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The Influence
Mark is in his garden, grieving and depressed over the unexplained death of his son and without knowing it, is almost coaxed by a demon into committing suicide. But, at the last moment Sotare, an angel, rescues him and is later permitted to appear to Mark in the Garden. The two dialogue about God, life, death, good, evil, the spiritual realm, and the nature of truth. However, all is not well. The demons are watching and powerful evil forces are sent to kill and destroy those who are close to Mark and those who are praying for him. As Sotare teaches Mark, he is given answers to his questions -- but they do not come easily. He must face his greatest challenge in order to learn his greatest lesson. The battle over Mark unfolds in both the spiritual and physical worlds as angels are sent to battle against the evil forces that are seeking to destroy. True victory is never easy.
380 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2009
72 people are currently reading
404 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
April 13, 2017
no real story line - just poorly masked evangelization.
November 2, 2014
The first half of the book had me sold. Angels, Demons and eternal battles. Characters were highly descriptive. And I loved it. What made this book even better? It had some nice philosophical takes that made me wonder about the universe. This book was doing awesome.
was...
Then Bahm! I was hit with a 'Trust-Jesus-or-your-life-will-be-spent-in-eternal-damnation' type a message. I wanted to put the book down several times. But I didn't... I wanted to read more about the angels and demons battling it out. Anyways, I was disappointed.
My critique does not mean this is a bad book! Actually, it may seem counter-intuitive, but this was a good book. I was not in a mood to hear about how I'm predestine to be a sinner before I was born. If you are this person, this book is for you!
was...
Then Bahm! I was hit with a 'Trust-Jesus-or-your-life-will-be-spent-in-eternal-damnation' type a message. I wanted to put the book down several times. But I didn't... I wanted to read more about the angels and demons battling it out. Anyways, I was disappointed.
My critique does not mean this is a bad book! Actually, it may seem counter-intuitive, but this was a good book. I was not in a mood to hear about how I'm predestine to be a sinner before I was born. If you are this person, this book is for you!
August 10, 2016
Loved the book!
I would recommend this book to anyone who is interested in Christian fiction. The book storyline is to show us that things happen for reasons that we may never know. It gives insight on how God uses us to accomplish miracles in others lives. He also writes about angels and demons and gives insight into one of the ways the author sees their interaction in humans lives. It's a really good book. :)
I would recommend this book to anyone who is interested in Christian fiction. The book storyline is to show us that things happen for reasons that we may never know. It gives insight on how God uses us to accomplish miracles in others lives. He also writes about angels and demons and gives insight into one of the ways the author sees their interaction in humans lives. It's a really good book. :)
August 21, 2012
This was an interesting read, but I wouldn't pick it up again. A little too long and repetitive. Most of the action seems to happen at the beginning of the book. I think it could have been written better as the story material is quite interesting. I hope Matthew writes more stories and improves his writing skills.
August 6, 2013
It seems like lately I've come across some amazing, life-changing novels on the subject of spiritual warfare and how it relates to the unseen realm of angels and demons and the influence they have in our lives. Yet I just finished a fantastic novel that took me much deeper than I could ever imagined as if I were quite literally in the shoes of Mark, a man who is trying to find answers in coping with the loss of his son, a year old. He believes if he can simply understand the "why's" of it, he may help him move through it and move on in his life. But for seven years, it seems he is no further ahead. His wife, Kathy is at a loss on how to help and it doesn't help matters when she can't seem to get pregnant again. Fearing that his depression will only get worse, she struggles with the choice of leaving him behind when her father, John, has surgery that requires her assistance for a few days while he recovers at home. Mark assures Kathy to go, but the unsettling feeling she has continues to plague her as she drives to the hospital.
Sotare is called in when Mark is plagued by a demon's influence to take his own life to help him simply let go of the pain he's been holding onto. It is this angelic presence and divine intervention that will undoubtedly take both Mark and the reader into the answers that only God can provide and give them a peek at just what lies hidden behind a veil we can't not see. Since both Mark and Kathy are unbelievers who honestly accept that simply being good people and live their lives accordingly is good enough, Sotare shows Mark just how wrong they both are. He shows them if they are not believers in God, then they are believers of Satan even if they have not made that decision personally. Until Mark and Kathy find the truth for themselves, the battle for their very souls and human lives in literally on the line.
Kathy's father John has been praying for them both diligently in the hopes that they will find God in their own timing. Yet when he feels an unsettling presence in his room while recovering he knows that something more is at stake than what he can see. He calls his pastor Tim, who agrees to meet with him at the hospital and offers a prophetic vision from God that shows just what the risks are to their souls if they remain where they are at in their lives.
The Influence by author Matthew John Slick takes the reader deeper than I have ever gone into the spiritual world of angels and demons and educates us what really goes on every single day that we simply don't see because it is hidden from our human eyes. Yet it makes such a wonderful case to those that haven't made a decision for God that simply can't be debated. I took so many notes from this one that answered many questions that I had as a believer for years, such as Why does God allow Evil in the world if He is truly a God of love? Why does He allow people to die? If He is all powerful why doesn't He do something about it?
I received this book as a free download quite some time ago and was thrilled to immerse myself in this one. The thought of such influence in our lives is downright chilling even as believers to know how much the enemy can still attempt to cause trouble in our own lives and just how powerful prayer really is. I rate this one an unforgettable 5 out of 5 stars and received no monetary compensation for a favorable review. If you really want to see what is going on in the spiritual world, you will definitely want to check this one out. By far one of the best spiritual warfare fictional novels I've read! I'm hoping for a sequel for this one soon!
Sotare is called in when Mark is plagued by a demon's influence to take his own life to help him simply let go of the pain he's been holding onto. It is this angelic presence and divine intervention that will undoubtedly take both Mark and the reader into the answers that only God can provide and give them a peek at just what lies hidden behind a veil we can't not see. Since both Mark and Kathy are unbelievers who honestly accept that simply being good people and live their lives accordingly is good enough, Sotare shows Mark just how wrong they both are. He shows them if they are not believers in God, then they are believers of Satan even if they have not made that decision personally. Until Mark and Kathy find the truth for themselves, the battle for their very souls and human lives in literally on the line.
Kathy's father John has been praying for them both diligently in the hopes that they will find God in their own timing. Yet when he feels an unsettling presence in his room while recovering he knows that something more is at stake than what he can see. He calls his pastor Tim, who agrees to meet with him at the hospital and offers a prophetic vision from God that shows just what the risks are to their souls if they remain where they are at in their lives.
The Influence by author Matthew John Slick takes the reader deeper than I have ever gone into the spiritual world of angels and demons and educates us what really goes on every single day that we simply don't see because it is hidden from our human eyes. Yet it makes such a wonderful case to those that haven't made a decision for God that simply can't be debated. I took so many notes from this one that answered many questions that I had as a believer for years, such as Why does God allow Evil in the world if He is truly a God of love? Why does He allow people to die? If He is all powerful why doesn't He do something about it?
I received this book as a free download quite some time ago and was thrilled to immerse myself in this one. The thought of such influence in our lives is downright chilling even as believers to know how much the enemy can still attempt to cause trouble in our own lives and just how powerful prayer really is. I rate this one an unforgettable 5 out of 5 stars and received no monetary compensation for a favorable review. If you really want to see what is going on in the spiritual world, you will definitely want to check this one out. By far one of the best spiritual warfare fictional novels I've read! I'm hoping for a sequel for this one soon!
June 2, 2014
Mark is in his garden, grieving and depressed over the unexplained death of his son and without knowing it, is almost coaxed by a demon into committing suicide. But, at the last moment Sotare, an angel, rescues him and is later permitted to appear to Mark in the Garden. The two dialogue about God, life, death, good, evil, the spiritual realm, and the nature of truth. However, all is not well. The demons are watching and powerful evil forces are sent to kill and destroy those who are close to Mark and those who are praying for him. As Sotare teaches Mark, he is given answers to his questions -- but they do not come easily. He must face his greatest challenge in order to learn his greatest lesson. The battle over Mark unfolds in both the spiritual and physical worlds as angels are sent to battle against the evil forces that are seeking to destroy. True victory is never easy.
Great explanation of God's love and perfect truth and why we need to follow Jesus. I love the spiritual warfare and how it's portrayed in this novel.
Great explanation of God's love and perfect truth and why we need to follow Jesus. I love the spiritual warfare and how it's portrayed in this novel.
December 27, 2013
It's not very often that I read fiction, but I'm glad I decided to read this book. It kept my interest the whole time and was very fast to read (especially for a book nearly 400 pages). There is definitely a Christian message in the book, and the author doesn't back away from presenting the true gospel.
August 23, 2015
I thought this was an amazing religious/supernatural thriller exploring spiritual warfare. It seemed a little scary to me because it was the first book of this kind I read, and even though it's fiction it seemed very real somehow in terms of possibilities and descriptions of what goes on that we can't see. I highlighted many parts and would read it again.
January 20, 2014
Lots of truth
an amazing story with a lot of biblical truth.
truly amazed at the creativity of slick and how he was able to keep it biblical too.
an amazing story with a lot of biblical truth.
truly amazed at the creativity of slick and how he was able to keep it biblical too.
May 16, 2014
Wow, what an insight. Loved this book :)
February 8, 2024
This book was difficult to read for the first 5 chapters. I have dealt with suicide and heavy spiritual warfare. This is not a book I would have been able to read three years ago because I was sensitive to spiritual warfare. At that time I was still scared of the thought of demons encamped around me. Now that I am stronger in my understanding of warfare I was able to digest this.
The book is long and drawn out. I think the same message could have been conveyed in half of the amount of pages. The authors words paint imagery of both angels and demons that a spiritually immature mind/spirit may not be able to conceptualize. Overall the story line is good. Explanation of God and his sovereignty is made plain. I’d like to read more from this author.
The book is long and drawn out. I think the same message could have been conveyed in half of the amount of pages. The authors words paint imagery of both angels and demons that a spiritually immature mind/spirit may not be able to conceptualize. Overall the story line is good. Explanation of God and his sovereignty is made plain. I’d like to read more from this author.
April 18, 2018
I probably wouldn't have read past the first chapter if my brother wouldn't have given this book such a high recommendation. Oh, I am so glad that he recommended it and I kept reading! This fiction book was filled with intense spiritual battles, had a strong gospel message, and left me emotionally exhausted at times. I'm having a hard time writing even now...I'm in that emotional book high that I relish.
I want to give the book to all my friends and family and pray that they will read it. Absolutely amazing.
I want to give the book to all my friends and family and pray that they will read it. Absolutely amazing.
April 17, 2025
This book had me wondering what all the spiritual battles going on around me might look like. A good reminder that the enemy is always working hard to bring chaos and ruin, but if you keep your eyes on Jesus, protection is available.
There are some tear jerker moments and great imagery that keeps you turning the pages. my only complaint is that about halfway through the book, there are a whole bunch of typos.
There are some tear jerker moments and great imagery that keeps you turning the pages. my only complaint is that about halfway through the book, there are a whole bunch of typos.
January 10, 2018
One of my favorites
I've read this twice and think of it often. His message is worded clearly, if you don't become a believer after reading this book then I don't know what would, other than prayer.
I've read this twice and think of it often. His message is worded clearly, if you don't become a believer after reading this book then I don't know what would, other than prayer.
May 10, 2021
I was unbelievabley touched by this book. Towards the end I cried and I knew the Spirit was with me. It reminded me of the spiritual warfare that is going on all around us and how it affects us. Prayer is the answer God wants from us.
May 22, 2021
The beginning of the book was solid. But it wavered in quality toward the end of the plot. Though the philosophical and theological progression may be helpful for some to learn some of the apologetic and the soteriological concepts
December 12, 2017
Amazing book that really helped me understand Spiritual Warfare
February 15, 2018
My Thoughts.
Great read, oh the joy of salvation, so preciously illustrated in this read! Thank You Lord for the free gift of redemption.
Great read, oh the joy of salvation, so preciously illustrated in this read! Thank You Lord for the free gift of redemption.
June 30, 2019
Thought provoking
I could not put it down. Great book. Author has a great Way of depicting good vs evil. Make sure you remember that this is a novel.
I could not put it down. Great book. Author has a great Way of depicting good vs evil. Make sure you remember that this is a novel.
May 19, 2022
Praise God!
It’s not everyday you read a book about angels & demons and learn you are a sinner that needs the Lord!
It’s not everyday you read a book about angels & demons and learn you are a sinner that needs the Lord!
September 6, 2017
Theologically sound and highly entertaining!
January 19, 2016
The copy I read is a pre-release, so some editing is still needed. I really enjoyed this story. It is fairly simple and straightforward, but compelling. Christian fiction which deals with angelic and demonic influences on our lives is interesting to me. Another book that does this well is This Present Darkness by Frank Perelli.
There are so-called "Christian fiction" books out there, some become quite popular, that actually teach heretical ideas in the guise of fiction. So I was glad to find a story that adheres well to actual Bibical teaching.
As the first attempt at fiction by apologist Matt Slick, the writing style could use a bit of improvement, but overall it's an interesting story, with sympathetic characters.
I look forward to the release of the offical version, and of the sequel that I hear is in progress.
For those who don't want to wait for the official release - which I hear should be available on Amazon, etc., this pre-release is available from Lulu Press at www.lulu.com.
There are so-called "Christian fiction" books out there, some become quite popular, that actually teach heretical ideas in the guise of fiction. So I was glad to find a story that adheres well to actual Bibical teaching.
As the first attempt at fiction by apologist Matt Slick, the writing style could use a bit of improvement, but overall it's an interesting story, with sympathetic characters.
I look forward to the release of the offical version, and of the sequel that I hear is in progress.
For those who don't want to wait for the official release - which I hear should be available on Amazon, etc., this pre-release is available from Lulu Press at www.lulu.com.
May 22, 2013
I'm a little more than half way through this book and am enjoying it thus far.
From the beginning this book gives an interesting and imaginative look into the reality of the unseen world around us.
The tragic death of their only son leaves Mark and Kathy with unanswered question, a distance growing between them and Kathy being concerned for her husband's emotional health. As she travels to assist her Dad upon his return home after surgery, she and Mark are confronted with the reality that the careless attitude they have had toward "religion" has been very wrong.
In Kathy's absence, Mark finds himself the target of spiritual warfare far beyond his comprehension as he seriously considers suicide at the seduction of a demon. His entire way of thinking changes when he is discovered to be very important in the spirit realm. He is taught Who God is as he is confronted by his own pride and prejudices in light of absolute truth.
Anyone who is a fan of Frank Peretti - This Present Darkness and Piercing the Darkness - will enjoy this book.
From the beginning this book gives an interesting and imaginative look into the reality of the unseen world around us.
The tragic death of their only son leaves Mark and Kathy with unanswered question, a distance growing between them and Kathy being concerned for her husband's emotional health. As she travels to assist her Dad upon his return home after surgery, she and Mark are confronted with the reality that the careless attitude they have had toward "religion" has been very wrong.
In Kathy's absence, Mark finds himself the target of spiritual warfare far beyond his comprehension as he seriously considers suicide at the seduction of a demon. His entire way of thinking changes when he is discovered to be very important in the spirit realm. He is taught Who God is as he is confronted by his own pride and prejudices in light of absolute truth.
Anyone who is a fan of Frank Peretti - This Present Darkness and Piercing the Darkness - will enjoy this book.
October 8, 2013
As far as religious thriller`s go, I thought this did a good job of illustrating the fight between good and evil. This also did a good job of presenting the Christian way of life, as well as the understanding Christians have to reach the next life.
My biggest critique would be the choppy sentences and unneeded narration. I would be vetting along in the book, then something would be overly explained or spelled out. I don't know if this is an exact example, but if a person takes a drink of water I don't need to read that the other person needs to wait for them to swallow or that the water is cool and refreshing. I think this would be easily adapted to TV. The way it was written lent itself more to a screenplay than a book.
My biggest critique would be the choppy sentences and unneeded narration. I would be vetting along in the book, then something would be overly explained or spelled out. I don't know if this is an exact example, but if a person takes a drink of water I don't need to read that the other person needs to wait for them to swallow or that the water is cool and refreshing. I think this would be easily adapted to TV. The way it was written lent itself more to a screenplay than a book.
January 16, 2015
An awesome book that might seem unbelievable but is so true. Since This Present Darkness (F.Peretti) I haven't encountered a similar book about angels and demons and their influence on earth. Clear message and biblical truth entwined by a gripping story.
I know many people who should absolutely read this book, but unfortunately they won't do that because the purpose is quite clear from the beginning.
What I really love are the conversations between Sotare and Mike and I appreciate the focus on prayer, a force we generally underestimate.
I must admit that I envy Kathy and Mike a bit, I'd love to see what they saw in the end. But it doesn't matter: Knowing that I will see is enough.
I know many people who should absolutely read this book, but unfortunately they won't do that because the purpose is quite clear from the beginning.
What I really love are the conversations between Sotare and Mike and I appreciate the focus on prayer, a force we generally underestimate.
I must admit that I envy Kathy and Mike a bit, I'd love to see what they saw in the end. But it doesn't matter: Knowing that I will see is enough.
October 5, 2012
Great story line and purpose for this book. The only criticism is it's written probably somewhere around a middle school level. Don't let the number of pages concern you as it's a very fast read. However the message is great - God has a reason for everything and purpose for your life. Also that becoming a Christian doesn't necessarily mean life will get easier, most likely more difficult as God may put you through trials to bring you to the right place. Loved the use of angels and demons to explain how humans are influenced.
April 14, 2014
Great read on spiritual warfare. The writing, however appears to be too rythmically repetitive with most sentences the same length, and euphemisms repeated too many times. The Salvation message overwhelms the story in the last third,perhaps a turnoff to the non Christian. However, I will let the Lord use this as he very well might to bring people to Christ. The last chapter is a detailed explanation on how to be saved, which could be quite useful. It does have great thriller qualities ala Peretti. The basicsalvation message is spot on, but not the reason I chose to read it.
April 12, 2015
The book started off slow, but got into it and by the end, wish it didn't end!
This book reminds me of the Frank Perretti books of spiritual warfare and angles doing the work of God in human lives. Great stuff, and it makes you wonder how God uses His messengers in our lives for those who are His.
The Gospel is clearly shown during the whole book and the author has a statement of what the Gospel is and how to receive salvation in Christ Jesus.
Great read!
This book reminds me of the Frank Perretti books of spiritual warfare and angles doing the work of God in human lives. Great stuff, and it makes you wonder how God uses His messengers in our lives for those who are His.
The Gospel is clearly shown during the whole book and the author has a statement of what the Gospel is and how to receive salvation in Christ Jesus.
Great read!
January 10, 2016
I did not put it down until I finished! Spiritual warfare, lessons on the heart of God and Bible based modern day implications are intertwined to uplift and influence readers to become active believer and for believers to grow in faith. I found Influence to be very different from my Dekker and Peretti experiences in just the right directions to provide exciting surprises and unique insights. Applause and kudos.
February 24, 2011
"There is great mystery in the suffering of the innocent for the benefit of others."
"God uses trials and tribulations to teach you many things. These trials often show us who *God* is. And, they show you who *you* are. But the funny thing is you cannot really see how great God is until you see your *real* self and that often doesn't happen until you go through difficulties."
"God uses trials and tribulations to teach you many things. These trials often show us who *God* is. And, they show you who *you* are. But the funny thing is you cannot really see how great God is until you see your *real* self and that often doesn't happen until you go through difficulties."
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews