Becoming Like Jesus: The Everyday Journey to Living a Life of Holiness

by Matt Chandler

When Jesus spoke the "Blessed are . . ." Beatitudes, He didn't say they were a formula for happiness or the keys to the kingdom. Instead, they were a declaration from God about believers despite our weaknesses and failures. The Christian life is not up and to the right but a lifelong series of highs and lows that the Holy Spirit uses to shape us into a person who looks like Jesus.

In this book, Matt Chandler guides readers through one of the more famous passages of Scripture—Jesus' beatitudes (Matthew 5). Most Christians read these "Blessed are . . ." statements and think, Once I get it all together, then I'll feel blessed. But that's not what Jesus said. When introducing the beatitudes, Jesus didn't describe eight different kinds of people but eight qualities of the same person.

These beatitudes are not what make you a Christian. But if you are a Christian, over time Jesus is going to turn you more and more into this kind of person that reflects God's kingdom. You can't just decide to be poor in spirit. You can't just determine that you'll be meek or disciplined enough to be pure in heart. No, as you seek a deeper and more intimate relationship with Jesus Christ through the Gospels, He will develop in you a new way of living that helps

understand how desperately you need God,mourn not only your sins but the state of the world,humbly serve the Lord instead of build your own kingdom,hunger and thirst for right relationships with God and others,show mercy because of how merciful Jesus has been to you,seek purity by living with integrity and being transparent,share the peace and good news of Jesus wherever you go, andremember your heavenly reward when enduring persecution on earth. 

Wherever you are in your journey, whatever your stage in life, or no matter beatitudes are more challenging right now, you can be sure that God is shaping you into someone who looks like Jesus. Don't be discouraged, because every high and low, every victory and loss, is being used by God to move you forward.

Genres: Christian, Nonfiction, Christianity

256 pages, Hardcover

Published April 28, 2026

About the author

Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.

Matt Chandler is the lead pastor of The Village Church, a multi-campus church in the Dallas metroplex of over 10,000 people. His sermons are among the topselling (free) podcasts on itunes and he speaks at conferences worldwide. Prior to accepting the pastorate at The Village, Matt had a vibrant itinerant ministry for over ten years where he spoke to hundreds of thousands of people in America and abroad about the glory of God and beauty of Jesus. He lives in Texas with his wife, Lauren, and their three children: Audrey, Reid and Norah.

Reviews

[Champ · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was tremendous! I haven’t read a ton of books this year so far, but this sets the mark for book of the year for me. Matt is such a great author. I’ve read some of his other books and done the Bible studies that accompany them, this might be my favorite to date! The information he gives on the beatitudes is so good. Even going beyond them just connecting in a down to Earth manner, makes it such an easy and understandable read. The stories of his life and illustrations used help to explain so well. Not just saying “you need to do this” but actually using real life examples of how it is done he does so well. He explains it without shying away from how hard it is and how we fail over and over. His story is one that many can relate to on some level. His experiences are so relatable and from them he is able to give wisdom to help you when you go through it. This is one of those books when you are finished you have more highlighted than you don’t! Highly recommend!

I was given this book #sponsored through NetGalley by W Publishing Group a part of Thomas Nelson, to read early in exchange for an honest review. This however will be a book I purchase myself to have my own personal copy. I would like to thank Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for the opportunity to review and all my opinions are my own.

[Jeff · Rating 5 out of 5]

Even though we do not live in the Dallas area, my family watches The Village Church each week to listen to Pastor Matt Chandler. One of my favorite passages of scripture is The Sermon on the Mount (which opens with The Beatitudes). What could go wrong with mixing the teaching of Pastor Chandler and The Beatitudes? Nothing. It’s more like, “What could go right?” and the answer to that is, “Everything.”

Chandler does a masterful job of breaking down The Beatitudes in the original language and how it applies to our lives today. In breaking each one down, Chandler challenges to be more like Jesus every day. He gives real life examples and some funny stories/analogies/pop culture references to boot.

Matt Chandler has proven himself to masterfully teach the scriptures. He does so with his personality sprinkled in. It makes for an easy, but challenging read. This is not shallow. Your toes are going to be sore after each chapter. And in the end, the focus is not to follow the author’s teaching, it is to follow our Savior’s teaching. And to become more like Jesus.

Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for providing an ARC for an unbiased review.

[Michael · Rating 4 out of 5]

Becoming Like Jesus is a gospel centered book to view our spiritual growth by not just the rule of the Bible but a lifelong transformation on the Holy Spirit can give. The book breaks down the Beatitudes from Matthew 5 and sets the framework of Christlikeness is formed in our everyday moments not just religious moments.

I do think that Chandler has a way in presenting the book where it feels like a friend conversation and makes it easy to read chapter by chapter without feeling overwhelmed. I really like how Chandler puts such a huge emphasis on grace and realism. Instead of perfection, he constantly points back to the dependence we have on Christ. This allows us to see our struggles and progress in light of God's work.

Overall its encouraging and filled with lots of scripture to back up the context of what Chandler is saying. It is a great read for one who may want to understand discipleship more or grow more into a Christlike character without feeling pressured by some performance based method.

Overall. I would read this book again and share with a friend.

Thanks to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson for providing me an advanced reader copy. All opinions are my own.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are a lot of books that talk about following Jesus. Fewer actually press you into becoming like Him. That’s what Becoming Like Jesus by Matt Chandler does - it doesn’t let you stay comfortable.

This isn’t just information. It’s formation.

Chandler walks through what it actually looks like for the heart to be reshaped into the likeness of Christ, and he does it in a way that is both deeply theological and intensely practical. It’s not fluffy, but it’s also not distant. It hits where it needs to hit.

Mercy is a major thread, and it’s not the safe kind. “Mercy is given through nearness” and “Mercy always offends the self-righteous” force you to wrestle with how you actually live and who you avoid. And you’re reminded—“Mercy flows from mercy.” This isn’t something you manufacture; it’s something you’ve received.

This book doesn’t just affirm you - it confronts you. Not to leave you there, but to call you forward into real transformation. To help you on your journey of Becoming Like Jesus.

[Kati Pike · Rating 4 out of 5]

Matt Chandler’s newest book, Becoming Like Jesus, covers the idea of becoming like Jesus with a special focus on how the ten beatitudes lead us in our sanctification. Each chapter covers a different beatitude and how we are becoming like Jesus while embodying the specific posture of that beatitude, but for me, the best chapter was the last one that brought it all together. I highlighted SO MANY passages about how Jesus is forming us through our circumstances and relationships and especially loved the reminder that challenging personal interactions are discipleship, not a distraction, and often reveal our need for grace.

It’s a 4.5 star read for me, but I won’t round up because he quoted Jean Vanier, who is problematic, and I bet he could find a similar quote from someone who didn’t abuse women.

Thanks to Thomas Nelson for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review. #sponsored

[Alyssa DenHartigh · Rating 5 out of 5]

thank you NetGalley & Thomas Nelson Publishing for the advanced copy. My opinions are my own.

I'm only 2 chapters in, but want to give feedback sooner rather than later. I'm taking my time with this book as it is convicting. I want to absorb it's depths. Not just read it to get through it. This is not my first book by Matt Chandler, nor will it be the last. His writing (and sermons) have truth & love in equal parts that can only come from a life that is truly dedicated to following Jesus. This book goes through the beatitudes in a way that both newer & older believers can benefit from. Highly recommend reading. I will update my review as I read.

[Tara Burkum · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you struggle to feel like you’re really getting anywhere in your walk with Christ, or maybe you’re weary on this narrow road, pick up this book.

Matt Chandler brings some clearer understanding to the beatitudes and how Jesus is forming us into a people who reflect Matthew 5- through the mountaintops and the valleys in our lives, from one degree to the next.

I am thankful to have these words, and a clearer understanding that Jesus runs toward us in our weaknesses, not away. “He wants all of life, for all of life.” He’s not afraid of any past, present, or future sin or failure. And through these pages the beauty of that truth is brought to the surface again and again.

[Lily Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shout-out to Netgalley for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
4.5 rounded up. This book is excellent. The half star ding is for the way that he often breaks the chapters up into so many headings, which can break up the flow of reading and make it feel choppy. However, Matt is an amazing communicator, otherwise, and this book is no exception. This was my first experience reading something on the Beatitudes, and it really deepened my understanding of them. I particularly enjoyed the chapters on the "pure in heart" and those who are "persecuted for righteousness' sake." This book is convicting, encouraging, humble, and overall shows a deep understanding of the subject matter.

[Lance · Rating 5 out of 5]

Becoming Like Jesus: The Everyday Journey to Living a Life of Holiness by Matt Chandler is great read that uses the Beatitudes in Mathew chapter 5 as a framework for transforming your life and becoming more like Jesus. Matt tells his readers this book is a compilation of knowledge and experiences thirty three years in the making.

I really enjoyed this book and Matt Chandler’s easy to read and understand style. He emphasizes how God can transform and use ordinary people like you and me. I highly recommend this book.

This ARC was given to me by Thomas Nelson in exchange for an honest review.

[Kimberly Deluca · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deep thought-provoking words on how sanctification is a life long process not a bolt of lightening experience. Pastor Matt Chandler cuts to the quick on a Christian life that embodies the Beatitudes as a woven together tapestry.

This is a book filled with deep truth in how sanctification is not a step-by-step process but rather a slow kiln that stokes the fire in your soul to keep going in grace for yourself and others.

Press into Christ not your own strength and live each season fully in the coil of sanctification.

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fantastic look at the Beatitudes from Matthew 5 in the Bible. These are character qualities that God continuously develops through the circumstances of our lives. We cycle through the qualities with each bringing deeper transformation.

A thought-provoking book and one you can read again and again for new insights. Highly recommend.

Family friendly.

Thanks to NetGalley and W Publishing. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Ophelia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Matt Chandler’s Becoming Like Jesus is outstanding. The content is genuinely top-notch—deeply biblical, convicting, and practical. Chandler does an excellent job unpacking what it actually looks like to be conformed to the image of Christ in everyday life. I walked away encouraged and challenged.

The writing can feel a bit choppy at times, and some of the stories feel slightly forced or tangential, but those are minor distractions that don’t detract from the overall power of the book. Highly recommend it for anyone serious about spiritual growth. Worth every minute.

[Alicia Kirkman · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first time really studying The Beatitudes. I loved how each chapter focused on a different Beatitude and did a deep dive into applying it to our lives. I learned so much and could feel the Holy Spirit tugging at me in areas that I struggle with. This book lives up to its title. It is a great book for helping us grow as Christians by becoming more like Jesus.

Thank you to Thomas Nelson for the ARC through NetGalley.

#sponsored

[Kelly Duggan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you for the advanced copy of the book. It is hitting all the marks of how a life rooted in Christ can and should look. It emphasizes how God meets us where we are and moves us toward sanctification not just once in our life but time after time in amazing new ways. I'm enjoying rediscovering the Beatitudes, and Matt's style is easy to read, understand and appreciate. If you love his preaching - you'll love this book!

[Rebecca · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a good overview of the beatitudes! I appreciated the variety of sources and voices that Matt pulled in to support his work.

I had a hard time getting past the ChatGPT-esque writing style, however, which ultimately distracted me from his message. To be clear, I’m not saying that he used ChatGPT in the writing of this, just that it had many of the signature writing characteristics.

Overall, a great message, but lacked the punch of his previous book “Explicit Gospel”.

[Helen Reese · Rating 5 out of 5]

Matt Chandler did it again! He manages to break down Jesus’ words - known as the beatitudes - in Matthew 5 so the reader can see how He moves toward us for a “life of presence, victory, and deep transformation.” Every chapter is rich with teaching, insight and experiences to give the reader a picture of progressive sanctification. No matter where you are in your journey with the Lord, this book will lead you to a deeper understanding of Jesus’ teachings. Perfect for a small group study!

[Deonza M · Rating 5 out of 5]

Weary walker? This book is your reminder that growth isn't always a straight line up. It's a beautiful exploration of how Jesus uses all of life to shape us.
Matt Chandler breaks down the Beatitudes in a way that shifts the focus from winning and losing to simply staying tethered to Jesus. It’s a powerful reminder that He is forming us through every season, loving us through our messes, and that His grace covers our past, present, and future.

[Dalton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing read! As someone who has grown up in the church, I've run into times of discouragement when I've felt like my faith was stagnant and not really growing. Matt's coil illustration really helped me reflect back on my own life and moving through the beautitudes, and how each time a new obstacle enters my life, I am more like Christ than I was before. Highly recommend this book to anyone who is interested in becoming more like Jesus!

[Lynn Coles · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book. I hadn’t looked at the Beatitudes this way before. I find Matt’s writing style very readable and have very much enjoyed his other books. This one did not disappoint.

If you’ve ever felt stuck in your walk with Christ—like you’re trying but not really moving forward—or if the journey has just left you feeling worn down, this is a book worth picking up.

Matt has a way of bringing fresh clarity to the Beatitudes, unpacking how Jesus is shaping us into people who actually live out Matthew 5. He doesn’t present it as a distant ideal, but as something formed in us over time—through both the mountaintop moments and the valleys. Growth isn’t instant; it’s gradual, happening one step, one surrender, one degree at a time.

What I appreciated most is how this book gently reframes how we see Jesus in our weakness. Instead of pulling away from us when we fall short, He moves toward us. That truth alone is incredibly freeing. The reminder that “He wants all of life, for all of life” isn’t presented as pressure, but as an invitation—an invitation into something deeper, fuller, and more honest.

Matt also does a beautiful job of addressing the reality of our sin and failure without leaving us stuck in it. He points us back, again and again, to a Saviour who isn’t intimidated by our past, overwhelmed by our present, or uncertain about our future. There’s a steady thread of hope running through every chapter.

Overall, this book feels like both a challenge and a comfort. It calls you forward while reminding you that you’re not walking alone—and that even in your weakest moments, Jesus is already drawing near.

If you are tired of trying to ‘do better’ and need the Lord to speak in to your soul, this book is for you. I have pre purchased a copy ahead of time but obtained an advance copy to review. You won’t be disappointed with this book and it’s definitely a great book to gift to others. I highly recommend it. ⭐️⭐️ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

[Norma Igarta! · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another amazing read. Matt gives us so much insight and encouragement into the true gospel as we can see it on our day to day lives. He explains growing and learning so well and as so much more than any white knuckling or hard effort. It is a walk that cannot be had outside of the Spirit. Thoroughly enjoyed this!

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has been life transforming! The way Pastor Matt weaves the Beatitudes together is such a fresh way to look at Christ's very words. This book will challenge the reader to examine every area of their life and align it with Christ!!! A MUST read.

[Miranda Eserman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Becoming Like Jesus is a powerful book that uses the principles of the Beatitudes to guide, challenge and stir the deep calling of living a life for and with Jesus. It provokes an awakening from mediocrity and uses scripture, humor and gut-punching truth to challenge the reader to embrace the life we have been called to live. Pastor Matt Chandler’s personal vulnerability, knowledge of scripture and craft of writing creates relatable stories that our soul craves and humanity longs for.

[Dano · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book very well written and such a wonderful job using the beautitudeds to help us become more like Jesus

[Carolina Muthyala · Rating 5 out of 5]

You don’t want to miss reading this one!

Two words: Gritty and real. Through the lens of the Beatitudes, Pastor Matt gets to the heart of what the journey of sanctification really looks like in the life of the believer. Each chapter walks you through a Beatitude, exploring God’s heart for it’s meant to cultivate in us, and how they ultimately shape a truly blessed life.

In doing so, the book offers hope and encouragement, inviting the believer to lift their eyes and see how the slow, honest, often messy work Jesus does over a lifetime weaves itself into one big tapestry of the Master’s plan.

It’s a must read for anyone who wants to experience the fullness of a life lived in Christ as we are being conformed into His image!

[Shayna Thomas · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great book and a great reminder of how we need to live differently to become more like Jesus.

[Amanda Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. This book! I couldn’t get enough of it. Matt really broke down what the beautitudes are and ARENT. Each chapter had me stopping and asking God where I have hidden sin I need to work on. It convicted me, encouraged me, built me up! Matt did such a great job making it relatable, engaging, and informative. He lovingly called out what each of us need to work on, and explained God’s true love and meaning behind the beatitudes, which can seem confusing to understand. Can’t recommend this book enough.

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am currently reading an advanced copy of Becoming Like Jesus, and God’s plan for us to live fulfilled and joyful lives, even in times of sorrow, is the message that Matt Chandler shares when discussing the Beattitudes, poverty of spirit, and the shaping and strengthening of our Christian faith. I have read the first three chapters, and this book has already been a blessing. I am very much looking forward to the next chapter.

April 28: I completed the book, and I loved it! The Beatitudes were beautifully and meaningfully discussed. I strongly recommend Becoming like Jesus for Christians who long to grow in their walk with Jesus.