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Found in Him: The Joy of the Incarnation and Our Union with Christ
We Were Lost. Now We’re Found…in Him.
Everyone has experienced isolation and alienation. We lost more than a nice home when we were banished from Eden. We lost relationship with God and with each other.
But then God did the unthinkable. The Son of God became the Man Christ Jesus: one of us that we might be united to him.
In Found in Him, Elyse Fitzpatrick explores the wonder of the incarnation and the glory of our union with Christ, offering us a sure path to ultimate acceptance and true belonging through the power of the gospel.
Everyone has experienced isolation and alienation. We lost more than a nice home when we were banished from Eden. We lost relationship with God and with each other.
But then God did the unthinkable. The Son of God became the Man Christ Jesus: one of us that we might be united to him.
In Found in Him, Elyse Fitzpatrick explores the wonder of the incarnation and the glory of our union with Christ, offering us a sure path to ultimate acceptance and true belonging through the power of the gospel.
240 pages, Paperback
First published October 1, 2013
65 people are currently reading
633 people want to read
About the author
Elyse M. Fitzpatrick
55 books474 followersAuthor of 20+ books on the Christian life and the gospel's impact on everyday living, Elyse is a frequent speaker at women's conferences nationally and internationally.
Elyse's ministry is summed up in these simple words: No fluff, No bricks, just the good news of a crucified and risen Christ.
In 1971 she married her sweetheart Phil and together they raised three children and are enjoying six really adorable grandchildren.
Together they attend Valley Center Community Church in the hills of the North County of San Diego where Phil is an elder.
Elyse's ministry is summed up in these simple words: No fluff, No bricks, just the good news of a crucified and risen Christ.
In 1971 she married her sweetheart Phil and together they raised three children and are enjoying six really adorable grandchildren.
Together they attend Valley Center Community Church in the hills of the North County of San Diego where Phil is an elder.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
April 4, 2014
I definitely appreciated the thoroughness with which the author went into the Incarnation, however, I think she took a few too many poetic liberties in describing the pre-ministry life of Jesus without making it clear she was doing so. There's an unfortunate number of people who read without doing so critically or with much discernment and often take the word of trusted leaders as gospel truth, not understanding that poetic license is just that...not meant to be fact, but intended to illustrate the point, or in this case, further emphasize the humanness our savior put on as the God-Man. While I don't remotely disagree with the doctrine behind the author's description of the Incarnation, I do wish she had made that distinction between what is biblical and what she added for effect.
The section of the book that discussed our Union with Christ was very good and fairly straight-forward. I found one or two analogies not entirely effective, but I'm only mentioning them to be thorough in my critique of the book. My one other negative critique is the author leaving the reader with the only do of being to truly believe that Jesus did everything and that we are justified through him and not our own works. While I entirely agree, Jesus did also command us to go and make disciples, so there does have to be more than just sitting in the truth of the Gospel. While we can't go and do anything without firmly believing in the justifying and sanctifying work of Christ, we do have an action to do that comes out of that that is more than sitting in our living rooms reveling in our faith.
Overall, I was grateful to be able to read and be reminded of who we actually are in Christ and reflect and dwell in those truths. I had the pleasure of hearing the author give a talk on this book and did find it more effective than the book itself, but that isn't to say the book doesn't have value in any discerning Christian reader's library.
The section of the book that discussed our Union with Christ was very good and fairly straight-forward. I found one or two analogies not entirely effective, but I'm only mentioning them to be thorough in my critique of the book. My one other negative critique is the author leaving the reader with the only do of being to truly believe that Jesus did everything and that we are justified through him and not our own works. While I entirely agree, Jesus did also command us to go and make disciples, so there does have to be more than just sitting in the truth of the Gospel. While we can't go and do anything without firmly believing in the justifying and sanctifying work of Christ, we do have an action to do that comes out of that that is more than sitting in our living rooms reveling in our faith.
Overall, I was grateful to be able to read and be reminded of who we actually are in Christ and reflect and dwell in those truths. I had the pleasure of hearing the author give a talk on this book and did find it more effective than the book itself, but that isn't to say the book doesn't have value in any discerning Christian reader's library.
November 23, 2014
Caution: This book contains theology. However, as you are reading, you will be so caught up with the practical impact of the incarnation and the believer’s union with Christ that you may not be aware of the weight of the truth you are absorbing. Throughout all ten chapters of this book, God-exalting truth is tied to real-life examples, and it may change the way you read Scripture from now on, because “the Bible isn’t primarily a rulebook, nor is it a self-help manual; it’s not about how we become better people so that we an earn blessings by working hard. It’s all about Jesus, God made man, his life, death and resurrection.” Merry Incarnation! Every time we sing a Christmas carol we celebrate the God-man, “veiled in flesh.” Part One of Found in Him traces that miracle throughout Jesus’ earthly life, citing His qualifications to be Savior of the world, exploring the self-emptying sacrifice of His life and death, and celebrating the victorious resurrection – “deathless life.” Part Two goes on to consider the benefits of Christ’s work with the goal of highlighting that His presence and power in a life and “being ‘in’ Him changes everything about you and how you live your life.” Union or oneness with Christ is a major theme in the writings of Paul (33 mentions in his letters), and the benefits deserve the capital letters Elyse uses to set them off: redemption, death to sin, eternal life, freedom from condemnation and the law of sin and death, and the immeasurable love of God. She explores the metaphors of temple (building), bride, and adoption to lend richness to our understanding of what it means to be one with God in Christ. Of special value in this volume are the appendices which include a selection of historical creeds, Elyse’s personal testimony, Jesus’ prayer in John 17, and a succinct table which shows the ways in which Jesus’ union with the believer through His incarnation brings specific blessings. Found in Him is an excellent study resource, while at the same time a thoughtful gift for Easter or Christmas. Disclosure: I received this book from Crossway in exchange for an honest review.
February 6, 2014
We all desire acceptance and belonging. It’s a natural yearning that I believe God has placed in us all. Much of what we do in life from our earliest days as a child can be a result of this natural yearning. Ultimately, God desires we discover that only He can satisfy this deepest need.
"Found In Him" provides a wonderful outline of what God has done to demonstrate His yearning for relationship with us in giving us His Son. But more significantly this gem of a book provides a means to believe that is His desire and how we can find acceptance and belonging in Him.
The book is broken into two parts. The first covers the Incarnation. Fitzpatrick outlines in some detail how Jesus was like us. He was a child who did what children do. He lived intentionally as a child so he “veiled his omniscience”. He had to otherwise he wasn’t living as we did. That was his intention: to live as a human lives. That way he was able to replace us as on the Cross. Up until His baptism, Fitzpatrick contends “He didn’t get any special perks or supernatural privileges, like us He walked by faith, not by sight.”
Fitzpatrick walks through Jesus life to demonstrate His humanness in this first part and then leads us into the second part where she reflects on our union with Christ. She opens this section stating that Paul’s letters mention our being “in Christ” thirty-three times so is a central theme of much of the New Testament.
“If anyone loves me, he will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him, and make our home with him.” (John 14:23). The Father loves us as much as He loves Jesus.
I don’t think I’d really ever thought of God’s love like that. I am loved as Jesus is loved. Jesus is seated at the right hand of the Father.
Fitzpatrick lingers on the analogy of a wedding, the motif of which is strong throughout the Bible. The church, that is, His people, is His bride. And Jesus was our wedding gift.
The final chapter and in fact Appendix 2 (make sure you read this Appendix) draw it all together. There is nothing more we need to do but rest in the knowledge that we are wonderfully adored and loved by our Heavenly Father. How do we do that? Spend time with Him. Like any great relationship, time and giving of ourselves is how we find true connection and comfortableness.
This book needs time so read it slowly and stop frequently to meditate and talk to God about points that are presented. It is bathed in Scripture and Fitzpatrick makes reference to many other scholars who have written about “oneness” with Christ.
If you struggle with acceptance and a sense of belonging I’d encourage you to grab this wonderful book.
"Found In Him" provides a wonderful outline of what God has done to demonstrate His yearning for relationship with us in giving us His Son. But more significantly this gem of a book provides a means to believe that is His desire and how we can find acceptance and belonging in Him.
The book is broken into two parts. The first covers the Incarnation. Fitzpatrick outlines in some detail how Jesus was like us. He was a child who did what children do. He lived intentionally as a child so he “veiled his omniscience”. He had to otherwise he wasn’t living as we did. That was his intention: to live as a human lives. That way he was able to replace us as on the Cross. Up until His baptism, Fitzpatrick contends “He didn’t get any special perks or supernatural privileges, like us He walked by faith, not by sight.”
Fitzpatrick walks through Jesus life to demonstrate His humanness in this first part and then leads us into the second part where she reflects on our union with Christ. She opens this section stating that Paul’s letters mention our being “in Christ” thirty-three times so is a central theme of much of the New Testament.
“If anyone loves me, he will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him, and make our home with him.” (John 14:23). The Father loves us as much as He loves Jesus.
I don’t think I’d really ever thought of God’s love like that. I am loved as Jesus is loved. Jesus is seated at the right hand of the Father.
Fitzpatrick lingers on the analogy of a wedding, the motif of which is strong throughout the Bible. The church, that is, His people, is His bride. And Jesus was our wedding gift.
The final chapter and in fact Appendix 2 (make sure you read this Appendix) draw it all together. There is nothing more we need to do but rest in the knowledge that we are wonderfully adored and loved by our Heavenly Father. How do we do that? Spend time with Him. Like any great relationship, time and giving of ourselves is how we find true connection and comfortableness.
This book needs time so read it slowly and stop frequently to meditate and talk to God about points that are presented. It is bathed in Scripture and Fitzpatrick makes reference to many other scholars who have written about “oneness” with Christ.
If you struggle with acceptance and a sense of belonging I’d encourage you to grab this wonderful book.
May 29, 2014
Though Fitzpatrick is one of my favorite authors, in this most recent book she takes the wonderful truth that the life and righteousness of Jesus has been attributed to His believers and veers every-so-slightly off of biblical claims. Her motive is kind, wanting us to not get stressed because of our imperfect attempts at holiness,but has seemingly led her to make some assumptions that follow her opinion rather than scripture, lessening the deity of Christ during His time on earth. He did lay aside His glory for awhile, but not all of His omniscience; there are times He clearly showed that He knew the thoughts of men as well as future events, like when He sent His disciples to prepare the upper room. At 12yrs. He already knew He should be about His Father's business in His Father's house. Fitzpatrick has given us, in other works, such excellent helps in counseling that I hate to give a negative review, but this work, briefly, veers off of Scripture.
December 31, 2024
Elyse Fitzpatrick digs into what exactly the Incarnation means for us and what it means to be unified with Christ. This is a theologically rich, thought-provoking study.
September 8, 2015
Found in Him
Elyse Fitzpatrick
Book Summary: Believers’ union with Christ stands at the heart of the gospel. Thankfully, this neglected doctrine is garnering renewed interest among academics and lay people alike. Writing with everyday readers in mind, Elyse Fitzpatrick embarks on a journey of discovery and joy as she explores the wonder of the Incarnation and the glory of the Christian’s unbreakable connection to Christ. Fitzpatrick looks at the Bible’s use of marriage as a metaphor for the relationship that Christians enjoy with their Savior, examining its significance for understanding key doctrines such as Jesus’s death, resurrection, and ascension. Directing Christians to the core of their salvation, this devotional book will stir readers’ affections for God and renew their confidence as beloved children “in Christ.”
Review: I found this book difficult to read at times. I struggled the most at the beginning with some of Ms. Fitzpatrick’s statements like Jesus was made in man’s image and before the next chapter, if that long later, closed she reversed that statement. There were many statements that she and I do not agree on along that vein. I do not want to go into all of them for fearing to sound like I am picking on her. I think the greatest thing this book did for me was prove I can defend my position with scripture and find the scripture that refutes things written in this book. I also disagree with some of her ideas about what Peter stated at the Transfiguration, since they were based on Ms. Fitzpatrick’s ideas and not on scripture I won’t argue about being right or wrong. I will say that she is wrong about the Jews not being able to kill another Jew. Stephen is a perfect example of that along with Paul. I believe maybe she meant that they could kill him to the point where He was a cursed, the only way to do that is by hanging him on a tree. For the Bible say ‘cursed is anyone who hangs on a tree’ they did intend to kill him in His own home town by picking up stones to stone Him with. The only one to live through a stoning in the Bible is Paul. That is not because of him but God.
I would like to thank Net Galley and Crossway for allowing me to read and review this book in return for a free copy and I was never asked to write a favorable review by anyone.
Elyse Fitzpatrick
Book Summary: Believers’ union with Christ stands at the heart of the gospel. Thankfully, this neglected doctrine is garnering renewed interest among academics and lay people alike. Writing with everyday readers in mind, Elyse Fitzpatrick embarks on a journey of discovery and joy as she explores the wonder of the Incarnation and the glory of the Christian’s unbreakable connection to Christ. Fitzpatrick looks at the Bible’s use of marriage as a metaphor for the relationship that Christians enjoy with their Savior, examining its significance for understanding key doctrines such as Jesus’s death, resurrection, and ascension. Directing Christians to the core of their salvation, this devotional book will stir readers’ affections for God and renew their confidence as beloved children “in Christ.”
Review: I found this book difficult to read at times. I struggled the most at the beginning with some of Ms. Fitzpatrick’s statements like Jesus was made in man’s image and before the next chapter, if that long later, closed she reversed that statement. There were many statements that she and I do not agree on along that vein. I do not want to go into all of them for fearing to sound like I am picking on her. I think the greatest thing this book did for me was prove I can defend my position with scripture and find the scripture that refutes things written in this book. I also disagree with some of her ideas about what Peter stated at the Transfiguration, since they were based on Ms. Fitzpatrick’s ideas and not on scripture I won’t argue about being right or wrong. I will say that she is wrong about the Jews not being able to kill another Jew. Stephen is a perfect example of that along with Paul. I believe maybe she meant that they could kill him to the point where He was a cursed, the only way to do that is by hanging him on a tree. For the Bible say ‘cursed is anyone who hangs on a tree’ they did intend to kill him in His own home town by picking up stones to stone Him with. The only one to live through a stoning in the Bible is Paul. That is not because of him but God.
I would like to thank Net Galley and Crossway for allowing me to read and review this book in return for a free copy and I was never asked to write a favorable review by anyone.
May 16, 2014
I found plenty to appreciate about this book. I am always pleased to find doctrinally sound books geared toward laypeople, making connections between theology and the concrete details of daily walking with Christ. Fitzpatrick does a wonderful job of instilling the significance of the Incarnation and union with Christ for believers; I was moved to praise many times as I read, and I especially appreciated her emphasis on the humanity of Jesus Christ and what His defeat of sin and death means for us in light of that.
A couple of small concerns stuck with me. First, I thought her exegesis was a slight stretch at times. I thought that her redemptive-historical reading of the Old Testament (if that is the correct term to use) almost ran the risk of eliding the significance of events, e.g. the exodus, in favor of showing how everything pointed forward to Christ.
In the final chapter, I also struggled with some of her remarks on sanctification. Though I'd agree that the ground of our growth is in looking continually to Christ, I'm less certain that the whole of our striving is in remembering and resting upon His work. She makes it out to sound like a fairly passive process, and from those who favor this way of talking about sanctification, I've never heard a satisfactory explanation for how it really takes hold cognitively and in one's affections. I was also uncomfortable with her discussion of sin when she makes it sound like it is always a matter of trying to establish our own righteousness rather than believing in Christ's. But I've been wrestling with this topic a lot lately, so it is possible that I'm importing some of my issues from the sanctification debate into my reading of her.
This is still a book I'd happily recommend to most laypeople, caveats and all.
A couple of small concerns stuck with me. First, I thought her exegesis was a slight stretch at times. I thought that her redemptive-historical reading of the Old Testament (if that is the correct term to use) almost ran the risk of eliding the significance of events, e.g. the exodus, in favor of showing how everything pointed forward to Christ.
In the final chapter, I also struggled with some of her remarks on sanctification. Though I'd agree that the ground of our growth is in looking continually to Christ, I'm less certain that the whole of our striving is in remembering and resting upon His work. She makes it out to sound like a fairly passive process, and from those who favor this way of talking about sanctification, I've never heard a satisfactory explanation for how it really takes hold cognitively and in one's affections. I was also uncomfortable with her discussion of sin when she makes it sound like it is always a matter of trying to establish our own righteousness rather than believing in Christ's. But I've been wrestling with this topic a lot lately, so it is possible that I'm importing some of my issues from the sanctification debate into my reading of her.
This is still a book I'd happily recommend to most laypeople, caveats and all.
February 14, 2015
I don't know why it took me so long to slog through this book, but I found the writing dry and repetitive. The author often says the same thing in multiple ways to explore every nuance of her thoughts. This makes it harder to follow the progression of her points.
Early in the book she insists that Jesus was not omniscient on earth. She implies that he was completely normal as a child, ignorant of his own divinity, and limited in ways that no Biblical text clearly supports. She takes serious poetic license when describing Jesus' thoughts and feelings. None of this was necessary and it didn't fit with the rest of her very conservative theology.
Despite this criticism, there are some fantastic points in this book, and some of them are expertly written. For my own future reference, here's one of my favorite quotes:
"So many times I find myself trying to keep a safe distance from the Lord. I know that he loves me, but I'm not sure that what he has for me is good. So I hide and busy myself with many amusements. But this hiding carries with it a great impoverishment of heart."
Early in the book she insists that Jesus was not omniscient on earth. She implies that he was completely normal as a child, ignorant of his own divinity, and limited in ways that no Biblical text clearly supports. She takes serious poetic license when describing Jesus' thoughts and feelings. None of this was necessary and it didn't fit with the rest of her very conservative theology.
Despite this criticism, there are some fantastic points in this book, and some of them are expertly written. For my own future reference, here's one of my favorite quotes:
"So many times I find myself trying to keep a safe distance from the Lord. I know that he loves me, but I'm not sure that what he has for me is good. So I hide and busy myself with many amusements. But this hiding carries with it a great impoverishment of heart."
February 19, 2014
Mrs. Elyse Fitzpatrick is very systematic in her writing. With a degree in Theology, she is one of the best female writers and teachers in God's word. This is my 3rd book I have read by her and she always leaves me wanting more and wanting the fluff of other writers less. There is a common phrase in the New Testament, abiding in Christ, or in Christ and it has such implications in our walk with the Lord. You are lead and taught the work of Christ and it's significance because anything else, always leads us to imprisionment of some kind. Mosting walking a christian treadmill that goes no where. We also can have confidence, not in ourselves, but the work of Christ. We also do well to know the difference. This is a book that asks you questions of what you are learning and maybe questions that you have not thought to ask. The title The Joy of the Incarnation. ...there is much to be joyful about and Our Union with Christ..there we have understanding and direction and purpose.
July 15, 2018
Beautiful discourse about the life of Jesus and how he gave everything and suffered much for our sake.
As a christian of many years you won't find much new here, but it reminds you of how much Jesus loves us and how much he actually sacrificed by coming to our world.
I was especially touched by the thought that if Jesus let himself be killed, he will always fight for me. When I doubt if I'm important to God, I only have to remember how much he sacrificed and therefore he will never not care about me or treat the state of my relationship with him lightly.
As a christian of many years you won't find much new here, but it reminds you of how much Jesus loves us and how much he actually sacrificed by coming to our world.
I was especially touched by the thought that if Jesus let himself be killed, he will always fight for me. When I doubt if I'm important to God, I only have to remember how much he sacrificed and therefore he will never not care about me or treat the state of my relationship with him lightly.
October 12, 2013
This book is Elyse Fitzpatrick's best yet. It brings the unimaginable depth of the Incarnation and Union with Christ right into every day life. I wept through this book. My heart was warmed to the goodness of my Savior. My zeal was renewed. You must pick this book up and you won't be able to put it down.
May 21, 2015
This book is so incredible. It showed me a more beautiful and glorious Jesus than I'd ever seen or heard before and caused me to love Him more. It was convicting yet wholly encouraging. It was radically perspective shattering in the best way. It is absolutely amazing!
June 13, 2017
Fitzpatrick's chapters on the incarnation were so beautifully clear and helpful in clarifying some intricate misunderstandings in my thinking. The union with Christ chapters did get a little repetitive in the moment, but she brought it all together powerfully in the last chapter.
October 19, 2013
“We neglect the doctrines of incarnation and union to our own deep impoverishment. It’s a sad reality that many Christians spend their entire lives wandering around a spiritual wilderness, malnourished, thirsting, and consuming rubbish because they have never feasted on the soul-consoling, heart transforming, zeal-engendering truth found in the study of the incarnation and union.”
With this, Elyse Fitzpatrick invites the reader to come with her through a study of the believers union with Christ and His incarnation and to experience relief from the “isolation pandemic” that has struck so many. This is an encouraging, comforting, and edifying book. Fitzpatrick’s writings consistently encourage me and Found in Him was no different. God has a special way of using her words to minister to me, and many others as well.
Chapter 1 is a great overview of Christ in all the Scriptures. It could easily stand on its own as a booklet on how to properly see the grand narrative of Scripture running through the Bible from cover to cover.
Beginning in chapter 2, Fitzpatrick allots about half of the book to look at the incarnation and half to see the Doctrine of Union with Christ. Basically, Christ in his grace-filled goodness united himself with humanity in the incarnation in order that the believer might be united to Christ for eternity in order that God would be praised and man be saved….that is my summary, not hers.
“The incarnate God-man Jesus Christ is completely matchless, and his condescension to humanity’s earthiness, finitude, frailty, and sin should astonish us and provoke worship. But the sad truth is that we’ve become so very familiar with this story that we can hum carols during the Christmas season while we shop for trinkets and never once fall on our faces in awe”
Fitzpatrick’s goal in the first section of her book is to fight back against this tendency by leading the reader to a place where the incarnation produces a constant and overwhelming sense of awe and wonder…feelings that this event most rightly deserve.
In her section on the incarnation, Fitzpatrick covers the birth of Jesus and much more. For some reason for me the term “incarnation” has taken on an exclusively Christmas theme in my thinking. Fitzpatrick covers the whole of Christ’s humanity, including but not limited to his miraculous virgin birth. She encourages the reader to rejoice in the full humanity of our Savior who was tempted just as we are but whose innocence and obedient righteousness purchased our redemption.
Fitzpatrick goes on to discuss union with Christ, a topic that is incredibly important and often neglected. She looks at how the Scriptures speak of the believer being “one with Christ” and “in Christ”.
“Our ‘one with-ness’ in him is eternal and unbreakable; our union with him is his holy vow that he will be one with us forever. Cease loving you? God can no more do that than he can cease loving his own dear Son. You’re loved. You’re not alone or lost. You’ve been found in him.”
She continues:
“Yes, because of this ‘one with-ness,’ we have redemption, eternal life, no condemnation, freedom from slavery to the principle of sin and death, and the never-ending love of God. In addition we also have unity with the Godhead and with other members of the church; we have grace, wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption…We’ve been freed from having to merit God’s love through obedience and have been assured of his love for us, no matter how we fail…In fact, right now we’ve been raised up and seated with him, enabled to do good works that he has already accomplished for us. We have forgiveness of sins, life, grace, and salvation, and every need has been supplied. This union, this ‘in-ness’ that we have with him, is what the Christian life is all about.”
Fitzpatrick includes a section at the end about the necessity for precise language and the benefits of the historic Christian creeds. If that seems out of place, it really isn’t. It is important to recognize, not just what we personally think the Bible says about a subject, but what the Church as a whole has historically held to. No person is an island unto themselves, and this is especially true for the Christian.
This is a great book and I plan on returning to it and spending more time in its pages.
**I received a free advanced electronic copy from Crossway Books through NetGalley for review. I was not obligated to provide positive feedback, and the opinions expressed here are entirely my own.
With this, Elyse Fitzpatrick invites the reader to come with her through a study of the believers union with Christ and His incarnation and to experience relief from the “isolation pandemic” that has struck so many. This is an encouraging, comforting, and edifying book. Fitzpatrick’s writings consistently encourage me and Found in Him was no different. God has a special way of using her words to minister to me, and many others as well.
Chapter 1 is a great overview of Christ in all the Scriptures. It could easily stand on its own as a booklet on how to properly see the grand narrative of Scripture running through the Bible from cover to cover.
Beginning in chapter 2, Fitzpatrick allots about half of the book to look at the incarnation and half to see the Doctrine of Union with Christ. Basically, Christ in his grace-filled goodness united himself with humanity in the incarnation in order that the believer might be united to Christ for eternity in order that God would be praised and man be saved….that is my summary, not hers.
“The incarnate God-man Jesus Christ is completely matchless, and his condescension to humanity’s earthiness, finitude, frailty, and sin should astonish us and provoke worship. But the sad truth is that we’ve become so very familiar with this story that we can hum carols during the Christmas season while we shop for trinkets and never once fall on our faces in awe”
Fitzpatrick’s goal in the first section of her book is to fight back against this tendency by leading the reader to a place where the incarnation produces a constant and overwhelming sense of awe and wonder…feelings that this event most rightly deserve.
In her section on the incarnation, Fitzpatrick covers the birth of Jesus and much more. For some reason for me the term “incarnation” has taken on an exclusively Christmas theme in my thinking. Fitzpatrick covers the whole of Christ’s humanity, including but not limited to his miraculous virgin birth. She encourages the reader to rejoice in the full humanity of our Savior who was tempted just as we are but whose innocence and obedient righteousness purchased our redemption.
Fitzpatrick goes on to discuss union with Christ, a topic that is incredibly important and often neglected. She looks at how the Scriptures speak of the believer being “one with Christ” and “in Christ”.
“Our ‘one with-ness’ in him is eternal and unbreakable; our union with him is his holy vow that he will be one with us forever. Cease loving you? God can no more do that than he can cease loving his own dear Son. You’re loved. You’re not alone or lost. You’ve been found in him.”
She continues:
“Yes, because of this ‘one with-ness,’ we have redemption, eternal life, no condemnation, freedom from slavery to the principle of sin and death, and the never-ending love of God. In addition we also have unity with the Godhead and with other members of the church; we have grace, wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption…We’ve been freed from having to merit God’s love through obedience and have been assured of his love for us, no matter how we fail…In fact, right now we’ve been raised up and seated with him, enabled to do good works that he has already accomplished for us. We have forgiveness of sins, life, grace, and salvation, and every need has been supplied. This union, this ‘in-ness’ that we have with him, is what the Christian life is all about.”
Fitzpatrick includes a section at the end about the necessity for precise language and the benefits of the historic Christian creeds. If that seems out of place, it really isn’t. It is important to recognize, not just what we personally think the Bible says about a subject, but what the Church as a whole has historically held to. No person is an island unto themselves, and this is especially true for the Christian.
This is a great book and I plan on returning to it and spending more time in its pages.
**I received a free advanced electronic copy from Crossway Books through NetGalley for review. I was not obligated to provide positive feedback, and the opinions expressed here are entirely my own.
May 10, 2022
The last chapter: phenomenal
November 22, 2013
Brilliant book!!
If you only read 1 Christian book this year - make it this one!
If you don't fully understand what it means to be clothed in Christ - read this book!
If you are finding it hard to work out what all those crazy Christians are going on about - read this book.
If you want to know what you need to do to get to heaven when you die - read this book, especially chapter 10!
If you are looking for an awesome Christmas present - get them this book!
Another gospel saturated, Christ centred book by Elyse Fitzpatrick. I cannot recommend this book highly enough - but especially for Christian women, and the book has a feminine feel to it. That doesn't mean that blokes like me cannot benefit greatly by reading and applying what is said in these pages.
Found in Him: The Joy of the Incarnation and Our Union with Christ Paperback
Found in Him: The Joy of the Incarnation and Our Union with Christ [Kindle Edition]
Found in Him: The Joy of the Incarnation and Our Union with Christ Audiobook CD
Found in Him: The Joy of the Incarnation and Our Union with Christ [MP3 Audiobook]
If you only read 1 Christian book this year - make it this one!
If you don't fully understand what it means to be clothed in Christ - read this book!
If you are finding it hard to work out what all those crazy Christians are going on about - read this book.
If you want to know what you need to do to get to heaven when you die - read this book, especially chapter 10!
If you are looking for an awesome Christmas present - get them this book!
Another gospel saturated, Christ centred book by Elyse Fitzpatrick. I cannot recommend this book highly enough - but especially for Christian women, and the book has a feminine feel to it. That doesn't mean that blokes like me cannot benefit greatly by reading and applying what is said in these pages.
Found in Him: The Joy of the Incarnation and Our Union with Christ Paperback
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November 23, 2013
To be found in God is a joyous occasion and yet, a lot of the time, we tended to forget amongst the business of our lives. There can never be enough reminders about this, if we are to continue to live a life of faith. This was one reason why I chose to pick this book up –as another point of being reminded that I have been found in Christ and the amazing way that came about.
The first half of the book expounded on Jesus’ incarnation –on what it means, how it could be, and the consequences. And the second half considered these ‘consequences’ – what it means for us to be united with Christ. For each chapter, the main point was explained within a few sub-headings in a very clear and succinct language though not dry at all. There were some personal anecdotes and at times, it felt like the author is speaking directly to the reader. It almost felt like listening to a Sunday sermon; a very good one with a charismatic speaker who is passionate about her subject. Each chapter ends with a number of questions which can be used for devotional times but also to think a little deeper and personally about each topics.
I’d to share with you the one thing that stayed with me most;
He [Moses] asked the Lord, “Please show me your glory” (Ex 33:18). So God allowed Moses to ascend the mountain once again and lovingly placed him in the cleft or fissure of a rock, covering him with his hand so that his glory might pass by him. God enabled Moses to see him without being killed by the sight. Moses was hidden in a broken rock…
Does the broken rock that protected Moses from God’s glory have a name? Yes, of course. The Son is the rock of ages who was cleft for us, in whom we are to hide to be protected from what would be a deadly holiness. How are we protected? By the very hand of God. In fact, we are hidden in God from God by the Son’s life, death, and resurrection. We can look upon Jesus, the one in whom the whole fullness of God dwells, and not be killed by the sight. He is the Deliverer. He is the point of the story.
Found in Him is a beautifully written book. The author, Elyse Fitzpatrick, was not only able to structure her argument in a concise way but also communicate her passion for Christ and this particular topic. Whilst I didn’t particularly learn anything new, theologically, I was inspired and grateful for the reminder. I want to have a passion for Christ, just like Elyse.
Thank you, Crossway for copy of eARC via NetGalley
The first half of the book expounded on Jesus’ incarnation –on what it means, how it could be, and the consequences. And the second half considered these ‘consequences’ – what it means for us to be united with Christ. For each chapter, the main point was explained within a few sub-headings in a very clear and succinct language though not dry at all. There were some personal anecdotes and at times, it felt like the author is speaking directly to the reader. It almost felt like listening to a Sunday sermon; a very good one with a charismatic speaker who is passionate about her subject. Each chapter ends with a number of questions which can be used for devotional times but also to think a little deeper and personally about each topics.
I’d to share with you the one thing that stayed with me most;
He [Moses] asked the Lord, “Please show me your glory” (Ex 33:18). So God allowed Moses to ascend the mountain once again and lovingly placed him in the cleft or fissure of a rock, covering him with his hand so that his glory might pass by him. God enabled Moses to see him without being killed by the sight. Moses was hidden in a broken rock…
Does the broken rock that protected Moses from God’s glory have a name? Yes, of course. The Son is the rock of ages who was cleft for us, in whom we are to hide to be protected from what would be a deadly holiness. How are we protected? By the very hand of God. In fact, we are hidden in God from God by the Son’s life, death, and resurrection. We can look upon Jesus, the one in whom the whole fullness of God dwells, and not be killed by the sight. He is the Deliverer. He is the point of the story.
Found in Him is a beautifully written book. The author, Elyse Fitzpatrick, was not only able to structure her argument in a concise way but also communicate her passion for Christ and this particular topic. Whilst I didn’t particularly learn anything new, theologically, I was inspired and grateful for the reminder. I want to have a passion for Christ, just like Elyse.
Thank you, Crossway for copy of eARC via NetGalley
February 18, 2017
Before reading this book you need to understand that at large, it's an opinion piece. Fitzpatrick explores the aspects of the life of Christ that we just don't have reliable information on. She does not make a clear distinction that much of this book is her own opinion, musing, and creative license. This is very important for you to understand - she asserts her musings on what Christ was like right along side scripture, and it's dangerous if you don't understand that's what she's doing.
That being said, I think the vast majority of her musings are reasonable. She doesn't draw wild conclusions by any means. It was very helpful for me to think about Christ in the full context of his humanity. His body functioned just like mine! She also talks about how he lived an obedient life to fulfill the law - I have never heard or read anything that really talks about the first 30 years of his life being specifically significant. There are a lot of great truths to chew on in this book. essentially, she is stating the gospel over and over again in different ways, making this a great book for a new believer (if read in a discipleship setting) or for someone who has believed for a while, who may have lost sight of the awe of the gospel.
I did have one major disagreement - she states that when seeing the transfiguration Peter tries to start his own, new religion. I'm not really sure where she gets this notion - certainly Peter wanted to worship Jesus, Moses, and Elijah. But I think she takes her explanation of the event one step too far.
Additionally, she spends a lot of time talking about us as the bride of Christ. I think it got excessive. She also kind of supports classic stereotypical gender descriptions. While I fully believe in the specific gender roles stated in the bible, I do not believe the bible supports that women have to be stereotypically feminine and men stereotypically masculine. Meaning, I don't have to love pink, dresses, and having ribbons in my hair. And my husband doesn't have to smoke cigars, have big muscles, and be loud and assertive. That's not biblical, it's cultural. In the context of the book, she spends a lot of time framing all believers as the feminine bride of Christ. And for me it just got weird.
In general, though, this book has a lot of great truth to offer. Just be discerning while reading it.
That being said, I think the vast majority of her musings are reasonable. She doesn't draw wild conclusions by any means. It was very helpful for me to think about Christ in the full context of his humanity. His body functioned just like mine! She also talks about how he lived an obedient life to fulfill the law - I have never heard or read anything that really talks about the first 30 years of his life being specifically significant. There are a lot of great truths to chew on in this book. essentially, she is stating the gospel over and over again in different ways, making this a great book for a new believer (if read in a discipleship setting) or for someone who has believed for a while, who may have lost sight of the awe of the gospel.
I did have one major disagreement - she states that when seeing the transfiguration Peter tries to start his own, new religion. I'm not really sure where she gets this notion - certainly Peter wanted to worship Jesus, Moses, and Elijah. But I think she takes her explanation of the event one step too far.
Additionally, she spends a lot of time talking about us as the bride of Christ. I think it got excessive. She also kind of supports classic stereotypical gender descriptions. While I fully believe in the specific gender roles stated in the bible, I do not believe the bible supports that women have to be stereotypically feminine and men stereotypically masculine. Meaning, I don't have to love pink, dresses, and having ribbons in my hair. And my husband doesn't have to smoke cigars, have big muscles, and be loud and assertive. That's not biblical, it's cultural. In the context of the book, she spends a lot of time framing all believers as the feminine bride of Christ. And for me it just got weird.
In general, though, this book has a lot of great truth to offer. Just be discerning while reading it.
January 24, 2019
Great book on the incarnation. I don't agree with all of her conclusions, but the way she explains the incarnation of Christ and its relation to our lives as Christians is absolutely beautiful. I particularly love her explanation of Jesus' childhood. He not only lived a sinless life but He also fulfilled works on our behalf. I am not a Calvinist so naturally I disagree with the equating of Israel and the Church, God giving specific individuals faith (rather than all the ability of faith), and other such teachings. However, for the Reformed reader, it does seem to be doctrinally sound. She emphasizes realizing God's work in our lives before seeking change. I appreciate this. However, I do wonder what she thinks about our role in sanctification after this realization. I do believe we have a choice in our practical sanctification (as attested by the many commands in the NT) though we have grace from God through our successes and failures. Overall, good read.
December 30, 2016
I appreciate this book infused with a gospel centered message. I gained some marvelous new perspectives on the importance of Christ's private ministry, his single-hood, his tragic isolation and desertion by the Father, and our mysterious yet incredible union as his bride. To my delight, Elyse doesn't provide a five-step plan detailing our response or application. Instead, she repeatedly reminds us of Christ's disposition towards us, one of mercy, gentleness, and compassion, not anger, hatred, or desertion. She reminds us of our union in him (hence, 'Found In Him') and beckons us to abide in his love by remembering who he is, who we are, and what he has done for us. This is true freedom. Thankfully, Elyse candidly admits it is the hardest work we will ever do.
A few meaningful passages:
"Jesus willingly hid himself away in Nazareth for 30 years. Generally ignored, he toiled without complaint, suffering humbly on our behalf. He lived as Jesus the child, big brother, carpenter, and single man providing for his family. He voluntarily adopted all these roles for us. His life as a young man with sawdust in his eyes, serving his widowed mother and siblings, was no meaningless placeholder while he counted the days until he could step onto the scene to do something really important. No, he wasn't merely treading water. He was living life for us, and he was being perfected through the suffering of life in a sin- cursed world. It was for us that he suffered, lived, and loved every day for 30 years. The one who didn't grasp after equality with God that was rightfully his, "emptied himself" and became a servant (Phil. 2:6-7) and learned by experience what it was to be "gentle and lowly in heart" (Matt. 11:29) as he suffered in human frailty year after year."
"I wonder how much our lives would change if we marinated our souls in the truth that the love the Father has for us is the same as the love he has for the Son. Jesus said that the Father had loved him from "before the foundation of the world." So, we too, have been loved in the same way for that long - since before the foundation of the world."
A few meaningful passages:
"Jesus willingly hid himself away in Nazareth for 30 years. Generally ignored, he toiled without complaint, suffering humbly on our behalf. He lived as Jesus the child, big brother, carpenter, and single man providing for his family. He voluntarily adopted all these roles for us. His life as a young man with sawdust in his eyes, serving his widowed mother and siblings, was no meaningless placeholder while he counted the days until he could step onto the scene to do something really important. No, he wasn't merely treading water. He was living life for us, and he was being perfected through the suffering of life in a sin- cursed world. It was for us that he suffered, lived, and loved every day for 30 years. The one who didn't grasp after equality with God that was rightfully his, "emptied himself" and became a servant (Phil. 2:6-7) and learned by experience what it was to be "gentle and lowly in heart" (Matt. 11:29) as he suffered in human frailty year after year."
"I wonder how much our lives would change if we marinated our souls in the truth that the love the Father has for us is the same as the love he has for the Son. Jesus said that the Father had loved him from "before the foundation of the world." So, we too, have been loved in the same way for that long - since before the foundation of the world."
January 24, 2019
LOVED IT! She is such a thoughtful, eloquent writer. I have a whole new perspective on the doctrine of Christ and what he did for us.
March 24, 2019
Elyse Fitzpatrick did a good job describing Christ's work and sacrifice and how it relates to our union with him. I found myself in tears in the early chapters describing his death and suffering. Very convicting and edifying read.
A few critiques. First, is that I was confused about who her audience was. At first I believed she was intending this book for women primarily, but then I found that in the final chapters she began addressing male readers.
Secondly, she tiptoed around Christian responsibility and obedience. Although, I agree with her that we add no merit to our salvation, she made little effort to describe our obrdience as a response in thankfulness for our salvation. I believe it was necessary for her to conclude with this.
Lastly, she may have over dramatized specific instances in Christ's life to spark interest in the reader. I struggle with the appropriateness of this in Christian literature.
Overall, I am glad I read it but wont find myself recommending it to others.
A few critiques. First, is that I was confused about who her audience was. At first I believed she was intending this book for women primarily, but then I found that in the final chapters she began addressing male readers.
Secondly, she tiptoed around Christian responsibility and obedience. Although, I agree with her that we add no merit to our salvation, she made little effort to describe our obrdience as a response in thankfulness for our salvation. I believe it was necessary for her to conclude with this.
Lastly, she may have over dramatized specific instances in Christ's life to spark interest in the reader. I struggle with the appropriateness of this in Christian literature.
Overall, I am glad I read it but wont find myself recommending it to others.
September 8, 2014
This book on the level of "The Shack" and "The Prayer of Jabez". It is riddled with doctrinal errors: example pg 67 "he was about to have a one-on-one conflict with a spirit being, with his eternal enemy Satan." You would think someone with an MA in theology would understand that only God is eternal, no beginning or end, while Satan is a created being.
There is a lot of non-sensical speculation in the book, pg 54, "and he smiled a lot-a lot more than we do." Apparently she has some "spiritual gift" of going back in time, and seeing what Jesus was like, or she is making up a Jesus according to her own expectations. Same thing the Catholics did with Mary, "she drank milk only sparingly." That's where false doctrines originate, with garbage like this.
I see many respected teachers and preachers have endorsed it, but it makes me think that they did not take the time to read it.
There is a lot of non-sensical speculation in the book, pg 54, "and he smiled a lot-a lot more than we do." Apparently she has some "spiritual gift" of going back in time, and seeing what Jesus was like, or she is making up a Jesus according to her own expectations. Same thing the Catholics did with Mary, "she drank milk only sparingly." That's where false doctrines originate, with garbage like this.
I see many respected teachers and preachers have endorsed it, but it makes me think that they did not take the time to read it.
Read
April 14, 2018Rewriting my review that seems to have gone missing(!)... hopefully my memory won't fail me :)
I finally finished this book. Emphasis on "finally" because, as theologically rich and helpful as this book is, it wasn't a page-turner for me. I had a heavy hand, it felt, each time I turned a page. I pin it down to stylistic preferences: Fitzpatrick's writing was a bit dramatic for my liking, though I do believe that language itself cannot fully capture the great drama of the finished work of Christ crucified, resurrected, and ascended. Perhaps her words came off as though she was trying to force me into believing something by way of emotion? This is something a friend also noted as we discussed the book. I additionally thought Fitzpatrick took a few more poetic liberties with Scripture than I would have liked. Still, I took away with me encouraging quotes from the Union with Christ half, and I'm grateful.
I finally finished this book. Emphasis on "finally" because, as theologically rich and helpful as this book is, it wasn't a page-turner for me. I had a heavy hand, it felt, each time I turned a page. I pin it down to stylistic preferences: Fitzpatrick's writing was a bit dramatic for my liking, though I do believe that language itself cannot fully capture the great drama of the finished work of Christ crucified, resurrected, and ascended. Perhaps her words came off as though she was trying to force me into believing something by way of emotion? This is something a friend also noted as we discussed the book. I additionally thought Fitzpatrick took a few more poetic liberties with Scripture than I would have liked. Still, I took away with me encouraging quotes from the Union with Christ half, and I'm grateful.
August 30, 2014
Great book! It was off to a slow start for whatever reason and then really picked up and impacted my heart. I appreciate Fitzpatrick's intentional focus on what Christ has done and not on what we can do or should do. I love being able to sit in a deep theological truth, like the incarnation of Christ, and pondering that truth. Without "doing" anything, I am deeply impacted by all that Christ has done on my behalf and what union with Christ actually means. My favorite chapter was, "O Sacred Head, Now Wounded."
March 3, 2014
A wonderful discussion on the believer's union with Christ. This is a doctrine I want to keep diving into!! One thing that will go with me is a deeper understanding of John 17. It's astonishing to think anew that Jesus prays for his own. I appreciate that she truly emphasizes how Jesus already lived perfectly, and all his death and resurrection accomplished. For the Christian who struggles to think they need to earn favor with God, this book is invaluable. You'll walk away with a reminder of the overflowing love and delight Christ has for you.
January 5, 2019
This is a good book for a new Christian. I love Elyse Fitzpatrick). The theology is solid and the author’s attention to detail is, as always, spot on. This book, however wasn’t for me (I feel terrible writing that). I was hoping it was more about sanctification—and that’s in it—but it was more centered on the foundational principles of the work of Christ (which is central to our faith, but it was my bad in assuming that this book went into great detail about the process of sanctification. I have no idea why I thought that).
May 22, 2014
Jesus (God the Son) took on humanity to save His bride from filth & sin. It is not about how much we do, but resting in what He has done. Throughout scripture we see God reaching out to His creation to make her into His pure bride by choosing,justifying and redeeming her. It is only out of understanding what God has done for us that "[We] can rest, and in that rest [we] will find a sweetness growing in [our] soul[s] that will delight and nourish those around [us]." (p.203)
January 26, 2015
MEN, do not let the fact that most of the reviews below are from women keep you from his book! This is, hands down, one of THE best books on the atonement and abiding in Christ that I've ever read. The author pulls from Puritan writers and contemporary theologians and melts it together with her signature Gospel-Flavored approach. If you've never read Elyse Fitzpatrick, this would be a good one to start with.
April 11, 2015
some of this was provoking and made me glad I was reading it, but some was the author's interpretation and speculation, so I just say to readers...be aware of what is Truth (only God's Word) and what comes from the flesh, even those who are devoted believers. Always go to the Bible to learn what is true. Several women who read this together scratched our heads over where the author came up with some of what she seemed to present as fact, not an opinion.
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