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Radically Normal: You Don't Have to Live Crazy to Follow Jesus
Do you feel that your life is pleasing to God― almost? When you hear about pastors, missionaries, and popular speakers, do you feel just a bit second-class, as if your life appears lukewarm and not as radical as theirs? You’re not alone. A vague sense of guilt is common in the church. We know God’s grace is the key to eternal life, but it’s so much more than that―it’s the key to a joy-filled walk with Him every moment. Josh Kelley shows why you don’t have to give away everything you own to be a fully committed follower of Jesus Christ. He demonstrates that… Discover the joy of radical obedience to Christ in your normal, everyday life.
224 pages, Paperback
First published August 1, 2014
9 people are currently reading
66 people want to read
About the author
Josh Kelley
4 books2 followersHi, my name is Josh. I grew up in western Washington in a loving Christian home. In 1999, I graduated from LIFE Pacific College in San Dimas, CA, with a BA in Biblical Studies and a minor in Biblical Languages. Later I did graduate work in Biblical Studies at Trinity Western University in Langley, Canada and was also an adjunct professor at Pacific Life Bible College in Surrey, Canada for one year.
Marilyn and I met at college and got married in 1999. We have two daughters who are the joy of our life. Aside from my family and my God, my two greatest joys are reading a good book and enjoying the all the glories of this world God has made - from sunsets to good food and drink with friends.
Since 2007, I've been the the pastor of The Gathering Christian Church. Prior to that, I was an assistant pastor at His Place Community Church and continue to serve as their “Bible expert.” I'm also on the President of the Board of Directors for our local homeless shelter, The Friendship House.
Marilyn and I met at college and got married in 1999. We have two daughters who are the joy of our life. Aside from my family and my God, my two greatest joys are reading a good book and enjoying the all the glories of this world God has made - from sunsets to good food and drink with friends.
Since 2007, I've been the the pastor of The Gathering Christian Church. Prior to that, I was an assistant pastor at His Place Community Church and continue to serve as their “Bible expert.” I'm also on the President of the Board of Directors for our local homeless shelter, The Friendship House.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
August 19, 2014
This book wasn't exactly what I expected from the title and blurb, but still a good read. I'd expected something along the lines of considering our Average Joe status radical, in these days when everyone seems to strive to be special. However, its message turns out to be about not veering too far on either side of the 'spiritual' spectrum, complacency or obsessiveness. Normal may be well-balanced.
Josh Kelley describes how he'd grown up unconsciously classifying people as either 'normal' or 'super' Christians, and he used to strive to work his way to the top of the super Christians. He examines the trap of being obsessive. It's easy to think we're zealously doing just what God would approve of, yet this may be based on guilt, obligation, legalism, living up to expectations or other ulterior motives. He challenges us to do our work just because it is our joy to serve God the way we do.
He conducted an interesting study on joy, looking at joyful people in the Bible, deciding whether they were 'spiritual' or 'earthy' in their approach to life, and entering the results in a database. I'll leave his conclusion, as to whether either sacred or secular activities trump the other, to anybody who may choose to read this book. Other questions, such as whether spending money on ourselves is less holy than giving it away, are examined too. It's a great read for people who worry about how to balance legalism and worldliness.
The stand-out quote for me may be, "The place God calls you to is where your deep gladness and the world's deep hunger meet." This, of course, differs from one person to the next. I appreciate how he warns us that we may not be able to earn our living through our calling. He's had moments of finding that out himself (and so have I). Many books give the impression that if you follow your heart, money will follow. Not always the case.
Thanks to Net Galley and Harvest House for giving me a copy to review.
Josh Kelley describes how he'd grown up unconsciously classifying people as either 'normal' or 'super' Christians, and he used to strive to work his way to the top of the super Christians. He examines the trap of being obsessive. It's easy to think we're zealously doing just what God would approve of, yet this may be based on guilt, obligation, legalism, living up to expectations or other ulterior motives. He challenges us to do our work just because it is our joy to serve God the way we do.
He conducted an interesting study on joy, looking at joyful people in the Bible, deciding whether they were 'spiritual' or 'earthy' in their approach to life, and entering the results in a database. I'll leave his conclusion, as to whether either sacred or secular activities trump the other, to anybody who may choose to read this book. Other questions, such as whether spending money on ourselves is less holy than giving it away, are examined too. It's a great read for people who worry about how to balance legalism and worldliness.
The stand-out quote for me may be, "The place God calls you to is where your deep gladness and the world's deep hunger meet." This, of course, differs from one person to the next. I appreciate how he warns us that we may not be able to earn our living through our calling. He's had moments of finding that out himself (and so have I). Many books give the impression that if you follow your heart, money will follow. Not always the case.
Thanks to Net Galley and Harvest House for giving me a copy to review.
July 26, 2014
Super Christians Need Not Apply!
"Yikes! BESTED again by Super Christian Bob or Jane, I'm not ever going to match up to what God wants me to be." Or "Don't worry, be happy, just live your life as you will, God will make it all turn out all right." (Quotes are my own paraphrases.) Josh Kelley writes this book to save us from either attitude- the cliff of super spiritual legalism or the cliff of common complacency.
Josh deals with assumptions that some vocations are more spiritual than others, making their workers more "spiritual"; all joy must come only from spiritual endeavors; possessing money in and of itself is wrong, and other commonly held "Christian" beliefs.
Kelley shows us how we can find joy in even menial jobs, doing them for God's glory. He also emphasizes that God often gifts us with abilities and desires that we can use where He will call us. Possessing money can enable us to be generous to others in need; it is our attitude towards sharing our possessions that is important.God, our heavenly Father, wants us to have both earthly AND heavenly joy, just as earthly parents delight in giving their children reasonable and good gifts .
These are just a few thoughts I gleaned from reading through Josh's book. I can be free from legalism and still be sold out to the Lord.
There are study questions at the back and a great list of other books to reference as well. Well worth the read!
I received this book from bookfun.org in exchange for an honest review.
"Yikes! BESTED again by Super Christian Bob or Jane, I'm not ever going to match up to what God wants me to be." Or "Don't worry, be happy, just live your life as you will, God will make it all turn out all right." (Quotes are my own paraphrases.) Josh Kelley writes this book to save us from either attitude- the cliff of super spiritual legalism or the cliff of common complacency.
Josh deals with assumptions that some vocations are more spiritual than others, making their workers more "spiritual"; all joy must come only from spiritual endeavors; possessing money in and of itself is wrong, and other commonly held "Christian" beliefs.
Kelley shows us how we can find joy in even menial jobs, doing them for God's glory. He also emphasizes that God often gifts us with abilities and desires that we can use where He will call us. Possessing money can enable us to be generous to others in need; it is our attitude towards sharing our possessions that is important.God, our heavenly Father, wants us to have both earthly AND heavenly joy, just as earthly parents delight in giving their children reasonable and good gifts .
These are just a few thoughts I gleaned from reading through Josh's book. I can be free from legalism and still be sold out to the Lord.
There are study questions at the back and a great list of other books to reference as well. Well worth the read!
I received this book from bookfun.org in exchange for an honest review.
July 28, 2014
Kelley has tried to give Christians the means to walk in that path avoiding obsessive behavior on the one side and complacency on the other. I think he has done a pretty good job. He writes much about motives and I think that is a key. His work reminds me a little of John Piper's in that Kelley wants us to enjoy God's creation. Kelley advocates obedience to God because we want to, out of joy, rather than obligation or thinking we must please Him. I was a little unsure for the first half of the book, thinking Kelley would not pull off his goal for the book, but by the time I finished it, I was impressed. I do think the second half is better than the first.
See my full review at http://bit.ly/1kiQVzQ.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book through the Book Club Network for the purpose of an independent and honest review.
See my full review at http://bit.ly/1kiQVzQ.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book through the Book Club Network for the purpose of an independent and honest review.
April 27, 2015
This was really just an all around fantastic book. The "radical Christian" books have been popular, and I've read a few, but they always left me feeling more disappointed with myself than inspired to be more. Usually they seem to revolve around Christians who have gone above and beyond to be "extreme Christians."
Kelley approaches it from a different angle, noting that Christians SHOULD be radical in the way they live, but also noting that most of us are going to live what feel like "normal lives."
This book should be read by all Christians. It's very balanced (a word he actually discusses really well) and will help you to better understand how to serve Christ in what you think might be a mundane life.
Kelley approaches it from a different angle, noting that Christians SHOULD be radical in the way they live, but also noting that most of us are going to live what feel like "normal lives."
This book should be read by all Christians. It's very balanced (a word he actually discusses really well) and will help you to better understand how to serve Christ in what you think might be a mundane life.
July 6, 2020
I liked the concept of comparing “complacent Christianity” and “Obsessive Christianity,” but I think that idea gets lost quite a bit. My fear is the same as the authors, that in the hands of the the person looking for an easy-button Christianity, this book becomes the enabler. I wish he had done more to combat that. Overall I struggled to connect with this book and found myself more frustrated finishing it than excited to read it.
There were moments I enjoyed but I probably wouldn’t recommend it.
There were moments I enjoyed but I probably wouldn’t recommend it.
July 28, 2017
I hardly know why I wanted to read this book in the first place. It's not bad at all, I hasten to add, only the topic of how to avoid both obsessive and complacent Christianity hasn't really bothered me personally in a very long time.
What I really liked was the chapter about not wasting one's pain which really fit into my situation, recovering from a major accident.
There are quite a few other helpful, encouraging and refreshing insights, too.
What I really liked was the chapter about not wasting one's pain which really fit into my situation, recovering from a major accident.
There are quite a few other helpful, encouraging and refreshing insights, too.
August 15, 2014
I have had the privilege of reading Radically Normal by Josh Kelley. What a great book! I was skeptical at first since I truly enjoy the books talking about living a life fully devoted to God and wondered if he was going to negate those messages…but instead I realized he believes the same beliefs I do…and the same ones our church reinforces all the time.
I can’t speak for all the radical authors out there, but the ones that I admire speak the same language as Mr. Kelley. You don’t have to sell all your possessions, you don’t have to go live in a grass hut to make a difference for God. If He calls you in that direction, yes, your job is to obey…but instead God may be calling you to do the best job you can to the best of your ability here, sweeping floors, raising children, driving a school bus, or stocking shelves. God calls us to be radical in our normal lives…He doesn’t just call specific people to do wonderful, in the media, over the top accomplishments. He calls ordinary people to be extraordinary where He put us.
One of the examples that Mr. Kelley gave was talking about how Paul, in the Bible, didn’t say everyone had to be a missionary - no, most of the people stayed back and worked to support those that were called. I had just read that passage that morning in my quiettime and then Mr. Kelley spoke about it in his book. Love when God does that!
I felt like I connected with the author from the first few pages. He talked about how he had the personality to place unnecessary guilt upon himself. Wow could I relate! I have the same personality and have struggled with that in my life as well. Our church reminds our congregation continually that to be used by God we must “get our house in order” and do well with the little we have been put in charge of in order to be put in charge of more. It was great to hear that message reinforced by Mr. Kelley.
This was a great book. I used it as a devotional supplementing my quiettime in the morning. It could be used as a Bible study in a church or with a Book Club. It could also be read straight through as the chapters are short and easy to read, applicable and they keep the reader’s attention. In fact, I kept wanting to read more than a chapter a day because the author kept me engaged, wanting to read more.
I enjoyed the book so thoroughly, I want to work at Starbucks too…the only thing stopping me is missing out tucking my kids into bed at night. Great read - I would love to read more from this author in the future.
I received this book for free in exchange for my honest opinion from Book Club Network.
I can’t speak for all the radical authors out there, but the ones that I admire speak the same language as Mr. Kelley. You don’t have to sell all your possessions, you don’t have to go live in a grass hut to make a difference for God. If He calls you in that direction, yes, your job is to obey…but instead God may be calling you to do the best job you can to the best of your ability here, sweeping floors, raising children, driving a school bus, or stocking shelves. God calls us to be radical in our normal lives…He doesn’t just call specific people to do wonderful, in the media, over the top accomplishments. He calls ordinary people to be extraordinary where He put us.
One of the examples that Mr. Kelley gave was talking about how Paul, in the Bible, didn’t say everyone had to be a missionary - no, most of the people stayed back and worked to support those that were called. I had just read that passage that morning in my quiettime and then Mr. Kelley spoke about it in his book. Love when God does that!
I felt like I connected with the author from the first few pages. He talked about how he had the personality to place unnecessary guilt upon himself. Wow could I relate! I have the same personality and have struggled with that in my life as well. Our church reminds our congregation continually that to be used by God we must “get our house in order” and do well with the little we have been put in charge of in order to be put in charge of more. It was great to hear that message reinforced by Mr. Kelley.
This was a great book. I used it as a devotional supplementing my quiettime in the morning. It could be used as a Bible study in a church or with a Book Club. It could also be read straight through as the chapters are short and easy to read, applicable and they keep the reader’s attention. In fact, I kept wanting to read more than a chapter a day because the author kept me engaged, wanting to read more.
I enjoyed the book so thoroughly, I want to work at Starbucks too…the only thing stopping me is missing out tucking my kids into bed at night. Great read - I would love to read more from this author in the future.
I received this book for free in exchange for my honest opinion from Book Club Network.
August 15, 2014
“It’s okay to be normal. Do you feel that your life is pleasing to God – almost? When you hear about pastors, missionaries and Christian celebrities, do you feel just a bit “less-than.” As if your life isn’t quite as meaningful as theirs? You’re not alone – that guilty feeling is all too common in the church. Josh Kelley shows why you can be a fully committed follower of Jesus Christ without selling everything you own and becoming a missionary to India.”
I was intrigued when I read the back cover of “Radically Normal – You Don’t Have to Live Crazy to Follow Jesus” by Josh Kelley. Don’t we all feel a bit “less-than” from time to time? Do we wonder if our life, our contribution, our calling is all that important? I know that I do. On one hand, we want to feel that we are that fully committed Christ Follower and on the other hand we can feel that we are so not measuring up to “other Christians”. We wonder, am I doing enough to “make it to heaven”. Do I need to do more? What else can I do? We get so caught up in this present world, that we are missing the fact that “The present world is the first chapter of eternity’s great adventure”.
So what do we do? We get radical. We all but dive in head first, willing to sell all our possessions, and go live in a grass hut in the mission field to be sure that we are Christian enough.
This author, Josh Kelley, shows us that our seemingly mundane life does matter, that God does delight in where we are right here, and when we find God’s presence in our routine activities it will change the way we think about our Kingdom work while we are here.
“Discover the deep and lasting joy of radical obedience to Christ in your normal, everyday life”
Follow Pastor Josh Kelley at: http://jckelley.wordpress.com/
Click here tor read a sample: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/radi...
*Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book through the “For Readers Only” group at The Book Club Network, in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.
*Reviews of this book were posted at the following locations:
Amazon, Christian Book, Deeper Shopping, Goodreads, and to be featured on my blog at http://titus3.wordpress.com
I was intrigued when I read the back cover of “Radically Normal – You Don’t Have to Live Crazy to Follow Jesus” by Josh Kelley. Don’t we all feel a bit “less-than” from time to time? Do we wonder if our life, our contribution, our calling is all that important? I know that I do. On one hand, we want to feel that we are that fully committed Christ Follower and on the other hand we can feel that we are so not measuring up to “other Christians”. We wonder, am I doing enough to “make it to heaven”. Do I need to do more? What else can I do? We get so caught up in this present world, that we are missing the fact that “The present world is the first chapter of eternity’s great adventure”.
So what do we do? We get radical. We all but dive in head first, willing to sell all our possessions, and go live in a grass hut in the mission field to be sure that we are Christian enough.
This author, Josh Kelley, shows us that our seemingly mundane life does matter, that God does delight in where we are right here, and when we find God’s presence in our routine activities it will change the way we think about our Kingdom work while we are here.
“Discover the deep and lasting joy of radical obedience to Christ in your normal, everyday life”
Follow Pastor Josh Kelley at: http://jckelley.wordpress.com/
Click here tor read a sample: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/radi...
*Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book through the “For Readers Only” group at The Book Club Network, in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.
*Reviews of this book were posted at the following locations:
Amazon, Christian Book, Deeper Shopping, Goodreads, and to be featured on my blog at http://titus3.wordpress.com
July 24, 2014
Josh Kelley, pastor in a small church that struggles financially, causing him to be in need of a second job to supplement his income. This is not the plan Josh had for his life and he deals with all kinds of emotions as he takes on a job at Starbucks and faces serving pastors he once met with for coffee, at this very coffee shop.
The book is broken down into bite size, chapters, covering some topics we may not have really thought about or were to afraid to ask about such as the extremes of obsessive and complacent Christians-neither is God's plan for us. He wants us to live life, and to live it abundantly.
Josh will introduce us to an old friend, Radical Randy--"barely 5ft. tall... with crew cut...which gave him the look of a drill sergeant. He wore a cross the size of a small cat and had a large, submissive family...Randy taught me that the closer you were to Jesus the less normally you talked... He acted as if he lived on another planet and visited this one as infrequently as possible." pg 33, 34
Some of the other interesting and perhaps controversial topics covered are; getting what grace is all about, it's ok to be a Christian and be normal, defending both earthly and spiritual joys and so much more. Perhaps his thoughts on the phrase, "Let's put Christ back in Christmas" may cause you to agree or to get your back up, but either way, it will cause you to think, perhaps challenge, some of your own ways and thinking.
Josh provides more at the end of the book, questions to dig deeper, either personally or in a group, as well as a suggested reading list. Great way to encourage us readers to go further, and giving us the tools to help us to just that.
"This book is an invitation to joy-to find your eternal joy and satisfaction in God himself and then to delight in all the good gifts he gives." pg. 22
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, as it opened my eyes and challenged some of my own ideas on the Christian life. It was an easy read, and to understand as Josh spoke in every day terms and didn't pull out all the 'Christianese' that some authors feel the need to do. I would highly recommend this book.
Thank you to bookfun.org for giving me this book in exchange for an honest review.
The book is broken down into bite size, chapters, covering some topics we may not have really thought about or were to afraid to ask about such as the extremes of obsessive and complacent Christians-neither is God's plan for us. He wants us to live life, and to live it abundantly.
Josh will introduce us to an old friend, Radical Randy--"barely 5ft. tall... with crew cut...which gave him the look of a drill sergeant. He wore a cross the size of a small cat and had a large, submissive family...Randy taught me that the closer you were to Jesus the less normally you talked... He acted as if he lived on another planet and visited this one as infrequently as possible." pg 33, 34
Some of the other interesting and perhaps controversial topics covered are; getting what grace is all about, it's ok to be a Christian and be normal, defending both earthly and spiritual joys and so much more. Perhaps his thoughts on the phrase, "Let's put Christ back in Christmas" may cause you to agree or to get your back up, but either way, it will cause you to think, perhaps challenge, some of your own ways and thinking.
Josh provides more at the end of the book, questions to dig deeper, either personally or in a group, as well as a suggested reading list. Great way to encourage us readers to go further, and giving us the tools to help us to just that.
"This book is an invitation to joy-to find your eternal joy and satisfaction in God himself and then to delight in all the good gifts he gives." pg. 22
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, as it opened my eyes and challenged some of my own ideas on the Christian life. It was an easy read, and to understand as Josh spoke in every day terms and didn't pull out all the 'Christianese' that some authors feel the need to do. I would highly recommend this book.
Thank you to bookfun.org for giving me this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 21, 2014
Radically Normal by Josh Kelley is easy to read, shows humor and teaches through stories about himself and others that he knows. Josh Kelley is a pastor and he shows how God taught him about Christianity, what we perceive and what God sees and wants. Being a "Radical Christian" isn't about extremes but being committed to God through day to day small things, joy, love and allowing yourself to be led by God. Blessings come in all forms. Most are just small things that happened in our daily lives, if we take them time to look. God wants us to find joy in the things that he has given us. Have you ever looked at a sunset and appreciated the beauty that God created. That's my kind of joy. You don't have to be rich in material things nor poor like the homeless to appreciate all that God has done. God created in us a need for him. Our greatest joy on Earth is through God. Just look for him in your daily lives and appreciate what he has done for you.
This book is well written, shows how to be the best Christians we can be without going to the extreme. There are some beautiful home truths in this book and I think you will find the book enjoyable, teaching lessons that we may have forgotten, showing us how to be in a closer walk with our Savior.
I received this book through www.bookfun.org and the publisher to review and leave my honest opinion. I will be keeping this book to reread certain parts that I know will help me be a better Christian. Hope you will enjoy it as much as I did. Pastor John Kelley shows his love of God and his fellow man.
This book is well written, shows how to be the best Christians we can be without going to the extreme. There are some beautiful home truths in this book and I think you will find the book enjoyable, teaching lessons that we may have forgotten, showing us how to be in a closer walk with our Savior.
I received this book through www.bookfun.org and the publisher to review and leave my honest opinion. I will be keeping this book to reread certain parts that I know will help me be a better Christian. Hope you will enjoy it as much as I did. Pastor John Kelley shows his love of God and his fellow man.
August 15, 2014
Review Title: Radically Following the Straight Path to Joy in the Lord
(a review of Radically Normal by Josh Kelley)
Reviewer: Janice S. Garey
*****5 Stars
Radically Normal has a message that all Christians need to be concerned with. We try to live by Christ's words and not be judgemental of others, but so often we fail. We fall into comparison and judge who is most Christianly and who falls short. We often do this by looking at ourselves as the divining rod to find the living water in one person and the polluted water in another person. Josh Kelley makes us take a look at where we are, where he has been, and where we need to go to have an accurate view of ourselves and others according to the vision of Christ who is the only one who can correctly judge. Josh wants to see Christians find the straight and narrow path of joy which does not veer to the right to legalism or to the left to liberalism.
I really enjoyed reading one particular part of the book about the "Consequence Inverter." His thought is if we were actually able to live through the consequences of choosing sin before having the short-lived "enjoyment" of the sin then that would innoculate the world from a lot of committed sins. Important thought!
I received this book from bookfun.org in exchange for my honest review. I believe this book will be a benefit to both long time Christians as well as those new to the faith.
(a review of Radically Normal by Josh Kelley)
Reviewer: Janice S. Garey
*****5 Stars
Radically Normal has a message that all Christians need to be concerned with. We try to live by Christ's words and not be judgemental of others, but so often we fail. We fall into comparison and judge who is most Christianly and who falls short. We often do this by looking at ourselves as the divining rod to find the living water in one person and the polluted water in another person. Josh Kelley makes us take a look at where we are, where he has been, and where we need to go to have an accurate view of ourselves and others according to the vision of Christ who is the only one who can correctly judge. Josh wants to see Christians find the straight and narrow path of joy which does not veer to the right to legalism or to the left to liberalism.
I really enjoyed reading one particular part of the book about the "Consequence Inverter." His thought is if we were actually able to live through the consequences of choosing sin before having the short-lived "enjoyment" of the sin then that would innoculate the world from a lot of committed sins. Important thought!
I received this book from bookfun.org in exchange for my honest review. I believe this book will be a benefit to both long time Christians as well as those new to the faith.
November 17, 2014
Radically Normal
By Josh Kelley
You don't have to live crazy to follow Jesus...
Do you ever feel that you're just not good enough to call yourself a Christian? Do you feel guilty when you attend church services because you aren't out on the mission field taking the Gospel to other countries? Did you grow-up with the understanding that only those who were out actively preaching and pointing out the sins of others the only true believers?
Well, this isn't the message Jesus taught. Jesus reached out to the sinner, but He didn't do it from a position of power. He didn't try to draw attention to Himself - He even asked those He healed to speak not of this.
Living life with a 9 - 5 job is not a sin in God's eyes. You can find joy in this life living the life God gave you. How you live a normal life can be a witness to those around you. You can get rid of the guilt and live with a hope to your future new life.
I really enjoyed reading chapter 17 This Life Matters we are the temple of the Holy Spirit (God) and how we treat our bodies can be a sign of how we honor God. And our care for others, Christians or non-Christians, is an outward reflection of God's care for the least of these and our love for Him.
Normal is good and not something to be ashamed of, so be Radical by being you!
I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher though BookFun/TBCN in exchange for my honest review.
By Josh Kelley
You don't have to live crazy to follow Jesus...
Do you ever feel that you're just not good enough to call yourself a Christian? Do you feel guilty when you attend church services because you aren't out on the mission field taking the Gospel to other countries? Did you grow-up with the understanding that only those who were out actively preaching and pointing out the sins of others the only true believers?
Well, this isn't the message Jesus taught. Jesus reached out to the sinner, but He didn't do it from a position of power. He didn't try to draw attention to Himself - He even asked those He healed to speak not of this.
Living life with a 9 - 5 job is not a sin in God's eyes. You can find joy in this life living the life God gave you. How you live a normal life can be a witness to those around you. You can get rid of the guilt and live with a hope to your future new life.
I really enjoyed reading chapter 17 This Life Matters we are the temple of the Holy Spirit (God) and how we treat our bodies can be a sign of how we honor God. And our care for others, Christians or non-Christians, is an outward reflection of God's care for the least of these and our love for Him.
Normal is good and not something to be ashamed of, so be Radical by being you!
I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher though BookFun/TBCN in exchange for my honest review.
July 8, 2014
Radically Normal by Josh Kelley
Kelley says that if Christian living and sacrifice is built on guilt, obligation, or legalism, we have obsessive faith. If we, instead, live in the joy of obeying God within our own calling, then we are radically normal Christians. Wholehearted devotion to God consists of radical obedience lived out in surprisingly normal, joy-filled ways.
He says it is less effort to live in either legalism (rules and expectations) or worldliness, but Kelley writes that the reward of living scripturally, is joy. Being radically normal is achievable through God’s grace.
I read some paragraphs more than once to evaluate if I understood and to consider if I agreed. Did I endorse every premise presented? Not necessarily. Kelley challenged well-worn ideas which he believes are the status quo for Christians.
I would recommend the book, especially because we do need to take inventory of our motives in living for Christ. A bonus is we get to learn quite a bit about working for Starbucks.
I was given a copy of the book for my honest review.
Kelley says that if Christian living and sacrifice is built on guilt, obligation, or legalism, we have obsessive faith. If we, instead, live in the joy of obeying God within our own calling, then we are radically normal Christians. Wholehearted devotion to God consists of radical obedience lived out in surprisingly normal, joy-filled ways.
He says it is less effort to live in either legalism (rules and expectations) or worldliness, but Kelley writes that the reward of living scripturally, is joy. Being radically normal is achievable through God’s grace.
I read some paragraphs more than once to evaluate if I understood and to consider if I agreed. Did I endorse every premise presented? Not necessarily. Kelley challenged well-worn ideas which he believes are the status quo for Christians.
I would recommend the book, especially because we do need to take inventory of our motives in living for Christ. A bonus is we get to learn quite a bit about working for Starbucks.
I was given a copy of the book for my honest review.
July 26, 2016
I'm slightly conflicted about this book. On the one hand, the questions he asks are relevant for this moment in the history of Christianity. On the other hand, I found the answers he provided wanting on multiple fronts.
The good stuff first: Kelley's basic thesis is that 'complacent' Christianity and 'obsessive' Christianity are on opposite ends of a spectrum. And there seems to be no middle ground. So in this book, he proposes that middle ground - what he terms 'radically normal' Christians (hence the book title).
But I found the evidence backing his arguments lacking in Biblical robustness. Perhaps that is because I'm from a slightly different theological background, and our presuppositions differ. But I'm no pastor, neither am I a Biblical scholar. But I've tried and am trying to read my Bible humbly and learn from Christians older and wiser than me. Yet I can't quite convince myself of his points.
The book is readable and relatable - I'm sure it will resonate with many, but I won't be quick to recommend this book to friends who are struggling with this issue.
The good stuff first: Kelley's basic thesis is that 'complacent' Christianity and 'obsessive' Christianity are on opposite ends of a spectrum. And there seems to be no middle ground. So in this book, he proposes that middle ground - what he terms 'radically normal' Christians (hence the book title).
But I found the evidence backing his arguments lacking in Biblical robustness. Perhaps that is because I'm from a slightly different theological background, and our presuppositions differ. But I'm no pastor, neither am I a Biblical scholar. But I've tried and am trying to read my Bible humbly and learn from Christians older and wiser than me. Yet I can't quite convince myself of his points.
The book is readable and relatable - I'm sure it will resonate with many, but I won't be quick to recommend this book to friends who are struggling with this issue.
October 31, 2014
***On a scale of 1 to 5 "Radically Normal" is a five plus!***
Pastor Josh Kelly, Mount Vernon, WA takes a thought-provoking, often entertaining look at why Christians shouldn't feel they "have to live crazy to follow Jesus," the sub title of his debut release, Radically Normal. Where he writes, "normal Christians" can act in radical obedience to Christ "without acting obsessive or complacent."
He doesn't intend to discourage Christians from doing "radical things" for the Lord if that's what God calls them to do. Instead, "Radically Normal" is for the believer who feels a nagging sense of guilt, "haunted by the feeling that God would be happier" if he or she were more spiritually minded.
Kelley questions if such guilt…Full Review: http://www.examiner.com/list/radicall...
Pastor Josh Kelly, Mount Vernon, WA takes a thought-provoking, often entertaining look at why Christians shouldn't feel they "have to live crazy to follow Jesus," the sub title of his debut release, Radically Normal. Where he writes, "normal Christians" can act in radical obedience to Christ "without acting obsessive or complacent."
He doesn't intend to discourage Christians from doing "radical things" for the Lord if that's what God calls them to do. Instead, "Radically Normal" is for the believer who feels a nagging sense of guilt, "haunted by the feeling that God would be happier" if he or she were more spiritually minded.
Kelley questions if such guilt…Full Review: http://www.examiner.com/list/radicall...
November 11, 2015
The main theme that runs through the book is that we need to avoid the opposite dangers of 'complacent Christianity' (loving the world too much) and 'obsessive Christianity' (being legalistic & joyless). We need to be radically normal, ie. enjoy this world and all the wonderful, good gifts that God gives us to enjoy on this earth, whilst hungering for our eternal home.
We're not to be weirdly separate from the world we live in, but normal humans living in and contributing to society. But we're not to be the same as the world - we're to be radically different by loving God, seeking first His Kingdom.
The author is a pastor who spent some time working part time in Starbucks as his church finances were low. Each chapter is peppered with anecdotes and illustrations from his Starbucks experience which are mildly amusing.
A useful little book.
We're not to be weirdly separate from the world we live in, but normal humans living in and contributing to society. But we're not to be the same as the world - we're to be radically different by loving God, seeking first His Kingdom.
The author is a pastor who spent some time working part time in Starbucks as his church finances were low. Each chapter is peppered with anecdotes and illustrations from his Starbucks experience which are mildly amusing.
A useful little book.
August 12, 2014
RADICALLY NORMAL is a book all Christians should read. Josh Kelley's writing style is personable and easy to understand, and the message of living a radically normal life in obedience to Christ, is thought-provoking and motivating. Some of the chapter headings caught my attention: Obsessive and Complacent Christianity, It's Okay to Be Normal, Greatness for Average Joes, When God Throws a Party. Josh doesn't tell, he shows how this worked, and is working, in his own life. I appreciated his honesty, and enjoyed the parallels he made to his own life when he had to split his time between ministry and a second job at Starbucks. I wish this were an audiobook. I could play it as a regular reminder.
I received this book from Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.
I received this book from Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.
September 6, 2014
This book reminded me that God has a plan for all of us. Some of us are Disciples, some of us are preachers, and some of us are made to live everyday lives faithfully. By living the way we are chosen we are showing God's love in everyday activities. We each have our own talents that we can use to share God with others. I liked that this book was for everyday people, with every day jobs. Middle class workers are also mentioned. The questions for discussion would be great for Confirmation class or Bible Study. The book is easily read and the tier system was an interesting way to read the author's message. I recommend this book for any one in any job. I am giving this book a 4/5. I was given a copy to review from Book Club Network Inc., however all opinions are my own.
December 28, 2014
I've met the author and I can truly say that Josh is "radically normal". I believe his message is awake up call to believers to begin to see that the greatest works of Jesus were not done in a building. Jesus' greatest works were done outside the walls of the church. Josh's book Radically Normal is a challenge to see Walmart, the restaurants we frequent, the places we buy our gas, our workplace and our families as our greatest mission field. The book is great; meeting him in person was so much better. I recommend you invite him to speak at your church or group meetings.
January 13, 2017
Radically Normal was a normal book. (Hey, what did you expect?) In a culture where we are constantly urged to be “radical” Christians, author Josh Kelley provides a more balanced perspective by suggesting that it’s okay to be normal for Jesus. Rather than feeling guilty for not being radical enough, maybe we should strive to be radically normal. It’s a refreshing counterbalance to the prevailing ideas of what it means to live for Christ in the world today.
This review (with a brief book excerpt) first appeared on my blog, ChristyBower.com.
This review (with a brief book excerpt) first appeared on my blog, ChristyBower.com.
November 14, 2014
adically Normal is a book that can relate to anyone in any job. It is put in a way that anyone can understand. I felt it best read slowly to absorb it totally. The author shows that God does can about the small stuff and just desires obedience from us.
I received the book from the Book Club Network in exchage for my honest opinion.
I received the book from the Book Club Network in exchage for my honest opinion.
January 28, 2017
An excellent balance of living life as an ordinary Christian in whatever vocation to which God has called us while still avoiding complacency in our Christian walk. There is one chapter, the one on the end times, that I disagree with theologically, but overall, this is an excellent book. I plan to use it and the free online resources as a Sunday school class at my church.
November 29, 2014
This was a better book than I thought it might be. It really made me think and I agreed with much of what he said. He made me see some things in different ways. I hope it makes me a better person if I put some of this in action. I received this from bookfun.org for a fair and honest opinion.
April 5, 2017
INCREDIBLE! Very well written and engaging. Really challenged me in my thinking.
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