A Higher Call

by Harold Bell Wright, Michael Phillips (Editor)

In the Rich Tradition of The Shepherd of the Hills and The Least of These My Brothers

Recognized as one of America's early twentieth-century beloved fiction writers, Harold Bell Wright possessed the remarkable ability of crafting timeless, dramatic stories charged with spiritual significance. A Higher Call, a compelling drama involving a young minister, promises to challenge the perspective of the twentieth-century church.

A new and rather naive pastor, Dan Matthews accepts his church call with great anticipation. But he quickly runs into deeply rooted judgments, party spirit, church politics and hidden agendas. Some problems come from well-intentioned people who don't know better; others stem from selfishness and evil motives. In both situations, as Dan obeys the life and teachings of Jesus, the consequences are severe.

Dan Matthews believed he had a calling from God. Faced with the loathsome hypocrisy in his church, what will become of him and those he befriends?

How does a beautiful young nurse who seems to have no heart for the church fit into a pastor's life?

Genres: Christian Fiction

Mass Market Paperback

First published June 1, 1990

About the author

Harold Bell Wright was a best selling American author of the first part of the 20th century.

Between 1903 and 1942, this minister-turned-author wrote nineteen books, several scripts for stage plays, and several magazine articles. At least fifteen movies were made from his novels. Seven of Wright's books appeared on the top ten best sellers lists, two of them twice, including a number one seller in 1914, a number two in 1916 and a third best seller three times.

He's best known for his work entitled The Shepherd of the Hills which was made into the well known, outdoor play, of the same name, performed in Branson, Mo.

Reviews

[Cedar Lea · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was very thought provoking as it discusses hypocrisy in the church - do people actually live out Jesus's teachings, or do they just say that they believe it? I thought the author had some good points to make about this, but I don't think he gave the church enough credit for the good that there is in it.

[Sarah Nisly · Rating 5 out of 5]

A thought-provoking look at the church and the harm that occurs when it becomes institutionalized and finds its security in tradition. This was written in the early 1900s and the delightful prose reflects that. The storyline is well crafted and, as the introduction states, the characters are types which can still be seen today. I am left self-reflective and pondering.

[Melanie · Rating 3 out of 5]

From Mom’s shelf. This book had a valid point to make but I grew weary being told it over and over and over. There was a human story in it that was compelling, and if the characters had been portrayed realistically instead of as caricatures or mouthpieces, the author’s message could have been shown not preached.

[Dorota Šipöczová · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very deep and well thought through. I was hooked since the first page and couldn't put the book down until the very last page. It has a very rich philosophical depth and was very thought-provoking. It helps to get the reader thinking, doesn't impose a point of view on you. I recommend it for sure!

[Ed Morrison · Rating 4 out of 5]

Amazing story of doing what’s right, even in the most challenging situation.

[Benjamin · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not as good as Shepard of the Hills

[Cricket Muse · Rating 4 out of 5]

Michael Phillips has taken on the task of editing Wright's novels in order to make them more appealing to modern audiences. He did well with Shepherd of the Hills and shows the same ability with this sequel.
Dan Matthews is an admirable character whose love for doing the Lord's work and embracing the good he sees in people provides a disadvantage to dealing with the hypocrisy of his church's inner circle.
His struggles and the parable nature of the story has a ring of what is sometimes found in today's churches.

[Greg Ziegler · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the genre of Charles Sheldon’s IN HIS STEPS

Didn’t want to stop reading once I started. As one cornered into clerical ministry by my Lord, I have felt the disillusionment of the ally’s influence, though it cannot nearly match the hope and rescue of Jesus. I recommend both the story of HBW and the advice of Michael Phillips to follow. A sweet read along a less than predictable journey.

[D. Lowdermilk]

I really want an older copy, something around 70 years or more old. I am collecting these.

[Lyndsay Leggott · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found it very interesting that a novel written so long ago has so many parallels to the state of religion today.

[Judy Williams · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I began I was concerned because this book is not terribly well-written, but the story is so compelling I could not put it down. An amazing story, riveting till the end.