Waking Up is a vulnerable 30-page expose of the personal journey the author and most who call themselves Christian find themselves on in this life. A journey full of inconsistencies that are unsustainable and eventually lead to a fractured worldview. And yet that same journey can lead to a radical rediscovery of love, peace and identity in a world blurred by confusion, unworthiness and anxiety. Also includes the first of The Forgotten Way Mediations, a 21-day journey that will change your life. "If there is one elephant in the room among most of us who call ourselves Christian, it is that what we think and say we believe and what we actually experience are all too often two, radically different realities," the author writes. "Ironically, we ourselves are often the last to see this disparity." We claim to be saved in the next life, but can we find peace in the storms that rise up against us in this life? The answer is an unequivocal yes. But that yes means looking at ourselves and the world around us differently which leads to a new way of being in the world. So take a look. See what millions of Christians are now seeing. This short booklet is an invitation for all who can relate with the author’s writing to take the journey themselves through A.D 33, a radical novel of discovery, and The Forgotten Way Meditations, 21 short reflections on life that will change the way you see yourself and the world.
Ted Dekker is known for novels that combine adrenaline-laced stories with unexpected plot twists, unforgettable characters, and incredible confrontations between good and evil. Ted lives in Austin with his wife LeeAnn and their four children.
Interesting insight and perspective from a very successful Christian author, one we would think of as "successful". From the world's perspective, he is, of course, but what about from God's perspective? This short book is about his walk in finding the Way, and his desire to see other Christians find the Way, as well.
This could easily be developed into a very good Bible study for a small group or Sunday School class. In actuality, that's the purpose of this book: to reveal a 21-lesson study written by the author, titled "The Forgotten Way". I'm definitely going to be looking into this study!
Most essays aren't page-turners. Most essays don't hold my attention for very long. This essay was different. I stayed up until the wee hours of the morning, reading it all in one sitting.
Ted Dekker's Waking Up is a personal story of his childhood at a boarding school in Indonesia, his journey to being published, and his search for acceptance in this life. Using direct yet imaginative allegories, Ted paints an image of how our relationship with God should be.
The first half of this book was probably my favourite. Ted's intense, addictive writing drew me in from the first page, and though it was still incredibly written the whole way through, I did lose a little bit of interest. Maybe it was because I was being told less of how to do something, and more of what to do? I'm not entirely sure.
Still, Waking Up was an amazing read. Though it did not dive into God-Christian relationships as I would've liked, there were some very well-thought points. One of the those that stuck with me the most was the reminder that God loves us in the way that He asks us to love others: Unconditionally, mercifully, trustingly.
Waking Up is a short and enlightening little read that I highly recommend. :)
You may want to know: There is the brief mention of cannibals.
Having been a reader of Dekker's novels for years and as a result intrigued by both his incredible productivity and faith, I was delightfully surprised by this short testimony of his faith walk. What I've also noticed in the past few novels, particularly The Water Walker and Outlaw books, something had shifted in Dekker's faith.
This candid testimony goes some way to explain that shift in his faith.
Dekker starts by taking us through his early experiences as a child of missionaries and his schooling back in America. His yearning for more in his relationship with Jesus started young and led him to do what many of us believe we need to do: work harder at it. His restlessness for more was one of the key reasons, he notes, for his incredible productivity at writing novels.
He outlines what changed, the revelations he's experienced that brought upon a significant shift in his relationship with Jesus, or Yeshua, as he likes to call Jesus. I've read an abridged version of AD 30 and am now keen to read more in AD 33.
My only frustration when I finished this quick read was I wanted more and in particular hoped I could grab a copy of the 21-day devotional that he's produced to help all of us to better experience Jesus. However, unfortunately, it's not available at the moment.
Every Ted Dekker fan will enjoy this as will anyone struggling with a restlessness in their spirit for more of Jesus.
Waking Up was an okay read. It was insightful to get this aspect into Dekker's mind, however the book just wasn't my cup of tea. I found parts confusing, but I appreciated Dekker's honesty.
Almost like the writer had me in mind when he wrote it
In tears right now even as I write this review. Not even a fan of Ted Dekker. I tried to read one of his books once, and it didn't resonate with me, but this one definitely did. I have no words to express how grateful I am that I encountered this book at the time that I did. God's timing is perfect. As a writer, a PK/MK, and just as a Christian jaded by the disconnect between what I know and believe to be true and what I see, God used this book to address so many areas that He wanted to shed light to.
A book about our identity in Christ and what it means to be a new creation. The old has gone, the new has come.
I got this free on iBook and it looked intriguing, but I was disappointed in most ways but impressed by one. The book has one major fault it seems to support a weird version of universalism that has everyone in Christ but the only ones who will live like are those who go on a transformational journey to align ourselves with our true identity. The problem here is that though sanctification is a journey salvation is not. Salvation is instantaneous at the moment that we see the glorious gospel and come to faith in and through it. We are not already in Christ we already in sin steeped in our depravity. Let me finish with the good which was found on one page and this helped immensely. He compared sanctification and the old man vs new man to the new man being an author and the old man (this body of flesh) being a character, sometimes the character goes rogue and the author isn't able to steer him right but when the character is submissive to the author the character will do right. Basically our flesh is must be surrendered to Christ and who we are in Christ or it won't do what it should. So let me finish by saying I wouldn't recommend this book to anyone. If there lost it won't give them the gospel so it's useless for that. If there saved they stand a very good chance of getting confused or lead into heresy. One good illustration in a book makes for a poor read but I'm glad I at least got that bit of good.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Dekker gives a quick overview of a recent revelation in his relationship with God. Sort of like a mini autobiography. The message is an important one. This would not be an easy piece to write, but it feels unpolished.
What I liked: - The message that we are loved passionately and unconditionally by God. - That the peace and joy God offers does not equal fame and fortune here in this world. - Dekker's honesty as well as his willingness to think outside his known world to find a deeper truth about God.
What I didn't like: - This piece feels like it was not edited. I think it would have been more powerful as a pure testimonial rather than asking the reader if he or she can relate periodically. Further, the flow I've come to expect from Dekker was missing.
The message is what makes this book. If Dekker had polished this a little more and let his testimony do the talking for him, this would have earned five stars. For the price (free) it's an excellent value.
This little book delivers a powerful punch. It is honest and straightforward. The author shares his experience on how he tried desperately to be accepted by God and others. Finally he realized how much God loves him. Readers are challenged to give themselves totally over to God who gives us us a life of joy, freedom, and abundance. Most Christians are not living the lives they are meant to live, as true children of Christ. As children of God we are meant to live above fear which is dishonorable to our Father. I can't give this book justice but I believe it should be read by anyone who professes to be a Christian.
I've read more than 10 of Ted's books with no regret. I believe this is his second non-fiction piece (the first excellent one being "The Slumber of Christianity") and it is truth to its core and very apropos in this day and age of stress, politics, weather tragedies, dissatisfaction and confusion. Faith defining and heart rendering truth, and yet a simple call for Christians to, "wake up and simply smell the coffee." Just BE who God says you already are! But take the time to make sure you get God's viewpoint, not just a lazy, "I'm okay, you're okay."
Not just self help words. Not just a God's-in-control, I'm waiting mentality. A relationship; a realization of the now and knock in the head to wake up your perception! You WANT to read this quick read and JUST DO IT!
This is a very short booklet, around 27 pages, that if shortened could serve as an introduction to his newer books A.D. 30 or A.D. 33. It is nice hearing from an author the transformation as well as lessons learned while going through life. He proffers a message that need to be embraced by Christians everywhere: Surrender all to our loving Father, love yourself, and love others. We can count it all joy if we are able to trust God and let Him rule our walk.
A very short memoir on a topic that keeps pounding away at me....enjoy who you are in Christ...rid yourself of the lies of unworthiness, shame, earning favor...and trust who you are in Him and in His unconditional love for you as His child. It was also offered for free...bonus!! "Who are you being right now, at this moment? Do you want to “fly” again? Or maybe you want to fly for the first time, because in your life “flying” is loving God with all of your heart, loving yourself as you are loved, and loving all others as yourself."
This is a great testimonial from a man that seemingly had it all, but was "sleeping" spiritually. I love Ted Dekker and he is one of my favorite Christian fiction authors. Great fantasy, mystery, scary story writer, so I jumped on this non-fiction book. From his fiction books, you would have thought he had it all together, but like most of us who follow Jesus, he still struggled with his identity. I think this book is great, a must read for every Christian, no matter your denomination. I appreciate that he offered it for free. I give it five stars, I loved it. Good for teens and up.
Decent enough. I read the first few pages and then it took me months (October 3rd 2015 - March 8th 2016) to actually sit down and finish the thing. Once I got into it, it turned out to be a quick read. Interesting but not enthralling, even if I did almost tear up at one point. Liked it but didn't love it.
"We are all looking for a better way of being in this world."
Although it is a fully Christian driven story, and invitation into this religion. Waking Up gives a deeper consideration and though upon our search for identity, fulfillment and truth as individuals and society.
Dekker shares his experience searching for God or an Ultimate Force above us all. Politely admitting that different organizations could have manipulated or misinterpreted the Message. He writes about what he went through in order to find the right path into, what he thinks, is the Greatest Transformation.
Even if you are not entirely religious or don't believe in Christianity, this book is a must to understand better our need of faith and transcendence. If you do believe in Christianity, then you can adapt this Forgotten Way of viewing your religion. If you are a Ted Dekker fan, this will help you get better understanding from his other novels.
"Who are you? Really, you live to discover that. And when you do, you will see that you are far more than you have imagined."
I haven’t read any of Ted Dekker’s fiction, as I gather they're dark and often violent or gory. However I spotted a free e-book he had written offering a short biographical booklet, and downloaded it out of curiosity.
‘Waking up' is an honest reflection on the author’s life, delving into his past when he was sent to boarding school at the age of six. Most of the booklet describes struggles with his faith as an adult, even after becoming a well-known writer, and how he 'woke up' to the reality of life in Christ.
The teaching isn’t new, but the writing is excellent, and many of the anecdotes or ideas are quite thought-provoking. Worth reading by anyone who has enjoyed Dekker’s books, or who is interested in the background to some of his books. Those without faith may find the Christian element a bit too strong, but it’s one person’s experiences, with a positive outcome.
Thank you, Ted, for your personal witness. I have experienced much of what you share.
Luisa Piccarreta writes from Jesus what you've described. Her 36 volumes are called: The Book of Heaven - The Call of the Creature to the Order, the Place and the Purpose for Which He Was Created By God.
I truly was surprised at how your conclusions written so succinctly are found there. Her Call Is to Teach us How to "Live In" God's Thrice-Holy Divine Will, Fusing With Him, Fulfilling "on earth AS IT IS in Heaven".
You lay a great foundation for this! I hope you get a chance to read them, exploring further and deepening that which you've experienced and shared!
Additionally, both AD 30 and AD 33 were instrumental in opening my eyes more clearly to Yeshua. Again, many thanks, and Godspeed to us all on this Great Journey of Unification Through, With and In Him, Who Loves us First and Always! Fiat!
It's such a simple truth, one we knew before we forgot and mortal persuasion created fear. If only it were as easy to undo the fear by remembering and living in truth as it is to be persuaded by lies. What a wonderful existence. I hope I'm able to teach my grandsons how to stay in their own truth given how desperate I was to remember my own. Spectacular read for those of us who are striving to love God, our self and all others and refusing to be blinded by those who live in fear. If only the simple explanation and truth of these pages could reach the accusatory minds of all hands I hope to place them in, faith, hope and love could once again fill our hearts as our Souls continue this journey. I am grateful to have found your work. Thank you.
I have very much appreciated Ted Dekker's writings through the years, which is why I was interested in this book. Dekker is a master storyteller; I especially loved his novel Three. However, I was disappointed with how poorly written this was and the fact that it is an infomercial promoting another book.
While the author's description of his childhood and the struggles that stemmed from early traumas was revealing, the rest of the book seemed a bit repetitious and philosophical. I appreciate his frankness and his heart, and the message was not bad, but the medium was faulty. There were more typos and grammatical errors than I could count. Apparently he did not have his usual editorial team working on this piece.
Over the years I've always been fascinated by other people's testimonies about their struggles to find the right amount of faith to God or losing it for good and finding it again by going through hell because I love seeing a new sight in things. Everyone's belief is different in many ways, but knowing that I'm not the only one who thinks at times that I'm not worthy of God's love and his blessings - or even if I do, getting here was a long way up - is a relieving feeling. Like I can finally breathe. So it was a very enjoyable read for me!
I had never read a book by Ted Dekker until now and I am glad I did. He brought forth his story and points in a way that makes one look at their own life. So much of what is talked about in this book reflects the way I feel right now. I am looking forward to a new journey and see where God takes me. The title really fits the book as well because the points made are truly waking up.
As a struggling author myself, I have always admired the writing prowess of Mr. Dekker. This short autobiography helped me to see the man behind the name - someone who struggles / struggled with the same existential meanings that I do today. And in it all, he decreases and Christ increases. Decker becomes less as he magnifies the God of creation. Excellent and brief uplifting read. Thank you.
Enjoyed this assistance in spiritual self-examination. What did I get out of it? All the additional Bible studies, retreats or church services can not replace the simple act of intentional loving. To understand God’s love for me, I must love others, especially ones who are challenging, in the same way. Peace and joy accompany the act, as well as, a oneness with Christ. Best hour of the day!
I have walked with God for over 50 years, and learned new facets of my inheritance in Him as I read this book. I kept thinking of who I could share these truths with, where freedom is found! It's a must-read for every Christian, most especially those like me, who have lived for Him for a long time. Living in Him and His love, in Dekker's found way, will be fresh air and renewed joy and strength!
This book is among many goodreads. The book took me on a very pleasant journey
This book allowed me to experience something very special, something spiritual, and lovely. As I read this book and began to get closer and closer to the end of this book. I began to think about the next book that I might have the opportunity to read written by the same author. I look forward to indulging in the next goodread
I just finished this in two evenings, probably should have taken it slower! Ted Dekker opens his testimony ( with vulnerability) to share his ongoing journey. A must share with friends. I can't wait to reread this and highlight sections. I'll really study it. Will be adding the book (The Forgotten Way) to my Christmas list!
This books is amazing! The confidence and peace it spoke into my life will definitely go down as a life changed.
I would recommend this book. It is refreshing and definitely needs to be read once a year as a great reminder of how much better we are as daughter/son of the Father. Thank you for your obedience in writing this book.
Eye opening. Mind blowing. Soul shaking. To borrow a phrase, we all wonder what the Matrix is but are we ready for the answer? It is right there, within each of us but it takes courage and Faith to find it. Ted Dekker is the proverbial Morpheus. We are the One. What will you decide?
I believe Ted is on the path that seems to be a awakening of many of my brothers and sisters. So many are tired and fed up with forms and rules that don’t bring peace or fulfillment. There is way that seems right to men but it’s end is death. The Way of the Father is the only way. Thank you Ted for shining a little on the path less traveled