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Liberating King: Breaking Free from the Tyranny of Sin
Worship Is Our RemedyChrist has delivered believers from the power of sin, but instead of living in true freedom, we struggle with the same failures every day. This is not how it's supposed to be. We need someone stronger than us to release us from the prison of sin. Enter Jesus, the liberating king.With passion and purpose, worship pastor Stephen Miller calls readers to draw near to Christ in worship, allowing his Word and the Holy Spirit to loose our chains by exposing the lies that imprisoned us in the first place. When we do, we see everything more clearly--from the sinking sand of our man-made security to the solid rock of Jesus's unshakeable power. Miller shows that holy living is within our grasp when we keep our eyes and our adoration on the one who was sent not only to save us, but to make us into new creations.
130 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 17, 2016
10 people are currently reading
180 people want to read
About the author
Stephen Miller
3 books4 followersStephen Miller is a pastor, an artist, and a passionate advocate for the local church who travels all over the world to preach and lead worship for various conferences, concerts, camps, and more. He is a voice for orphan care as well as a Compassion International artist. Miller has recorded five studio albums and is the author of Worship Leaders, We Are Not Rock Stars. He lives in Austin, Texas, with his wife, Amanda, and their five kids.
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
May 22, 2016
"Liberating King" is about how worshiping God frees us. We all focus our hopes and desires on something or someone, but only Christ can fill those desires and set us free. The author examines how worship (through song, prayer, studying the Bible, action, etc.) reminds us of God's character, the truth about our worth, and the proper perspective of our life. Thus worshiping Christ frees us from lies, allows us to suffer well, calms our worries and anxieties, allows us to truly love others, act justly, break the cycle of sin, and sustain hope.
The author examines his theme of "worship frees us to..." from these different angles, and his points were easy to follow. If you enjoy worshiping God, you'll probably enjoy this book.
Over a year ago, I sustained an injury that has kept me from doing some basic things (like driving) and this has been very frustrating. I know why bad things happen, and that God is good, sovereign, and at work. I even realize my many blessings, but, oh, I still don't like this! Most books on suffering explain the basics and say "lean on God," and that's good. But the chapter on "worship frees us to suffer well" was what I really needed to hear. I appreciate the whole book as it's a good reminder of where our focus need to be, but I suspect each reader will find that some chapters speak to them more deeply than others.
I received an ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
The author examines his theme of "worship frees us to..." from these different angles, and his points were easy to follow. If you enjoy worshiping God, you'll probably enjoy this book.
Over a year ago, I sustained an injury that has kept me from doing some basic things (like driving) and this has been very frustrating. I know why bad things happen, and that God is good, sovereign, and at work. I even realize my many blessings, but, oh, I still don't like this! Most books on suffering explain the basics and say "lean on God," and that's good. But the chapter on "worship frees us to suffer well" was what I really needed to hear. I appreciate the whole book as it's a good reminder of where our focus need to be, but I suspect each reader will find that some chapters speak to them more deeply than others.
I received an ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
January 23, 2018
Love this book
A breath of fresh air. I will probably read this book again and again. Great perspectives. I loved the chapter on approval,and the emphasis on how liberation allows us to worship.
A breath of fresh air. I will probably read this book again and again. Great perspectives. I loved the chapter on approval,and the emphasis on how liberation allows us to worship.
October 5, 2016
Stephen Miller’s new book, Liberating King, contains ten chapters. Each chapter concludes with three “questions for application and discussion.” The questions are very specific, pointed, and directed to the reader. Ignoring the questions would be the only way to avoid the personal reflection (I believe, intended by the author).
In the introduction, Stephen writes, “this book… is not a self-help guide… the book is for broken people.” Miller makes the point that worship is much more than a song. He does this in ten chapters. Each chapter contains a different passage of Scripture, which is great. I am a student, and because I am a student, I prefer a more in-depth exegesis and exposition. My preferences can sometimes interfere with my appreciation for a book. I cannot fault Miller, he did a great job of exposition, and he did make personal application for each introductory Scripture.
The first four chapters did not really impress me much. Miller focused a great deal on God’s sovereignty and power, which is okay. Like many others, he wrote rather ambiguously about the subject. But, at chapter five there was a shift. In chapter five he discussed loving oneself and the insecurity that so many Christians face. He writes, “our liberating King Jesus frees you and me to love others well because he himself knows both acceptance and rejection.” At chapter five the book took a turn for the better, I could really identify with the last five chapters. He discussed relevant issues, personal struggles that all Christians are confronted with.
I would definitely recommend the book. There were plenty of great quotes, and probably some sermon illustrations. The premise, I believe, Christ sets us free, worship is more than a song. Worship is a way of life. Jesus has given us reason to worship Him. And worship helps us to fully experience who He is.
In the introduction, Stephen writes, “this book… is not a self-help guide… the book is for broken people.” Miller makes the point that worship is much more than a song. He does this in ten chapters. Each chapter contains a different passage of Scripture, which is great. I am a student, and because I am a student, I prefer a more in-depth exegesis and exposition. My preferences can sometimes interfere with my appreciation for a book. I cannot fault Miller, he did a great job of exposition, and he did make personal application for each introductory Scripture.
The first four chapters did not really impress me much. Miller focused a great deal on God’s sovereignty and power, which is okay. Like many others, he wrote rather ambiguously about the subject. But, at chapter five there was a shift. In chapter five he discussed loving oneself and the insecurity that so many Christians face. He writes, “our liberating King Jesus frees you and me to love others well because he himself knows both acceptance and rejection.” At chapter five the book took a turn for the better, I could really identify with the last five chapters. He discussed relevant issues, personal struggles that all Christians are confronted with.
I would definitely recommend the book. There were plenty of great quotes, and probably some sermon illustrations. The premise, I believe, Christ sets us free, worship is more than a song. Worship is a way of life. Jesus has given us reason to worship Him. And worship helps us to fully experience who He is.
June 2, 2016
“A thing resounds when it rings true, ringing all the bells inside of you.” – Andrew Peterson, More
Liberating King, by Stephen Miller, rang so many bells inside of me. Bells of truth and acceptance. Bells of forgiveness, worthiness, and peace. The truth of this book so resounded in the depths of my soul that I find myself profoundly moved by it and immensely grateful for the beauty within its pages. I cannot oversell this one – I honestly believe this book could change your life. I believe it’s changing mine. I’ve read some of these words over and over again, while praying that God would write them on my heart and that they would permanently become a part of who I am and how I live.
In only ten short chapters, Worship Pastor Stephen Miller, covers themes such as suffering, anxiety, forgiveness, people pleasing, loving others, identity and so much more. There truly is not one word wasted in this 120ish page book. The major theme of the book, as the subtitle suggests, is about freedom. It’s about the freedom that we find when we focus our hearts and minds on who God is, what God has done and what our response should be. He says on pg 19, “There is a difference between logic and truth. Logic speaks to your intellect. Truth speaks to your soul. Solid logic may free you up in many ways, but it will never be powerful enough to set you free. Only truth can do that.” He talks throughout the book about truth – rehearsing it (or meditating on it), being filled with it (Holy Spirit indwelling us) and experiencing it (through Jesus who is the Truth).
I don’t personally know Stephen (the author). I have never met him (although we live and work relatively close to each other). But after reading this book, I feel like I DO know him. He pours his heart and soul into this book and it reads almost like a long letter from a loved one who has been so changed by the Truth that they want to share what they’ve learned along the way. It’s so personal and tender at times that I felt honored to be reading it. At the end of each chapter there are three “Questions for Application and Discussion” that would easily make this book into a wonderful Bible Study for women, men, worship teams, church staff, small groups, or even simply a family. Scripture is woven so beautifully throughout this book and are the basis for every thought and word throughout its pages.
I learned so much in this little book. I was challenged, inspired, convicted and encouraged. There are things I’ve been holding onto for a very long time that this book is helping me to release. I have been quoting passages of this book to everyone around me (whether they want to listen or not) and have read entire portions aloud to my family and to my Worship team. I feel like Liberating King should be required reading for every Christ follower. It may be the best book I’ve read all year (and I just finished my 23rd book this year)!
Go buy it. Read it. Give it away. I simply cannot recommend it highly enough!
------------------------------------------------
Here are some of my favorite Quotables from this book:
“..I am created in his image, purchased with his blood, adopted into his family, filled with his Spirit, and given an eternal inheritance in his kingdom. Day by day, I am growing in the understanding of who I am in Christ, and as I grow, I am able to truly love others well.” (pg 70)
“Worship is our response to God, allowing us a glimpse of the unimaginable, a comprehension of the incomprehensible, a revelation of the infinite breath and length, height and depth of the love of God.” (pg 68)
“Faith chooses to love even when you have been hurt; to forgive, even when the pain is still fresh.” (pg 53)
“We can worship no matter what our circumstances because God’s character is not circumstantial.” (pg 38)
----------------------------------------------
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book through Baker Books Bloggers. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
Liberating King, by Stephen Miller, rang so many bells inside of me. Bells of truth and acceptance. Bells of forgiveness, worthiness, and peace. The truth of this book so resounded in the depths of my soul that I find myself profoundly moved by it and immensely grateful for the beauty within its pages. I cannot oversell this one – I honestly believe this book could change your life. I believe it’s changing mine. I’ve read some of these words over and over again, while praying that God would write them on my heart and that they would permanently become a part of who I am and how I live.
In only ten short chapters, Worship Pastor Stephen Miller, covers themes such as suffering, anxiety, forgiveness, people pleasing, loving others, identity and so much more. There truly is not one word wasted in this 120ish page book. The major theme of the book, as the subtitle suggests, is about freedom. It’s about the freedom that we find when we focus our hearts and minds on who God is, what God has done and what our response should be. He says on pg 19, “There is a difference between logic and truth. Logic speaks to your intellect. Truth speaks to your soul. Solid logic may free you up in many ways, but it will never be powerful enough to set you free. Only truth can do that.” He talks throughout the book about truth – rehearsing it (or meditating on it), being filled with it (Holy Spirit indwelling us) and experiencing it (through Jesus who is the Truth).
I don’t personally know Stephen (the author). I have never met him (although we live and work relatively close to each other). But after reading this book, I feel like I DO know him. He pours his heart and soul into this book and it reads almost like a long letter from a loved one who has been so changed by the Truth that they want to share what they’ve learned along the way. It’s so personal and tender at times that I felt honored to be reading it. At the end of each chapter there are three “Questions for Application and Discussion” that would easily make this book into a wonderful Bible Study for women, men, worship teams, church staff, small groups, or even simply a family. Scripture is woven so beautifully throughout this book and are the basis for every thought and word throughout its pages.
I learned so much in this little book. I was challenged, inspired, convicted and encouraged. There are things I’ve been holding onto for a very long time that this book is helping me to release. I have been quoting passages of this book to everyone around me (whether they want to listen or not) and have read entire portions aloud to my family and to my Worship team. I feel like Liberating King should be required reading for every Christ follower. It may be the best book I’ve read all year (and I just finished my 23rd book this year)!
Go buy it. Read it. Give it away. I simply cannot recommend it highly enough!
------------------------------------------------
Here are some of my favorite Quotables from this book:
“..I am created in his image, purchased with his blood, adopted into his family, filled with his Spirit, and given an eternal inheritance in his kingdom. Day by day, I am growing in the understanding of who I am in Christ, and as I grow, I am able to truly love others well.” (pg 70)
“Worship is our response to God, allowing us a glimpse of the unimaginable, a comprehension of the incomprehensible, a revelation of the infinite breath and length, height and depth of the love of God.” (pg 68)
“Faith chooses to love even when you have been hurt; to forgive, even when the pain is still fresh.” (pg 53)
“We can worship no matter what our circumstances because God’s character is not circumstantial.” (pg 38)
----------------------------------------------
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book through Baker Books Bloggers. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
February 25, 2017
Miller looks at various challenges of the Christian life to show the transforming power of a Spirit-filled rehearsal of God's truth in personal patterns of worship. There is a lot of encouraging material here, and the questions at the end of each chapter have a directness that stimulates honest, fruitful reflections. The chapter on approval, and how Jesus frees us to love others by giving us a new status as those loved by God, was definitely the highlight for me. Christians young and old could both benefit from a quick read of this.
There are two main downsides to this book. One is that Miller's writing style can sometimes be irritating. He can be quite opaque or ethereal, such that the sentences sound nice but it's not clear what exactly he's saying. There are several platitudinous moments too. Second, there could be much more on the corporate nature of the Christian life. I realise his focus is on private patterns of worship, and he does include a chapter on corporate worship. Nevertheless, the book sometimes felt individualistic, when we should all be encouraging each other with these truths.
There are two main downsides to this book. One is that Miller's writing style can sometimes be irritating. He can be quite opaque or ethereal, such that the sentences sound nice but it's not clear what exactly he's saying. There are several platitudinous moments too. Second, there could be much more on the corporate nature of the Christian life. I realise his focus is on private patterns of worship, and he does include a chapter on corporate worship. Nevertheless, the book sometimes felt individualistic, when we should all be encouraging each other with these truths.
June 17, 2016
Miller mixes up stories from movies, the bible, the lives of his friends, accounts of famous missionaries/christians and his own struggles in this little book. Miller is often straight to the point, and utilises accessible (jargon free) language. I enjoyed the journey Miller took me on the book and was heartened by the reminder in the last chapter to look beyond the immensely difficult times of this life and instead to the worship in time eternal. I had read, studied and heard the book of Revelation intensely and yet somehow my heart had forgotten how to worship.
While I look forward to a more thorough and theologically beefier revised version, I recognise that the target audience is one that the average Christian theologian could reach. Weighing in at a slim 121 pages, it is ideal for people who do not usually go to their local church library or christian bookstore to pick up books to read. Its brevity thus makes it an ideal gift to other believers.
I received this book from the Baker Publishing Group's Blogger Review Program for the purposes of providing an unbiased review. All views are my own.
While I look forward to a more thorough and theologically beefier revised version, I recognise that the target audience is one that the average Christian theologian could reach. Weighing in at a slim 121 pages, it is ideal for people who do not usually go to their local church library or christian bookstore to pick up books to read. Its brevity thus makes it an ideal gift to other believers.
I received this book from the Baker Publishing Group's Blogger Review Program for the purposes of providing an unbiased review. All views are my own.
May 31, 2016
"Liberating King" by Stephen Miller is a book about not letting sin control us. This is not the type of book that says you will be perfect here on earth and never. That was my first worry about this book. Yes we are not to live in sin continually but we will mess up as we are still living in a sinful world. My favorite chapter was on being brave in others walking in faith while everything is going wrong around you. Normally I don't quote from a book but this little section I am getting ready to quote was too good not to share. " Faith is not pretending everything is okay when it's really not. Faith is going to God when your world is unraveling. Faith is being brave knowing what you know now." This was a very powerful and interesting book that once I picked it up I just could not put it down. I do plan on keeping this one on my shelves. I highly recommend it.
I was given this book from BakerBooks a division of Baker Publishing Group for my honest review and not required to give a positive.
I was given this book from BakerBooks a division of Baker Publishing Group for my honest review and not required to give a positive.
October 8, 2016
This was a quick read and for me mainly boiled down to the importance of alone time spent with God, focusing on His truth and letting that overcome the obstacles in our lives. While this is a necessary component to the life of faith I felt the author left out other very necessary components such as the deeply rooted historical and communal nature of our faith. One could read this book and come away with a sense that they would do alright on their own with God and not really need a church community - local, global, present and past. The Calvinistic leanings of the author also caused me regular grief throughout the writing. So while the author does touch on a key aspect of the freedom available in Christ he truncates it by failing to account for the wider context in which we were meant to experience and sustain such freedom. This book could have been longer and offered more breadth into exploring this wider picture of the Christian faith.
Thanks to Baker Books for providing this work for review.
Thanks to Baker Books for providing this work for review.
August 27, 2016
A Wonderful & Great, Inspiration & Uplifting...
What an Awesome Book! This is a very powerful and uplifting to the spirit. A must have for your spiritual awakening that we might've forgotten. And eye-opener even to the ones that think they know it all you'll learn from this book. Right down to the core, it has a lot of meat and it goes deep but won't confuse you. It's very enjoyable and helpful to your spiritual walk.
Thanks once again!!!!! Two thumbs up because that's all I got I would give more
What an Awesome Book! This is a very powerful and uplifting to the spirit. A must have for your spiritual awakening that we might've forgotten. And eye-opener even to the ones that think they know it all you'll learn from this book. Right down to the core, it has a lot of meat and it goes deep but won't confuse you. It's very enjoyable and helpful to your spiritual walk.
Thanks once again!!!!! Two thumbs up because that's all I got I would give more
May 6, 2016
I received this book from Goodreads First Reads in exchange for an honest review....
This is a good book that I handed down to my mom. It was about things that would interest her greatly. I, on the other hand, not so much. I grew bored almost immediately. It felt repetitive and dull, and seemed to drag on endlessly. This is a decent, solid read if the subject at hand interests you.
This is a good book that I handed down to my mom. It was about things that would interest her greatly. I, on the other hand, not so much. I grew bored almost immediately. It felt repetitive and dull, and seemed to drag on endlessly. This is a decent, solid read if the subject at hand interests you.
August 28, 2016
Well-written. Worshipful. However, I did find it to be a bit simple. Just when Miller started getting into the good stuff, he'd end and move on to the next chapter! Perhaps that's his goal here- a primer on worship in replacement of sin. But I think more depth would have been beneficial.
Want to read
February 27, 2016I just won this book in the goodreads giveaway and can't wait to read it!! I'll update my review once I have received and read it :D
May 11, 2016
Good read especially if you are seeking some closure or understanding in some areas of your life. I won it in a contest and thought it was well written.
December 29, 2016
Some good truth in this book, but mostly it struck me as rather cliche and repetitive.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews