The Reluctant Disciple: A Parable about Reconciling Faith and Business

by Robin Pou

An inspirational parable of spiritual self-discovery to help fully integrate your personal Christian faith with your professional life

Peter Christiansen is a man on a mission to become the top home builder among the elite of Dallas, but his early success has stalled. After failing to land yet another large prospect, Peter makes an impulsive decision that leaves him stranded and seriously injured. A Good Samaritan couple, Jim and Mary, rescue Peter and provide aid to help his body and his soul heal.

Through discussions with Jim and Mary about God and his grace, Peter revisits past events in his life where he thought God had all but abandoned him. These conversations show Peter more than he ever thought possible about God’s love, His mercy, and a path toward understanding how faith and his professional world are surprisingly compatible.

This provocative parable strikes at the dichotomy of the pursuit of business success and living a purpose-driven life. If you are a Christian wrestling with the seemingly incompatible nature of faith and success in business, The Reluctant Disciple will open up the possibility to see your business endeavors as a gift from God to be used for your good and His glory.

Genres: Nonfiction

204 pages, Hardcover

Published May 28, 2024

Reviews

[W. Whalin · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Page-Turner Story

Executive coach and author Robin Pou has written a riveting story about Peter Christensen, a builder who grew up in Mesquite, Texas and is traveling on a private jet to close an important contract in Taos, New Mexico. When Peter arrives, his deal goes south, and he leaves the meeting in a rush during the start of a snowstorm. In his haste, he leaves his lucky satchel and his cell phone. Lost he rolls his vehicle and a couple of Christians Jim and Mary find him and nurse him back to health. Peter is a church attender but has no faith relationship. THE RELUCTANT DISCIPLE is a moving story about his business and personal discovery of a higher purpose in his life.

In an early conversation with Jim, Peter explains that an in-depth conversation would be welcome. “Jim nodded, “I firmly believe,” he began, “that everyone I meet is providential. It is a meeting ordained by God. Our conversation yesterday about miracles really impacted me. You, Mesquite Pete, are a miracle.” (Page 57)

I enjoyed THE RELUCTANT DISCIPLE. Businesspeople and many others will gain multiple insights through reading it. I highly recommend it.

W. Terry Whalin is an editor and the author of more than 60 books including his recent 10 Publishing Myths, Insights Every Author Needs to Succeed .

[Jeanette Durkin · Rating 4 out of 5]

God always has a plan!

An interesting and inspiring book! This book was not what I expected. It turned out to be so much more! Peter is on the cusp of achieving the next level in his career. A horrible accident changes his entire perspective on his life and his faith. Jim and Mary are people I'd like to emulate. They are kind, compassionate and not ashamed of their faith. Their loving care helps Peter open his heart to forgiveness. This book reminds us that God always has a plan, we just have to trust him!
Special thanks to Goodreads for providing a giveaway for this book!

[✨ ੈ✩‧April ♡ ʚ♡⃛ɞ✨ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Robin Pou’s "The Reluctant Disciple: A Parable About Reconciling Faith and Business" is a compelling and thought-provoking read that masterfully blends the realms of spirituality and professional life. This insightful parable follows the journey of David, a successful businessman struggling to balance his ambitious career with his deep-rooted faith.

Pou's storytelling is both engaging and inspiring, presenting complex themes through relatable and well-drawn characters. David's journey is one of self-discovery and spiritual awakening, making the narrative not only relevant but deeply resonant for anyone facing similar dilemmas in their own lives. The parable format allows Pou to weave profound lessons into a captivating storyline, making the book an easy and enjoyable read while still delivering powerful messages.

What sets "The Reluctant Disciple" apart is its practical approach to reconciling faith and business. Pou offers readers tangible insights and actionable advice, showing that it is possible to thrive in the business world without compromising one's spiritual beliefs. The book encourages readers to look inward, reflect on their own values, and find a harmonious balance between their professional aspirations and their faith.

In addition to its insightful content, the book is well-written and beautifully paced. Pou's writing is clear, concise, and filled with wisdom, making it accessible to readers from all backgrounds. The parable is rich with real-world applications, making it a valuable resource for business professionals, leaders, and anyone seeking to integrate their faith into their daily lives.

Overall, "The Reluctant Disciple" is an inspiring and enlightening read that offers a fresh perspective on the intersection of faith and business. Robin Pou has crafted a timeless parable that will resonate with readers long after they turn the last page. It is a must-read for those looking to enrich their professional lives with spiritual purpose and integrity.

[Shell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Peter thought he was getting to the top of his game, about to sign a contract to build a mega mountain top home for a hedge fund manager. This would put him in the big leagues and get him out of his financial woes. He flies to Taos in a private jet, visits the home of the man who wants him to build, meets many rich, influential people, and then finds out he's not getting the contract. In his anger, he leaves the top of the mountain, in the middle of a blizzard, and wrecks the truck. He's eventually found by a couple who take him to their valley home to nurse him back to health.

Because of the storm, there's no electricity or phone service. No one knows where he is. As he is nursed back to health, the couple discusses God and faith with him. As Peter tells of several incidents in his recent past, they point out where God's hand was guiding him.

I really enjoyed this book, not only because what was discussed was biblically based, but also it was in words and ideas the average Christian could easily understand. I highly recommend this book for everyone, but especially for those Christians who are struggling to really develop their personal relationship with God. #GoodreadsGiveaways

[Benjamin Shurance · Rating 2 out of 5]

This is a short novel about a successful businessman going through a spiritual awakening. Think The Shack but a lot more run-of-the-mill. It's being touted as "inspirational parable of spiritual self-discovery" probably because its literary chops are barely enough to constitute a "novel." That said, I got through it, so it's not all bad.

There is some plot and character development (a bit uneven and unbelievable), but it's mostly a lot of Christian spirituality-speak which tries to sound conversational. Most of it is sound, occasionally it is insightful. I particularly appreciated the emphasis on God being intelligent (and therefore trustworthy).

It's cheesy in its straightforwardness and blunt in its aesthetics, and that might appeal to the audience it's intended for. There are three moments in the book where the guru-type characters talk about the Old Testament language being Greek, which, given the nature of the writing, I think was unironic and therefore a pretty big gaffe.

Note: I received an ARC of the book from NetGalley.

[G Newman · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Reluctant Disciple by Robin Lou is a great story done in fable style. I like these types of books because the author communicates the basic message of the book in a relatable style. Lencioni, Blanchard and others use this style with great effectiveness. Pou joins this illustrious group of writers with "The Reluctant Disciple."

Robin Pou is an executive coach and speaker with previous author experience, but this is his first venture into this type of writing. The tale takes us on a journey most have taken with careers. Focusing on the business and not on the other important parts of our lives often gets us bogged down and miserable. Our hero is no different until a life changing experience changes his perspective and his future. While the book has a Christian focus, the practicality of the lessons taught would benefit anyone. I really enjoyed the book and hope Robin Pou will continue the tale with a second book on how our hero adapts what he discovered marooned in the mountains into practical steps in business, family and faith.

[Sofi · Rating 1 out of 5]

"The Reluctant Disciple: A Parable About Reconciling Faith and Business" by Robin Pou falls short of its ambitious premise. The narrative feels forced and lacks the depth necessary to convincingly bridge the gap between faith and business. Character development is superficial, making it difficult to connect with the protagonist's journey. Additionally, the dialogue often comes across as preachy rather than insightful. Despite its good intentions, the book struggles to engage and inspire, ultimately leaving readers dissatisfied and unfulfilled.

[Cynthia Mertensmeyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Robin Pou's giftedness for getting to the heart of things in his reinforcing and positive coaching style is evident in this inspirational, probing, "draw you in" story. Experience the renewing transformation of Peter's life in this book about when "life happens," our choices either propel us into deeper questioning and internal strife or into choices that take us to new heights of what it means to truly be men and women of faith. You won't be able to put it down, and you won't be able to read it without some worthwhile self reflection as well! Definitely a Good Read!

[Crystan M.]

The Reluctant Disciple had many good points about faith and work, but I don't feel it met its goal entirely. The writing style wasn't for me, and the characters felt flat. While I have lived my life in communities where it's fine to discuss faith, most of the dialogue felt forced and over the top. It was worth reading, but I doubt I'll read it a second time.

I won this ebook in a goodreads giveaway. My thanks to the author for sharing his work.

[Diane · Rating 4 out of 5]

As Robin’s Aunt Diane I am very proud of his willingness to be vulnerable and authentic. Recognizing several family stories makes this an even better read for me. Living and walking a Christian path every day is not an easy task. It takes tenacity and faith. In this book Robin encourages that walk.

[Jessica Surgett · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the depth of this book. The author uses a fictional story to illustrate real truths that I found impactful and very accessible. This story might be about incorporating faith and business, but beneath that it is about dying to yourself and incorporating the Lord into you.

[Paula]

I received this book as a Goodreads giveaway.

Very easy read. Reminded me somewhat of “The Shack” without all the loss. Very good reminders throughout the book of God’s goodness and the humble part we have in His world.

[Kari Olson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful story

I received this book from a Goodreads Giveaway, and I'm so glad I did. What a wonderful story of how God works in our lives, and aptly timed for this time in my life. I couldn't put this book down! I enjoyed it very much!

[Aletha Pagett · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a story about a man who encountered God when he didn't even know he was looking for Him. An enjoyable, thought provoking e-book received from Goodreads.

[AMAO]

✍️✍🏼✍🏽

[Deb · Rating 5 out of 5]

A sweet reminder that God is always with us even in the valleys and that we can do his will in everyday interactions and endeavors.

[Meggan Stanton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book. It is fast moving, captivating and there is a lesson here for everyone.

[Kirk Weikart · Rating 3 out of 5]

A story of a borderline Christian's journey through tragedy that ignites his search for purpose. An interesting, if not predictable, story.