Flirting with the Forbidden: Finding Grace in a World of Temptation

by Steven James

In our fallen world, temptation is normal. We run into it every day and we all are susceptible to falling victim to its enticements. We're tempted to cheat on our taxes, milk the clock, lust after someone other than our spouse, dishonor our parents, lie to our friends, covet our neighbor's trip to Europe. But just because we must live with temptation doesn't mean we have to let it master us.

In Flirting with the Forbidden , bestselling author Steven James reminds readers that we are always just one step away from bowing to temptation, that we all share the same potential and propensity for evil. Combining powerful first-person narratives from Scripture with thought-provoking reflections on temptation, discipleship, and grace, James helps readers grow in discernment and reliance on the Holy Spirit and develop a deeper, more intimate walk with Christ.

Genres: Christian, Nonfiction, Christian Living, Christianity, Religion

192 pages, Paperback

First published February 1, 2012

About the author

Steven James is the award-winning, critically acclaimed author of twenty novels and numerous books on the craft of novel writing, including the new release, DELVE, PIVOT, PROPEL, which explores revolutionary new approaches to fiction writing. With a master's degree in storytelling, James teaches writing worldwide and has appeared on five continents telling stories and teaching storytelling at over 2000 appearances.

His latest Young Adult horror novel, RIFT, is the first in a new trilogy that takes place in the Southern Appalachian Mountains. James lives in Eastern Tennessee and loves watching sci-fi movies, playing basketball, and eating chicken fajitas—although not all at the same time.

James has been penning smart, taut thrillers that actually thrill, since 2007, when his acclaimed psychological suspense novel, THE PAWN, released.

If you love stories and storytelling, check out his podcast, The Story Blender, on which he has interviewed nearly 200 of the world's top writers and storytellers.

Reviews

[Josh Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

Have you ever read a book that ministered to your soul? I love reading. And I have read many good books in my lifetime. However, there are few that actually minister to my soul. Some are practical, some inspirational, some impart truth in a straightforward manner.

And then there are books like this book by Steven James. If you have never read any of his works, I would encourage you to pick up one of his fiction books. Several years back, I was looking for some good Christian fiction. Normally, I read lots of theology, history, and non-fiction books. However, at that time, I needed a break and wanted to just read some good fiction. Thankfully, I stumbled across Steven James. His crime/fiction books are "edge of your seat" thrillers minus the swearing and junk that is typical fanfare in many current authors today. His writing style is nothing short of phenomenal. There is a reason he actually is asked to teach classes on fiction & storytelling.

Several weeks ago, when I came across some books of his that weren't fiction, I was intrigued. I ordered this book as the title intrigued me. I began reading it as soon as I received it. This book ministered to my soul BIG time!

In it are presented fifteen vignettes based entirely on Scripture characters. James gives the story life and writes from a "first person" narrative of the story/truth he is presenting. He then ends each chapter with some personal insight. Short, concise chapters powerful written combined with Scriptural truth that pack a punch!

I found myself pausing at the end of each chapter just to muse upon and mull over the truths that the author masterfully presented. The book also encouraged me to become a stronger Christian in some practical, decisive ways when it comes to temptation.

I highly recommend you get this book, read it, and then purchase some copies for others. It was that good.

[D.M. Kilgore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Truly amazing. I'm a huge fan of Mr. James writing. This book is a must read for any follower of Christ at any stage of their walk with Him. You will laugh, and cry, and truly THINK. The stories give you new insights beyond what the bible tells us and are delivered in James' typical master-story-teller fashion. I simply loved it. I wanted to read it cover to cover so I did, then I read it again but forced myself to go slowly, savoring the wisdom within, applying it to further bible study as well as life application. I dare say I closed the cover a changed woman, not so much so that everyone noticed and remarked on it, but so much so that I feel it in my heart and soul. It certainly allows us to address problem areas in our faith and to have a much closer walk with the Lord.

Enlightening, inspiring, and thought-provoking this book will jump start your heart and make your soul stand at attention! I learned so much about myself and about the temptations we all face. I was able to relate to biblical characters that were once just people on the page. Mr. James writes them, and their stories, in such a masterful way that they jump off the page, they come alive, and you are right there with them! The stories really put me "there" and allowed for me to have such a deeper understanding. I found my walk with the Lord to be much more intimate as I continued to read.

There are so many wonderful examples and bits of wisdom within the pages that is very hard to pick just one. Among many passages that I highlighted is this: "God allows us to make the choice between safe but fatal skepticism or dangerous but life-giving faith. Real life lies on the edge of a dare." I found myself suddenly thankful for hardships, misfortune, and especially unanswered prayers... for God's "wake up calls" when I have become numb in my comfort and security.

I will not settle here and invest my future in the wrong place! Thank you, Mr. James for entertaining my mind with your thrilling suspense series, for inspiring me to work harder to be a better writer and story-teller, but most of all for sharing such insights that stir my soul and drive the messages home-- straight to the heart. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it to anyone who has not read it yet! I'm reading through it for the third time now!

[Stephen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Steven James is not a theologian, he is a storyteller. I have been a big fan of his suspense thrillers, in this book he looks at several characters from the Biblical text, imagines what their stories are ( taking some liberties by his own admission) and draws spiritual applications from each of them. Time and time again I found myself tearing up as I saw myself in each of the characters, especially Thomas and Demas but also John. I highly recommend this book I do not give 5 stars often.

[Kerry Nietz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed “Flirting with the Forbidden.” Each chapter features a different character from the Bible, some well-known (e.g. Adam and King David) and some more obscure in nature (e.g. one of the flute players at a funeral.) In every instance the author uses his creative talents to write in the voice of those characters.

There is risk in this, obviously. It opens the author up to charges of twisting or distorting Biblical truth. But I think what has been done here works. The book is insightful and often moving. The narrative really brings the characters to life.

Yes, there are a lot of instances where he has to speculate. Did Naomi send Ruth to Boaz thinking he’d be drunk at the winepress? I don’t think so, but who knows? Was Jesus a dancer? Not sure. But it is all possible given the text in the Bible.

And that’s what I like most about this book. It is a great discussion starter. In fact, my home group used “Flirting with the Forbidden” as part of our weekly study, and it worked quite well. Everyone found it useful. I only wish there were discussion questions to go along with it.

I highly recommend it!

[Gail Welborn · Rating 5 out of 5]

NW Ministry Conference, Seattle: http://www.stevenjames.net/news_98.htm

Flirting with the Forbidden, by Steven James, Revell Books, 2012, 185 Pages, ISBN-13: 978-0800734282, $12.99

Steven James, master of thriller suspense, steps into the nonfiction arena by means of Flirting with the Forbidden, a compilation of fifteen biblical narratives of sin, temptation and God’s grace. The author’s personal experiences and thoughts interlace chapters, complete with spiritual insights and commentary that end each chapter.

James’s use of first-person narrative and creative license uniquely characterizes the “…emotion and inner conflict...” of a variety of temptations and struggles. His powerful story-telling ability equips readers to identify with and realize that temptations, whether lust, thievery or murderous intent…Full Review: http://tinyurl.com/7p98sqb

[Jacquelyn · Rating 3 out of 5]

"Rejoice. Live. Believe. Then tell the story." In this book, I found my newest favorite inspirational thought! Steven James tells stories from the bible and elaborates on what else might have been going on at the time of these stories and what the person in the bible stories might have been thinking. A few of the stories might be a stretch, but that's the authors right. After telling these stories the author then discusses similiar lessons that he has learned in his life. One thing that I learned from reading this book is that I should remeber to always Rejoice in the gospel and life of Jesus Christ, feel blessed that Jesus lives and is not dead, and Believe in all that Jesus did accomplish while on this earth.....then tell (and share)the story.

[Jerome · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the few books I chose to purchase rather than read from the library, just from reading a few chapters online. Steven James retells Bible stories from an unconventional viewpoint (like the bride at Cana, who says "I'd never danced with a rabbi before"), combined with his reflections as a Christian man. He recognizes that our Christian faith is not a series of theological propositions but a marriage--and although I believe James is a Protestant or Evangelical, I think here about the Bridegroom Matins sung in the Byzantine/Orthodox churches during the first part of Holy Week. To quote, "Christianity is wild. It's intimate. It's heartbreaking and soul-mending."

[Randy Tramp · Rating 5 out of 5]

"I never thought of that," was something I told myself after reading the accounts of characters in the Bible.

The words in this were at times difficult to take in. It's like taking medicine, knowing I need it to get better but tasting bitter going down.

"Eye-opener," another something I told myself. If anyone is facing temptation (that's all of us) I recommend this book. It made me think and changed my thoughts on some characters in the Bible. People I put on a pedestal higher than I should have.

This book took me into the mind of Biblical characters. I found myself returning to the book because of spiritual appetite. The words and insight won't soon leave my mind. In fact, I believe it'll be there for a long time, if not longer.

[Anna · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very good!

Solid 3!
I wasn't too big of a fan of the stories. His commentary was better, but his spiritual application and explanations were amazing!

[Victor Gentile · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the privilege of interviewing Steven James, on our radio show “Kingdom Highlights”, for his new book,, “Flirting with the Forbidden” published by Revell helps us in Finding Grace in a World of Temptation

From the Back Cover: In this world, temptation lurks around every corner. And every day we are in danger of falling victim to its enticements.

But just because we must live with temptation doesn’t mean we have to let it master us.

In Flirting with the Forbidden, critically-acclaimed author Steven James combines powerful first-person narratives from Scripture with thought-provoking reflections on temptation, discipleship, and grace to help you grow in discernment and develop a deeper, more intimate walk with Christ.

We live in a world that is full of temptations promising excitement, indulgence and the opportunity to fulfill our every desire. Turn on the television during the commercial breaks and prepare to be bombarded with three or four minutes of temptation. During an hour show we can be given almost fifteen minutes for all kinds of lures. In Biblical times they didn’t have the commercials but they had temptation. The Bible gives countless examples of individuals both resisting and giving in to temptation. In “Flirting with the Forbidden” Steven James gives us fifteen Bible stories from the point of view of the person who lived it. Mr. James begins with Eve talking about her son Cain, who we know kills his brother Abel, before he gives in to that temptation. Then there is Joseph who Potiphar’s wife was trying to seduce and how he finally resists. Each Bible character shows the temptation and how they resisted or did not. They in turn help us for the temptations that they faced still exist today and come in contact with us. Mr. James at the end of each chapter gives us some help to strengthen us to overcome those temptations that threaten us. “Flirting with the Forbidden” is not a book that will be read once and then put on the shelf. On the contrary it is a book that will be referred back to over and over again. we need to be reminded that temptation is out there and there is a way to overcome it. Others did it before us and that means we can too.

If you missed the interview for “The Knight”, a different series from Steven James, and/or would like to hear the previous interview where we discussed the first two books and would like to listen to it and/or listen to interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.

To listen to 24 hours a day non-stop Christian music please visit our internet radio station www.kingdomairwaves.org

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Revell. 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.”

[Jonathan Brooker · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a great way of looking at the characters of the Bibles. We can so easily see these men and women as one-dimension people who just did things. As James weaves his own embellishments to the stories you begin to be reminded that these characters really did have feelings and yes temptations that factored into all of their stories as well.
Many of the stories really came to new life because of how they were retold. Joseph may be my personal favorite of the bunch. However, there were a few that also were rather disappointing. For some it was the lack of creativity in the retelling (David). And for others it was the disconnect between the stories and the author's after thoughts that followed each story. They weren't always really connected. And then there was even one or two that had nothing to do with flirting with the forbidden or temptation at all. It was just a creative way of looking at a biblical story.
Nevertheless, still a good book and gave me new perspectives on familiar stories.

[Melanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

At first I wasn't sure how much I would like Flirting with the Forbidden, I've read Steven James' fiction series - The Patrick Bowers Files - but this is the first non-fiction book of his I've read and I ended up loving it.

I really liked the stories at the beginning of the chapters (except for when they seemed to put words in Jesus' mouth) and even learned some things I had never thought about before - like how Pilate's wife sent Pilate a note before Jesus was crucified. (Matthew 27:19).

Overall Flirting with the Forbidden was a great non-fiction book that I enjoyed reading! :)

*I got this book on Amazon Kindle when it was free and was not required to review it. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*

[John · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book has a fairly interesting premise. The author takes well known stories from the bible and retells them from the first person perspective of one of the characters. Obviously, this entails a certain amount of creative license, but the results are effective and thought provoking. I would say that the author managed to achieve his goal with this book, as none of the chapters raised any red flags with me that the direction he was going violated scripture, and a few chapters really got me thinking. I especially appreciated the chapter on Joseph and Potiphar's wife.

[Deanne Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

I always appreciate Steven James' thoughts & insights; they often open my eyes to new perspectives. This book is no different. What I especially like about this book is the unique format. First a familiar Bible account told in an unfamiliar way. Then some real, honest discussion of the issues the story addresses. Each chapter then concludes with practical ways that the truth discovered can be applied to daily life.
This is a book I will visit again.

[Pamela Walter · Rating 4 out of 5]

While I felt some of the possible perspectives were stretching it, the book certainly causes you to think of the people in the Bible as people rather than characters causing you to connect with the Bible in a whole new way. Familiar stories are presented in a way that make you think passed what was learned in Sunday School. Definitely worth the read.

[Patrick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved it. James has such a knack for storytelling that you can't help but be drawn in. I will say that from a theological perspective, it's not as though you're walking into deep waters, but that only serves to broaden the readership. When used as a tool to direct further study, I think this book could be a must-have for all followers of the Way.

[Paul Steele · Rating 4 out of 5]

I like the idea of the book a lot. Take a story from the Bible and retell it in modern language, and fill in some of the gaps in the story as we know it using historical context and other relevant information. The lesson part of the book was relevant, but a bit weaker, in my opinion. I would recommend them for someone newer to their faith, but wasn't challenged by them very much myself.

[Luke Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

Steven James is best known for his suspense fueled thrillers, but he takes his awesome talents and applies them to short character sketches on a host of familiar and lesser known Bible characters that will move you no less than any of his fiction.

[Shelby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Interesting perspective into some common biblical stories. I love is first person writing style. James' writing style is easy to read and rich with information and confrontational truths that I definitely needed to hear. It's a good book to read at any stage of life.

[Henry McLaughlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Steven James is at his story-telling best in this collection of biblical stories with practical applications to our lives.

[jessica]

[free nook book]

[Brittany Shields · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've always liked Steven James' writing. This was an interesting take on some of the familiar Bible stories but with added thought provoking perspectives. A good read.

[Jt]

I love reading anything this guy puts out. He has a way of bringing in humor, but also getting you wrapped up in the story. I always gain some great insight from his writings.

[Mark]

"The greatest saints of the ages have discovered something most of us haven’t. Not only are they familiar with their own shortcomings and sins, they’re also aware of the outlandish grace of God. By being mindful of both their fallen nature and Jesus’s risen love, they’re able to live on the escarpment of evil without constantly toppling over the side." [p. 24]

So Steven James writes near the end of the first chapter of his latest book, Flirting with the Forbidden: Finding Grace in a World of Temptation. He goes on to say how subtle temptation is at first, but how it gradually makes “the unthinkable more and more reasonable.” Since the Fall, “temptation has been the default setting for life on this planet.” We “want to lick the forbidden fruit and explore what lies beyond the fence.” [p.25]

The first step in overcoming temptation is admitting its reality and the hold it has over us. That’s why we need the grace of God. “The secret to overcoming temptation is not to try harder but to receive more” of the grace God offers.

That doesn’t mean it’s easy, as James will show us as he examines temptation in the lives of some famous (and some not-so-famous) characters in scripture, retelling their stories and adding some insights I had never thought of before. Refusing the “forbidden” and accepting God’s grace is often painful. What would you expect from someone who asks us to enter into his suffering and death on the cross?

Why would someone be willing to go through such pain?

James’ book is not about delineating a bunch of “don’ts” and just telling us to leave them alone. It’s not a “Just Say No” message. It’s more about finding a vision of who God is and how much He loves us. He doesn’t want to change our lives because He is a sadist, delighting in our pain. He wants to change us because He loves us and knows what is best for us.

At least that is what I took away from this book.

If you are looking for dry, dusty theology and dogma, this book probably isn’t for you. But if you are looking for insight into what this God of grace is all about, this book will probably help you.

[Howard A]

Steven James takes a very interesting and unusual approach at teaching the principles behind faith. He takes some of the most recognizable events described in the Bible and presents them to the reader from the imagined view point of the biblical character. As a student of the Bible it was fun to attempt to determine who the character was before Mr. James identified him or her. It was also thought provoking to consider the possible thoughts ideas of those characters from a different perspective, possible from their perspective. This is a book for every believer to read and allow it to illuminate your faith and your walk with Jesus. This is my first time reading any by Mr. James it will not be my last.