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Prototype: What Happens When You Discover You're More Like Jesus Than You Think?
Jesus is God and we are not. Most of us get that. But what we don’t always understand is that God loves us just as much as He does His son. Many times in the Old Testament, God refers to human beings as His “beloved.” But when God called Jesus His beloved, Jesus did something truly He believed Him. He lived every moment of His life fully convinced of His identity. And unlike every other person in history . . . He never forgot.
In Prototype , Jonathan Martin creates a vivid understanding of what it means to be beloved by God. To completely trust, as Jesus did, that God loves you. To live life without fear, confident in your identity and purpose. To handle life’s wounds as Jesus did, and to wake every day with a deep awareness of God’s presence.
Martin reveals a startling truth at the heart of the Jesus is our prototype. And as we discover how the knowledge of being God’s beloved changed everything for Jesus―how it set Him free to live out his purpose and love God, others, and the world―it will begin to do the same for us.
In Prototype , Jonathan Martin creates a vivid understanding of what it means to be beloved by God. To completely trust, as Jesus did, that God loves you. To live life without fear, confident in your identity and purpose. To handle life’s wounds as Jesus did, and to wake every day with a deep awareness of God’s presence.
Martin reveals a startling truth at the heart of the Jesus is our prototype. And as we discover how the knowledge of being God’s beloved changed everything for Jesus―how it set Him free to live out his purpose and love God, others, and the world―it will begin to do the same for us.
256 pages, Paperback
First published April 19, 2013
45 people are currently reading
920 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
July 2, 2013
In Martin's epilogue titled 'A Letter to a Ravaged Bride', speaking of the Church, he says this:
"You know I'm no cynic — I've loved you too long for that. This is love animated by grief. I still believe in you despite all of your vices. You can still dazzle the world, bride of God. But things are feeling as insane in here as they are out there, honey. And I don't know what else to do except to remind you of the time when you were lovely."
While that might be as cynical as Martin gets throughout the entire book, I think that paragraph summarizes well what Martin accomplishes in 'Prototype'.
We need a new way to talk about who God is and who we are and what the Story is that God is telling in the world. In some sense, this book seems to take some of the philosophy of Rob Bell's 'What We Talk About When We Talk About God' and put it into practical 'heart-speak'.
Our old religious rhetoric has reduced our understanding of theology to the transcendence of God, the crappiness of man, and a bloodthirsty Divinity that needs to be appeased because of how pathetic we are. But Martin proposes that the Good News is possibly not that simplistic or dark. Perhaps we have all known a time when we had a hunch that we were accepted and loved by God.
If this is true, then it has the potential to change the way that we think, believe, talk and live. Our belovedness makes a difference. Our wounds and scars make a difference. Resurrection makes a difference. Because God is with us and for us. He's up to something in the world and is inviting us to partner with Him.
These are the invitations of 'Prototype' and I'm thankful to Martin for pressing in to preaching a better gospel.
"You know I'm no cynic — I've loved you too long for that. This is love animated by grief. I still believe in you despite all of your vices. You can still dazzle the world, bride of God. But things are feeling as insane in here as they are out there, honey. And I don't know what else to do except to remind you of the time when you were lovely."
While that might be as cynical as Martin gets throughout the entire book, I think that paragraph summarizes well what Martin accomplishes in 'Prototype'.
We need a new way to talk about who God is and who we are and what the Story is that God is telling in the world. In some sense, this book seems to take some of the philosophy of Rob Bell's 'What We Talk About When We Talk About God' and put it into practical 'heart-speak'.
Our old religious rhetoric has reduced our understanding of theology to the transcendence of God, the crappiness of man, and a bloodthirsty Divinity that needs to be appeased because of how pathetic we are. But Martin proposes that the Good News is possibly not that simplistic or dark. Perhaps we have all known a time when we had a hunch that we were accepted and loved by God.
If this is true, then it has the potential to change the way that we think, believe, talk and live. Our belovedness makes a difference. Our wounds and scars make a difference. Resurrection makes a difference. Because God is with us and for us. He's up to something in the world and is inviting us to partner with Him.
These are the invitations of 'Prototype' and I'm thankful to Martin for pressing in to preaching a better gospel.
July 30, 2016
Shortly before starting on this book, I had a personal realization that I needed to stop trying to "be a better Christian / person" through my own sheer willpower, and that what I most needed was to better internalize God's love and mercy for me so that I would be better able — and motivated — to live it out. That's essentially what Martin is talking about when he talks about Jesus as the prototype for a new kind of human — one who believes that he is perfectly loved by God before he does anything to "earn" it.
Martin offers some suggestions of how to get to that point, as well as stories of what it looks like when you get there (even just for a moment). He tells stories from the church where he is pastor, in the same vein as Shane Claiborne and Nadia Bolz-Weber, where society's outcasts come together to put flesh on God's love in their community. I found it inspiring in a way that didn't seem totally out of reach.
Martin says in his closing that this wasn't intended to be a memoir, though he does share stories about his life. I did feel that that aspect of the book was a little shallow — Martin tells detailed stories of the unsavory parts of his parishioners' pasts, but then he just says about himself that he's no different, that his life has parts just as dark, yet for all his talk of authenticity he declines to elaborate, making me think it's mostly a rhetorical device and he does, in some way, see himself as above these people whose stories he tells. When he tells personal stories it's mainly about something that made him cry, which maybe as a guy he finds vulnerable, but it's kind of par for the course in this sort of book.
Anyway, I thought overall that it was a very good reflection on Christian identity and community. I'd consider rereading this, or at least going back and reviewing my highlights.
Martin offers some suggestions of how to get to that point, as well as stories of what it looks like when you get there (even just for a moment). He tells stories from the church where he is pastor, in the same vein as Shane Claiborne and Nadia Bolz-Weber, where society's outcasts come together to put flesh on God's love in their community. I found it inspiring in a way that didn't seem totally out of reach.
Martin says in his closing that this wasn't intended to be a memoir, though he does share stories about his life. I did feel that that aspect of the book was a little shallow — Martin tells detailed stories of the unsavory parts of his parishioners' pasts, but then he just says about himself that he's no different, that his life has parts just as dark, yet for all his talk of authenticity he declines to elaborate, making me think it's mostly a rhetorical device and he does, in some way, see himself as above these people whose stories he tells. When he tells personal stories it's mainly about something that made him cry, which maybe as a guy he finds vulnerable, but it's kind of par for the course in this sort of book.
Anyway, I thought overall that it was a very good reflection on Christian identity and community. I'd consider rereading this, or at least going back and reviewing my highlights.
June 27, 2025
Jesus is our prototype as someone who knew that He was fully loved by God, delighted in and held to that simple truth. Believing this truth paved the way to allow Jesus to overcome the sin/the devils temptations and bring many to God.
Martin paints the picture of a young boy on a bike riding through his neighborhood with no fear or worry. The boy knew he was loved, taken care of and just rode with joy. But after falling enough times, he developed scars and the fear that grew in his heart led him to stop riding.
The book is about the need to get back in touch with the boy or girl on the bike. When we knew were wonderfully made and loved and nothing else mattered to us. Before the stains and cares of the world took us off of the back and made us shrink back in fear. We need to go back and simply hear the music. Hear the music of Gods love and “let it sing over us”. To live as Gods beloved (Matthew 3:17).
This isn’t only for us to live an abundant life, but for others to see God in us. Knowing Gods love allows us to be his ambassadors for a world that desperately needs it.
“We were created to be the boy on the bike or the girl on the trampoline. Because we are formed in the image of God, we are born with the capacity to dream, to imagine, to play, to create. Nowadays, we are oversaturated by fear and overstimulation… Yet every once in a while, we have moments when we are called back to the simpler life of love instead of fear. These moments occur mostly when we experience true beauty in some form.”
“One of the tragedies of our life is that we keep forgetting who we are”
“When we know we are loved by God, we don’t have to prove anything to anyone. There is nothing we can do to make ourselves more beloved than we are.”
“Fears a powerful thing, baby
It can turn your heart black you can trust.
It’ll take your God-filled soul
And fill it with devils and dust.”
- Bruce Springsteen lol
4/5 because the last couple chapters caught me off guard talking about sacraments and community. Seemed a little off track from the theme, but maybe I just didn’t get it
Martin paints the picture of a young boy on a bike riding through his neighborhood with no fear or worry. The boy knew he was loved, taken care of and just rode with joy. But after falling enough times, he developed scars and the fear that grew in his heart led him to stop riding.
The book is about the need to get back in touch with the boy or girl on the bike. When we knew were wonderfully made and loved and nothing else mattered to us. Before the stains and cares of the world took us off of the back and made us shrink back in fear. We need to go back and simply hear the music. Hear the music of Gods love and “let it sing over us”. To live as Gods beloved (Matthew 3:17).
This isn’t only for us to live an abundant life, but for others to see God in us. Knowing Gods love allows us to be his ambassadors for a world that desperately needs it.
“We were created to be the boy on the bike or the girl on the trampoline. Because we are formed in the image of God, we are born with the capacity to dream, to imagine, to play, to create. Nowadays, we are oversaturated by fear and overstimulation… Yet every once in a while, we have moments when we are called back to the simpler life of love instead of fear. These moments occur mostly when we experience true beauty in some form.”
“One of the tragedies of our life is that we keep forgetting who we are”
“When we know we are loved by God, we don’t have to prove anything to anyone. There is nothing we can do to make ourselves more beloved than we are.”
“Fears a powerful thing, baby
It can turn your heart black you can trust.
It’ll take your God-filled soul
And fill it with devils and dust.”
- Bruce Springsteen lol
4/5 because the last couple chapters caught me off guard talking about sacraments and community. Seemed a little off track from the theme, but maybe I just didn’t get it
April 22, 2013
I managed to read "Prototype" in 3 days! If you are wondering if it reads well, the answer is YES. Jonathan Martin is a smooth writer, with an easy flowing pen, that loves to tell great stories. Which he does very well I might add.
In the first couple of chapters I was very taken in by Martins style of writing. He has a unique style and it stands out, which is nice. It was refreshing to see him express his way through the chapters on our "Identity" and then on being his "Beloved".
Here is a quote I especially liked from his chapter 2 Beloved: "Because we are formed in the image of God, we are born with the capacity to dream, to imagine, to play, to create." A quote so simple, yet so true. The book has quotes such as this one all the way through, it makes us realize just how uncomplicated God is and that we as humans, sometimes complicate things.
I did find that the book was centered mostly on the church as a whole. Which in a sense, isn’t wrong. I do understand that the author is trying to get us to go out and do each our part as individual members of the church. Interpretation is to each his own. Maybe I got this part wrong. Just seemed that Martin emphasizes a lot on his own experiences and his congregation. Personally, I felt at times like if I wasn’t doing it, well, I just didn’t get it!
As I previously said he is a Great storyteller, very good in his descriptive details, yet at times this did bother me. This comes across so clear in chapter 4. Why you ask? Storytelling when you are talking about your personal life is one thing. When talking about Scripture that's quite another thing. I personally felt that the author was seeing more into the text than what the text was actually saying. Which tends to lead one more into their "feelings" or "interpretations" rather than staying with the biblical facts. It was nice to read, very interesting. Yet I had the distinct impression that I had somehow changed book and was now reading a romance novel. Martin was in fact taking about our calling and the women in Luke 7: 36-50
In chapter 6 where he speaks about “Resurrection”, I was stunned that Martin doesn’t mention clearly that God is the one who invites us to Him first. We cannot come to God on our own by searching, unless the Father places this desire in our hearts first. Yes the resurrection changes something when you believe in Jesus Christ as your Savior but I did not see this explained clearly anywhere in the chapter unfortunately!
I would of loved at moments if the author had made mention of the importance of resting SOLELY on the Spirit of Jesus Christ for our identity being renewed, being loved, or even our resurrection. Even though this book is presumed to be for Christians I believe that we shouldn't automatically take for granted that all are saved and know Christ personally.
Discernment is the word that comes to mind after I finished reading this book. Among the few good things I did like, I must say that unfortunately, the things needing discernment outweigh the balance in the end.
I have received a complimentary copy of this book “Protoype” by Tyndale Press. However I am under no obligation to write a positive review. These are entirely my own personal opinions and thoughts expressed according to my own discernment.
Ann L Beaulieu
In the first couple of chapters I was very taken in by Martins style of writing. He has a unique style and it stands out, which is nice. It was refreshing to see him express his way through the chapters on our "Identity" and then on being his "Beloved".
Here is a quote I especially liked from his chapter 2 Beloved: "Because we are formed in the image of God, we are born with the capacity to dream, to imagine, to play, to create." A quote so simple, yet so true. The book has quotes such as this one all the way through, it makes us realize just how uncomplicated God is and that we as humans, sometimes complicate things.
I did find that the book was centered mostly on the church as a whole. Which in a sense, isn’t wrong. I do understand that the author is trying to get us to go out and do each our part as individual members of the church. Interpretation is to each his own. Maybe I got this part wrong. Just seemed that Martin emphasizes a lot on his own experiences and his congregation. Personally, I felt at times like if I wasn’t doing it, well, I just didn’t get it!
As I previously said he is a Great storyteller, very good in his descriptive details, yet at times this did bother me. This comes across so clear in chapter 4. Why you ask? Storytelling when you are talking about your personal life is one thing. When talking about Scripture that's quite another thing. I personally felt that the author was seeing more into the text than what the text was actually saying. Which tends to lead one more into their "feelings" or "interpretations" rather than staying with the biblical facts. It was nice to read, very interesting. Yet I had the distinct impression that I had somehow changed book and was now reading a romance novel. Martin was in fact taking about our calling and the women in Luke 7: 36-50
In chapter 6 where he speaks about “Resurrection”, I was stunned that Martin doesn’t mention clearly that God is the one who invites us to Him first. We cannot come to God on our own by searching, unless the Father places this desire in our hearts first. Yes the resurrection changes something when you believe in Jesus Christ as your Savior but I did not see this explained clearly anywhere in the chapter unfortunately!
I would of loved at moments if the author had made mention of the importance of resting SOLELY on the Spirit of Jesus Christ for our identity being renewed, being loved, or even our resurrection. Even though this book is presumed to be for Christians I believe that we shouldn't automatically take for granted that all are saved and know Christ personally.
Discernment is the word that comes to mind after I finished reading this book. Among the few good things I did like, I must say that unfortunately, the things needing discernment outweigh the balance in the end.
I have received a complimentary copy of this book “Protoype” by Tyndale Press. However I am under no obligation to write a positive review. These are entirely my own personal opinions and thoughts expressed according to my own discernment.
Ann L Beaulieu
July 29, 2013
Since I haven't quite finished the Bible yet, I can honestly say this is the best book I've read all year. Granted, I'm only reading half what I normally do, but still... I'd recommend this book to anyone.
Jesus is the prototype for what it means to live fully human. Jonathan Martin starts with this premise and then explores different formative moments in his own life and experience where God demonstrated to him what it means to follow after Christ in this adventure that is our own humanity.
Very readable. Very applicable. Often I read books start to finish, cover to cover, over a short space of time. I couldn't with this. God kept challenging me in my own life as I read and I could not, I would not move forward until I had an opportunity to apply what God was showing me in my own life. Grab yourself a copy of this book and you'll know exactly what I mean.
Jesus is the prototype for what it means to live fully human. Jonathan Martin starts with this premise and then explores different formative moments in his own life and experience where God demonstrated to him what it means to follow after Christ in this adventure that is our own humanity.
Very readable. Very applicable. Often I read books start to finish, cover to cover, over a short space of time. I couldn't with this. God kept challenging me in my own life as I read and I could not, I would not move forward until I had an opportunity to apply what God was showing me in my own life. Grab yourself a copy of this book and you'll know exactly what I mean.
October 26, 2014
A beautiful and poetic description of what it means to be a disciple of Jesus. A must-read for anyone who is confused about what it means to follow Jesus or who needs reminding of who they are in Christ. One of my top 10 books this year.
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January 7, 2014If you could see the back cover of my copy of “Prototype” by Jonathan Martin, you would understand how much I have wrestled with this book. I have left a scattering of notes, paraphrases of concepts, and bullet points wherever I could squeeze them on the page; I took so many notes because Martin covers a lot of theological ground and he frames his message in the language of his target audience. It took some time for me organize and absorb all his concepts. Martin goes to great length to frame the Gospel message in a way that his readers will find relevant: He wants those who feel marginalized to understand the penetrating love of God and the invitation to know Him.
Martin speaks very clearly to those who have looked askance at the Church in the past. He does a great job of welcoming anyone who wants to learn more while at the same time not reinventing the Church to skeptics. He can at once say that “liars, dreamers, and misfits” are welcome to hear about God’s love while at the same time telling them that “This is my grandmother’s church” and there are reasons why we do the things we do.
This is a good book to read more than once. I wanted the message to be clearer at times. At first, I could not relate to his concept of “the boy on the bike” or “coming alive to God”. I was busy trying to make sure he not equating these concepts to a salvation experience and it took some time to understand what he meant. Once I stripped through the various phrases and concepts Martin has created, I found the Gospel with refreshing clarity.
Martin is a very perceptive person. Several times I wondered if he found it frustrating to write this book instead of having a conversation with every reader. Watching the accompanying DVD helped me to understand Martin’s tone much better. In particular, some of his descriptions of his exposure to church culture as a child can sound dismissive in the book; however, he is genuine and reflective as he describes these same moments on the DVD. I spent most of the time reading the book on a defensive footing, trying to decipher how he was framing spirituality and understanding how all the concepts connected. As I watched the DVD, Martin’s sincerity and reliance on Scripture came through with much more force.
I feel like I need to say a word about the title and subtitle. When I saw the title “Prototype” I was concerned that the book was going to be pluralistic and as a result, I began reading the book defensively. I was relieved to find no such suggestion in the text. The subtitle “What happens when you discover you’re more like Jesus thank you think?” also kept me looking for hints of cheap grace, which I did not find either. I believe the subtitle is meant to be a description of Jesus’s humanness and how He can sympathize with man: people are made in image of God, we are physical people just as Jesus became flesh, and we are loved by Father just as much as Jesus is loved by Him.
Martin covers a lot of topics in 200 plus pages and the Gospel is presented more clearly as the book progresses. Be prepared to spend as much time reflecting on the content as you do reading the text. I recommend this book for those who want to understand more about Christianity but do not feel like they “fit the mold” of “church people”. I also think many Christians who want a fresh look at their faith and are willing to read discerningly will find this book helpful.
I received a copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishers for review
Martin speaks very clearly to those who have looked askance at the Church in the past. He does a great job of welcoming anyone who wants to learn more while at the same time not reinventing the Church to skeptics. He can at once say that “liars, dreamers, and misfits” are welcome to hear about God’s love while at the same time telling them that “This is my grandmother’s church” and there are reasons why we do the things we do.
This is a good book to read more than once. I wanted the message to be clearer at times. At first, I could not relate to his concept of “the boy on the bike” or “coming alive to God”. I was busy trying to make sure he not equating these concepts to a salvation experience and it took some time to understand what he meant. Once I stripped through the various phrases and concepts Martin has created, I found the Gospel with refreshing clarity.
Martin is a very perceptive person. Several times I wondered if he found it frustrating to write this book instead of having a conversation with every reader. Watching the accompanying DVD helped me to understand Martin’s tone much better. In particular, some of his descriptions of his exposure to church culture as a child can sound dismissive in the book; however, he is genuine and reflective as he describes these same moments on the DVD. I spent most of the time reading the book on a defensive footing, trying to decipher how he was framing spirituality and understanding how all the concepts connected. As I watched the DVD, Martin’s sincerity and reliance on Scripture came through with much more force.
I feel like I need to say a word about the title and subtitle. When I saw the title “Prototype” I was concerned that the book was going to be pluralistic and as a result, I began reading the book defensively. I was relieved to find no such suggestion in the text. The subtitle “What happens when you discover you’re more like Jesus thank you think?” also kept me looking for hints of cheap grace, which I did not find either. I believe the subtitle is meant to be a description of Jesus’s humanness and how He can sympathize with man: people are made in image of God, we are physical people just as Jesus became flesh, and we are loved by Father just as much as Jesus is loved by Him.
Martin covers a lot of topics in 200 plus pages and the Gospel is presented more clearly as the book progresses. Be prepared to spend as much time reflecting on the content as you do reading the text. I recommend this book for those who want to understand more about Christianity but do not feel like they “fit the mold” of “church people”. I also think many Christians who want a fresh look at their faith and are willing to read discerningly will find this book helpful.
I received a copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishers for review
November 19, 2014
Short Review --- Prototype: What Happens When You Discover You're More Like Jesus Than You Think? by Jonathan Martin - Excellent book on living the life of a Christian. The best thing about the book is Martin's personal writing style that is completely devoid of theological language, while maintaining a pretty high level of theological content. This is probably the best general Christian living book I have read this year. If you read a lot of Christian living and/or theology books the general themes are probably not new, I can see hints of NT Wright, Richard Beck, and Hauerwas as well as others. I think at root this is a book that is trying to illustrate the Cristus Victor and Moral Influence models of the atonement without ever mentioning either them or the word atonement.
My full review is on my blog at http://bookwi.se/prototype/
My full review is on my blog at http://bookwi.se/prototype/
December 21, 2013
I was disappointed in this book. The premise is so good - how to live fully human as Jesus was. But Jonathan just does not deliver. He tells lots of stories about himself so that, in the end, this is sort of his own spiritually coming of age account. He tells lots of stories about others too, people who have come into his church, etc. In the end I learned much more about Jonathan than I did about Jesus and what it means to live into His identity. There was nothing about what it means to be "in Christ" or about the power of the Holy Spirit in you. If you like to read about people experiences, you'll like this book. If you want to really know what it means to live into the humanity of Jesus, you'll have to go elsewhere. See my full review at http://bit.ly/1evmtyZ.
June 1, 2023
There are some good lines in this book. I particularly enjoyed his section on Saul & David, and Jonathan offers some things to really consider that are helpful for each follower of Jesus on some level. Unfortunately, it became increasingly hard for me to separate the outworking of the author from the writing. In other words, this book did not age well. The church he writes about here 'Renovatus' is no longer under his leadership, he is no longer married to who he was married to when this was written (2013) and he has all but completely deconstructed from his faith... in other, other words, his 'prototype' thoughts may be good, but it clearly hasn't been working for him. I say this hesitantly, because I know this could very well be me in 10 years as well. Normally, I don't have such a hard time separating the work from the man (some of my favorite books are by Rob Bell & Ravi Zacharias and still are my favorites) but this one became hard for me to reconcile. It's good-not great.
January 11, 2025
While not one of the best books at keeping my attention, Martin did emphasize things at both the beginning and the end of the book to entice the reader [me] to consider what joy and trust look like. The illustration of "riding the bike" in a "land of adventure" is sure to resonate with many others who open the book and give it a shot. Where the work began to slow for me was a little over halfway where he begins recounting the various relationships he has made and cultivated over the years and how the people he engaged began to see their true identity as "fashioned in the image." While I appreciated this section--and certainly believe it was necessary--it did feel a bit repetitive, and counter-climactic when the punchline or "the draw" was already given early in the book.
A solid read, average (not in a bad way), and would recommend for anyone wrestling with ideas of prayer, identity, community, and ultimately identifying one's self as God's image.
A solid read, average (not in a bad way), and would recommend for anyone wrestling with ideas of prayer, identity, community, and ultimately identifying one's self as God's image.
January 9, 2020
I thought this book was daring in how it was written. Martin's writing in this book is extremely vulnerable, and in your face, but in an intimate way.
He attempts to strip you of what you think you know, and attempts to uncover, or rather, reveal the little girl, or little boy on the bike.
This is one of those books that sticks with you for a lifetime, and one of those books that tend to be answered when asked "What are your top 5 books?", or, "What is one book that stuck out to you in college"?
For me, Prototype is one of those books. It will always be esteemed in my library and a book I consistently go back to because of the language Martin so clearly and eloquently uses.
He attempts to strip you of what you think you know, and attempts to uncover, or rather, reveal the little girl, or little boy on the bike.
This is one of those books that sticks with you for a lifetime, and one of those books that tend to be answered when asked "What are your top 5 books?", or, "What is one book that stuck out to you in college"?
For me, Prototype is one of those books. It will always be esteemed in my library and a book I consistently go back to because of the language Martin so clearly and eloquently uses.
March 21, 2019
This was pretty good. It's a different type of perspective than what I usually read with religious books- he's from a very different Christian tradition than what I'm used to (he's a Pentecostal pastor), and it's a lot more focused on "vertical" spirituality than "horizontal" (i.e., more on personal spiritual growth than social justice, etc.). What he's saying isn't new, but he has an interesting way of looking at things and a down-to-earth writing style that makes him easy to relate to.
April 25, 2022
amazing, inspirational and insightful... I think the by-line is misleading and I would not have read the book based on it, if not for a recommendation to read it.
it can be tricky to engage with books from Christian traditions outside your own, and this being from a Pentecostal expression may have its challenges for some. Challenge yourself ... its worth it!
it can be tricky to engage with books from Christian traditions outside your own, and this being from a Pentecostal expression may have its challenges for some. Challenge yourself ... its worth it!
August 26, 2017
We are the touch of God
This gave us a look into the church and it's role. The truthful purpose of our lives, and Jonathan helps us relate to several stories he share so we can understand how important is for us (as a church) to act.
Love it. Easy and fast to read.
Great message.
This gave us a look into the church and it's role. The truthful purpose of our lives, and Jonathan helps us relate to several stories he share so we can understand how important is for us (as a church) to act.
Love it. Easy and fast to read.
Great message.
January 6, 2020
If you want a book on how you can fit into the Gospel story then this is your book. That’s neither good nor bad really.
I gave this 4 stars even though I wanted to give it 3; because I was expecting something different/more. All in all, still a good book and worth a 4 star rating.
I gave this 4 stars even though I wanted to give it 3; because I was expecting something different/more. All in all, still a good book and worth a 4 star rating.
March 23, 2022
Emphasized how Jesus is our prototype and to always remember our identity in Him. I was unfamiliar with some of the references he made to songs and movies, I was also confused about the letter at the end
August 23, 2022
One of the easiest 5 stars that I've ever given. This book belongs in my top 5 books. Such a powerful read on something so simple, yet so often missed by many who try to make the gospel and/or life with Jesus so complex. This is a must read for any believer.
April 22, 2023
This was a quick read - it didn’t blow my mind but I appreciated the good theology and the way the author connected the power of the resurrection with the way we can view and live out day-to-day life as the new creation.
June 11, 2019
#21 of 2019
May 13, 2013
For this review and other reviews, please visit my blog.
I have to admit, that I struggled with Prototype. I'll go ahead and tell you now that I when I finished the book, I enjoyed it. It's a good book and I would recommend reading it. The reason why I'm wrestling with this review is I didn't enjoy it at first. It took me a little bit to get into the book and really understand the direction that Jonathan Martin was going.
The subtitle of Prototype is, "What happens when you discover you're more like Jesus than you think?" Entering into Prototype, I was expecting to see something more theological. This comes out of my experience last fall teaching about Jesus in a Basic Christian Beliefs class. I was expecting "theological speak." I taught my class about how Jesus is the prototype for the new human, so I thought that I would see sections of scripture from the New Testament spelled out through thorough exegesis explaining how Jesus set the example for the new humanity. Martin does use scripture and he does show how Christ, he just didn't do that in the way I expected and I say this because I know I won't be alone in that expectation. Instead, he does something better. He shows it through real life stories of how he has seen his life and other lives changed. He makes this clear in his last chapter titled "witness" and I think that is an appropriate way to describe this book. It is a statement of what he has seen and now he is witnessing to the call of God to be his beloved like Christ is. It is possible to live a new life and live like God's beloved child.
All that being said, Martin does a great job of explaining how Jesus shows us a new way to be human. He does this by starting off with the fact that God call us, like he calls Jesus, his beloved. God want to love us like his children in the same way he does Christ. Our lives are different now because of the resurrection. Christ came to change the world and make it possible for us to live new lives. The message of the book reminds me of the refrain that Rob Bell keeps returning to at the end of his video The gods aren't angry which is, "You don't have to live like this anymore." Martin is calling all of us broken down sinners to a life where we are called the beloved of God and can live in the light of the resurrection.
This isn't a technical book. That's what I expected, but I'm glad it's not what I got. It's testimony to the life changing power of the life and resurrection of Jesus Christ. If you want to see if change is possible, if you want to hear stories of life change, or if you don't believe that you are loved by God, then you should read this book. It's not the greatest book ever written, but it does tell stories of real people who have been changed by the love of God and there's nothing quite as amazing as that.
I have to admit, that I struggled with Prototype. I'll go ahead and tell you now that I when I finished the book, I enjoyed it. It's a good book and I would recommend reading it. The reason why I'm wrestling with this review is I didn't enjoy it at first. It took me a little bit to get into the book and really understand the direction that Jonathan Martin was going.
The subtitle of Prototype is, "What happens when you discover you're more like Jesus than you think?" Entering into Prototype, I was expecting to see something more theological. This comes out of my experience last fall teaching about Jesus in a Basic Christian Beliefs class. I was expecting "theological speak." I taught my class about how Jesus is the prototype for the new human, so I thought that I would see sections of scripture from the New Testament spelled out through thorough exegesis explaining how Jesus set the example for the new humanity. Martin does use scripture and he does show how Christ, he just didn't do that in the way I expected and I say this because I know I won't be alone in that expectation. Instead, he does something better. He shows it through real life stories of how he has seen his life and other lives changed. He makes this clear in his last chapter titled "witness" and I think that is an appropriate way to describe this book. It is a statement of what he has seen and now he is witnessing to the call of God to be his beloved like Christ is. It is possible to live a new life and live like God's beloved child.
All that being said, Martin does a great job of explaining how Jesus shows us a new way to be human. He does this by starting off with the fact that God call us, like he calls Jesus, his beloved. God want to love us like his children in the same way he does Christ. Our lives are different now because of the resurrection. Christ came to change the world and make it possible for us to live new lives. The message of the book reminds me of the refrain that Rob Bell keeps returning to at the end of his video The gods aren't angry which is, "You don't have to live like this anymore." Martin is calling all of us broken down sinners to a life where we are called the beloved of God and can live in the light of the resurrection.
This isn't a technical book. That's what I expected, but I'm glad it's not what I got. It's testimony to the life changing power of the life and resurrection of Jesus Christ. If you want to see if change is possible, if you want to hear stories of life change, or if you don't believe that you are loved by God, then you should read this book. It's not the greatest book ever written, but it does tell stories of real people who have been changed by the love of God and there's nothing quite as amazing as that.
July 17, 2013
This book is based around the fact that Jesus is our prototype—that He is our example on how to live and most importantly He is our example on how knowing that we are beloved of God changes the way we do live. Who are you? Is your identity rooted in knowing you are beloved of God?
One of the author’s purposes for this book was the hope that we would become “awake to God” (p. 15). He is not dogmatic in exactly what that is supposed to look like either.
This book is filled to the brim with stories, lots of stories. The stories contain the most authenticity and genuineness that I’ve seen in a long time. They are “real”. The author puts part of himself into the pages. That was refreshing.
The stories contained lots of uplifting examples of God at work in people’s lives. They also frequently brought tears to my eyes or made me laugh out loud. Occasionally the text seemed to wander from the main points by it eventually came back around and pulled it all together.
I felt not even a speck of guilt as I read the stories. (You know, like if I wasn’t already doing it like that there must be something lacking in my Christian walk.) No, instead I only felt encouraged—encouraged to be real.
If you are hungry for stories of real-life examples on what it looks like to live an authentic life in Christ then this book is for you.
To purchase your own copy of this book go here: Prototype: What Happens When You Discover You’re More Like Jesus Than You Think?
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Tyndale House Publishers as part of their Tyndale Blog Network 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 225: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
(c) 2013 Cheryl Cope
One of the author’s purposes for this book was the hope that we would become “awake to God” (p. 15). He is not dogmatic in exactly what that is supposed to look like either.
This book is filled to the brim with stories, lots of stories. The stories contain the most authenticity and genuineness that I’ve seen in a long time. They are “real”. The author puts part of himself into the pages. That was refreshing.
The stories contained lots of uplifting examples of God at work in people’s lives. They also frequently brought tears to my eyes or made me laugh out loud. Occasionally the text seemed to wander from the main points by it eventually came back around and pulled it all together.
I felt not even a speck of guilt as I read the stories. (You know, like if I wasn’t already doing it like that there must be something lacking in my Christian walk.) No, instead I only felt encouraged—encouraged to be real.
If you are hungry for stories of real-life examples on what it looks like to live an authentic life in Christ then this book is for you.
To purchase your own copy of this book go here: Prototype: What Happens When You Discover You’re More Like Jesus Than You Think?
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Tyndale House Publishers as part of their Tyndale Blog Network 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 225: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
(c) 2013 Cheryl Cope
November 18, 2013
I picked up this audiobook on a gist while browsing about within Family Christian. I was not sure if I would enjoy it but two points enforced my decision to pay. One: I really enjoyed listening to "Stop Asking Jesus Into Your Heart". Two: the title intrigued me along with the description. In conclusion, I am so happy I got this.
Martin discusses how Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, is the prototype for how Christ Followers should be. Hitting many hard points both from personal experiences and through his ministry as pastor, being like Jesus is simple yet our nature, the one the world views and admires, is what holds us back. Taking a deeper look into following Christ, it is even safe to say that God's way violates everything the world considers both normal and acceptable. Such thinking is actually opposite of what is worshipped on a worldly level.
One of the best parts of this audiobook is easily on human touch. The world, and even the church, has sanitized human touch as something filthy despite the fact Jesus did it all the time going by scriptures. It is that touch has now been associated with its sinful counterparts. Making love and sex is a gift from God since there is more to it than just the physical part with other aspects too. However we now group it with pornography. Utilizing Andre's descriptive on pornography was really good talking about how it is the physical acts put on a high pedestal devoid of any emotion or human differentiation.
I would definitely suggest this book to all my Christ Following friends who are learning either the bread or meat of the Holy Bible. This may also do well for atheists who have a more cynical viewpoint towards the church due to its people.
Martin discusses how Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, is the prototype for how Christ Followers should be. Hitting many hard points both from personal experiences and through his ministry as pastor, being like Jesus is simple yet our nature, the one the world views and admires, is what holds us back. Taking a deeper look into following Christ, it is even safe to say that God's way violates everything the world considers both normal and acceptable. Such thinking is actually opposite of what is worshipped on a worldly level.
One of the best parts of this audiobook is easily on human touch. The world, and even the church, has sanitized human touch as something filthy despite the fact Jesus did it all the time going by scriptures. It is that touch has now been associated with its sinful counterparts. Making love and sex is a gift from God since there is more to it than just the physical part with other aspects too. However we now group it with pornography. Utilizing Andre's descriptive on pornography was really good talking about how it is the physical acts put on a high pedestal devoid of any emotion or human differentiation.
I would definitely suggest this book to all my Christ Following friends who are learning either the bread or meat of the Holy Bible. This may also do well for atheists who have a more cynical viewpoint towards the church due to its people.
November 30, 2013
Prototype is a beautifully written book that strived to convey a message about identity, relationship and outreach. The base lesson, however, seemed to be two-fold. First, the author wanted us to appreciate our status as the beloved of the LORD. Second, I believe he wanted readers to see that all of our efforts are linked to Him [the LORD] through the very heart of Christ.
The author did a wonderful job of offering up Scriptural references throughout the pages of this book, but he did not do so in such a way that it was overwhelming. He presented insightful viewpoints that influenced much in the way of deep thought and reflection. He introduced nuances from the lives of notable people, such as Elijah, David and Jesus Himself, which made the content personal and relevant.
Mr. Martin's voice was direct, and his style was straight. He did not hold back, in my opinion, from saying what needed to be said. He gave hard truths on the ways, thoughts, and actions of people, and he gave necessary truths related to devils and other sources of negativity.
I would have no problem recommending this book to others. In it, I believe people will find meaning, purpose, direction, and encouragement.
Notable Quote: "Coming awake to God is nothing to be afraid of...It's about coming home to who you really are."
I received a complimentary copy of this book and the small group DVD from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review. The words I have expressed are my own.
Rating: 4/5 Stars
The author did a wonderful job of offering up Scriptural references throughout the pages of this book, but he did not do so in such a way that it was overwhelming. He presented insightful viewpoints that influenced much in the way of deep thought and reflection. He introduced nuances from the lives of notable people, such as Elijah, David and Jesus Himself, which made the content personal and relevant.
Mr. Martin's voice was direct, and his style was straight. He did not hold back, in my opinion, from saying what needed to be said. He gave hard truths on the ways, thoughts, and actions of people, and he gave necessary truths related to devils and other sources of negativity.
I would have no problem recommending this book to others. In it, I believe people will find meaning, purpose, direction, and encouragement.
Notable Quote: "Coming awake to God is nothing to be afraid of...It's about coming home to who you really are."
I received a complimentary copy of this book and the small group DVD from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review. The words I have expressed are my own.
Rating: 4/5 Stars
May 3, 2014
I read Prototype in exchange for honest review from Tyndale Blog Network.
The book teaches us how to allow Jesus to become our prototype. Chapter 1 of the book/DVD discusses Identity. What is your identity? Some people think their identity is similar to their social media profiles. A brief bio, sometimes longer, explaining their likes, dislikes, age, sex, and location. Yet, a profile does not explain who you truly are? "What are you covering up? What are you afraid of? Where are you going" (p. 1). What is your true identity. Martin says we have plenty of influences competing for our attention, telling us who we are and who we should be. Yet, What is your true identity.
Page 15 described perfectly what the book is about: "The book is not about finding religion. It's not a self-help manual. I don't have seven habits or twelve steps to take you anywhere. This is about becoming awake to God. And if we become awake to God, we become awake to everything and everyone around us."
Page 17 starts discussing why Jesus is our prototype. We need to strive to be children of God. We need to find our identity in Christ. We need to have awareness of God's presence. "Jesus was so certain of who he was and where he was going that of course he became a threat to the world around him. He didn't need the affirmation of other people to know his true identity" (p. 18).
Overall, the book was a great read. The full review is available on my blog Perfect Chaos: http://sdwperfectchaos.blogspot.com
The book teaches us how to allow Jesus to become our prototype. Chapter 1 of the book/DVD discusses Identity. What is your identity? Some people think their identity is similar to their social media profiles. A brief bio, sometimes longer, explaining their likes, dislikes, age, sex, and location. Yet, a profile does not explain who you truly are? "What are you covering up? What are you afraid of? Where are you going" (p. 1). What is your true identity. Martin says we have plenty of influences competing for our attention, telling us who we are and who we should be. Yet, What is your true identity.
Page 15 described perfectly what the book is about: "The book is not about finding religion. It's not a self-help manual. I don't have seven habits or twelve steps to take you anywhere. This is about becoming awake to God. And if we become awake to God, we become awake to everything and everyone around us."
Page 17 starts discussing why Jesus is our prototype. We need to strive to be children of God. We need to find our identity in Christ. We need to have awareness of God's presence. "Jesus was so certain of who he was and where he was going that of course he became a threat to the world around him. He didn't need the affirmation of other people to know his true identity" (p. 18).
Overall, the book was a great read. The full review is available on my blog Perfect Chaos: http://sdwperfectchaos.blogspot.com
January 1, 2014
I was immediately overwhelmed when I started reading Prototype by the depth of knowledge, wisdom and emotion contained in each page written by Martin.
This book is all consuming and once I started it, I could not put it down. It is written with the wisdom of someone whose faith is immeasurable and makes others like myself feel inadequate by comparison. This is not a negative thing though. It made me want to be better and stronger and grow in my faith in a way that Martin has.
This book encourages such a real and deep relationship with Jesus Christ and makes it more personal then anything I’ve ever read has been able to accomplish. It’s one of those books you are reading where everything makes sense but is revealed in such an extraordinary way that you can’t help but we swept up by his lyrical words and the depth of his truth and honesty.
The accompanying DVD is a great study broken up into six sessions that would be perfect for a small group study for a church or just a group of believers. This is such great material that I want to share it with everyone I know and do a study on it.
I can’t adequately put into words the touching nature and wisdom imparted with which Martin writes Prototype. It’s something you just have to experience for yourself.
This book is all consuming and once I started it, I could not put it down. It is written with the wisdom of someone whose faith is immeasurable and makes others like myself feel inadequate by comparison. This is not a negative thing though. It made me want to be better and stronger and grow in my faith in a way that Martin has.
This book encourages such a real and deep relationship with Jesus Christ and makes it more personal then anything I’ve ever read has been able to accomplish. It’s one of those books you are reading where everything makes sense but is revealed in such an extraordinary way that you can’t help but we swept up by his lyrical words and the depth of his truth and honesty.
The accompanying DVD is a great study broken up into six sessions that would be perfect for a small group study for a church or just a group of believers. This is such great material that I want to share it with everyone I know and do a study on it.
I can’t adequately put into words the touching nature and wisdom imparted with which Martin writes Prototype. It’s something you just have to experience for yourself.
October 5, 2013
Ever think you are God's gift to mankind? What if you are actually more like Jesus than you think?
Author Jonathan Martin takes readers for a splendid adventure. When you read the Gospels, you see Jesus in complete trust of God the Father. What if we could have the same trust with God? Is that possible?
The big premise I took from this book is how to get freedom from fear by claiming who we are in God's sight. Don't allow yourself to conform to what your friends or peers want you to be. Find your identity, your true identity, in God and you will be free.
In this way, Jesus is the prototype. He was completely comfortable with his identity.
Martin provides some fantastic theological ideas in a practical way that anyone can read and fully grasp. This is an easy read.
There are plenty of moments where you will read a sentence or paragraph and stop reading just to allow the through process to work.
Are you secure in your identity - your identity in God?
This book was provided for review, at no cost, by Tyndale Publishers.
Author Jonathan Martin takes readers for a splendid adventure. When you read the Gospels, you see Jesus in complete trust of God the Father. What if we could have the same trust with God? Is that possible?
The big premise I took from this book is how to get freedom from fear by claiming who we are in God's sight. Don't allow yourself to conform to what your friends or peers want you to be. Find your identity, your true identity, in God and you will be free.
In this way, Jesus is the prototype. He was completely comfortable with his identity.
Martin provides some fantastic theological ideas in a practical way that anyone can read and fully grasp. This is an easy read.
There are plenty of moments where you will read a sentence or paragraph and stop reading just to allow the through process to work.
Are you secure in your identity - your identity in God?
This book was provided for review, at no cost, by Tyndale Publishers.
September 5, 2013
I recently discovered this Charlotte, North Carolina pastor and have listened to several of his sermons via podcast to and from work. His ideas are refreshing and the information he shares has left me with the impression that he is a genuine, down-to-earth, 30 something just catching the world's attention.
This book is not a hard and fast Bible study. It is a blended presentation consisting of Pastor Martin's experiences and struggles and those of his closest friends, as well as teaching about Jesus and how we can easily miss the beauty of the Lord and forget who we are in this chaotic, modern age. Pastor Martin encourages us to recall those happy, contented moments when we were most ourselves and perhaps, closest to God. It was in those moments that we knew who we were and were unafraid. The author purports that truly understanding our identity enables us to not only live our best life, but helps us to share our story and bond with others.
This book is not a hard and fast Bible study. It is a blended presentation consisting of Pastor Martin's experiences and struggles and those of his closest friends, as well as teaching about Jesus and how we can easily miss the beauty of the Lord and forget who we are in this chaotic, modern age. Pastor Martin encourages us to recall those happy, contented moments when we were most ourselves and perhaps, closest to God. It was in those moments that we knew who we were and were unafraid. The author purports that truly understanding our identity enables us to not only live our best life, but helps us to share our story and bond with others.
January 16, 2014
I love to read about Jesus and life-change that happens in people because of Him. This book fit that exactly for me. A friend recommended this to me and I am glad that he did. Jonathan writes with a story-based conversational style that I love. Reminds me a little of a Donald Miller book in his voice for some reason. Reminded me a lot of "Life of the Beloved" by Henri Nouwen too. Living like the beloved child of God that you are because of what Jesus, God's beloved son, did for all of us. A book that brought back memories for me of my childhood and how God revealed himself to me in ways that I didn't see at the time.
Recommend this book if you want to read a little more about Jesus, God's love for you, or His calling on your life to represent Him in this world.
Recommend this book if you want to read a little more about Jesus, God's love for you, or His calling on your life to represent Him in this world.
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