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Active Spirituality: Grace and Effort in the Christian Life
In Active Spirituality, Brian Hedges allows us to read someone else's mail. In a series of warm pastoral letters, written to a young Christian, he dives into the paradox of grace and effort in the life of faith.
Is my Christian life about trying or trusting? Would I describe my relationship to God as running or resting? Is my life more characterized by grace or effort?
Hedges makes it clear that it is trying and trusting, running and resting, dependence on grace and exerting disciplined effort. This balance is not about getting my doctrine right, but is key to living a healthy Christian life.
So pull up a chair, settle in, and read over Chris's shoulder as he tries to find a church, overcome discouragement, live a chaste life, and develop a plan for spiritual growth, all while learning to rest in the finished work of Jesus.
Is my Christian life about trying or trusting? Would I describe my relationship to God as running or resting? Is my life more characterized by grace or effort?
Hedges makes it clear that it is trying and trusting, running and resting, dependence on grace and exerting disciplined effort. This balance is not about getting my doctrine right, but is key to living a healthy Christian life.
So pull up a chair, settle in, and read over Chris's shoulder as he tries to find a church, overcome discouragement, live a chaste life, and develop a plan for spiritual growth, all while learning to rest in the finished work of Jesus.
- GenresChristian Living
146 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2014
10 people are currently reading
128 people want to read
About the author
Brian G. Hedges
23 books108 followersBrian G. Hedges is the Lead Pastor of Redeemer Church in Niles, Michigan and the author of multiple books including Christ Formed in You, Christ All Sufficient, Watchfulness: Recovering a Lost Spiritual Discipline, and With Jesus: Finding Your Place in the Story of Christ.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
May 23, 2025
Brian Hedges offers an encouraging, pastoral (albeit somewhat stodgy) series of fictional letters to a new believer on practical Christian living.
From a content standpoint, Hedges takes many of the supposed tensions and false dichotomies related to sanctification and perseverance and gives accessible, biblical treatments of the issues. In many ways, he is a "modern Puritan:"
"Modern" in that he is mercifully concise, as each letter is well-structured and can be read and understood in 5-7 minutes.
"Puritan" in his embrace of the whole counsel of God through careful distinctions and well-rounded definitions of key terms (Law, grace, justification, assurance, etc.).
Speaking of the Puritans, Hedges draws upon their wisdom liberally. If you were looking for a place to start reading them, you might just jump into his bibliography. But Hedges does not limit himself to “approved” sources, often commending authors who have real insights that I would likely have ignored due to illegitimate prejudice (I’m now reading a book on the seven deadly sins. Turns out that’s not just a Roman Catholic concept!).
Hedges’ penchant for citation and recommendation does, however, lead to one critique of the book: It feels like just that—a book.
I have read a few collections of letters at this point (fictional and real), and Hedges was by far the least immersive. Between the constant book recommendations and fairly niche theological questions he was addressing, I found myself wondering if Hedges simply wrote these “letters” as articles and added minimal personal details for the sake of making it a concept work.
In any case, I was greatly edified by this work. Hedges, much like in his excellent work on Watchfulness, calls Christians to strive for Christ and in Christ, but never to earn Christ.
Only if we grasp this emphasis can we embrace the whole Christ.
Rating: 7.5/10; I starred 14/31 letters to return to.
Recommended audience: People who have recently discovered the Doctrines of Grace; Anyone who thinks legalism is MORE DANGEROUS than antinomianism. . . Or anyone who thinks legalism is SAFER than antintomianism.
From a content standpoint, Hedges takes many of the supposed tensions and false dichotomies related to sanctification and perseverance and gives accessible, biblical treatments of the issues. In many ways, he is a "modern Puritan:"
"Modern" in that he is mercifully concise, as each letter is well-structured and can be read and understood in 5-7 minutes.
"Puritan" in his embrace of the whole counsel of God through careful distinctions and well-rounded definitions of key terms (Law, grace, justification, assurance, etc.).
Speaking of the Puritans, Hedges draws upon their wisdom liberally. If you were looking for a place to start reading them, you might just jump into his bibliography. But Hedges does not limit himself to “approved” sources, often commending authors who have real insights that I would likely have ignored due to illegitimate prejudice (I’m now reading a book on the seven deadly sins. Turns out that’s not just a Roman Catholic concept!).
Hedges’ penchant for citation and recommendation does, however, lead to one critique of the book: It feels like just that—a book.
I have read a few collections of letters at this point (fictional and real), and Hedges was by far the least immersive. Between the constant book recommendations and fairly niche theological questions he was addressing, I found myself wondering if Hedges simply wrote these “letters” as articles and added minimal personal details for the sake of making it a concept work.
In any case, I was greatly edified by this work. Hedges, much like in his excellent work on Watchfulness, calls Christians to strive for Christ and in Christ, but never to earn Christ.
Only if we grasp this emphasis can we embrace the whole Christ.
Rating: 7.5/10; I starred 14/31 letters to return to.
Recommended audience: People who have recently discovered the Doctrines of Grace; Anyone who thinks legalism is MORE DANGEROUS than antinomianism. . . Or anyone who thinks legalism is SAFER than antintomianism.
July 8, 2025
I really enjoyed this book and how it was written, how he draws out the wisdom between scripture and church history. Makes the theological truth easy to understand through questions, temptations, and encouragement. I would recommend this book to someone who wants to learn how faith and effort worked together in a Christians life.
May 30, 2014
Understanding the balance between faith in the finished work of the cross and the need for the believer to press on towards holiness through the work of the Holy Spirit in their life is a vital element of the Christian walk and something that quite frankly is grossly misunderstood in today’s Church. Amid the roaring din of the seemingly never ending confrontation between the overly legal and the overly grace oriented approaches that seem to unfortunately garner so much of the spotlight these days comes a book that clears the proverbial fog of war. Active Spirituality: Grace and Effort in the Christian Life by pastor and author Brian Hedges is a welcome respite from the aforementioned extremes that dominate the conversation.
This is a rather unique book in that Hedges approaches this topic by providing the reader with a series of fictional letters that serve as responses to a young man corresponding with him on various issues of the faith, most notably in the areas of assurance, the balance between trying and trusting, running the race and resting in God’s grace. Writing in this letter format rather than in the traditional exegetical style approach allows the reader to not be overwhelmed with theological terminology or lengthy dissertations on the nuances of the Hebrew or Greek. Instead, the reader is drawn into the conversation that takes place in these letters due to their honesty, insight, and practicality.
Hedges rightly notes an important point for consideration, namely that “While the doctrine of justification by faith alone rescues us from the frozen glacier of legalism, it’s the doctrine of the perseverance of the saints that liberates us from the miry bog of antinomianism”, a fancy theological term for the idea that as believers we have been freed from the constraints of God’s law. Hedges desires the letters in this book to be ones of spiritual counsel for those struggling with the same issues as the fictional character to whom he corresponds is dealing with rooted in the desire to present to the reader what active spirituality looks like in a real life setting, albeit in a discussion of fictional events. Hedges not only shares his own thoughts on what active spirituality looks like, he also weaves into the various letters truths shared by noted men of faith such as John Owen, John Bunyan, C. S. Lewis, and Martyn Lloyd-Jones, individuals who have written great tomes on this very subject. Of great benefit to the reader will be the interaction in several letters with John Bunyan’s classic work Pilgrim’s Progress, a story that truly dissects the hills and valleys of the Christian walk.
Throughout this excellent and timely book, Hedges presents a difficult topic in a thoroughly accessible manner dripping with pastoral care and concern. Those who read this book should take note of the approach of these letters, specifically the focus on providing helpful discussion and sage spiritual advice rather than merely demonstrating the numerous ways in which the Chris, the fictional character Hedges is writing to is getting things incorrect regarding the Christian walk. Such a tone and approach should be the hallmark of our discussions with those who struggle with these issues and if we were all honest, we would readily admit at various points in our lives we have struggled and continue to struggle with what it looks like to trust God yet persevere in the faith.
I highly recommend this wonderful book first and foremost to pastors, small group leaders, and especially middle and high school pastors and leaders. Many young people, especially those young in the faith or experiencing for the first time the wide world of temptation that attacks our youth today on so many fronts, struggle with standing firm in the faith, resisting the wiles of the devil, and grasping the fact they can stand firm on the promises of God and the finished work of the cross while maintaining a course on the straight and narrow path of holiness through the work of the Holy Spirit. Hedges’ book will greatly assist those dealing with such issues given its personal approach, real life scenarios, and the passion to come alongside those struggling to process how grace and effort both work in tandem in their lives.
I received this book for free from Shepherd Press via Cross Focused Reviews for this review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
This is a rather unique book in that Hedges approaches this topic by providing the reader with a series of fictional letters that serve as responses to a young man corresponding with him on various issues of the faith, most notably in the areas of assurance, the balance between trying and trusting, running the race and resting in God’s grace. Writing in this letter format rather than in the traditional exegetical style approach allows the reader to not be overwhelmed with theological terminology or lengthy dissertations on the nuances of the Hebrew or Greek. Instead, the reader is drawn into the conversation that takes place in these letters due to their honesty, insight, and practicality.
Hedges rightly notes an important point for consideration, namely that “While the doctrine of justification by faith alone rescues us from the frozen glacier of legalism, it’s the doctrine of the perseverance of the saints that liberates us from the miry bog of antinomianism”, a fancy theological term for the idea that as believers we have been freed from the constraints of God’s law. Hedges desires the letters in this book to be ones of spiritual counsel for those struggling with the same issues as the fictional character to whom he corresponds is dealing with rooted in the desire to present to the reader what active spirituality looks like in a real life setting, albeit in a discussion of fictional events. Hedges not only shares his own thoughts on what active spirituality looks like, he also weaves into the various letters truths shared by noted men of faith such as John Owen, John Bunyan, C. S. Lewis, and Martyn Lloyd-Jones, individuals who have written great tomes on this very subject. Of great benefit to the reader will be the interaction in several letters with John Bunyan’s classic work Pilgrim’s Progress, a story that truly dissects the hills and valleys of the Christian walk.
Throughout this excellent and timely book, Hedges presents a difficult topic in a thoroughly accessible manner dripping with pastoral care and concern. Those who read this book should take note of the approach of these letters, specifically the focus on providing helpful discussion and sage spiritual advice rather than merely demonstrating the numerous ways in which the Chris, the fictional character Hedges is writing to is getting things incorrect regarding the Christian walk. Such a tone and approach should be the hallmark of our discussions with those who struggle with these issues and if we were all honest, we would readily admit at various points in our lives we have struggled and continue to struggle with what it looks like to trust God yet persevere in the faith.
I highly recommend this wonderful book first and foremost to pastors, small group leaders, and especially middle and high school pastors and leaders. Many young people, especially those young in the faith or experiencing for the first time the wide world of temptation that attacks our youth today on so many fronts, struggle with standing firm in the faith, resisting the wiles of the devil, and grasping the fact they can stand firm on the promises of God and the finished work of the cross while maintaining a course on the straight and narrow path of holiness through the work of the Holy Spirit. Hedges’ book will greatly assist those dealing with such issues given its personal approach, real life scenarios, and the passion to come alongside those struggling to process how grace and effort both work in tandem in their lives.
I received this book for free from Shepherd Press via Cross Focused Reviews for this review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
June 5, 2014
Christian theology has many tensions and mysteries including: divine sovereignty and human responsibility, the immanence and transcendence of God and the two natures of Christ as fully God and man. We recognize that we will never fully comprehend these truths that can at times feel contradictory. Alas, we are human and trust in the divine wisdom of our Creator God.
Currently there is a debate among evangelical Christians about the doctrine of sanctification. Books and blog posts have been written in an effort to hone in on the Christian’s active responsibility in their sanctification process. The debate has centered on what the Christian is to do now that they have a new identity in Christ. There is no argument that our salvation is made possible on the basis of Christ’s work for us through His death and resurrection. But for some evangelicals this is where it gets tricky. Does the Christian life require effort? If it does, then are we no longer relying on Christ’s work but rather ours? With a theologians mind and a pastor’s heart, Brian Hedges has jumped into the discussion with his new book Active Spirituality: Grace and Effort in the Christian Life. Brian is no stranger to this discussion on sanctification as he previously touched on this topic at greater length in his book Christ Formed in You: The Power of the Gospel for Personal Change. Readers of Active Spirituality who have not read Christ Formed in You will be well served and strengthened in reading both.
The essence of Active Spirituality is to give a biblically faithful presentation of the doctrine of the perseverance of the saints. As Brian rightly emphasizes throughout the book, this doctrine has balanced emphasis on both the grace of God through the working of the Holy Spirit in our sanctification process and the responsibility of all Christians to “work out your own salvation with fear and trembling” (Phil. 2:12). At the beginning of the book Brian notes the emphasis on action in the Christians life
The Christian life is called a walk, a race, a contest, and a fight. We are told to run, to wrestle, to watch, and to stand. And the victors – those who conquer and overcome – receive great promises whereas terrible warnings go to those who grow sluggish and neglect the great salvation secured for us by Jesus. (13)
Hedges wants the reader to see that while God’s grace is certainly at the heart of our growth as Christians, we need to couple that with a serious desire to fulfill the many commands God has given the believer to obey as Christians. Though we are saved by grace and no longer under the Law, we are still under the Law of Christ and Christ has required of His people to live a certain way and work towards obeying His Word.
Active Spirituality is written in a unique style in that each chapter is crafted like a series of correspondences between Brian and a friend seeking spiritual counsel. The friend is fictional and the reader is not provided the content of the letters they might have written. What we are given are the responses by Brian to this person. For Brian though, he has in his mind the lives of those within his congregation that he counseled as well as friends outside of his pastoral ministry. The way the book is set up really helps the point of the book to hit home with the reader. The writing is warm and inviting and his skill as a pastor shines through. Additionally, Hedges knowledge of Scripture and theology are just as strong. He interacts with much helpful literature on the subject such as John Bunyan’s Pilgrim’s Progress, Thomas Schreiner and Ardel Caneday’s book The Race Set Before Us.
Active Spirituality packs a powerful punch in a short space. Hedges walks the line between grace and responsibility in the Christian life with care and wisdom. I recommend this book for new Christians and any Christian who is going through a time of great struggle over how to work out the so great a salvation that they have been given in Christ Jesus.
I received this book for free from Shepherds Press through Cross Focused Reviews for this review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Currently there is a debate among evangelical Christians about the doctrine of sanctification. Books and blog posts have been written in an effort to hone in on the Christian’s active responsibility in their sanctification process. The debate has centered on what the Christian is to do now that they have a new identity in Christ. There is no argument that our salvation is made possible on the basis of Christ’s work for us through His death and resurrection. But for some evangelicals this is where it gets tricky. Does the Christian life require effort? If it does, then are we no longer relying on Christ’s work but rather ours? With a theologians mind and a pastor’s heart, Brian Hedges has jumped into the discussion with his new book Active Spirituality: Grace and Effort in the Christian Life. Brian is no stranger to this discussion on sanctification as he previously touched on this topic at greater length in his book Christ Formed in You: The Power of the Gospel for Personal Change. Readers of Active Spirituality who have not read Christ Formed in You will be well served and strengthened in reading both.
The essence of Active Spirituality is to give a biblically faithful presentation of the doctrine of the perseverance of the saints. As Brian rightly emphasizes throughout the book, this doctrine has balanced emphasis on both the grace of God through the working of the Holy Spirit in our sanctification process and the responsibility of all Christians to “work out your own salvation with fear and trembling” (Phil. 2:12). At the beginning of the book Brian notes the emphasis on action in the Christians life
The Christian life is called a walk, a race, a contest, and a fight. We are told to run, to wrestle, to watch, and to stand. And the victors – those who conquer and overcome – receive great promises whereas terrible warnings go to those who grow sluggish and neglect the great salvation secured for us by Jesus. (13)
Hedges wants the reader to see that while God’s grace is certainly at the heart of our growth as Christians, we need to couple that with a serious desire to fulfill the many commands God has given the believer to obey as Christians. Though we are saved by grace and no longer under the Law, we are still under the Law of Christ and Christ has required of His people to live a certain way and work towards obeying His Word.
Active Spirituality is written in a unique style in that each chapter is crafted like a series of correspondences between Brian and a friend seeking spiritual counsel. The friend is fictional and the reader is not provided the content of the letters they might have written. What we are given are the responses by Brian to this person. For Brian though, he has in his mind the lives of those within his congregation that he counseled as well as friends outside of his pastoral ministry. The way the book is set up really helps the point of the book to hit home with the reader. The writing is warm and inviting and his skill as a pastor shines through. Additionally, Hedges knowledge of Scripture and theology are just as strong. He interacts with much helpful literature on the subject such as John Bunyan’s Pilgrim’s Progress, Thomas Schreiner and Ardel Caneday’s book The Race Set Before Us.
Active Spirituality packs a powerful punch in a short space. Hedges walks the line between grace and responsibility in the Christian life with care and wisdom. I recommend this book for new Christians and any Christian who is going through a time of great struggle over how to work out the so great a salvation that they have been given in Christ Jesus.
I received this book for free from Shepherds Press through Cross Focused Reviews for this review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
June 8, 2014
I actually do not know how or where to start my book review and I have done a few. So it’s not that I don’t know how there done! The thing is I’m overwhelmed in about what I need to say because almost all the Book is highlighted. This is an outstanding book to say the least! I am speechless or rather “wordless” about how I should bring forth to you my readers what is most important, because it seems that everything the author talks about is relevant. The thing is he touches on so many subjects and all of them are so brilliantly expressed in an articulate manner based on Sola Scriptura that it’s amazing and encouraging to read. It also reveals to the reader all that they may be struggling with and unsure of in certain issues in his or her life.
The format Hedges uses in the book is of writing as a pastor and answering back to a young man in letters, which makes for a wonderful read. The chapters are short and yet packed with insightful information all at once. I love how he blends his letters with some Puritan quotes along with Bible passages. It enriches the essence of our understanding of each subject, which encourages us to come to grips with them if we haven’t already understood them well.
This is a book that helps you be even more convicted of some biblical foundations and be rooted strongly in them more than ever. Or, it might just help you understand all your misconception if you have any, and nudge you to come to a clearer conviction based on the passages that he develops and then gives a clear explanation that is so well articulated. Nothing fancy just plain and simple!
I believe all Christians should read this book. Whether it is to reaffirm their faith or just to be encouraged in their spiritual walk. It would be a wonderful gift to offer a new Christian that’s for sure. He does admit to being a Reformed Baptist close to the end, yet somehow I found that this in no way came in contrast to my own personal biblical foundations or faith, and did not keep me from appreciating all the truths that Hedge so clearly exposed from the Scriptures. If we keep our minds focused on the truth of the Word then we can only be swayed from the Word! Putting aside the author and letting the Word speak is what is most important and that is what this author has been capable of doing in this book. I absolutely loved this book, really. So far I’d say it’s my number 1 of 2014 … but the year isn’t over yet! But this is a really GOOD one, REALLY!!!
Let���s see here are a few subjects he touches on that I really enjoyed:
- Grace verses works
Here’s a quote from the book that I loved.
« While grace is opposed to works in any kind of legalistic sense of earning favor, it isn’t opposed to our action and effort. Rather, grace produces our effort and sustains it. »
Brian Hedges. « Active Spirituality.»
- Is salvation unconditional?
He also talks about how « our culture tends to equate love with tolerance. » « But true love is not always tolerant. »
Another subject he touches on is - the biblical metaphor of the Christian life being a fight and the need for us to put on God’s armor.
- Our need for developing a Spiritual Growth Plan
These are just a few things that are in the book and frankly these are only the just the ones you actually would expect to find. I keep the others silent leaving you to discover them for yourself!
I want to leave you with a quote from his book and I am overwhelmed as to which one because as I said the book is almost all highlighted. But I must make a choice…
« First-century athletes ran in the nude, so that clothing wouldn’t entangle their feet, and Christians must metaphorically strip from our lives anything that keeps us from Jesus. »
Brian Hedges. « Active Spirituality. »
Something to mediate one while your waiting for your book to arrive!
Enjoy!
Ann L Beaulieu
*I have received a free copy by Cross Focus. However I am under no obligation to write a positive review. These are entirely my own personal opinions and thoughts expressed according to my own discernment.
The format Hedges uses in the book is of writing as a pastor and answering back to a young man in letters, which makes for a wonderful read. The chapters are short and yet packed with insightful information all at once. I love how he blends his letters with some Puritan quotes along with Bible passages. It enriches the essence of our understanding of each subject, which encourages us to come to grips with them if we haven’t already understood them well.
This is a book that helps you be even more convicted of some biblical foundations and be rooted strongly in them more than ever. Or, it might just help you understand all your misconception if you have any, and nudge you to come to a clearer conviction based on the passages that he develops and then gives a clear explanation that is so well articulated. Nothing fancy just plain and simple!
I believe all Christians should read this book. Whether it is to reaffirm their faith or just to be encouraged in their spiritual walk. It would be a wonderful gift to offer a new Christian that’s for sure. He does admit to being a Reformed Baptist close to the end, yet somehow I found that this in no way came in contrast to my own personal biblical foundations or faith, and did not keep me from appreciating all the truths that Hedge so clearly exposed from the Scriptures. If we keep our minds focused on the truth of the Word then we can only be swayed from the Word! Putting aside the author and letting the Word speak is what is most important and that is what this author has been capable of doing in this book. I absolutely loved this book, really. So far I’d say it’s my number 1 of 2014 … but the year isn’t over yet! But this is a really GOOD one, REALLY!!!
Let���s see here are a few subjects he touches on that I really enjoyed:
- Grace verses works
Here’s a quote from the book that I loved.
« While grace is opposed to works in any kind of legalistic sense of earning favor, it isn’t opposed to our action and effort. Rather, grace produces our effort and sustains it. »
Brian Hedges. « Active Spirituality.»
- Is salvation unconditional?
He also talks about how « our culture tends to equate love with tolerance. » « But true love is not always tolerant. »
Another subject he touches on is - the biblical metaphor of the Christian life being a fight and the need for us to put on God’s armor.
- Our need for developing a Spiritual Growth Plan
These are just a few things that are in the book and frankly these are only the just the ones you actually would expect to find. I keep the others silent leaving you to discover them for yourself!
I want to leave you with a quote from his book and I am overwhelmed as to which one because as I said the book is almost all highlighted. But I must make a choice…
« First-century athletes ran in the nude, so that clothing wouldn’t entangle their feet, and Christians must metaphorically strip from our lives anything that keeps us from Jesus. »
Brian Hedges. « Active Spirituality. »
Something to mediate one while your waiting for your book to arrive!
Enjoy!
Ann L Beaulieu
*I have received a free copy by Cross Focus. However I am under no obligation to write a positive review. These are entirely my own personal opinions and thoughts expressed according to my own discernment.
June 7, 2014
My spiritual life is guided by two firm convictions. First, I believe in the gospel grammar is indicative-imperative. That is, the gospel–the good news–is first proclaimed and received before we are told how to walk in it. In contrast, I also believe the way is made by walking and some truth is not apprehended by us until it is enacted. It gets into your bones before it enters your brain. This is one of the reasons that the sacraments are such a powerful component to the spiritual life. We are told “eat this . . .drink this” and in our eating and drinking we come to a deeper knowledge of our life in Christ. Grace precedes effort, but effort will sometimes yield a deeper understanding of God’s grace.
A new book from Brian Hedges called Active Spirituality explores the relationship of Grace and effort. Writing from a Reformed, Baptist perspective, Hedges labors to show that though Christians are recipients of God’s unmerited Grace, we are not ‘saved’ to sit on our laurels (as though we saved ourselves). Hedges demonstrates that the Reformed doctrine of the ‘Perseverance of Saints’ doesn’t mean you can sin all you want and still be saved. Instead it means that true believers will persevere in the faith–continuing on the way to sanctification and union with Christ. So in an epistolary style, Hedges crafts thirty-one letters to “Chris,” a young Christian he counsels to keep pursuing God and maturing in his Christian faith. An opening letter to the reader serves as an introduction to this collection.
The letter writing format ensures that each chapter is brief (about three or four pages long). But while the chapters are short, Hedges is not short on content. He discusses at length acedia, that spiritual malaise which zaps our spiritual energy. He also talks about the nature of grace, the importance of participating in church life, the need to be attentive to your own spiritual health, the assurance of salvation, the dangers of self-trust, and how to run the race set before us (and yes, more). These letters to a young Christian, allow Hedges to encapsulate theological truths with pastoral sensitivity and he draws on examples from film, music, literature (especially C.S. Lewis and John Bunyan) as he makes his appeal. Drawing on the Reformed heritage, Hedges has a special love for the Puritans.
I appreciate this book for it’s practical and pastoral advice. I am not quite a Calvinist. I call myself a .5 Calvinist, meaning I am only half way there. Though I think that point five, of TULIP which enshrines the ‘Perseverance of the Saints’ described here is a encouraging theology and I like what Hedges does here. Those coming from a Wesleyan-Holiness perspective, will find occasion to disagree with Hedges theology in places (especially as he describes Sanctification). However this book could still be read beneficially by those (like me) outside the Reformed camp. One of the benefits of the letter format, is that Hedges presents his theology humbly. I give this four stars and recommend this book for young Christians. ★★★★
Thank you to Shepherd Press and Cross Focused Reviews for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
A new book from Brian Hedges called Active Spirituality explores the relationship of Grace and effort. Writing from a Reformed, Baptist perspective, Hedges labors to show that though Christians are recipients of God’s unmerited Grace, we are not ‘saved’ to sit on our laurels (as though we saved ourselves). Hedges demonstrates that the Reformed doctrine of the ‘Perseverance of Saints’ doesn’t mean you can sin all you want and still be saved. Instead it means that true believers will persevere in the faith–continuing on the way to sanctification and union with Christ. So in an epistolary style, Hedges crafts thirty-one letters to “Chris,” a young Christian he counsels to keep pursuing God and maturing in his Christian faith. An opening letter to the reader serves as an introduction to this collection.
The letter writing format ensures that each chapter is brief (about three or four pages long). But while the chapters are short, Hedges is not short on content. He discusses at length acedia, that spiritual malaise which zaps our spiritual energy. He also talks about the nature of grace, the importance of participating in church life, the need to be attentive to your own spiritual health, the assurance of salvation, the dangers of self-trust, and how to run the race set before us (and yes, more). These letters to a young Christian, allow Hedges to encapsulate theological truths with pastoral sensitivity and he draws on examples from film, music, literature (especially C.S. Lewis and John Bunyan) as he makes his appeal. Drawing on the Reformed heritage, Hedges has a special love for the Puritans.
I appreciate this book for it’s practical and pastoral advice. I am not quite a Calvinist. I call myself a .5 Calvinist, meaning I am only half way there. Though I think that point five, of TULIP which enshrines the ‘Perseverance of the Saints’ described here is a encouraging theology and I like what Hedges does here. Those coming from a Wesleyan-Holiness perspective, will find occasion to disagree with Hedges theology in places (especially as he describes Sanctification). However this book could still be read beneficially by those (like me) outside the Reformed camp. One of the benefits of the letter format, is that Hedges presents his theology humbly. I give this four stars and recommend this book for young Christians. ★★★★
Thank you to Shepherd Press and Cross Focused Reviews for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
June 8, 2014
“At its heart, this book is about the perseverance of the saints.” The presented form of this book is a series of “letters written to someone in the throes of temptation and endurance, agony and ecstasy, victory and defeat…struggling young adult trying to find a church, live a chaste life, and walk with Jesus.” Brian G. Hedges’ book discusses backsliding, apostasy, atonement, and perseverance while walking in faith. For example, in Letter 1: Walking in the Way discusses staying on course with your walk, have faith in your walk with God and a warning that “the most fatal thing is to stop walking.” This advice given to a young adult Christian (Chris) in a depressive state struggling with his walk with Jesus is given as a letter of encouragement, to continue the good fight of faith.
Further, Letter 7: The Danger of Apostasy and Letter 10: The Danger of Backsliding forewarns that backsliding may lead to apostasy and reading the Book of Hebrews will lend a clearer view to those dangers. Researching apostasy (disaffiliation, abandonment or renunciation of a religion by a person), I found that in some countries it is considered a crime with punishment of imprisonment, excommunication from the church, flogging, and in some instances, death. Considering apostasy as a crime dates back as far as the 7th century and is thriving today, believing an apostate has committed a crime against God. The Danger of Backsliding accounts neglecting prayer and worship leading to a dangerous apostate status. Letter 16: The Good Fight of Faith reassures “Chris” that fighting a good fight of faith is not easy and that “Our fallen world isn’t friendly to faith” and “Every time I read my Bible, evil is at my elbow.” Letter 17: Put on the Gospel Armor follows with reinforcement of Bible verse Isaiah 59:17, putting on the whole armor of God to protect you against evil and holding worldly possessions above God’s sovereignty.
In reading Active Spirituality, there is substantial wealth of information for someone drifting away from his or her faith in God. The clever use of a letter format prepares you for an effortless, uncomplicated, and comprehensible reading. Mr. Hedges speaks from a Calvinism viewpoint, yet all Christian denominations can use certain information relayed in his work to provide assistance to another. I recommend the book to any person who is drifting away from faith in God and want a clearly identifiable understanding of how walking in faith with Him will give direction toward the correct path.
I received this book free from the Cross Focus Review program for an honest and unbiased opinion.
Further, Letter 7: The Danger of Apostasy and Letter 10: The Danger of Backsliding forewarns that backsliding may lead to apostasy and reading the Book of Hebrews will lend a clearer view to those dangers. Researching apostasy (disaffiliation, abandonment or renunciation of a religion by a person), I found that in some countries it is considered a crime with punishment of imprisonment, excommunication from the church, flogging, and in some instances, death. Considering apostasy as a crime dates back as far as the 7th century and is thriving today, believing an apostate has committed a crime against God. The Danger of Backsliding accounts neglecting prayer and worship leading to a dangerous apostate status. Letter 16: The Good Fight of Faith reassures “Chris” that fighting a good fight of faith is not easy and that “Our fallen world isn’t friendly to faith” and “Every time I read my Bible, evil is at my elbow.” Letter 17: Put on the Gospel Armor follows with reinforcement of Bible verse Isaiah 59:17, putting on the whole armor of God to protect you against evil and holding worldly possessions above God’s sovereignty.
In reading Active Spirituality, there is substantial wealth of information for someone drifting away from his or her faith in God. The clever use of a letter format prepares you for an effortless, uncomplicated, and comprehensible reading. Mr. Hedges speaks from a Calvinism viewpoint, yet all Christian denominations can use certain information relayed in his work to provide assistance to another. I recommend the book to any person who is drifting away from faith in God and want a clearly identifiable understanding of how walking in faith with Him will give direction toward the correct path.
I received this book free from the Cross Focus Review program for an honest and unbiased opinion.
June 6, 2014
“Active Spirituality” is not written as a basic theology book, but as a series of letters to a young Christian. It was refreshing to see this format in a book that deals with a few challenging topics. As someone who spends much of his time reading systematic theology or biblical theology, it was nice to see a different approach to theology by utilizing this genre. In my opinion, the use of fictional correspondence helps capture the pastoral heart of the author and helps to emphasize the overall message of the book.
In these letters, Hedges interacts with a new convert who is pondering the Christian life. He covers topics like assurance of salvation, the necessity of the local church, the perseverance of the saints, repentance, self-examination, and spiritual weariness (amongst others). While offering pastoral insight into texts such as Philippians 2, Romans 7, and the warnings in the book of Hebrews, he pulls from a wide variety of sources like Augustine, Bunyan, Owen, Ryle, Edwards, and Lewis to assist him in shepherding this young Christian who is seeking to live for God’s glory.
Overall, any disagreements I have with the book are hair-splitting objections to how something was worded, or knee-jerk reactions to his interpretation of a passage (that he has undoubtedly spent more time studying). While I am not particularly fond of some of the sources he cited, he refers to Bunyan and Owen quite frequently (which I applaud), and does an excellent job synthesizing references. Hedges is also great at creating illustrations from a number of different stories and genres. Unfortunately, this book has no footnotes or Scripture index, but there is a helpful “Notes on Sources” appendix as well as a bibliography.
“Active Spirituality” is a useful little book for people who have recently embraced Christ as their Savior and King. Helping to navigate through the various challenges that await Christians in this life, the author provides pastoral care and concern throughout and offers wise biblical counsel to someone that needs guidance in their sojourn to the celestial city. This is a title that I would use in discipling new believers, and I’ll continue to dip into for it’s practicality and vast bibliography. Hedges has done the Church a service by giving us an easy-to-read and immensely practical book about the balance between grace and effort.
I received a free copy of the book for the purpose of review. I was in no way coerced or encouraged to write a favorable review.
In these letters, Hedges interacts with a new convert who is pondering the Christian life. He covers topics like assurance of salvation, the necessity of the local church, the perseverance of the saints, repentance, self-examination, and spiritual weariness (amongst others). While offering pastoral insight into texts such as Philippians 2, Romans 7, and the warnings in the book of Hebrews, he pulls from a wide variety of sources like Augustine, Bunyan, Owen, Ryle, Edwards, and Lewis to assist him in shepherding this young Christian who is seeking to live for God’s glory.
Overall, any disagreements I have with the book are hair-splitting objections to how something was worded, or knee-jerk reactions to his interpretation of a passage (that he has undoubtedly spent more time studying). While I am not particularly fond of some of the sources he cited, he refers to Bunyan and Owen quite frequently (which I applaud), and does an excellent job synthesizing references. Hedges is also great at creating illustrations from a number of different stories and genres. Unfortunately, this book has no footnotes or Scripture index, but there is a helpful “Notes on Sources” appendix as well as a bibliography.
“Active Spirituality” is a useful little book for people who have recently embraced Christ as their Savior and King. Helping to navigate through the various challenges that await Christians in this life, the author provides pastoral care and concern throughout and offers wise biblical counsel to someone that needs guidance in their sojourn to the celestial city. This is a title that I would use in discipling new believers, and I’ll continue to dip into for it’s practicality and vast bibliography. Hedges has done the Church a service by giving us an easy-to-read and immensely practical book about the balance between grace and effort.
I received a free copy of the book for the purpose of review. I was in no way coerced or encouraged to write a favorable review.
June 7, 2014
"Is the Christian life about trying or trusting? Would I describe my relationship to God as running or resting? Is my life more characterized by grace or effort?"
When I read this short summary of Active Spirituality: Grace and Effort in the Christian Life, I was hopeful that it would help me strike a balance between God's work and my work in living in living out holiness in my everyday life. I hoped it would help me think through legalism versus obedience, going through the motions versus living in a spirit-empowered way. This book did -- and will continue to do -- just that.
I tried to do a very quick read (in order to meet my review deadline) but found myself wanting to linger often. Despite the book's casual style, pastor/author Brian Hedges provides a careful handling of deep biblical truths about living a healthy Christian life.
Presented as a series of pastoral letters written "to a struggling young adult trying to find a church, live a chaste life, and walk with Christ." The tone is conversational and application-oriented. Don't be fooled by the friendly letter format; this book packs a substantial doctrinal punch.
Hedges addresses issues faced by his correspondent such as discouragement, depression, and assurance. Teaching from Scripture, Hedges also draws from the writings of authors such as John Bunyan, John Owen, C.S. Lewis, and -- for a more contemporary source -- Tom Schreiner, Michael Horton, and Timothy Keller, among others. (I always enjoy it when reading one book leads me to another book, and another...)
My somewhat quick read will be just a first read. This is a book I'll need to read again, digest more thoroughly, and apply carefully. I'll be glad to recommend this book to the thoughtful new convert and the struggling Christian alike (and don't we all fall into those categories at one time or another?).
When I read this short summary of Active Spirituality: Grace and Effort in the Christian Life, I was hopeful that it would help me strike a balance between God's work and my work in living in living out holiness in my everyday life. I hoped it would help me think through legalism versus obedience, going through the motions versus living in a spirit-empowered way. This book did -- and will continue to do -- just that.
I tried to do a very quick read (in order to meet my review deadline) but found myself wanting to linger often. Despite the book's casual style, pastor/author Brian Hedges provides a careful handling of deep biblical truths about living a healthy Christian life.
Presented as a series of pastoral letters written "to a struggling young adult trying to find a church, live a chaste life, and walk with Christ." The tone is conversational and application-oriented. Don't be fooled by the friendly letter format; this book packs a substantial doctrinal punch.
Hedges addresses issues faced by his correspondent such as discouragement, depression, and assurance. Teaching from Scripture, Hedges also draws from the writings of authors such as John Bunyan, John Owen, C.S. Lewis, and -- for a more contemporary source -- Tom Schreiner, Michael Horton, and Timothy Keller, among others. (I always enjoy it when reading one book leads me to another book, and another...)
My somewhat quick read will be just a first read. This is a book I'll need to read again, digest more thoroughly, and apply carefully. I'll be glad to recommend this book to the thoughtful new convert and the struggling Christian alike (and don't we all fall into those categories at one time or another?).
June 7, 2014
Hedges is the Lead Pastor of Fulkerson Baptist Church in Niles, MI, where he has been since 2003. He blogs at brianghedges.com.
This book is a practical book dealing with the issue that sanctification, or growth in grace, is something that requires active obedience by the Christian. It is not a how-to book, which is to its author’s credit. Sanctification is something that looks different in every Christian, and proceeds individually, though the Spirit uses the same means with each person. It is written as a series of thirty-one letters to a young Christian making those first toddling steps in grace. Each letter is only 3-4 pages, so the book would make helpful devotional reading over the course of a month.
Hedges doesn't say anything new here, but what he says is clear and helpful. The book is strengthened by the fact that Hedges has relied on some very reliable guides in charting his course. There are few better guides on this issue that John Bunyan, John Owen, and J. C. Ryle. In addition, Hedges makes judicious use of C. S. Lewis who, regardless of his theological shortcomings, was an astute student of human (and Christian) nature. The notes at the end of the book direct the interested reader to the works of the authors that Hedges has relied on. As a Presbyterian, I could wish Hedges had said more about the role of the church and sacraments. But the book is a solid piece of practical theology that will repay repeated readings.
This book is a practical book dealing with the issue that sanctification, or growth in grace, is something that requires active obedience by the Christian. It is not a how-to book, which is to its author’s credit. Sanctification is something that looks different in every Christian, and proceeds individually, though the Spirit uses the same means with each person. It is written as a series of thirty-one letters to a young Christian making those first toddling steps in grace. Each letter is only 3-4 pages, so the book would make helpful devotional reading over the course of a month.
Hedges doesn't say anything new here, but what he says is clear and helpful. The book is strengthened by the fact that Hedges has relied on some very reliable guides in charting his course. There are few better guides on this issue that John Bunyan, John Owen, and J. C. Ryle. In addition, Hedges makes judicious use of C. S. Lewis who, regardless of his theological shortcomings, was an astute student of human (and Christian) nature. The notes at the end of the book direct the interested reader to the works of the authors that Hedges has relied on. As a Presbyterian, I could wish Hedges had said more about the role of the church and sacraments. But the book is a solid piece of practical theology that will repay repeated readings.
June 6, 2014
“Acedia” n. spiritual or mental sloth; apathy. Thomas Aquinas wrote about it in the 13th century. Brian Hedges writes about it in the 21st century. Medieval monks worried about it in the midst of their solitude. We confront it in our media age. “I sometimes wonder if acedia now manifests itself in frittering time away on smartphones and the Internet, in channel surfing…” (pg. 25)
This book appears at an opportune time, as a debate is ongoing concerning the believer’s means of sanctification. Into the fray steps the author, who addresses the issue using an unusual format, a series of letters written to a young Christian. It is a follow up to his first book Christ Formed In You: The Power of the Gospel for Personal Change.
Brian Hedges believes that acedia is the enemy of progressive sanctification. “We are after all, commanded to grow. Contrary to what some people may think or desire, spiritual transformation doesn’t happen instantaneously or automatically. Rather, change is an intentional process. It requires planning” (pg. 101).
This book presents the balance between resting in Christ and walking with Christ in the Spirit. Although I confess the book started slow for me, and its style may not be for everyone, I recommend it.
This book freely provided for review by Shepherd Press and there was no expectation of a positive review.
This book appears at an opportune time, as a debate is ongoing concerning the believer’s means of sanctification. Into the fray steps the author, who addresses the issue using an unusual format, a series of letters written to a young Christian. It is a follow up to his first book Christ Formed In You: The Power of the Gospel for Personal Change.
Brian Hedges believes that acedia is the enemy of progressive sanctification. “We are after all, commanded to grow. Contrary to what some people may think or desire, spiritual transformation doesn’t happen instantaneously or automatically. Rather, change is an intentional process. It requires planning” (pg. 101).
This book presents the balance between resting in Christ and walking with Christ in the Spirit. Although I confess the book started slow for me, and its style may not be for everyone, I recommend it.
This book freely provided for review by Shepherd Press and there was no expectation of a positive review.
June 4, 2014
Personally, this was a very hard review for me to write, I had to sit down and think very hard about what I could say.
Active SpiritualityBrian Hedges has brought to us a book written to Christians on our daily walk with God. Written in a letter form, with lots of illustrations from authors we all know well; it is easy to read through the doctrine that he has supplied.
What I found is that Mr. Hedges is deep in the Reformation movement, which is different from my view of the Bible, nonetheless, Mr. Hedges has gone into deep lengths to explain the Reformation side of doctrine.
This would be an excellent book for those who are interested in the Reformation movement, or others who would like to see what it is all about.
I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Active SpiritualityBrian Hedges has brought to us a book written to Christians on our daily walk with God. Written in a letter form, with lots of illustrations from authors we all know well; it is easy to read through the doctrine that he has supplied.
What I found is that Mr. Hedges is deep in the Reformation movement, which is different from my view of the Bible, nonetheless, Mr. Hedges has gone into deep lengths to explain the Reformation side of doctrine.
This would be an excellent book for those who are interested in the Reformation movement, or others who would like to see what it is all about.
I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
January 19, 2015
Excellent Read
This is quite honestly one of the best books I've read in a long time. Wonderfully written, and there was so much beautiful theology that drove my heart to worship again and again. The theology was deep and rich, yet it wasn't above anyone's head. In this fictional portrayal of the author mentoring a young believer through letters, I think there is a lot here for anyone who loves the things of God to benefit from. Personally, I was encouraged again and again. The struggles this young believer dealt with aren't limited to new Christians. As I read the letters of encouragement, and sometimes rebuke, to this young man...I too was encouraged in my own walk and spurred on to be faithful in the midst of whatever struggle I was having. I also enjoyed the many references to other works of theology and literature from the great saints past and present. If you're like me, after reading this book you'll have an even bigger "to read" pile.
I honestly can't recommend this book highly enough.
This is quite honestly one of the best books I've read in a long time. Wonderfully written, and there was so much beautiful theology that drove my heart to worship again and again. The theology was deep and rich, yet it wasn't above anyone's head. In this fictional portrayal of the author mentoring a young believer through letters, I think there is a lot here for anyone who loves the things of God to benefit from. Personally, I was encouraged again and again. The struggles this young believer dealt with aren't limited to new Christians. As I read the letters of encouragement, and sometimes rebuke, to this young man...I too was encouraged in my own walk and spurred on to be faithful in the midst of whatever struggle I was having. I also enjoyed the many references to other works of theology and literature from the great saints past and present. If you're like me, after reading this book you'll have an even bigger "to read" pile.
I honestly can't recommend this book highly enough.
November 16, 2014
I really enjoyed reading Active Spirituality: Grace and Effort by Brian G. Hedges. It is written in the form of letters to a friend that is having problems in his life and It made me feel that Brian had written these letters to me. I usually have a hard time reading theological type books but this one kept me interested. There are many references to chapters in the bible and he makes you see how the bible does relate to us. It will help you learn to be more Active Spiritually in your life.
I received this book through goodreads first reads.
I received this book through goodreads first reads.
September 27, 2016
I really enjoyed the letter format of this book. It seemed so personal, like a friend exhorting me and encouraging me in my walk with Christ, rather than giving me a lecture. I particularly liked the many quotes from well-known authors, like C.S. Lewis. To quote Hebrews 12:1, as I read this book it felt like being 'surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses'.
May 16, 2014
Here's my review of Brian's new book. http://www.servantsofgracebookreviews...
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