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Surprised by the Voice of God: How God Speaks Today Through Prophecies, Dreams, and Visions
If You Believe Miraculous Gifts Have Ceased, You’re in for a Big Surprise! What caused a former Dallas Seminary professor to believe that the miraculous gifts of the Holy Spirit are being given today? What convinced someone skeptical about miracles that God still speaks and heals? A dramatic change took place in Jack Deere’s life when he took a fresh look at the Scriptures. He discovered that his arguments against miraculous gifts were based more on prejudice and lack of personal experience than on the Bible. As soon as Deere became a seeker instead of a skeptic, the Holy Spirit revealed himself in new and surprising ways. In Surprised by the Power of the Spirit, Deere provides a strong biblical defense for the Spirit’s speaking and healing ministries today. He also describes several reliable cases of people who were miraculously healed or who heard God speak in an unmistakable way. Finally, he gives sound advice for using spiritual gifts in the church. Written in a popular style, with the care of a scholar but the passion of personal experience, this book explores: - The real reason Christians do not believe in miraculous gifts - Responding to Charismatic abuses - Were miracles meant to be temporary? - Why God still heals "‘Must’ reading for all Bible-believing Christians. I wish with all my heart I could place it in the hands of every conservative evangelical." - James Robison, Life Outreach International
386 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 1, 1996
182 people are currently reading
860 people want to read
About the author
Jack Deere
35 books77 followersJack Deere, formerly an associate professor of Old Testament at Dallas Theological Seminary, is a writer and lecturer who speaks throughout the world on the gifts of the Holy Spirit. He is the author of the bestselling book Surprised by the Power of the Spirit. Follow Jack on Facebook at www.facebook.com/authorJackDeere.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 102 reviews
January 25, 2023
Jack Deere was (briefly) my pastor when I was in middle school. I remained at his church, after he left, through high school and, while some good things were brought into my life through it, I was primarily scarred and broken by much of my experience there.
For 6 solid years after I left the church I grew in theological, biblical knowledge and hard-headedness. I became cynical but would have called it critical thinking. I became judgmental but would have called it zeal for truth. I became hard but would have called it immovable by emotional and spiritual manipulation.
Essentially a major portion of who I was died.
Two years ago the Lord started to soften my heart towards the topics that had caused me so much trauma, and I considered that in of itself a type of growth I never expected to experience (nor would I have called it “growth” in my previous mindset/heart condition). He gave me friends who thought differently than me and for once I was able to enjoy conversations with such people rather than endure them, or worse, “win” them. However, I was not at a place of “buying into” the things these friends were believing, but merely appreciating and respecting them - just not expecting or wanting them for myself.
About five months ago I began to, seemingly out of nowhere, ponder the idea of hearing God’s voice - outside of reading the Bible, something I had hitherto criticized and condemned I don’t know how many times. But I didn’t want to just deny the fact that it was on my mind, and I wanted to honestly explore why. Throughout this time, I began to recognize desires - kind of secret prayers I didn’t even know I was praying - being met in all areas of my life, most of them coming to fruition 2-4 days from the time I could first remember thinking them. I began to feel emboldened to speak the desires that would come into my head and to share with others any time I saw those desires being met.
Two months ago I asked a person I greatly respect for a book recommendation on the topic of hearing God’s voice. This person had heard my story of how this church had hurt and affected my life, but he as yet knew nothing about Jack Deere’s pastoral role in the church when he answered my request with this book.
Part of me doesn’t think this should be the end of this review… but I think it is. The only things I will actually say about the book is that it has taken that subtle heart-softening the Lord started two years ago and has transitioned it into a full-blown heart change. The thing that convinced me the most that His voice is not reserved to a book (though it will always align with that book) is that He is a Person, and the Person He is is my Abba. And why wouldn’t my Abba want to relate with and to me individually, uniquely, and intimately?
I think He would.
For 6 solid years after I left the church I grew in theological, biblical knowledge and hard-headedness. I became cynical but would have called it critical thinking. I became judgmental but would have called it zeal for truth. I became hard but would have called it immovable by emotional and spiritual manipulation.
Essentially a major portion of who I was died.
Two years ago the Lord started to soften my heart towards the topics that had caused me so much trauma, and I considered that in of itself a type of growth I never expected to experience (nor would I have called it “growth” in my previous mindset/heart condition). He gave me friends who thought differently than me and for once I was able to enjoy conversations with such people rather than endure them, or worse, “win” them. However, I was not at a place of “buying into” the things these friends were believing, but merely appreciating and respecting them - just not expecting or wanting them for myself.
About five months ago I began to, seemingly out of nowhere, ponder the idea of hearing God’s voice - outside of reading the Bible, something I had hitherto criticized and condemned I don’t know how many times. But I didn’t want to just deny the fact that it was on my mind, and I wanted to honestly explore why. Throughout this time, I began to recognize desires - kind of secret prayers I didn’t even know I was praying - being met in all areas of my life, most of them coming to fruition 2-4 days from the time I could first remember thinking them. I began to feel emboldened to speak the desires that would come into my head and to share with others any time I saw those desires being met.
Two months ago I asked a person I greatly respect for a book recommendation on the topic of hearing God’s voice. This person had heard my story of how this church had hurt and affected my life, but he as yet knew nothing about Jack Deere’s pastoral role in the church when he answered my request with this book.
Part of me doesn’t think this should be the end of this review… but I think it is. The only things I will actually say about the book is that it has taken that subtle heart-softening the Lord started two years ago and has transitioned it into a full-blown heart change. The thing that convinced me the most that His voice is not reserved to a book (though it will always align with that book) is that He is a Person, and the Person He is is my Abba. And why wouldn’t my Abba want to relate with and to me individually, uniquely, and intimately?
I think He would.
October 26, 2022
A solid read for the semi-cessationist
I considered giving this book 3 stars because I didn't find all of the arguments and chapters super convincing (though a lot of them are), however I just really enjoyed reading this book. I especially appreciate that it doesn't fall into the typical trap of Christian publishing where it's hundreds of pages for no reason. Each of the chapters deals with a specific subject that is mostly distinct from the others and he does a pretty good job at making the case for each one. Also, I found the appendix super useful. Make sure to read his explanation of Dueteronomy 18.
Why do I suggest this book for the semi-cessationist and what does that mean? Most reformed Christians I know, including myself previously, hold to the idea that God still does miraculous works just not in the West because we have an established church (which sounds pretty arrogant now tbh). There's the idea that God gives dreams and heals people "out there" because they don't have access to any Christians who can share the gospel with them. The author explains that if your position is that you only believe God speaks through scripture then you should know that scripture doesn't actually say that. In fact, it seems to suggest the opposite. This is a good read for those in the cessationist camp because he holds a decently balanced view and isn't the kind of crazy we tend to associate with hyper-charismatics. He believes we've simply over corrected and are "more afraid of Satan's ability to deceive [us] than the Holy Spirit's ability to lead [us]."
The over arching message of the book is that God still speaks because He wants to befriend us and have a relationship with us. He doesn't just care about setting up the foundations of the church in un-churched areas. He also cares how we build upon that foundation and that each of us grow in love for God and our neighbor.
I considered giving this book 3 stars because I didn't find all of the arguments and chapters super convincing (though a lot of them are), however I just really enjoyed reading this book. I especially appreciate that it doesn't fall into the typical trap of Christian publishing where it's hundreds of pages for no reason. Each of the chapters deals with a specific subject that is mostly distinct from the others and he does a pretty good job at making the case for each one. Also, I found the appendix super useful. Make sure to read his explanation of Dueteronomy 18.
Why do I suggest this book for the semi-cessationist and what does that mean? Most reformed Christians I know, including myself previously, hold to the idea that God still does miraculous works just not in the West because we have an established church (which sounds pretty arrogant now tbh). There's the idea that God gives dreams and heals people "out there" because they don't have access to any Christians who can share the gospel with them. The author explains that if your position is that you only believe God speaks through scripture then you should know that scripture doesn't actually say that. In fact, it seems to suggest the opposite. This is a good read for those in the cessationist camp because he holds a decently balanced view and isn't the kind of crazy we tend to associate with hyper-charismatics. He believes we've simply over corrected and are "more afraid of Satan's ability to deceive [us] than the Holy Spirit's ability to lead [us]."
The over arching message of the book is that God still speaks because He wants to befriend us and have a relationship with us. He doesn't just care about setting up the foundations of the church in un-churched areas. He also cares how we build upon that foundation and that each of us grow in love for God and our neighbor.
December 25, 2022
great book from my pastor growing up. what’s so cool while reading this book is all these concepts were taught to me at such a young age. i don’t find it hard to believe the Lord speaks to each of His children. this book contains great stories, practical advice, and theological depth. definitely would suggest it if you doubt the Lord speaks and want the theology of it. however, there are some chapters i felt to be a little dry but some also were surprisingly captivating. the chapters about the scottish prophets who would become martyrs were inspiring and encouraging. great read!
January 7, 2026
This is the follow-up book to Deere's 'Surprised by the Power of the Spirit'. In the previous book, he wrote about how he had come from a church background that believed that the more supernatural gifts of the Spirit ended with the apostles and didn't still operate today. However, he came to see and believe for himself that the gifts are indeed active today.
In this book, he goes into more detail about some of these gifts, particularly how God still speaks through prophecies, dreams and visions. For those who aren't sure about these things, he builds up a solid argument from scripture and also looks at some of the pitfalls and how to recognise the voice of God.
I already knew that God spoke through various means, but I found his arguments to be well thought-out and helpful. I especially liked the cautions he gave about how to know if something is from God and also cautions regarding interpretation. For example, someone might have a prophecy, dream or vision that is indeed from God, but they put their own interpretation on it. We need prayer and reliance on the Holy Spirit, with everything being tested against scripure.
I like the balance he brought to this discussion. Some sections of the church might emphasise the spiritual gifts and be weaker on Bible study, while others might emphasise the scriptures above everything else and pay less (or sometime no) attention to the gifts of the Spirit. Both the Word and the Spirit are meant to work in tandem. He also gives lots of examples to illustrate his points.
I read the original version of this book that was published in 1996 at a time when a lot of traditional churches weren't so sure about gifts of the Spirit. I see that he has recently published an updated and expanded version, so I think I'll get hold of that one as well.
This book is recommended for anyone who might be unsure about the working of the Holy Spirit today, or those who need a refresher on the varied ways in which God is still working in our lives.
In this book, he goes into more detail about some of these gifts, particularly how God still speaks through prophecies, dreams and visions. For those who aren't sure about these things, he builds up a solid argument from scripture and also looks at some of the pitfalls and how to recognise the voice of God.
I already knew that God spoke through various means, but I found his arguments to be well thought-out and helpful. I especially liked the cautions he gave about how to know if something is from God and also cautions regarding interpretation. For example, someone might have a prophecy, dream or vision that is indeed from God, but they put their own interpretation on it. We need prayer and reliance on the Holy Spirit, with everything being tested against scripure.
I like the balance he brought to this discussion. Some sections of the church might emphasise the spiritual gifts and be weaker on Bible study, while others might emphasise the scriptures above everything else and pay less (or sometime no) attention to the gifts of the Spirit. Both the Word and the Spirit are meant to work in tandem. He also gives lots of examples to illustrate his points.
I read the original version of this book that was published in 1996 at a time when a lot of traditional churches weren't so sure about gifts of the Spirit. I see that he has recently published an updated and expanded version, so I think I'll get hold of that one as well.
This book is recommended for anyone who might be unsure about the working of the Holy Spirit today, or those who need a refresher on the varied ways in which God is still working in our lives.
October 24, 2014
Jack Deere describes his own pilgrimage from a dispensationalist cessationist view to one that is open and expectant of the Spirit’s power, particularly in what is now known as non-canonical revelation. In terms of basic exegesis the book makes a fairly convincing case. Of course, the case has since been exponentially strengthened by the works of Wayne Grudem and Sam Storms. And Deere’s own personal illustrations are quite interesting. I will begin with an analysis of his basic arguments and conclude with some cautions.
Deere makes the observation that Jesus’s power to work miracles was not merely because he was God, but noting Acts 10:38, and its apostolic interpretation of Jesus’s ministry, “How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power and how he went around doing good and healing, because God was with him.
People on both sides might actually miss this, and Deere himself may not catch it, but this is an important Christological point. Crucial to a Reformed Christology is the theologia unionis, the union between the human and divine natures of Christ. This means Jesus’s human nature can never have the attributes of his divine nature, otherwise it would cease to be a human nature! Deere draws the following inference: “So even though Jesus was fully God, he took on the limitations of humanity in such a way that he did not heal, prophesy, or minister out of his own divine power. But he did minister in power. From where did this power come” (43)? Deere’s use of Acts 10:38 and elsewhere suggests, quite rightly, that it came from the Holy Spirit.
Again, this draws upon a similar, yet another Christological point: Reformed Christology does not confess that Jesus was fully powered with the attributes of the divine nature acting at all times (while this sounds shocking, this explains how Jesus wept, got tired, suffered, and admitted ignorance of the of the second coming, actions which cannot be properly predicated of the impassable deity). In contrast to our Lutheran and Eastern Orthodox friends, we believe that Jesus received this power from the anointing of the Holy Spirit. Reformed theology has always confessed this (cf. Francis Turretin, vol. 2, pp. 324ff). Deere simply (whether he knows this or not) extends the inference.
If Jesus of Nazareth needed the personal power of the Holy Spirit, who are we to simply relegate him to an intellectual limiting concept, to quote Immanuel Kant?
Using Prophecy in the Church
Deere has at least three chapters which give helpful suggestions on how to apply a word of knowledge in the concrete situation of the church (p. 174-216). Even if one is a cessationist, Deere’s applications can still apply (because people and messed-up church situations are the same the world over; Deere’s commitment to Independency and Free-Church only exacerbate the problem).
This is a troubling section. It’s troubling because his exegesis is so sound and the opposition’s exegesis is so bad, that this section might cast doubt on his exegesis. Still, we must brave it. While many have abused the gift of prophecy (and by the way, I think any reading of prophecy as “the Spirit’s applying basic spiritual truths to my heart” or “preaching” is not just wrong, but plainly wrong), many of the abuses of prophecy can be thrown back at any system which is new and powerful (think of the Reformation).
So, in a church setting should we open up the floor to prophetic insights? Everyone’s gut reaction is no, but it appears that the Paul had precisely that in mind. So, about that Regulative Principle of Worship again.
The book ends with a powerful and scary section of demonic warfare and prophetic deliverance. It’s scary for several reasons: the demons gained a stronghold in this particular case due to personal habits of which most of us are probably guilty. It’s also scary because the man that Yahweh used to deliver this lady, the man Paul Cain, has since apostasized from the faith because of wicked immorality. Does his apostasy negate Deere’s thesis? By no means, for were not OT prophets sometimes faithless, even if there prophecy were true?
The book was challenging, but I think Deere has done a fine and convincing job
Deere makes the observation that Jesus’s power to work miracles was not merely because he was God, but noting Acts 10:38, and its apostolic interpretation of Jesus’s ministry, “How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power and how he went around doing good and healing, because God was with him.
People on both sides might actually miss this, and Deere himself may not catch it, but this is an important Christological point. Crucial to a Reformed Christology is the theologia unionis, the union between the human and divine natures of Christ. This means Jesus’s human nature can never have the attributes of his divine nature, otherwise it would cease to be a human nature! Deere draws the following inference: “So even though Jesus was fully God, he took on the limitations of humanity in such a way that he did not heal, prophesy, or minister out of his own divine power. But he did minister in power. From where did this power come” (43)? Deere’s use of Acts 10:38 and elsewhere suggests, quite rightly, that it came from the Holy Spirit.
Again, this draws upon a similar, yet another Christological point: Reformed Christology does not confess that Jesus was fully powered with the attributes of the divine nature acting at all times (while this sounds shocking, this explains how Jesus wept, got tired, suffered, and admitted ignorance of the of the second coming, actions which cannot be properly predicated of the impassable deity). In contrast to our Lutheran and Eastern Orthodox friends, we believe that Jesus received this power from the anointing of the Holy Spirit. Reformed theology has always confessed this (cf. Francis Turretin, vol. 2, pp. 324ff). Deere simply (whether he knows this or not) extends the inference.
If Jesus of Nazareth needed the personal power of the Holy Spirit, who are we to simply relegate him to an intellectual limiting concept, to quote Immanuel Kant?
Using Prophecy in the Church
Deere has at least three chapters which give helpful suggestions on how to apply a word of knowledge in the concrete situation of the church (p. 174-216). Even if one is a cessationist, Deere’s applications can still apply (because people and messed-up church situations are the same the world over; Deere’s commitment to Independency and Free-Church only exacerbate the problem).
This is a troubling section. It’s troubling because his exegesis is so sound and the opposition’s exegesis is so bad, that this section might cast doubt on his exegesis. Still, we must brave it. While many have abused the gift of prophecy (and by the way, I think any reading of prophecy as “the Spirit’s applying basic spiritual truths to my heart” or “preaching” is not just wrong, but plainly wrong), many of the abuses of prophecy can be thrown back at any system which is new and powerful (think of the Reformation).
So, in a church setting should we open up the floor to prophetic insights? Everyone’s gut reaction is no, but it appears that the Paul had precisely that in mind. So, about that Regulative Principle of Worship again.
The book ends with a powerful and scary section of demonic warfare and prophetic deliverance. It’s scary for several reasons: the demons gained a stronghold in this particular case due to personal habits of which most of us are probably guilty. It’s also scary because the man that Yahweh used to deliver this lady, the man Paul Cain, has since apostasized from the faith because of wicked immorality. Does his apostasy negate Deere’s thesis? By no means, for were not OT prophets sometimes faithless, even if there prophecy were true?
The book was challenging, but I think Deere has done a fine and convincing job
August 8, 2015
I'm sure there is worse out there, but this is undoubtedly the worst book on this subject I've ever read. From the constant disparagement of Bible study to the characterization of Christians who don't experiences as subnormal to the denegration of theology, this books strengths are far outweighed by its weaknesses. This books is potentially discouraging to a great many faithful Christians. It also endorses well-known heretics and those associated with the Latter Rain movement. While there is some decent exegesis toward the beginning, one would be far better served by Carson or Grudem. If one wants a comprehensive take on supernatural experiences, Craig Keener's book on Miracles or his much shorter book on the Holy Spirit are better places to go.
December 2, 2019
The beginning of this book was harder for me to get through. Very historical and dense, but a third of the way through I realized I could not put it down. Incredible biblical support for hearing God. Very practical and educational and gave a great foundation for future practices. Enjoyed it all to the very end! Will definitely be referencing back to in the future.
November 13, 2022
This is my 4th time through this book, although my 1st time through this version as it is the updated and revised version of the original. Deere improved upon the original which I didn't think was possible.
Here Deere argues for the continuation of the spiritual gifts, shares stories of Christian prophets from the Reformation, and shares his personal experience with hearing God's voice and praying for the sick. He also gives practical advice on how to hear God's voice and administer the gift of prophecy. If all of this sounds nuts or borderline nuts to you I would gently encourage you to check this one out anyway. You may find his arguments surprisingly sound and as a result childlike faith stirring within your soul.
Here Deere argues for the continuation of the spiritual gifts, shares stories of Christian prophets from the Reformation, and shares his personal experience with hearing God's voice and praying for the sick. He also gives practical advice on how to hear God's voice and administer the gift of prophecy. If all of this sounds nuts or borderline nuts to you I would gently encourage you to check this one out anyway. You may find his arguments surprisingly sound and as a result childlike faith stirring within your soul.
May 7, 2022
10/10 love this book and would tell anyone who is asking about how God speaks to read it. I was so encouraged and so sharpened. He even went through the history of the spirit speaking. He talks about learning the language of the spirit and how important it is that the word and spirit are married in our faith walks.
November 11, 2024
Very comprehensive and well-balanced look at the purpose and function of supernatural gifts and revelation in our modern time. Deere builds a solid apologetic for spiritual power, while sharing a lot of his own story. I would definitely recommend this for anyone who is trying to understand the spiritual gifts or get a more balanced look at the charismatic movement.
January 28, 2025
I really enjoyed this book! Word and Spirit is needed again in the church today. If only us as the church would recognize God’s voice in and out of the scriptures. God is still binding up the broken hearted and setting the captive free.
March 13, 2018
Read twice....so far.
November 8, 2024
I appreciate how thorough and thoughtful the book is. He uses strong biblical argumentation and compelling historical and personal examples to build his case. Along with that, he provides biblically grounded wisdom on especially use of the gift of prophecy. I also appreciated the chapter on suffering. Overall a worthwhile read, no matter where you land.
April 28, 2023
Powerfully convicting, and the best book on hearing God’s voice that I’ve read. Some parts went over my head but overall I found this accessible for your average layman.
April 29, 2012
Just over 16 years ago, I was a confirmed cessationist. I grew up in an evangelical Anglican church, and things like prophecy, tongues, signs and wonders just weren't a part of my experience of the Christian faith. Then, at a youth holiday run by Crusaders on the Isle of Wight, I was filled with the Holy Spirit for the first time. Suddenly, I felt that God was no longer remote and distant, but right there with me, filling me. Tongues were no longer weird, miracles were to be expected from the hand of our almighty loving Father, and I accepted the idea that God now spoke today apart from, though never in contradiction to, the Bible.
However, to start with, it was much more the case that I was comfortable with the idea of other people doing these things. It was a little while before the thought of doing them myself became something I could do myself. I desperately wanted to get going, especially with prophecy, but I just didn't know how to. Then I read Surprised By The Voice Of God by Jack Deere.
As a recovering cessationist, with some lingering questions from the way I used to see things, I found this book incredibly helpful because Jack Deere had made the exact same journey himself. Formerly a professor at Dallas Theological Seminary, he found himself questioning his former cessationism and re-evaluating what he believed about prophecy and the voice of God speaking outside the Bible. This book is the result of that study, as well as the fruit of putting into practice what he learned.
A good chunk of the book is spent reviewing the voice of God as talked about in Scripture and throughout church history, coming to the conclusion that the Bible itself indicates that we should expect to hear the voice of God outside of itself. A particularly good chapter is "Confessions of a Bible Deist", exposing the mindset of those who believe that God spoke in the Bible and the rest is up to us. These chapters of the book did a lot to resolve the lingering doubts and concerns I may have had about whether it was biblical to expect to hear God today.
The remainder of the book is chock-full of helpful practical guidance and advice about how to start learning the language of the Holy Spirit and launch out into ministering prophetically to one another. Firmly picking up the doctrine of the priesthood of all believers, Deere shows that this ministry isn't the reserve of a select few, but the birthright of all believers to exercise. He tackles various issues of how to avoid abuses of prophetic ministry, as well as reasons why you may not be experiencing God speaking to you.
Throughout the whole book, Deere emphasises the necessity of keeping close to God in prayer, fellowship and the Word. As such, I believe this is the perfect introductory book for anyone looking to learn how to hear God and start moving in the prophetic. Since reading this book, I have taken a lot of the principles I learned herein to lead seminars and home group meetings about getting going with prophecy, and have often found that people have started prophesying for the first time as a result.
Get it, read it, stick close to the Lord, and get activated to share the word of the Lord!
However, to start with, it was much more the case that I was comfortable with the idea of other people doing these things. It was a little while before the thought of doing them myself became something I could do myself. I desperately wanted to get going, especially with prophecy, but I just didn't know how to. Then I read Surprised By The Voice Of God by Jack Deere.
As a recovering cessationist, with some lingering questions from the way I used to see things, I found this book incredibly helpful because Jack Deere had made the exact same journey himself. Formerly a professor at Dallas Theological Seminary, he found himself questioning his former cessationism and re-evaluating what he believed about prophecy and the voice of God speaking outside the Bible. This book is the result of that study, as well as the fruit of putting into practice what he learned.
A good chunk of the book is spent reviewing the voice of God as talked about in Scripture and throughout church history, coming to the conclusion that the Bible itself indicates that we should expect to hear the voice of God outside of itself. A particularly good chapter is "Confessions of a Bible Deist", exposing the mindset of those who believe that God spoke in the Bible and the rest is up to us. These chapters of the book did a lot to resolve the lingering doubts and concerns I may have had about whether it was biblical to expect to hear God today.
The remainder of the book is chock-full of helpful practical guidance and advice about how to start learning the language of the Holy Spirit and launch out into ministering prophetically to one another. Firmly picking up the doctrine of the priesthood of all believers, Deere shows that this ministry isn't the reserve of a select few, but the birthright of all believers to exercise. He tackles various issues of how to avoid abuses of prophetic ministry, as well as reasons why you may not be experiencing God speaking to you.
Throughout the whole book, Deere emphasises the necessity of keeping close to God in prayer, fellowship and the Word. As such, I believe this is the perfect introductory book for anyone looking to learn how to hear God and start moving in the prophetic. Since reading this book, I have taken a lot of the principles I learned herein to lead seminars and home group meetings about getting going with prophecy, and have often found that people have started prophesying for the first time as a result.
Get it, read it, stick close to the Lord, and get activated to share the word of the Lord!
January 8, 2024
Right beside the best book I’ve ever read. INCREDIBLE! MUST READ.
September 17, 2012
I thought this book was outstanding. It is the second volume to Deere’s first book “Surprised by the Power of the Spirit”. The topic of this book is the voice of God. In it the author first discusses if we are able to hear from God. Using examples, from the bible as well as from experience, he shows that yes, this is the case. Then, the book discusses the different ways in which God speaks, again using the bible as the primary source. Deere is extremely careful to make clear that the bible must be the ultimate source of hearing from God. He describes the different ways that we can easily err, both by becoming obsessed by extra biblical sources as well as by ignoring them. In the middle of the book the author presented an autobiographical sketch of how people can ignore what the bible actually says, using theology as an excuse. This was extremely interesting and valuable. I hugely appreciate the effort made to base the book on the teaching of the bible.
July 7, 2013
J'ai beaucoup aimé ce livre. Il est à propos d'un professeur de Dallas Seminary qui a découvert l'importance d'une vie chrétienne où Dieu se manifeste régulièrement. Touchant et fait réfléchir.
April 2, 2026
"It is hard to read a book every day that tells how God supernaturally intervenes in the daily lives of his children, and yet see no practical relevance for these supernatural phenomena in our present experience. Once the supernatural element is taken out of the Bible, it becomes merely a moralistic life guide."
I've enjoyed reading through Deere's book on being surprised by the voice of God. It inspired me to read the Bible more literally, to believe it to be the true, living Word of God, even if I take time to see the things written in it come to pass.
About the book
The book starts by posing questions to the reader. Why doesn't God speak and move in signs and wonders like He did in the past? Did God stop speaking after the closing of the canon, or does He still speak today?
Each chapter is devoted to a separate topic—the Presbyterian prophets, the Scottish prophets, and how they heard the voice of God.
He also talks about the hindrances to hearing the voice of God, guidelines to discern His voice, and many personal stories in between.
Highlights from the book
On being a Biblical Deist / Pharisaical in our approach to God
The thing that struck me the most as I read through this book was his chapter on people who couldn't hear the voice of God, namely the Pharisees.
The Pharisees read, studied, and memorized the Bible more than most churchgoing people today will ever do, but unlike Moses and the other Old Testament heroes, they could not hear God’s voice.
They had a theoretical belief in the supernatural—they believed in angels and the resurrection of the body—but expected nothing supernatural in their own lives. They did not listen for God’s voice apart from the Scriptures, and they never heard his voice in the Scriptures
It made me realise how pharisaical I had become as I read the Bible. I stopped expecting God to speak in supernatural ways. The book helped challenge this deistical approach to Christianity.
People who don't hear the voice of God
Deere constantly reminded me how God is close to the humble but opposes the proud. As the Psalm says, He knows the proud from afar, but He's intimate with the humble (Psalm 138:6). It reminded me to check my motives as I tried to hear God.
Did I desire greatness in my ministry, or did I require His wisdom as I sought to minister to people?
The proud, no matter how knowledgeable, usually don’t penetrate the thoughts and ways of God because they are convinced that they already know them.
Prayers I need to make before making any brave decisions
In the book, he reminds us how God's thoughts are not our thoughts (Isaiah 55:8–9), so it's always important to check our hearts before we make any decision.
Ask yourself, why are you doing this? Is it to please the Lord or to be prominent in ministry?
Then he prayed something like this, “Lord I am doing this because I really think you are telling me to. If, on the other hand, I am doing this out of some desire to be super-spiritual, or I am being deceived in some other way, I pray that you would protect me in my foolishness. As far as I know, in my heart, I am doing this now because I think it will please you."
The book also has a lovely section on ways to identify God's voice, ways God speaks to us, and dealing with the open canon argument, all of which I greatly enjoyed reading.
But the thing that stayed with me the most as I read the book was the aspect of being pharisaical while reading the Bible. I realise that way too often I limit God and put limits on what I think He can or will do.
But that's not the way God portrays Himself in the Word.
Overall
I think it's an excellent book, one that'll stir your faith and passion for God. 5 stars for me!
So cheers, and I'll catch you guys later. I'll leave y'all with this quote as I end the review.
The question is not, “Why don’t we see more miracles and have more supernatural revelation in the church today?”
Rather, Given the apathy and the lack of godliness in the church today, the question is, “Why do we have any supernatural experiences at all."
March 30, 2023
This book has given me so many things to think about and discuss. I’m having some of my friends and family read it so that we can have discussion because there are so many thoughts floating around in my head.
This topic is something that I’ve recently had a lot of questions about. I went to a local Christian store a few minutes before they closed, and I just went with the first book that caught my attention on the subject. Me finding this book was definitely guided by the Lord because not only did it answer the questions I did have, but it gave me even more questions. In my opinion, those are the best type of books, especially when it comes to theology. I want to do a deep dive on supernatural ministry and how I can become apart of a larger church body that teaches about practicing spiritual gifts.
God is so, so, good. I am constantly in awe of His majesty and grace, and this book gave me yet another thing to worship and pray about. I want to become more in tune with the voice of God. There was a day, before I read this book, where I was praying at the altar about a decision I needed to make. There was suddenly an overwhelming feeling of peace, and I knew that was the voice of God. That was the first time I remember recognizing Him speak. However, I kept feeling like maybe the sensation was the only way He does speak, and I havent heard it since. However, Jack Deere taught me that that is only one way God speaks, but that there are so many other ways that He does as well, but that you have to practice listening. I never knew how much practice is involved. This book has given me the ways to practice, and has taught me how to pray diligently about hearing His voice in particular.
The statements in this book are backed up by Scripture and therefore have great theological depth. It shows that the church in Acts is the church that we should be striving to be today. God’s plan for human redemption isn’t over, and His voice will not be silent, we just have to be willing to listen.
This topic is something that I’ve recently had a lot of questions about. I went to a local Christian store a few minutes before they closed, and I just went with the first book that caught my attention on the subject. Me finding this book was definitely guided by the Lord because not only did it answer the questions I did have, but it gave me even more questions. In my opinion, those are the best type of books, especially when it comes to theology. I want to do a deep dive on supernatural ministry and how I can become apart of a larger church body that teaches about practicing spiritual gifts.
God is so, so, good. I am constantly in awe of His majesty and grace, and this book gave me yet another thing to worship and pray about. I want to become more in tune with the voice of God. There was a day, before I read this book, where I was praying at the altar about a decision I needed to make. There was suddenly an overwhelming feeling of peace, and I knew that was the voice of God. That was the first time I remember recognizing Him speak. However, I kept feeling like maybe the sensation was the only way He does speak, and I havent heard it since. However, Jack Deere taught me that that is only one way God speaks, but that there are so many other ways that He does as well, but that you have to practice listening. I never knew how much practice is involved. This book has given me the ways to practice, and has taught me how to pray diligently about hearing His voice in particular.
The statements in this book are backed up by Scripture and therefore have great theological depth. It shows that the church in Acts is the church that we should be striving to be today. God’s plan for human redemption isn’t over, and His voice will not be silent, we just have to be willing to listen.
July 23, 2020
This book was way too long. As with all books, there are parts that I agree with, and there are parts that I disagree with. Because this book was written at an accessible level, I think grace should be given when evaluating Deere's position. That being said, his argument throughout the book is inconsistent, and I am still uncertain about where he stands on issues such as the sufficiency of Scripture, prophecy, and authority.
That being said, Deere offers an excellent reminder to the Church to read, interpret, and teach the Bible with the utmost humility, reminding us that the Bible is not God, but rather is a signpost pointing us to the Word who became flesh. I am challenged by Deere's writing to depend more on the Spirit in both my reading of Scripture and day-to-day decisions.
Evangelicals have a tendency to completely throw out (see: cancel) books that they disagree with, and I don't think that is a good habit. As with any book, I would recommend this book to a friend, provided that they have developed the skill to engage with work that they disagree with.
That being said, Deere offers an excellent reminder to the Church to read, interpret, and teach the Bible with the utmost humility, reminding us that the Bible is not God, but rather is a signpost pointing us to the Word who became flesh. I am challenged by Deere's writing to depend more on the Spirit in both my reading of Scripture and day-to-day decisions.
Evangelicals have a tendency to completely throw out (see: cancel) books that they disagree with, and I don't think that is a good habit. As with any book, I would recommend this book to a friend, provided that they have developed the skill to engage with work that they disagree with.
December 2, 2020
I found Jack Deere's book 'Surprise by the Voice of God' refreshing, encouraging, and inspirational. Dr. Deere covered the Bible's record of hearing the voice of God (prophecies, words of knowledge, supernatural guidance) and then a historical review of such events occurring in the Church from the times of the Apostles to our day.
Then came the application. Jack Deere covered the various ways God may speak: a quiet thought, an audible voice, a dream, a vision, or a word from another person. He covered to whom God may speak, and what hinders us from hearing God. (Pride and disobedience are two reasons). He clearly teaches from his own life mistakes he has made and why we shouldn't make them.
Finally, he closes with practical tips for hearing God. The main point is to be God's friend. Don't try to get anything from God, but just enjoy His Presence.
I recommend this for all Christians, so we all may learn to hear God. I also recommend the book for skeptics, so they may understand more clearly what the Christian life is like.
Then came the application. Jack Deere covered the various ways God may speak: a quiet thought, an audible voice, a dream, a vision, or a word from another person. He covered to whom God may speak, and what hinders us from hearing God. (Pride and disobedience are two reasons). He clearly teaches from his own life mistakes he has made and why we shouldn't make them.
Finally, he closes with practical tips for hearing God. The main point is to be God's friend. Don't try to get anything from God, but just enjoy His Presence.
I recommend this for all Christians, so we all may learn to hear God. I also recommend the book for skeptics, so they may understand more clearly what the Christian life is like.
January 3, 2020
I picked up this book when visiting Sam Storms church for the Convergence Conference 2018. Little did I know at the time that this book really crystallized my understanding of the Word and Spirit that were the focus of the conference, though it is from 1996. Deere does a great job of humbly sharing situations in the scriptures and his and others life experience and helping connect the dots to rescue people like himself that have spent a large portion of their life in what he terms "Bible Deism." I will leave out the spoilers but will tell you that some of the stories are so moving that you will want to have a box of tissues handy. I highly recommend this book for anyone, particularly those of us who are extremely cautious about miracles or prophecy.
May 4, 2021
This has been on my shelves for a while, and I've dipped in to it but never invested the time in reading it properly. When I finally added it to small my 'morning reading' pile - it turned out to be quite different to what I'd expected. This is deeper than I expected - full of wisdom, very well structured (I find many books on the gifts of the spirit seem to be abstract, meandering, and hard to follow) with a strong biblical foundation, and I learned a lot. Perhaps written for a slightly different generation, which simply means it answers slightly different questions to the ones people are asking today. But a really helpful book, all the same.
October 18, 2020
An interesting and provocative read. I'm not sure I am completely sold on all of the claims made, but the book certainly opened my eyes and ears to be more alert to the guiding and loving provision of the Spirit. It is well written and laid out very clearly. Probably not a good books for a new Christian to read, but definitely thought provoking and it's subject matter worth considering and putting into application. It opened my eyes to many areas of my life where they had once been closed and helped open my ears to the voice of God.
April 28, 2020
Overall a level-headed discussion of the topic of charismatic gifts, with frank (and convicting) analysis of modern western culture, and genuine insight into the gifts of the Spirit.
Issue: too lenient in wrestling with human fallibility. Although believers will undoubtedly misinterpret at times, we shouldn't become lackadaisical in study of the written Scriptures/their authority over our lives, or allow people to speak presumptuously with no consequences.
Issue: too lenient in wrestling with human fallibility. Although believers will undoubtedly misinterpret at times, we shouldn't become lackadaisical in study of the written Scriptures/their authority over our lives, or allow people to speak presumptuously with no consequences.
June 16, 2020
Jack Deere gives a thorough biblical argument for the continuation of all the spiritual gifts today and for the fact God still speaks to people today in all of the same ways He did throughout Scripture. I personally loved the personal stories and testimonies he shared that corroborated with the biblical argument. I found it especially fascinating how he also takes you throughout church history to show you that in every age, believers experienced God in these ways, even the Reformers.
December 13, 2021
I feel this was a good book. My main desire was an instructional book about hearing God’s voice, and this really wasn’t. However, it did give me one method of hearing God’s voice next at the end of the book. Jack Deere said to pray to love Jesus more, and that would make all the difference. So I feel that was truly a good tip to pray this daily!
July 24, 2022
Once again some amazing testimonies that Jack Deere brings to the attention of his readers. However, I feel that his theological arguments for things like dreams and visions doesn't quite hold up and seemed a little far fetched. On the whole a good read though if only for the purpose of being reminded of some of the amazing ways God continues to work in the world.
April 9, 2018
The timing of reading this book was fantastic. I picked it up on the heels of reading his memoir, one that was refreshingly transparent. This book increased my hunger to see God at work and to expect him to work every single day in my life. Definitely put this on your reading list for this year!
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