, most notably, David Platt's books Radical and Radical Together as well as classics such as Dietrich Bonhoeffer's Cost of Discipleship.
Great emphasis is placed in this book on the need for the believer to give up control of every area of their life to the lordship of Christ. Their writing style is very easy to follow allowing the reader to not be lost in deep theological discourse. The book is replete with applicable stories of individuals who have chosen to follow after God with everything they have in order to more effectively meet the needs of a lost and hurting world and by doing so, to spread the gospel message. This is truly the essence of what it means to follow Christ, more specifically; this is the definition of taking up our cross and following him. I was highly impressed with the ability of the authors to passionately portray how this actually works out in the life of the believer. Merely quoting scripture and admonishing fellow believers to "get with the program" is only mildly effective. Thankfully, the authors chose a different tact, one of relevant examples to include those set forth in Scripture, in an effort to focus our every breath on things of eternal value. I was thoroughly challenged to evaluate my own priorities in light of what Scripture has to say instead of what the world deems as the definition of success
.
This book is all about recognizing needs and doing something about those needs. The authors rightly admonish us to live our lives with a kingdom mindset. Let us take heed of that advice provided in the pages of this book and more importantly in the pages of Scripture. Furthermore, may we truly be a light to the world keeping ever in mind the words of Habakkuk 3:2 which form the foundation of Whitehead and Tyson's book:
"Lord, I have heard of your fame; I stand in awe of your deeds, Lord. Renew them in our day, in our time make them known; in wrath remember mercy."
In doing so, we will show the world that God's love, compassion, holiness, justice, and mercy are not rumors but are available to anyone who places their faith and trust in the saving power of Christ's sacrifice on the cross. Whitehead and Tyson rightfully challenge us to be about the Lord's business because the hour is short. Let us not delay!
Great emphasis is placed in this book on the need for the believer to give up control of every area of their life to the lordship of Christ. Their writing style is very easy to follow allowing the reader to not be lost in deep theological discourse. The book is replete with applicable stories of individuals who have chosen to follow after God with everything they have in order to more effectively meet the needs of a lost and hurting world and by doing so, to spread the gospel message. This is truly the essence of what it means to follow Christ, more specifically; this is the definition of taking up our cross and following him. I was highly impressed with the ability of the authors to passionately portray how this actually works out in the life of the believer. Merely quoting scripture and admonishing fellow believers to "get with the program" is only mildly effective. Thankfully, the authors chose a different tact, one of relevant examples to include those set forth in Scripture, in an effort to focus our every breath on things of eternal value. I was thoroughly challenged to evaluate my own priorities in light of what Scripture has to say instead of what the world deems as the definition of success
.
This book is all about recognizing needs and doing something about those needs. The authors rightly admonish us to live our lives with a kingdom mindset. Let us take heed of that advice provided in the pages of this book and more importantly in the pages of Scripture. Furthermore, may we truly be a light to the world keeping ever in mind the words of Habakkuk 3:2 which form the foundation of Whitehead and Tyson's book:
"Lord, I have heard of your fame; I stand in awe of your deeds, Lord. Renew them in our day, in our time make them known; in wrath remember mercy."
In doing so, we will show the world that God's love, compassion, holiness, justice, and mercy are not rumors but are available to anyone who places their faith and trust in the saving power of Christ's sacrifice on the cross. Whitehead and Tyson rightfully challenge us to be about the Lord's business because the hour is short. Let us not delay!
August 15, 2011
There are no words to adequately describe how brilliant this book is, but I will try. What initially piqued my interest was the description of the book... "Where is the life God promised us? Life is busy. We live like slaves to our fast-paced, suffocating schedules. But Jesus calls us to a better way. Another dream--an unimagined future. Close the gap between what you hear about and what you see." Thus the book title, "Rumors of God--Experience the kind of faith you've only heard about."
Each chapter defines a rumor; i.e., abundant life, generosity, love, community and justice. Pastors Darren and Jon take you on a journey which will compel you to love and serve others. I loved every chapter of this book, but what especially stood out for me were the rumors of community and justice.
The rumor of community was about loving beneath the surface. Pastor Jon states that one of the great challenges we face in moving into community is the incurable need for the approval of others. This approval drives us to put on a mask or hide behind a profile, but doesn't give others the chance of loving us for our true selves. In a true biblical community there needs to be intimacy and acceptance through transparency. He states that by learning to lower our masks, we begin to love one another for who we truly are.
The rumor of justice was equally provoking. Pastor Darren states as Christians, we have an obligation and responsibility to answer the clarion call of injustice not just with our cash, but also with our very lives. Oh my, this just went to the core of my heart. This chapter on justice brought it all home for me. I learned that while it is good to be compassionate, compassion without action is fruitless.
What I also learned from this book is that our Christian walk has to mirror Jesus' walk. Jesus came to love and serve others, we also need to love and serve others too. This is called love in action. I am thankful that I've experienced this rumor, and the rumor is true. I personally know missionaries serving in other countries, loving others unconditionally. I am grateful to have experienced that first hand. This verse came to mind while reading this chapter, "Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you." (James 1:27)
I highly recommend this book to everyone. This book will definitely change your life.
In conclusion, I want to take this opportunity by thanking Thomas Nelson Publishers (BookSneeze) for sending me a free copy of this book to review.
Each chapter defines a rumor; i.e., abundant life, generosity, love, community and justice. Pastors Darren and Jon take you on a journey which will compel you to love and serve others. I loved every chapter of this book, but what especially stood out for me were the rumors of community and justice.
The rumor of community was about loving beneath the surface. Pastor Jon states that one of the great challenges we face in moving into community is the incurable need for the approval of others. This approval drives us to put on a mask or hide behind a profile, but doesn't give others the chance of loving us for our true selves. In a true biblical community there needs to be intimacy and acceptance through transparency. He states that by learning to lower our masks, we begin to love one another for who we truly are.
The rumor of justice was equally provoking. Pastor Darren states as Christians, we have an obligation and responsibility to answer the clarion call of injustice not just with our cash, but also with our very lives. Oh my, this just went to the core of my heart. This chapter on justice brought it all home for me. I learned that while it is good to be compassionate, compassion without action is fruitless.
What I also learned from this book is that our Christian walk has to mirror Jesus' walk. Jesus came to love and serve others, we also need to love and serve others too. This is called love in action. I am thankful that I've experienced this rumor, and the rumor is true. I personally know missionaries serving in other countries, loving others unconditionally. I am grateful to have experienced that first hand. This verse came to mind while reading this chapter, "Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you." (James 1:27)
I highly recommend this book to everyone. This book will definitely change your life.
In conclusion, I want to take this opportunity by thanking Thomas Nelson Publishers (BookSneeze) for sending me a free copy of this book to review.
September 14, 2011
Habakkuk 3:2 says, "O Lord, revive thy work in the midst of the years, in the midst of the years make known." In a world of such wickedness and pain, it often becomes difficult to see God working. The God of the Bible seems to be nothing more than rumors or fairy tales. Even those who are strong in the faith find themselves looking toward the heavens and crying, "God, are you there? Don't you see what's going on down here?" We long for a revival. We plead for God to make Himself known to us. Still, we're often left to wonder if the concepts in the Bible are little more than fanciful dreams.
The goal of Rumors of God is to remind us that the Bible is true and that while we may not see God working, He is there fulfilling His master plan. Authors Whitehead and Tyson lead the reader on a journey to experience the kind of faith he's only heard about. With heartwarming stories and applicable Scriptures, the authors explore some of the most important facets in the Christian life. Discussions on love, grace, compassion and hope abound throughout the pages of this well-written resource.
From the very first page, I knew I was going to enjoy this book. By the end of the first chapter, I was inspired and compelled to have a stronger faith and to do more with that faith. Page by page, I felt the Spirit nudging my heart. It wasn't as if I was necessarily learning anything new, but rather that old truths were being reinforced in my heart and mind. My favorite part was when one of the authors told the story of a visitor that had come to his church. The visitor had been quick to tell the author that he didn't enjoy the worship service because he didn't get anything out of it. The author's response was, "I'm sorry. You misunderstood. It wasn't meant for you." He went on to explain that the purpose of worship is to give glory to God, whether we get anything out of it or not. His forthright attitude made me appreciate the book even more as I have grown weary of the watered-down theology being served in many pulpits today. Rumors of God offers the truth, plain and simple.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher [...] book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 [...] : "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
The goal of Rumors of God is to remind us that the Bible is true and that while we may not see God working, He is there fulfilling His master plan. Authors Whitehead and Tyson lead the reader on a journey to experience the kind of faith he's only heard about. With heartwarming stories and applicable Scriptures, the authors explore some of the most important facets in the Christian life. Discussions on love, grace, compassion and hope abound throughout the pages of this well-written resource.
From the very first page, I knew I was going to enjoy this book. By the end of the first chapter, I was inspired and compelled to have a stronger faith and to do more with that faith. Page by page, I felt the Spirit nudging my heart. It wasn't as if I was necessarily learning anything new, but rather that old truths were being reinforced in my heart and mind. My favorite part was when one of the authors told the story of a visitor that had come to his church. The visitor had been quick to tell the author that he didn't enjoy the worship service because he didn't get anything out of it. The author's response was, "I'm sorry. You misunderstood. It wasn't meant for you." He went on to explain that the purpose of worship is to give glory to God, whether we get anything out of it or not. His forthright attitude made me appreciate the book even more as I have grown weary of the watered-down theology being served in many pulpits today. Rumors of God offers the truth, plain and simple.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher [...] book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 [...] : "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
October 21, 2013
The authors, both from Australia, received a revelation new to them, that “God’s strategy for redemption on the earth was to be carried out by the church.” They were moved to prayer, relocated to the USA where “the future of the Western church is hanging in the balance”, and set into place in ministering to hearts and lives as part of that strategy. In this book, Darren Whitehead and Jon Tyson share their vision in a clear and sincere, heartfelt manner. They include wonderful teachings, stories, and insights, which reveal “God’s kingdom coming to earth.”
Rumors of God is divided into ten chapters, each with a subtitle.
The Sculptor’s Shop: Rumors of Abundant Life
Hostages of the Mind: Rumors of Another Dream
The Great Reversal: Rumors of Generosity
The Faith You’ve Only Heard About: Rumors of Love
Getting the Gospel in Order: Rumors of Grace
Giving Up Your Rights: Rumors of Freedom
The Radical Individual: Rumors of Commitment
Loving Beneath the Surface: Rumors of Community
The Greenroom: Rumors of Justice
Our Burning Revolution: Rumors of Hope
At the back of the book is a section with questions based on each chapter, good questions to make the reader think and soul search. What could be a problem, though, is that the scriptural references they use throughout the book are mostly just noted in the back and not written out in full in the text of the book. This could prevent many from getting the full impact intended.
A comment that I was surprised to read was one written in chapter 5 about when the woman who was caught in adultery was brought to Jesus. The author said that Jesus “continued finger painting in the dust”, dismissing the seriousness of His meaningful action as a frivolous idle moment.
It was unclear to me as to whether the authors were always referring to church as being “church” – the organization under man’s leadership in works, or “Church” – the Body of Christ under the spiritual headship of God and from which relationship the works come.
There are some other things to watch out for, but Whitehead and Tyson made some excellent points and provided interesting – and surprising – stories to express their enthusiasm. It is a good read. On the whole Rumors of God is a book of encouragement to those who seek to be inspired and motivated in their faith.
Rumors of God is divided into ten chapters, each with a subtitle.
The Sculptor’s Shop: Rumors of Abundant Life
Hostages of the Mind: Rumors of Another Dream
The Great Reversal: Rumors of Generosity
The Faith You’ve Only Heard About: Rumors of Love
Getting the Gospel in Order: Rumors of Grace
Giving Up Your Rights: Rumors of Freedom
The Radical Individual: Rumors of Commitment
Loving Beneath the Surface: Rumors of Community
The Greenroom: Rumors of Justice
Our Burning Revolution: Rumors of Hope
At the back of the book is a section with questions based on each chapter, good questions to make the reader think and soul search. What could be a problem, though, is that the scriptural references they use throughout the book are mostly just noted in the back and not written out in full in the text of the book. This could prevent many from getting the full impact intended.
A comment that I was surprised to read was one written in chapter 5 about when the woman who was caught in adultery was brought to Jesus. The author said that Jesus “continued finger painting in the dust”, dismissing the seriousness of His meaningful action as a frivolous idle moment.
It was unclear to me as to whether the authors were always referring to church as being “church” – the organization under man’s leadership in works, or “Church” – the Body of Christ under the spiritual headship of God and from which relationship the works come.
There are some other things to watch out for, but Whitehead and Tyson made some excellent points and provided interesting – and surprising – stories to express their enthusiasm. It is a good read. On the whole Rumors of God is a book of encouragement to those who seek to be inspired and motivated in their faith.
July 23, 2011
This book is basically a call for revival in America (and I think it's fair to extend this to the rest of the Western World as well, particularly Canada). And Whitehead and Tyson hit every nail in the head along the way.
Some times it can be so easy to get bogged down in feelings of despair and hopelessness; where is God in all of this? Why is there such wickedness? Why doesn't God do anything?
Rumors of God raises a better question: why don't WE do anything about it? Why do we sit passively by and watch these events unfold yet do nothing to combat it? Isn't that what we're here for?
It's written to an individual, but can easily be applied to groups as well. As individuals we are called to be a part of the body of Christ and to work together as a community. We can do this in so many different ways, and each chapter goes over the different ways whether its love, grace, faith, or justice.
The authors use real life stories to bring their points home, but more importantly they do not found their ideas on these experiences. Their beliefs are founded on Scripture, which is what keeps it solid throughout the book. They share changes they've seen in the lives of others and changes they've experienced personally.
It's convicting to read, and it's inspiring. A new must-read for those hungering for change in our modern day churches and individual hearts.
"Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” "
Some times it can be so easy to get bogged down in feelings of despair and hopelessness; where is God in all of this? Why is there such wickedness? Why doesn't God do anything?
Rumors of God raises a better question: why don't WE do anything about it? Why do we sit passively by and watch these events unfold yet do nothing to combat it? Isn't that what we're here for?
It's written to an individual, but can easily be applied to groups as well. As individuals we are called to be a part of the body of Christ and to work together as a community. We can do this in so many different ways, and each chapter goes over the different ways whether its love, grace, faith, or justice.
The authors use real life stories to bring their points home, but more importantly they do not found their ideas on these experiences. Their beliefs are founded on Scripture, which is what keeps it solid throughout the book. They share changes they've seen in the lives of others and changes they've experienced personally.
It's convicting to read, and it's inspiring. A new must-read for those hungering for change in our modern day churches and individual hearts.
"Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” "
August 13, 2011
I found Rumors of God to be a refreshing read.It made me wish that I could go to a church that either Darren or Jon were working at just to see them in action. It would be great to have a intelligent conversation with either of them!
The statistics really were eye openers foe me. When it was pointed out that an average North American sees about 3,000 ads per day it really drove home the fact that we are really being programed to want/need items that we would e able to survive without. It makes it very clear that we are a technology culture that is being told what to wear, think, need, want by whoever is selling that product. To know that only 8% of the world owns a car was shocking to me. I am one of the 8%. I knew America had more cars than other countries but I did not know the overall percentage was so low. We are sold the idea that everyone should have a car, if you have really made it your family may have multiple cars. Would our country be so dependant on others if we did not think we all had to drive our own car??
I found it refreshing that there are people thinking outside of the box. People going to minister to those that need God- meeting them where they are living, working- not waiting for those people to show up in a church. Jesus did not wait for folks to come find him he was out in the world walking, meeting, greeting people. Shouldn't we be doing the same thing?
I would highly suggest reading this book to everyone. We all have time, talent and money we can be sharing with others- we just need to figure out how to accomplish that. In the Bible Paul says " The life that is truely life is found in how we steward our resources, not in hoarding them. Think how you can make changes in your own life and then go out and be a light unto the world.
The statistics really were eye openers foe me. When it was pointed out that an average North American sees about 3,000 ads per day it really drove home the fact that we are really being programed to want/need items that we would e able to survive without. It makes it very clear that we are a technology culture that is being told what to wear, think, need, want by whoever is selling that product. To know that only 8% of the world owns a car was shocking to me. I am one of the 8%. I knew America had more cars than other countries but I did not know the overall percentage was so low. We are sold the idea that everyone should have a car, if you have really made it your family may have multiple cars. Would our country be so dependant on others if we did not think we all had to drive our own car??
I found it refreshing that there are people thinking outside of the box. People going to minister to those that need God- meeting them where they are living, working- not waiting for those people to show up in a church. Jesus did not wait for folks to come find him he was out in the world walking, meeting, greeting people. Shouldn't we be doing the same thing?
I would highly suggest reading this book to everyone. We all have time, talent and money we can be sharing with others- we just need to figure out how to accomplish that. In the Bible Paul says " The life that is truely life is found in how we steward our resources, not in hoarding them. Think how you can make changes in your own life and then go out and be a light unto the world.
September 10, 2011
Rumors of God opens with a story about a woman who ministered to strippers by going to where they were. She ministered to them by doing their makeup. She provided CD’s of the sermons from her church. One of the ladies started listening to them and got saved in the process. What a unusual, beautiful story.
After I read this amazing story, I was hooked on this book. The authors provide a mixture of current age stories with biblical history, scripture and commentary from prolific authors into an easily read masterpiece of meaningful understanding of serving God in new ways.
The church is not dead. It is alive. God is working through our people in our churches in unusual ways. The authors of this book tell this story. They refer to the stories as rumors. Isn’t that what rumors are? Stories?
These stories come together to make this book that is co-written by two friends who came to the United States from Australia to attend college and preach the gospel. They are now working as Pastors in huge churches in big cities. They are making a difference in the country, and the world through these churches.
“We wrote this book because the thought of our generation going to the grave without seeing the fame and deeds of God filling the pages of our won stories and the story of the world is untenable. We believe God is writing an epic, global, redemptive story that every single one of us has been invited into.” P. 8.
I highly recommend this book for all audiences, Christian and the non-religious. I believe that something in this book will resonate with each reader and could result in a changed life.
I give Rumors of God 4 ½ stars.
After I read this amazing story, I was hooked on this book. The authors provide a mixture of current age stories with biblical history, scripture and commentary from prolific authors into an easily read masterpiece of meaningful understanding of serving God in new ways.
The church is not dead. It is alive. God is working through our people in our churches in unusual ways. The authors of this book tell this story. They refer to the stories as rumors. Isn’t that what rumors are? Stories?
These stories come together to make this book that is co-written by two friends who came to the United States from Australia to attend college and preach the gospel. They are now working as Pastors in huge churches in big cities. They are making a difference in the country, and the world through these churches.
“We wrote this book because the thought of our generation going to the grave without seeing the fame and deeds of God filling the pages of our won stories and the story of the world is untenable. We believe God is writing an epic, global, redemptive story that every single one of us has been invited into.” P. 8.
I highly recommend this book for all audiences, Christian and the non-religious. I believe that something in this book will resonate with each reader and could result in a changed life.
I give Rumors of God 4 ½ stars.
July 15, 2011
In Rumors of God, Darren Whitehead and Jon Tyson teamed to unwrap scripture, bringing a freshness that quickens, and a vibrancy that inspires authenticity. Habakkuk prayed, “Lord, I have heard of your fame; I stand in awe of your deeds, Lord. Renew them in our day, in our time make them known; in wrath remember mercy.” The authors invite us to turn a captive ear to what God is doing among his people today, shouting for abundance of life rather than settling for mediocrity and substitutes, becoming a people whose dreams and actions reflect commitment and deep faith. We are challenged to weigh our mundane dreams against God’s desires for us, choosing goals that bring worry and strife in lieu of bringing restoration and hope to a world in need. While the world wonders if the rumors of God’s generosity, love, grace, commitment, freedom, relationships, justice and hope are true, God seeks to confirm the rumors through his people. The authors share countless stories validating that the rumors are true, God is working in the church, and He is using His church (people) to bring about wonders.
This inspirational work creates the desire to live out one’s faith as a simple response of gratitude and love to the most faithful God. Whether individually, or in groups, this should be at the top of reading and study lists.
This is an honest review based on an advance review copy through NetGalley from Thomas Nelson publishers. Thank you for the opportunity to review this book!
This inspirational work creates the desire to live out one’s faith as a simple response of gratitude and love to the most faithful God. Whether individually, or in groups, this should be at the top of reading and study lists.
This is an honest review based on an advance review copy through NetGalley from Thomas Nelson publishers. Thank you for the opportunity to review this book!
December 22, 2011
I'm not usually of books like this. This one, while not great, was not as horrible as I anticipated. There were a lot of good points made. Many things that I think many Christians today do need to hear. However, it was still shallow and seemed to linger on long after the point was proven. The small group questions were completely useless. They were really not good small group questions, in my opinion. If I were doing this book with a small group, those questions would keep the conversation moving for about 10 minutes, then we'd be done. This book would be a good devotional or small group book for established, but still shallow Christians.
The forward by Bill Hybels was actually a turn off for me. It didn't say much of anything about the content of the book. It read like a job reference, not like an actual forward that contributes to the book. It was very clear that a bigger name was wanted for the book, so Hybels wrote a quick note about the author so they could put his name on the cover and add credit to the otherwise little known authors.
I received a complimentary copy of this book via Booksneeze.com and was not paid or asked to write a favorable review.
The forward by Bill Hybels was actually a turn off for me. It didn't say much of anything about the content of the book. It read like a job reference, not like an actual forward that contributes to the book. It was very clear that a bigger name was wanted for the book, so Hybels wrote a quick note about the author so they could put his name on the cover and add credit to the otherwise little known authors.
I received a complimentary copy of this book via Booksneeze.com and was not paid or asked to write a favorable review.
July 6, 2011
A book that you will have to step back from yourself , a breath of fresh air as well as a carefully thought out book on how Christianity should be. The United States is rapidly becoming nonreligious. Can we change that? This book addresses a the issues that plaque the Church and most Christians. If only we all read an implemented the ideals from this insightful book. In today's age, the authors' accurately note that Christians are thought of as judgemental. Is Christianity supposed to be judgemental? No. A must read .
Provides some real life examples and examples through Scripture, the authors present a picture of what Church and community should really be like well what they were ment to be like. Unfortunately, it seems to only be "rumors" here in the United States. This book has the potential to change that and I certainly hope this book becomes a national best seller.
I like the book because it offers great insight and hope for a better United States that can be easily recognized as Christian. Recognized for what God wants us to be. It also includes a study guide that covers each of the chapters. I highly recommend this book to everyone.
Provides some real life examples and examples through Scripture, the authors present a picture of what Church and community should really be like well what they were ment to be like. Unfortunately, it seems to only be "rumors" here in the United States. This book has the potential to change that and I certainly hope this book becomes a national best seller.
I like the book because it offers great insight and hope for a better United States that can be easily recognized as Christian. Recognized for what God wants us to be. It also includes a study guide that covers each of the chapters. I highly recommend this book to everyone.
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