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Born Again
In 1974 Charles W. Colson pleaded guilty to Watergate-related offenses and, after a tumultuous investigation, served seven months in prison. In his search for meaning and purpose in the face of the Watergate scandal, Colson penned Born Again. This unforgettable memoir shows a man who, seeking fulfillment in success and power, found it, paradoxically, in national disgrace and prison. In the decades since its initial publication, Born Again has brought hope and encouragement to millions. This remarkable story of new life continues to influence lives around the world through a dozen foreign editions.
352 pages, Paperback
First published November 30, 1975
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3781 people want to read
About the author
Charles W. Colson
135 books193 followersAlmost 40 years ago, Charles W. Colson was not thinking about reaching out to prison inmates or reforming the U.S. penal system. In fact, this aide to President Richard Nixon was "incapable of humanitarian thought," according to the media of the mid-1970s. Colson was known as the White House "hatchet man," a man feared by even the most powerful politicos during his four years of service to Nixon.
When news of Colson's conversion to Christianity leaked to the press in 1973, The Boston Globe reported, "If Mr. Colson can repent of his sins, there just has to be hope for everybody." Colson would agree.
In 1974 Colson entered a plea of guilty to Watergate-related charges; although not implicated in the Watergate burglary, he voluntarily pleaded guilty to obstruction of justice in the Daniel Ellsberg Case. He entered Alabama's Maxwell Prison in 1974 as a new Christian and as the first member of the Nixon administration to be incarcerated for Watergate-related charges. He served seven months of a one- to three-year sentence.
After leaving prison, Colson founded Prison Fellowship Ministries in 1976, which has since become the world's largest outreach to prisoners, ex-prisoners and their families. Today, Colson remains a member of the board of Prison Fellowship Ministries.
A sought-after speaker, Colson has written more than 30 books, which collectively have sold more than 5 million copies. His autobiographical book, Born Again, was one of the nation's best-selling books of all genres in 1976. Another bestseller, co-authored by Nancy Pearcey, How Now Shall We Live, is considered one of the most important books written on the subject of Christian worldview. His most recent book, The Faith, is a powerful appeal to the Church to re-embrace the foundational truths of Christianity.
In 1991 Colson launched BreakPoint, a unique radio commentary that provides a Christian perspective on today's news and trends. BreakPoint is currently aired weekdays to more than 1,300 outlets nationwide that reach and estimated 2 million listeners.
Today Colson is focused full time on developing other Christian leaders who can influence the culture and their communities through their faith. The capstone of this effort is The Chuck Colson Center for Christian Worldview, an online research and training center launched in 2009 for the promotion of Christian worldview teaching. In addition to a vast library of worldview materials, the Colson Center provides online courses and serves as a catalyst for a growing movement of Christian organizations dedicated to impacting the culture. The Colson Center website also hosts Colson's popular weekly Two-Minute Warning video commentary aimed at engaging a younger generation with a biblical perspective on cultural issues.
In 2009, Colson was a principal writer of the Manhattan Declaration, which calls on Christians to defend the sanctity of human life, traditional marriage and religious freedom. Nearly half a million people have signed the Manhattan Declaration. Collaborating with other Christian ministries, BreakPoint aims to launch other ecumenical grassroots movements around moral and ethical issues of great concern.
In recognition of his work, Colson received the prestigious Templeton Prize for progress in religion in 1993, donating the $1 million prize to Prison Fellowship. Colson's other awards have included the Presidential Citizens Medal, the nation's second-highest civilian honor (2008); the Humanitarian Award from Dominos Pizza Corporation (1991); The Others Award from The Salvation Army (1990); the Outstanding Young Man of Boston from the Boston Chamber of Commerce (1960); and several honorary doctorates from various colleges and universities (1982-2000).
When news of Colson's conversion to Christianity leaked to the press in 1973, The Boston Globe reported, "If Mr. Colson can repent of his sins, there just has to be hope for everybody." Colson would agree.
In 1974 Colson entered a plea of guilty to Watergate-related charges; although not implicated in the Watergate burglary, he voluntarily pleaded guilty to obstruction of justice in the Daniel Ellsberg Case. He entered Alabama's Maxwell Prison in 1974 as a new Christian and as the first member of the Nixon administration to be incarcerated for Watergate-related charges. He served seven months of a one- to three-year sentence.
After leaving prison, Colson founded Prison Fellowship Ministries in 1976, which has since become the world's largest outreach to prisoners, ex-prisoners and their families. Today, Colson remains a member of the board of Prison Fellowship Ministries.
A sought-after speaker, Colson has written more than 30 books, which collectively have sold more than 5 million copies. His autobiographical book, Born Again, was one of the nation's best-selling books of all genres in 1976. Another bestseller, co-authored by Nancy Pearcey, How Now Shall We Live, is considered one of the most important books written on the subject of Christian worldview. His most recent book, The Faith, is a powerful appeal to the Church to re-embrace the foundational truths of Christianity.
In 1991 Colson launched BreakPoint, a unique radio commentary that provides a Christian perspective on today's news and trends. BreakPoint is currently aired weekdays to more than 1,300 outlets nationwide that reach and estimated 2 million listeners.
Today Colson is focused full time on developing other Christian leaders who can influence the culture and their communities through their faith. The capstone of this effort is The Chuck Colson Center for Christian Worldview, an online research and training center launched in 2009 for the promotion of Christian worldview teaching. In addition to a vast library of worldview materials, the Colson Center provides online courses and serves as a catalyst for a growing movement of Christian organizations dedicated to impacting the culture. The Colson Center website also hosts Colson's popular weekly Two-Minute Warning video commentary aimed at engaging a younger generation with a biblical perspective on cultural issues.
In 2009, Colson was a principal writer of the Manhattan Declaration, which calls on Christians to defend the sanctity of human life, traditional marriage and religious freedom. Nearly half a million people have signed the Manhattan Declaration. Collaborating with other Christian ministries, BreakPoint aims to launch other ecumenical grassroots movements around moral and ethical issues of great concern.
In recognition of his work, Colson received the prestigious Templeton Prize for progress in religion in 1993, donating the $1 million prize to Prison Fellowship. Colson's other awards have included the Presidential Citizens Medal, the nation's second-highest civilian honor (2008); the Humanitarian Award from Dominos Pizza Corporation (1991); The Others Award from The Salvation Army (1990); the Outstanding Young Man of Boston from the Boston Chamber of Commerce (1960); and several honorary doctorates from various colleges and universities (1982-2000).
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July 22, 2021
"Whenever men exert great effort in seeking the truth, and prefer nothing else to the truth, God comes to meet them in His gentle way." St. Nikolai Velimirovich, The Prologue of Christ
I thought of this quote as I read this book, the autobiographical account by Charles Colson, known as "Nixon's hatchet man", of how he went from that to finding faith in Jesus Christ. As such, it's been a popular book for many Christians over the last forty decades, but, for those interested in learning about the inner workings of the Nixon Administration and about the Watergate Scandal, it can of interest also.
Colson had all the hallmarks of a successful "establishment" man --- a proper New England upbringing, high intelligence, strong work ethic, Ivy League education, service in the military as a Marine, strong political connections --- and finally a position with the closest access to the most powerful man in the world, the President of the United States.
An intoxicating world of ego, achievement, pride, and ambition. There is a popular belief today that, in the past, the environment in the DC political culture was somehow healthier, more collegial, and bipartisan. Perhaps, but, if so, at best only esoterically. Colson chronicles his experiences in the toxic milieu of DC --- a place with too much money, too much power, too many egos, and too much willingness of the various political players and the news media to practice an "end justifies the means" way of doing business. In such an environment, the Nixon Administration succumbed, by degrees into an "us vs them" mentality that would eventually seduce most all in its top echelons, including Colson, into making moral and legal compromises that would eventually prove their undoing.
I found Colson's account of Daniel Ellsberg's theft and compromise of the Pentagon Papers to be fascinating. There is a popular, but wrong, belief that the reason the Nixon Administration sought their suppression and the discrediting of Ellsberg is because they incriminated Nixon and his prosecution of the Vietnam War negatively. In fact, they covered highly classified information about America's involvement in Vietnam well before his Administration. The reason the Administration reacted the way it did to their publication was the effect it had upon public opinion, congressional overreaction to it ---- and the damage it did to negotiations with North Vietnam to end the War. Which was profound ----- seeing massive public outcry and the Senate's vote to cut off all funding to American military operations there, the North Vietnamese promptly broke off negotiations, thereby needlessly prolonging the War, costing thousands more lives on both sides.
That the Nixon Administration may have been justified in its outrage at the damage done by Ellsberg is entirely understandable. Unfortunately, the illegal means that its members, including Colson, rationalized for dealing with him would ultimately begin a series of events within the Administration in many other areas, that would culminate in Watergate and its downfall.
Both the FBI and the CIA routinely flouted the rights of Americans flagrantly at the behest of the Administration as well as the interests of the leaders of the intelligence community. Evidently, not much has changed in over 50 years.
Colson seemed to understand that something wasn't right, and, for that reason, left the Nixon Administration after the end of its first term. But, by that time, the damage was done, and the Watergate story broke, engulfing him within it.
The Feds, in an investigation, make the process part of the punishment, and it took its toll upon Colson and his family --- the pressure from the investigators, the constant requirement to be guarded at all times, the meetings with defense attorneys, the leaks from the intelligence and law enforcement community, the relentless surveillance and ambushes from the news media. Colson began to reflect upon his life and its worth.
To that end, he sought out a client of his law firm, Raytheon VP, Thomas L. Phillips, who reportedly had gone from a cutthroat workaholic executive to someone who'd experienced profound life changes for the better by all accounts. Seeking him out, Phillips would ultimately lead Colson to faith in Jesus Christ as an Evangelical Christian.
Returning back to DC, Colson sought out other Christians in the area for guidance and fellowship in his new faith. These, many of whom were Democrats and hardened adversaries of Nixon, at first, regarded Colson with a mixture of suspicion and skepticism, yet, to their credit, overcame this, and would play a decisive role in the subsequent course of his life as a Christian.
In accordance with his newfound faith, Colson would plead guilty to obstruction of justice with respect to the Pentagon Papers and Daniel Ellsberg. The rest of the book deals with Colson's incarceration in Federal prison, his relations with the other inmates, and his effort to grow in his faith during this difficult time.
It's a fascinating and inspiring story. The Federal prison system surely neither ----- it's hopelessness, dehumanizing effects, and monotony weigh heavily in Colson's account. Which makes the account of how Colson overcame it and established Christian prison fellowships within it all the more interesting. It's a story of hope in a dark place.
Needless to say, I enjoyed reading this. I think Christian readers will also enjoy it as well. History buffs interested in the Nixon Administration and the Watergate Scandal will also like it as well as source from one of its major players.
I thought of this quote as I read this book, the autobiographical account by Charles Colson, known as "Nixon's hatchet man", of how he went from that to finding faith in Jesus Christ. As such, it's been a popular book for many Christians over the last forty decades, but, for those interested in learning about the inner workings of the Nixon Administration and about the Watergate Scandal, it can of interest also.
Colson had all the hallmarks of a successful "establishment" man --- a proper New England upbringing, high intelligence, strong work ethic, Ivy League education, service in the military as a Marine, strong political connections --- and finally a position with the closest access to the most powerful man in the world, the President of the United States.
An intoxicating world of ego, achievement, pride, and ambition. There is a popular belief today that, in the past, the environment in the DC political culture was somehow healthier, more collegial, and bipartisan. Perhaps, but, if so, at best only esoterically. Colson chronicles his experiences in the toxic milieu of DC --- a place with too much money, too much power, too many egos, and too much willingness of the various political players and the news media to practice an "end justifies the means" way of doing business. In such an environment, the Nixon Administration succumbed, by degrees into an "us vs them" mentality that would eventually seduce most all in its top echelons, including Colson, into making moral and legal compromises that would eventually prove their undoing.
I found Colson's account of Daniel Ellsberg's theft and compromise of the Pentagon Papers to be fascinating. There is a popular, but wrong, belief that the reason the Nixon Administration sought their suppression and the discrediting of Ellsberg is because they incriminated Nixon and his prosecution of the Vietnam War negatively. In fact, they covered highly classified information about America's involvement in Vietnam well before his Administration. The reason the Administration reacted the way it did to their publication was the effect it had upon public opinion, congressional overreaction to it ---- and the damage it did to negotiations with North Vietnam to end the War. Which was profound ----- seeing massive public outcry and the Senate's vote to cut off all funding to American military operations there, the North Vietnamese promptly broke off negotiations, thereby needlessly prolonging the War, costing thousands more lives on both sides.
That the Nixon Administration may have been justified in its outrage at the damage done by Ellsberg is entirely understandable. Unfortunately, the illegal means that its members, including Colson, rationalized for dealing with him would ultimately begin a series of events within the Administration in many other areas, that would culminate in Watergate and its downfall.
Both the FBI and the CIA routinely flouted the rights of Americans flagrantly at the behest of the Administration as well as the interests of the leaders of the intelligence community. Evidently, not much has changed in over 50 years.
Colson seemed to understand that something wasn't right, and, for that reason, left the Nixon Administration after the end of its first term. But, by that time, the damage was done, and the Watergate story broke, engulfing him within it.
The Feds, in an investigation, make the process part of the punishment, and it took its toll upon Colson and his family --- the pressure from the investigators, the constant requirement to be guarded at all times, the meetings with defense attorneys, the leaks from the intelligence and law enforcement community, the relentless surveillance and ambushes from the news media. Colson began to reflect upon his life and its worth.
To that end, he sought out a client of his law firm, Raytheon VP, Thomas L. Phillips, who reportedly had gone from a cutthroat workaholic executive to someone who'd experienced profound life changes for the better by all accounts. Seeking him out, Phillips would ultimately lead Colson to faith in Jesus Christ as an Evangelical Christian.
Returning back to DC, Colson sought out other Christians in the area for guidance and fellowship in his new faith. These, many of whom were Democrats and hardened adversaries of Nixon, at first, regarded Colson with a mixture of suspicion and skepticism, yet, to their credit, overcame this, and would play a decisive role in the subsequent course of his life as a Christian.
In accordance with his newfound faith, Colson would plead guilty to obstruction of justice with respect to the Pentagon Papers and Daniel Ellsberg. The rest of the book deals with Colson's incarceration in Federal prison, his relations with the other inmates, and his effort to grow in his faith during this difficult time.
It's a fascinating and inspiring story. The Federal prison system surely neither ----- it's hopelessness, dehumanizing effects, and monotony weigh heavily in Colson's account. Which makes the account of how Colson overcame it and established Christian prison fellowships within it all the more interesting. It's a story of hope in a dark place.
Needless to say, I enjoyed reading this. I think Christian readers will also enjoy it as well. History buffs interested in the Nixon Administration and the Watergate Scandal will also like it as well as source from one of its major players.
October 26, 2023
A deeply inspiring, yet hardcore biography. It's worth reading if only to get a glimpse of what daily life in the White House is like, and the immense burdens of advising the commander in chief. Colson also met a variety of people in his life, and it was interesting to see how his relationships with them transformed as time progressed, although I do wish he would do a better job at specifying who was who, as the sheer volume of characters rivals War and Peace (in my edition, there's even a huge list of all names in the book and page references for them all.) However, many will probably overlook these valuable things because this is a "religious" book. Yet I find this one of the better conversion accounts that I've read in a sub-genre that can get hokey and maudlin very easily. This is straightforward, unembellished, and entirely believable. If you want to understand why the message of Christ speaks to those in compromised straits, Colson's story is excellent, and surely one of the most relatable examples. There are no over-the-top epiphanies or judgmental views on others; just a journalistic, albeit still highly personal, perspective on allegiance and forgiveness. This is not a special book in terms of literary skill or imagination, but it is a simple and absorbing read with a worthwhile story to tell, unfolded against the canvas of a major moment in American history.
September 15, 2012
Chuck Colson was special counsel to President Richard Nixon and the first member of the Nixon White House to serve prison time in the 1972 Watergate scandal. As Colson was facing arrest, a close friend gave him a copy C.S. Lewis’ Mere Christianity. Lewis wrote that when you walk through life looking up toward God, you come up against something immeasurably greater than yourself. But a proud man who is walking through life looking down on other people cannot see something, something immeasurably superior, above himself.
The words cut Colson to the heart. Confronted with his prideful heart that had led to his downfall, in a flood of tears sitting in a friend’s driveway, Colson surrendered his life to Christ. “There I was,” Colson said, “a proud, ex-Marine captain, White House hatchet man, calling out to God! . . . All I knew was that that night I desperately wanted to know the living God. I desperately wanted my sins lifted from me. I desperately wanted to know what this man was writing about.”
The next week, Colson read Mere Christianity cover to cover, making notes on a yellow legal pad on which he had made two columns: There is a God/There isn’t a God; Jesus Christ is God/He isn’t God. “I went through the book and came against an intellect as formidable as any I had faced in my life of politics or law—the mind of C.S. Lewis. I became convinced of the truth that Jesus Christ is God.”
Colson became a Christian. Following prayer and consultation with a Capitol Hill prayer fellowship group he had joined, Colson pled guilty to obstruction of justice and served seven months at Maxwell Prison in Alabama. Not long after his release, he founded Prison Fellowship and spent the rest of his life ministering to prisoners, ex-prisoners, and their families. After Watergate, the only thing that mattered to Colson was having a right relationship with Jesus Christ and ministering the grace he had received to as many people as possible.
Chuck Colson’s life is a powerful testimony to the transforming power of the Gospel. One who bore the image of the man of dust became one who bore the image of the Man of Heaven (1 Corinthians 15:47-49). Colson told the story of his conversion in his 1976 book Born Again. In an introduction to the 2008 edition he wrote: “The real story was that Christ had reached down to me, even in my disgrace and shame, and revealed Himself as the One who forgives and makes new. Born Again is the story of a broken man transformed by the love and power of Jesus Christ—who continues to transform me every passing day.”
I give thanks for the life and influence of Chuck Colson and look forward to seeing him at the Resurrection. I also strongly recommend his book Born Again, and the book that led to his conversion, C.S. Lewis’s Mere Christianity.
The words cut Colson to the heart. Confronted with his prideful heart that had led to his downfall, in a flood of tears sitting in a friend’s driveway, Colson surrendered his life to Christ. “There I was,” Colson said, “a proud, ex-Marine captain, White House hatchet man, calling out to God! . . . All I knew was that that night I desperately wanted to know the living God. I desperately wanted my sins lifted from me. I desperately wanted to know what this man was writing about.”
The next week, Colson read Mere Christianity cover to cover, making notes on a yellow legal pad on which he had made two columns: There is a God/There isn’t a God; Jesus Christ is God/He isn’t God. “I went through the book and came against an intellect as formidable as any I had faced in my life of politics or law—the mind of C.S. Lewis. I became convinced of the truth that Jesus Christ is God.”
Colson became a Christian. Following prayer and consultation with a Capitol Hill prayer fellowship group he had joined, Colson pled guilty to obstruction of justice and served seven months at Maxwell Prison in Alabama. Not long after his release, he founded Prison Fellowship and spent the rest of his life ministering to prisoners, ex-prisoners, and their families. After Watergate, the only thing that mattered to Colson was having a right relationship with Jesus Christ and ministering the grace he had received to as many people as possible.
Chuck Colson’s life is a powerful testimony to the transforming power of the Gospel. One who bore the image of the man of dust became one who bore the image of the Man of Heaven (1 Corinthians 15:47-49). Colson told the story of his conversion in his 1976 book Born Again. In an introduction to the 2008 edition he wrote: “The real story was that Christ had reached down to me, even in my disgrace and shame, and revealed Himself as the One who forgives and makes new. Born Again is the story of a broken man transformed by the love and power of Jesus Christ—who continues to transform me every passing day.”
I give thanks for the life and influence of Chuck Colson and look forward to seeing him at the Resurrection. I also strongly recommend his book Born Again, and the book that led to his conversion, C.S. Lewis’s Mere Christianity.
November 20, 2018
"Of course, of course, of course, I thought to myself. There is a purpose for my being here, perhaps a mission the Lord has called me to."
This is harrowing story of a man come from the Watergate Scandal to prison, in the midst of it all, finding Jesus and realizing His importance in his life. I deeply appreciate Colson's honesty and humility in the sharing of his life.
It's been no easy ride, having gone from Nixon's go-to to finding himself in the slammer. But through it all, Charles Colson gave his life story about how he found Jesus.
There is so much to say about this book, but all I can say is praise Jesus! Because through the unlikely friendships found, the miraculous healing of inmates, and the deep love impressed into this book is certainly one that serves to give thanks to God. And what a fitting time! Thanksgiving is coming up as I write this, reminding me of the hundreds of things I have to thank God for. He is so good, and I love how He works. This book is another good reminder that God works in all sorts of ways, everywhere.
"Never could I have imagined all this when I left prison...I look with awe at what God has done. And I thank Him for His mercy."
This is harrowing story of a man come from the Watergate Scandal to prison, in the midst of it all, finding Jesus and realizing His importance in his life. I deeply appreciate Colson's honesty and humility in the sharing of his life.
It's been no easy ride, having gone from Nixon's go-to to finding himself in the slammer. But through it all, Charles Colson gave his life story about how he found Jesus.
There is so much to say about this book, but all I can say is praise Jesus! Because through the unlikely friendships found, the miraculous healing of inmates, and the deep love impressed into this book is certainly one that serves to give thanks to God. And what a fitting time! Thanksgiving is coming up as I write this, reminding me of the hundreds of things I have to thank God for. He is so good, and I love how He works. This book is another good reminder that God works in all sorts of ways, everywhere.
"Never could I have imagined all this when I left prison...I look with awe at what God has done. And I thank Him for His mercy."
November 14, 2019
I shoud have just dnfed this months ago, yet I kept it on my currently read list hoping that I would one day finish it. This book for the first one-hundred or more pages was so boring. I honestly hate politics and that's all it was. It was very boring and confusing. The second half though did get interesting. It was about Chuck Colson's conversion. I never got to the part where he was put into prison and then later started prison minitsries. But overall this wasn't that bad of a book, I just never got around to finishing it. I hope to one day finish it, so I can accomplish it. But for now, this is as far as I'm getting!
Read
February 28, 2025DNF
Charles was cool. Nixon was not.... his nickname sums up his presidency perfectly iykyk 😒
Charles was cool. Nixon was not.... his nickname sums up his presidency perfectly iykyk 😒
September 7, 2009
It's been over 30 years since the events of Watergate started making history. A whole generation has grown up largely unaware, I suspect, of the significance of those events. I've followed Chuck Colson's work and writing almost since the beginning of Prison Fellowship and have developed a tremendous respect for the man. But only recently have I bothered to go back and read this book which tells how it all got started. I should not have waited so long.
This is the very inspiring and honest story of Colson's early career as chief counsel, confidant and friend to President Richard Nixon. As an insider, he gives his own account of the Watergate scandal and an honest confession of his own wrongdoings. This is also the story about how God can change the life of a man caught up in the corrupting influence of political power and bring great good out of evil. Since he was not directly involved in the Watergate doings, Colson probably could have easily avoided being convicted and sent to prison. But his encounter with Jesus Christ and conversion to Christianity strengthened his conscience and led him to plead guilty to an unrelated crime that he did commit. He went to prison and saw a different side of the "law and order" society that the Nixon Administration sought to promote. Even through the fear and despair of those times, the power of God became even more evident to Chuck Colson while in prison.
This is an amazing account of how a life submitted to Jesus Christ can reconcile enemies, create strong bonds of friendship, and heal terrible wounds in the hearts of both the rich and powerful and the poor and helpless. It's wonderful to read. If this book has an impact on you, then you will also want to read its sequel, "Life Sentence".
This is the very inspiring and honest story of Colson's early career as chief counsel, confidant and friend to President Richard Nixon. As an insider, he gives his own account of the Watergate scandal and an honest confession of his own wrongdoings. This is also the story about how God can change the life of a man caught up in the corrupting influence of political power and bring great good out of evil. Since he was not directly involved in the Watergate doings, Colson probably could have easily avoided being convicted and sent to prison. But his encounter with Jesus Christ and conversion to Christianity strengthened his conscience and led him to plead guilty to an unrelated crime that he did commit. He went to prison and saw a different side of the "law and order" society that the Nixon Administration sought to promote. Even through the fear and despair of those times, the power of God became even more evident to Chuck Colson while in prison.
This is an amazing account of how a life submitted to Jesus Christ can reconcile enemies, create strong bonds of friendship, and heal terrible wounds in the hearts of both the rich and powerful and the poor and helpless. It's wonderful to read. If this book has an impact on you, then you will also want to read its sequel, "Life Sentence".
August 1, 2016
A story of conviction and conversion: Born Again
May 17, 2024
It was interesting to read the life story of a White House insider, but I liked the book less and less over time. I guess I don’t find 20th-21st century biographies as exciting as older ones.
May 10, 2020
I read this with one of my book clubs, otherwise I wouldn’t have ever picked it up. I’m glad I was “forced.” I knew little about Chuck Colson and what I thought I knew was wrong. Several things stood out: news articles and leaks to the press always have a spin, how easy it is to convince oneself that the ends justify the means, the workings of our government officials is a giant chess game, among others.
This was an easy, interesting, and compelling read. I appreciated his writing style and although Colson and I have differing theological views, his account of his life and conversion kept my attention.
This was an easy, interesting, and compelling read. I appreciated his writing style and although Colson and I have differing theological views, his account of his life and conversion kept my attention.
January 25, 2019
Once I got through all the political mishmash, this was an AMAZING story of one man’s coming to Christianity, and how so many other’s lives were changed through Watergate and what followed.
Sometimes, we lose the thrill! The wonder! The shock that God sent his son to die for us. Sometimes, we don’t stop to think about how he’s working in our life, in everyone’s life. Sometimes, we tend to rely on ourselves for “just that one small thing” when in reality, it’s Jesus we should be going to every single time.
Charles Coulson’s story is one of hatred turning to love, pride turning to selflessness. It’s the story of a newborn Christian, and it’s one that has transformed endless lives, to which I can only say: Praise the Lord!
Sometimes, we lose the thrill! The wonder! The shock that God sent his son to die for us. Sometimes, we don’t stop to think about how he’s working in our life, in everyone’s life. Sometimes, we tend to rely on ourselves for “just that one small thing” when in reality, it’s Jesus we should be going to every single time.
Charles Coulson’s story is one of hatred turning to love, pride turning to selflessness. It’s the story of a newborn Christian, and it’s one that has transformed endless lives, to which I can only say: Praise the Lord!
August 14, 2016
I started to write this last night, but I fell asleep and my Kindle ate it. Let's try again.
With Chrisitian Audio's big sale a few weeks ago, I loaded up on biographies, including this 1970s classic. I was only eight when it came out, but I remember my mom reading it at some point. It was superpopular. There was even a comic book, which I'm pretty sure I read. So I figured it was about time I read the real thing, too. Then I listened to the first chapter and wondered what I'd been thinking. Was I really going to slog my way through so much politics? So I ignored it for a few weeks and then finally picked it up a few days ago and zipped right through.
It never gets old reading about Jesus' power to change lives. And Colson's life needed changing. He had good intentions, and he craved power with which to follow through on them. He was Boromir craving for the ring for a supposedly noble cause but falling into gross ignobility in pursuit of it. But Colson was humbled. It was a hard humbling, but it was the effective grace of God at work, turning him into a useful man.
The book was also a good insight into twentieth century American evangelicalism. While there was much good in stirring up a complacently Christian nation to a living faith, we missed some things. Colson's story was one of me-and-my-personal-Jesus. At one point a while after his conversion (at least a few months, I think), his wife asked him where he'd be going to church, and he responded to the effect that he'd get around to church eventually. I can recall only one mention of his attending church. For the entire time before his imprisonment, his fellowship seemed to be exclusively with a few other men rather than rooted in a covenantal connection to a body of believers. Still...there's good to be gleaned from those scenes, as well as from his fellowship during his prison sentence. Colson learned the reality of brotherhood with all sorts of Christians rather than getting stuck in a ghetto of people just like himself, which was probably a very needful aspect of his growth downward to humility.
Another shortcoming of me-and-my-personal-Jesusism was the failure to apply the gospel to anything but the individual. The book depicts fellowship among Christian politicians of various stripes, but none of them seems to stop and ask whether Jesus should have any say in what stripe of politics they should pursue and what governing under the Lordship of Jesus should look like beyond personal ethics. These questions don't seem to have occurred to them.
The reader was OK.
With Chrisitian Audio's big sale a few weeks ago, I loaded up on biographies, including this 1970s classic. I was only eight when it came out, but I remember my mom reading it at some point. It was superpopular. There was even a comic book, which I'm pretty sure I read. So I figured it was about time I read the real thing, too. Then I listened to the first chapter and wondered what I'd been thinking. Was I really going to slog my way through so much politics? So I ignored it for a few weeks and then finally picked it up a few days ago and zipped right through.
It never gets old reading about Jesus' power to change lives. And Colson's life needed changing. He had good intentions, and he craved power with which to follow through on them. He was Boromir craving for the ring for a supposedly noble cause but falling into gross ignobility in pursuit of it. But Colson was humbled. It was a hard humbling, but it was the effective grace of God at work, turning him into a useful man.
The book was also a good insight into twentieth century American evangelicalism. While there was much good in stirring up a complacently Christian nation to a living faith, we missed some things. Colson's story was one of me-and-my-personal-Jesus. At one point a while after his conversion (at least a few months, I think), his wife asked him where he'd be going to church, and he responded to the effect that he'd get around to church eventually. I can recall only one mention of his attending church. For the entire time before his imprisonment, his fellowship seemed to be exclusively with a few other men rather than rooted in a covenantal connection to a body of believers. Still...there's good to be gleaned from those scenes, as well as from his fellowship during his prison sentence. Colson learned the reality of brotherhood with all sorts of Christians rather than getting stuck in a ghetto of people just like himself, which was probably a very needful aspect of his growth downward to humility.
Another shortcoming of me-and-my-personal-Jesusism was the failure to apply the gospel to anything but the individual. The book depicts fellowship among Christian politicians of various stripes, but none of them seems to stop and ask whether Jesus should have any say in what stripe of politics they should pursue and what governing under the Lordship of Jesus should look like beyond personal ethics. These questions don't seem to have occurred to them.
The reader was OK.
July 27, 2011
I first read this book 1986 after receiving it from a friend as part of the library he got tired of lugging around. It was one of those Christian books he was probably required to read while attending the parochial Seattle Pacific University. While useful as an insider's look at events leading up to the Watergate Scandal and, later, prison life, Colson obviously wrote this book as the first of many Christian testamonials. Reading it again after a couple of decades and the death of Nixon, I had a more historical perspective this time. But I found it somewhat amusing that the emptiness Colson felt following Nixon's re-election, he so readily attributed to the absence of God in his life rather than the fact that he and the Nixon Administration had abandonned the principals that were supposedly espousing.
October 22, 2015
A great book for anyone seeking either spiritual inspiration or political insight into the Nixon administration. Definitely the most even-handed portrayal of Nixon and the Watergate scandal I've ever seen. Colson sheds a lot of light on the mistakes he made while working as Nixon's "hatchet man," and what it was like to plummet from such dizzying heights of worldly success. Halfway through, the book switches focus to Colson's spiritual journey and his evolution into one of the nation's leading voices on prison reform. BORN AGAIN is thought-provoking, well-written, and one of the more inspirational books I've come across.
November 4, 2016
There were a few things that I disagreed with, but overall it was absolutely amazing and moving and inspiring.
February 20, 2016
This is an inspirational and highly motivating book. Many will not understand the "religious fervor" of Chuck Colson, but he does a phenomenal job of explaining who he was before Christ, his salvation experience, and how he walked through infancy in his redemption to spiritual growth. It is a great autobiography to help many readers understand what it looks like to trust Christ as Savior and learn to rely on the power of the Holy Spirit. It's a great story of redemption. As I told a friend while I was reading it, "This is the story of a man who, at his zenith was Richard Nixon's right hand man. His actions held consequences, which meant he went to prison. But even in prison, because of his personal relationship with Jesus, he helped build God's kingdom." I was engrossed in this book, and was a little sad when it ended.
April 1, 2016
This was a wonderful and sometimes daunting insight into the lives and actions of those who rule nations - and who are only human and fallible after all. (Nothing new under the sun ...)
It is also a testimony of how only in Jesus hearts can be changed.
The part that deals with Colson's time in prison is not even that long, but very impressive, with his compassion for his less well-connected fellow inmates shining through.
Throughout the book he stresses the incredible strength and support that comes from spiritual fellowship and unity, whether with his group in the White House or the prayer group in prison.
Now I really want to find out what that prison ministry he started looks like in our days.
It is also a testimony of how only in Jesus hearts can be changed.
The part that deals with Colson's time in prison is not even that long, but very impressive, with his compassion for his less well-connected fellow inmates shining through.
Throughout the book he stresses the incredible strength and support that comes from spiritual fellowship and unity, whether with his group in the White House or the prayer group in prison.
Now I really want to find out what that prison ministry he started looks like in our days.
January 30, 2019
This is a great book. Mr. Colson tells many details of what it was like to be in the Nixon White House, which is very interesting. He also tells of many miracles (works of the Holy Spirit) throughout his Christian life.
The tremendous result of his imprisonment and the creation of Prison Fellowship Ministries could not have been imagined by any human being, but could only be accomplished by the work of the Holy Spirit.
The book MERE CHRISTIANITY by CS Lewis was key to Mr. Colson becoming a Christian and key to turning his life around and the lives of thousands of others.
This tough Marine ended up bringing prison populations, worldwide, to Christ. His work goes on even though he left this earth to be with Jesus several years ago.
The tremendous result of his imprisonment and the creation of Prison Fellowship Ministries could not have been imagined by any human being, but could only be accomplished by the work of the Holy Spirit.
The book MERE CHRISTIANITY by CS Lewis was key to Mr. Colson becoming a Christian and key to turning his life around and the lives of thousands of others.
This tough Marine ended up bringing prison populations, worldwide, to Christ. His work goes on even though he left this earth to be with Jesus several years ago.
February 2, 2015
a very inspiring and encouraging book! I heartily enjoyed reading about Chuck Colson's life during Nixon's presidency, during Watergate,how God got a hold of his heart and changed him and how He used him mighty through the Prison Fellowship! Slightly Armenian at parts, but otherwise a very good book!
November 21, 2023
It was an good book, but it was too long, and completely full of politics that you had to know about to understand. I literally took like 4 weeks to read it lol. If you were alive during Watergate, you would probably enjoy this.
May 4, 2020
Charles Colson served as a marine, started a law firm, worked for president Nixon, became a “born again” Christian, was imprisoned during the Watergate scandals, and then went on to form various prison programs and ministries. I would never have picked up his memoir on my own,* but it turned out to be far more interesting than I expected. I’m glad I read Land of Hope first--that gave me a bit more context on Nixon’s presidency than I would have possessed otherwise.
I was struck by how inaccurate most of the information available to the press and the public was during Nixon’s time in office. Colson talks about governmental figures routinely planting false or misleading stories for political reasons, and he himself, although by his own admittance guilty of moral wrong-doing, did not actually say or do many of the things the public “knew” he had.
Colson ended up caught in the ironic position of being told by many members of the public that if his religious conversion was genuine, he would confess to all kinds of Watergate crimes and/or would immediately witness against the president and his former colleagues. This was awkward, because he had actually been kept ignorant of Nixon’s darkest actions. It's a reminder to be careful about assuming I actually know all about people because I've read news articles about them.
Colson was a lawyer with a lawyerly mind, and he felt his way toward faith carefully and systematically instead of relying merely on emotions or experiences. I enjoyed his comments about C.S. Lewis’s Mere Christianity and the way it impacted him. He is obviously aiming his book at a wide audience, and chooses to stick to religious statements that are unlikely to offend non-believers or members of particular denominations. Late in the book he does describe an incident of faith-healing that made me hesitate. I too fully believe that our Lord can and does heal individuals, but I object to the idea that God’s power can be limited by the amount of faith or doubt we humans possess when we pray.
Overall, an interesting look at an era I was too young to experience for myself.
*I read it for a book group.
I was struck by how inaccurate most of the information available to the press and the public was during Nixon’s time in office. Colson talks about governmental figures routinely planting false or misleading stories for political reasons, and he himself, although by his own admittance guilty of moral wrong-doing, did not actually say or do many of the things the public “knew” he had.
Colson ended up caught in the ironic position of being told by many members of the public that if his religious conversion was genuine, he would confess to all kinds of Watergate crimes and/or would immediately witness against the president and his former colleagues. This was awkward, because he had actually been kept ignorant of Nixon’s darkest actions. It's a reminder to be careful about assuming I actually know all about people because I've read news articles about them.
Colson was a lawyer with a lawyerly mind, and he felt his way toward faith carefully and systematically instead of relying merely on emotions or experiences. I enjoyed his comments about C.S. Lewis’s Mere Christianity and the way it impacted him. He is obviously aiming his book at a wide audience, and chooses to stick to religious statements that are unlikely to offend non-believers or members of particular denominations. Late in the book he does describe an incident of faith-healing that made me hesitate. I too fully believe that our Lord can and does heal individuals, but I object to the idea that God’s power can be limited by the amount of faith or doubt we humans possess when we pray.
Overall, an interesting look at an era I was too young to experience for myself.
*I read it for a book group.
May 17, 2020
Born Again is a classic conversion story with a twist of political intrigue. Evangelicals are susceptible to the 'celebrity conversion' appeal and so you have to be careful with this kind of thing. But I knew Colson's reputation from his later worldview writing such as 'How Now Shall We Live?' and not from his days as a Nixon hatchet man. Colson passed away in 2012 after many decades of fruitful and faithful ministry and his books form a permanent contribution to the church. Born Again was his first book and was a huge bestseller when it came out.
I enjoyed the story very much. Colson is an able writer and narrates the story of his life in an engaging way. As a Christian it is always moving to hear someone's experience of coming to know Christ, and the resulting life transformation. The pivot in Colson's life from gracing the halls of power to establishing and leading a flourishing prison ministry is unusual and remarkable.
Colson found himself at the center of the political turmoil that shook the USA in the early 1970's, and then became a well-known evangelical leader until his death in 2012. For that reason alone, his story is worth knowing. And the reader is left with that unmistakable notion - a notion which can fade with time if not refreshed - that Christ really can transform human hearts like nothing else can. Not only do we see that in Colson's life, but also in the lives of the prisoners for whom all the apparatus of the state are so obviously impotent to effect change.
I listened to this as an audiobook via Scribd. It was narrated by Colson himself, and he does a fine Nixon accent.
I enjoyed the story very much. Colson is an able writer and narrates the story of his life in an engaging way. As a Christian it is always moving to hear someone's experience of coming to know Christ, and the resulting life transformation. The pivot in Colson's life from gracing the halls of power to establishing and leading a flourishing prison ministry is unusual and remarkable.
Colson found himself at the center of the political turmoil that shook the USA in the early 1970's, and then became a well-known evangelical leader until his death in 2012. For that reason alone, his story is worth knowing. And the reader is left with that unmistakable notion - a notion which can fade with time if not refreshed - that Christ really can transform human hearts like nothing else can. Not only do we see that in Colson's life, but also in the lives of the prisoners for whom all the apparatus of the state are so obviously impotent to effect change.
I listened to this as an audiobook via Scribd. It was narrated by Colson himself, and he does a fine Nixon accent.
August 13, 2024
Changing my review:
This book, in my opinion, is a must-read for all Christians. Charles Colson’ testimony is incredibly powerful and inspiring. From being on President Nixon’s staff to being incarcerated for the Watergate scandal, Colson’s story of redemption is a beautiful display of the glory of God. This story proves that He can take anyone in any given situation and redeem their lives. What a glorious depiction of the hand of God in the lives of His children. This book is also l important in its depiction of prisoners. It is even convicting to an extent. I feel that prisoners are often overlooked in society for their actions. This book is a great reminder that our incarcerated brothers and sisters are made in God’s image no less than the free man. Prisoners need the Gospel just as much as anyone else. Overall 5 star read (and you get a little taste of what it looks like to play a role in the President’s staff, which I personally find intriguing)
This book, in my opinion, is a must-read for all Christians. Charles Colson’ testimony is incredibly powerful and inspiring. From being on President Nixon’s staff to being incarcerated for the Watergate scandal, Colson’s story of redemption is a beautiful display of the glory of God. This story proves that He can take anyone in any given situation and redeem their lives. What a glorious depiction of the hand of God in the lives of His children. This book is also l important in its depiction of prisoners. It is even convicting to an extent. I feel that prisoners are often overlooked in society for their actions. This book is a great reminder that our incarcerated brothers and sisters are made in God’s image no less than the free man. Prisoners need the Gospel just as much as anyone else. Overall 5 star read (and you get a little taste of what it looks like to play a role in the President’s staff, which I personally find intriguing)
September 18, 2021
The incredible story of Chuck Colson who was caught up in Nixon's Watergate scandal and eventually went to prison for it. But the scandal also pushed him to become a Christian. This book was fascinating to read!
June 4, 2021
Amazing story! Charles Colson tells the incredible story of how he went from being President Nixon’s “hatchet man” to a born again Christian, serving God in prison and out of prison. I highly recommend this book, and the audiobook is really well done.
February 9, 2017
"Prison turned out to be one of the best things that ever happened to me," (The Good Life, Tyndale House Publishers, Inc, Wheaton, IL, 2005)p 23 says Chuck Colson in 60 Minutes, after the 20 year anniversary of Watergate.
The Wall Street Journal printed a front page report in the 1970’s, on “Nixon’s Hatchet Man. Call it What You Will Chuck Colson Handles President's Dirty Work.” (Born Again, Chuck Colson, Chosen Books, Old Tappan, New Jersey, 1976, pg57) Born in Boston, joined the military, the former Marine captain was fiercely loyal to the president and would do anything for Nixon: smear campaigning, setting-up government leaks and infamously boasted that he would "run over his grandmother".
Sentenced to prison for the Watergate affair, the White House adviser writes, "When I was shipped... to the federal prison camp at Maxwell Air force base, would read Mere Christianity, have his life humbled, turn to God, write a book called Born Again and after serving time in jail, he would begin the largest prison ministry in the world, ministering to murderers, thieves and rapists. Gods grace extends to the worst criminals. There is no one on earth whom He will not give a second, third and fourth chance too.
And the criminal being crucified on the cross turned his head and said, “Jesus remember me when you come to your kingdom.” And he said to him, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.” (Lk. 23:42-43, ESV)
Chuck Colson - the Hatchet Man who went to jail for Watergate in the 70's became the leader in the world for criminal justice reform.
"My experience in prison helped me see who I really was. When I was shipped from Fort Holabird to the Federal prison camp... I experienced some depressing moments." (The Good Life, Tyndale House Publishers, Inc, Wheaton, IL, 2005) pg 27 My fellow prisoners were from small time to heavy duty.
"I never truly understood people until I was crushed. Until I lost everything and ended up in prison."
Colson was released from prison in January 1975. He planned to go back to Boston and work in law. Then president Nixon while in exile in California, welcomed his loyal friend back home and said on the phone, "You know, boy, you have tremendous ability. You can go to the top in the business world and make millions. You just give me the word." (The Good Life, Tyndale House Publishers, Inc, Wheaton, IL, 2005)pg29)
The Proverbs say that pride comes before a fall. What was the mark of the fall of Nixon? It was the very thing that he most adored that brought him down! As Chuck Colson says in his own words, "Hubris became the mark of the Nixon man because hubris was the quality Nixon admired most.. maybe it was bald stupidity.. but it sure was hubris." (Born Again, Chuck Colson, Chosen Books, Old Tappan, New Jersey, 1976, pg 72)
The Wall Street Journal printed a front page report in the 1970’s, on “Nixon’s Hatchet Man. Call it What You Will Chuck Colson Handles President's Dirty Work.” (Born Again, Chuck Colson, Chosen Books, Old Tappan, New Jersey, 1976, pg57) Born in Boston, joined the military, the former Marine captain was fiercely loyal to the president and would do anything for Nixon: smear campaigning, setting-up government leaks and infamously boasted that he would "run over his grandmother".
Sentenced to prison for the Watergate affair, the White House adviser writes, "When I was shipped... to the federal prison camp at Maxwell Air force base, would read Mere Christianity, have his life humbled, turn to God, write a book called Born Again and after serving time in jail, he would begin the largest prison ministry in the world, ministering to murderers, thieves and rapists. Gods grace extends to the worst criminals. There is no one on earth whom He will not give a second, third and fourth chance too.
And the criminal being crucified on the cross turned his head and said, “Jesus remember me when you come to your kingdom.” And he said to him, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.” (Lk. 23:42-43, ESV)
Chuck Colson - the Hatchet Man who went to jail for Watergate in the 70's became the leader in the world for criminal justice reform.
"My experience in prison helped me see who I really was. When I was shipped from Fort Holabird to the Federal prison camp... I experienced some depressing moments." (The Good Life, Tyndale House Publishers, Inc, Wheaton, IL, 2005) pg 27 My fellow prisoners were from small time to heavy duty.
"I never truly understood people until I was crushed. Until I lost everything and ended up in prison."
Colson was released from prison in January 1975. He planned to go back to Boston and work in law. Then president Nixon while in exile in California, welcomed his loyal friend back home and said on the phone, "You know, boy, you have tremendous ability. You can go to the top in the business world and make millions. You just give me the word." (The Good Life, Tyndale House Publishers, Inc, Wheaton, IL, 2005)pg29)
The Proverbs say that pride comes before a fall. What was the mark of the fall of Nixon? It was the very thing that he most adored that brought him down! As Chuck Colson says in his own words, "Hubris became the mark of the Nixon man because hubris was the quality Nixon admired most.. maybe it was bald stupidity.. but it sure was hubris." (Born Again, Chuck Colson, Chosen Books, Old Tappan, New Jersey, 1976, pg 72)
September 27, 2015
I have been doing a reading surge these past few months on Vietnam and the Nixon years so when a friend recommended this book it caught my interest. Mr. Colson was a key cog in the White House during the Nixon presidency and his description of this time was fascinating.
Mr. Colson’s describes in detail his transition from his own state of hubris to humility, after the Watergate scandal hit. He was never convicted of anything related to the Watergate scandal but he pleaded guilty to his part in trying to discredit Daniel Ellsberg by using untruths after Ellsberg had leaked the “Pentagon Papers”. His guilty plea surprised the prosecutors because it was not expected and nor had anyone ever been convicted in a similar circumstance. Also, he clearly followed the Nixon’s orders; however this was Mr. Colson’s way of receiving closure on the entire Watergate issue -- his way of accepting responsibility for the decay that had set into the Whitehouse. Mr. Colson had been known a Nixon “bull dog” that looked after tough and sticky task that Nixon required, thus the breaking of such a strong personality was not something people saw coming.
Though Mr. Colson’s was a believer before Watergate, this life crisis resulted in a new dedication of his life to Christianity. His conversion resulted in his pre-emptive guilty plea, shocked his own lawyer, resulted in prison time, and led to the loss of his ability to practice law.
The last third of the book is Colson’s vivid description of his time in prison and how he at first survived and ultimately thrived. His writing is so clear you feel like you are locked up with him as he enters the frightening world of a U.S. Federal prison. He describes how many inmates are permanently mentally damaged as they try to tune-out the world to survive their incarnation years, but then cannot snap out of this state when they are released.
The book ends with Mr. Colson’s release from prison, but you can see how this experience set up Mr. Colson’s subsequent life work of helping inmates in their families.
Very good book.
Mr. Colson’s describes in detail his transition from his own state of hubris to humility, after the Watergate scandal hit. He was never convicted of anything related to the Watergate scandal but he pleaded guilty to his part in trying to discredit Daniel Ellsberg by using untruths after Ellsberg had leaked the “Pentagon Papers”. His guilty plea surprised the prosecutors because it was not expected and nor had anyone ever been convicted in a similar circumstance. Also, he clearly followed the Nixon’s orders; however this was Mr. Colson’s way of receiving closure on the entire Watergate issue -- his way of accepting responsibility for the decay that had set into the Whitehouse. Mr. Colson had been known a Nixon “bull dog” that looked after tough and sticky task that Nixon required, thus the breaking of such a strong personality was not something people saw coming.
Though Mr. Colson’s was a believer before Watergate, this life crisis resulted in a new dedication of his life to Christianity. His conversion resulted in his pre-emptive guilty plea, shocked his own lawyer, resulted in prison time, and led to the loss of his ability to practice law.
The last third of the book is Colson’s vivid description of his time in prison and how he at first survived and ultimately thrived. His writing is so clear you feel like you are locked up with him as he enters the frightening world of a U.S. Federal prison. He describes how many inmates are permanently mentally damaged as they try to tune-out the world to survive their incarnation years, but then cannot snap out of this state when they are released.
The book ends with Mr. Colson’s release from prison, but you can see how this experience set up Mr. Colson’s subsequent life work of helping inmates in their families.
Very good book.
May 11, 2016
I rate this book very high for the simple reason that I think it should be read. It is not the most eloquent of books, but it is an outstanding story. This story is in many ways complete upon the passing of Charles Colson, but it is also an ongoing one because of the radical nature of ministries that are continuing because of him.
This is the autobiography of Charles Colson, former White House aide under the presidency of Richard Nixon. Colson tells of his personal encounters with the president, how he arrived at the White House, and his dramatic experience through the Watergate saga. However, the majority of the book describes his time in prison due to his guilty admission and his responsibility for Watergate.
It is a mistake to chalk this book up to religious fanaticism. Readers who do so are lazy. It is important to read this through the eyes of Colson, as it is his story. Admittedly, it is difficult to empathize and sympathize with the prison tails. Most prisoners are behind bars because of a law or two or three that they broke. However, the book does force the reader to at least inquire the purpose of our prison system. What is the point of prison? If it is merely to punish criminals, then it is a self-serving prophecy. If, however, it is to re-establish a sense of civility to our society, then these tales of Colson's time in prison are important to learn from. His encounter with God through his experience locked up also birthed one of the most important organizations in America: Prison Fellowship Ministries.
I highly recommend this book not just on an historical level, but also because you will be forced to look inwardly at yourself to determine what your moral compass is.
This is the autobiography of Charles Colson, former White House aide under the presidency of Richard Nixon. Colson tells of his personal encounters with the president, how he arrived at the White House, and his dramatic experience through the Watergate saga. However, the majority of the book describes his time in prison due to his guilty admission and his responsibility for Watergate.
It is a mistake to chalk this book up to religious fanaticism. Readers who do so are lazy. It is important to read this through the eyes of Colson, as it is his story. Admittedly, it is difficult to empathize and sympathize with the prison tails. Most prisoners are behind bars because of a law or two or three that they broke. However, the book does force the reader to at least inquire the purpose of our prison system. What is the point of prison? If it is merely to punish criminals, then it is a self-serving prophecy. If, however, it is to re-establish a sense of civility to our society, then these tales of Colson's time in prison are important to learn from. His encounter with God through his experience locked up also birthed one of the most important organizations in America: Prison Fellowship Ministries.
I highly recommend this book not just on an historical level, but also because you will be forced to look inwardly at yourself to determine what your moral compass is.
April 22, 2012
Early yesterday evening, I was reading sections of this book to my husband. I'd had it in my collection of books to read for over a year, but only with the news of Colson's deterioration had I finally picked it up. We had been watching the NHL hockey playoffs so it wasn't until I went online that I learned Chuck Colson had gone to be with the Lord.
The obituaries in the media today are focusing on Colson's time in Nixon's White House. They are focused on the "Hatchet Man." And some of the things being said, I would have believed if not for Born Again.
Colson was refreshingly honest about his life before and after his conversion to Christianity. He spoke of how proud he was to have an office in the Administration, and how there was a feeling that he and his colleagues would do anything in order to serve President Nixon. It was a flawed thinking; they were, after all, serving a man who believed that any act, "When the president does it, it's not illegal." He also wrote of his struggle between the man and God, noting that when things went bad it was more often than not because he had presumed to take control of the situation rather than leaving it in God's hands.
This is not just a book about a Christian called Charles Colson. It's about the Nixon administration, Vietnam, the social climate of the late 60s and early 70s, and - of course - Watergate. Some will love this book because of its historical value, some will hate it claiming Colson only wrote it to improve his reputation. But, at this poignant point in time, I see it as the book of a man who had his flaws and knew it, and who is now in the arms of his Lord and Savior.
The obituaries in the media today are focusing on Colson's time in Nixon's White House. They are focused on the "Hatchet Man." And some of the things being said, I would have believed if not for Born Again.
Colson was refreshingly honest about his life before and after his conversion to Christianity. He spoke of how proud he was to have an office in the Administration, and how there was a feeling that he and his colleagues would do anything in order to serve President Nixon. It was a flawed thinking; they were, after all, serving a man who believed that any act, "When the president does it, it's not illegal." He also wrote of his struggle between the man and God, noting that when things went bad it was more often than not because he had presumed to take control of the situation rather than leaving it in God's hands.
This is not just a book about a Christian called Charles Colson. It's about the Nixon administration, Vietnam, the social climate of the late 60s and early 70s, and - of course - Watergate. Some will love this book because of its historical value, some will hate it claiming Colson only wrote it to improve his reputation. But, at this poignant point in time, I see it as the book of a man who had his flaws and knew it, and who is now in the arms of his Lord and Savior.
January 22, 2021
Wow. I'm blown away by Colson's story - which, as he points out, is just a fragment of God's redemptive story. To see behind the scenes historically into the Watergate scandal, but more to glimpse into the heart of Colson makes Born Again into a uniquely powerful testimony. It was strange to realize how relatable such a great man's struggles were, beautiful to see how God used the darkest times in his life to reveal His boundless love and faithfulness. I'm amazed. This is a very, very good book. I can't do it justice with my little thoughts and opinions, but if you're looking for a resounding reminder of God's sovereignty and grace, this is certainly a book I'd suggest picking up.
Highly recommended.
"What motivated me [to write] was that my disgrace was not the end of the story—or even the main part of the story. The real story was that Christ had reached down to me, even in my disgrace and shame, and revealed Himself as the One who forgives and makes new. Born Again is the story of a broken man transformed by the love and power of Jesus Christ—who continues to transform me every passing day."
Amen.
Highly recommended.
"What motivated me [to write] was that my disgrace was not the end of the story—or even the main part of the story. The real story was that Christ had reached down to me, even in my disgrace and shame, and revealed Himself as the One who forgives and makes new. Born Again is the story of a broken man transformed by the love and power of Jesus Christ—who continues to transform me every passing day."
Amen.
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