Meet Daniel. A Transformed Man Who Transformed His World.
What does an ancient Jewish prophet have to do with modern America? What, if anything, can we learn from a man who lived 2,400 years ago as a captive in the land we now call Iraq? As it turns out, quite a bit.
David and Jason Benham are convinced the biblical example of Daniel holds the keys to contemporary Christians living victoriously in a world increasingly hostile to people of faith. Like Daniel, many believers today find themselves in an unfriendly environment, one opposed to the God they serve. Yet, like Daniel, they must learn how to take a stand while serving the people around them.
Living Among Lions is for Christian brothers and sisters who have the potential to transform their world but find themselves standing in the shadows wondering how to respond in an unfriendly environment. Divided into three sections, Living Among Lions covers three distinct characteristics that made Daniel Conviction, Commitment, and Courage.
Daniel possessed all of these qualities and lived them out. As a result, God gave him unprecedented favor and supernatural power. A mere slave living in exile, Daniel emerged as one of the most powerful men in the known world. Daniel’s conviction, commitment, and courage empowered him not merely to survive in Babylon but to thrive. He did not conform to his world; he transformed his world.
This book was one I could have completely read cover to cover in a day, because it was so good. But I didn't solely because I didn't want any wisdom or insight to get lost on the way. The truth is that there is a lot of evil and sin in the world that needs dealt with and as the body of Christ it's our responsibility to step up and stand in the way of the devil every single time. Jesus paid the highest price for us AND gave us unlimited power to do great things here on earth in His Name and lead people to Him. Why would sinners want what we Christians have (salvation) if we look the exact same as the rest of the world. It is our job to stand out and shine His light for all to see, because all of heaven's armies are with us ready to fight the good fight. Courage is contagious. 5 stars!
Amazing book! It highlights a lot of what is going on in today's culture for Christians and the action we need to take to show that we stand with God. It might not seem like it to others, but Christians really are under pressure in America and if we don't take our stand, it will turn into persecution.
The book is immersed in exceptionality theology that suggests American Christianity as the new Israel and America itself as the new Babylon.
While I love a good exegesis of the Book of Daniel, I feel the authors take it over the top with their allusions to American Christianity as exceptional. I just don't see in Scripture where God promised America a special blessing covenant.
There's some good encouragement to stay the course for Christ in difficult situations. I just don't agree with the context they suggest.
What an encouraging book! It's exciting to hear two men from broader Evangelicalism identifying the same problems, and the same solutions, as folks in my camp (Reformed Evangelicals).
Great book for teens and adults seeking some encouragement for living godly in today's society. The book is based on Daniel's life and his outstanding reputation in Babylon. I really think it would benefit teens as it seems to be written somewhat geared towards young adults. (I'm highly encouraging my college age son to read it before he goes off to school).
Personally, I really enjoyed it and felt challenged by it. The authors have a friendly banter/ sibling rivalry going on (especially fun when listening to the audio version). They give alot of tips and principles I thought were fantastic. I read the book somewhat slowly to just soak up the information. Highly recommended.
I was really excited when I started the book - it went straight to the point and gave an interesting overview of how America has changed in recent years. The first section of the book was a good reminder of what is important in our spiritual lives but the rest of the book was unnecessarily repetitive and long. The authors used a lot of slogan-like sentences and commented on each other’s stories. Overall I think the book will encourage new Christians but is not for someone who is looking for a biblically rich and deep book.
Wow did I love this book. I listened to the Bentham brothers speak at a homeschool conference this year. I was entertained and challenged. This book is a deeper dive into what they spoke about. I love their look at Daniel and his friends and their take always for living life today. It certainly called me out on some of my own problems. It also inspired me as an individual and parent to be and raise Daniels who can face down lions. Highly recommend for all Christians.
This was a very inspiring book and they are both extremely full of wisdom! I loved all the points they made and all the scripture they quoted! The only concern I have about it is that if you haven’t read the entire book of Daniel, there’s some things you won’t understand. I’d suggest reading the book of Daniel and then reading this book!
The only reason I read this was because it's the book my life group was reading. I mean, it's not a bad book but I wouldn't classify it as good either. It's just too surface level and never said anything all that thought provoking. And the twin thing was a little gimmicky and cringey. No offense, these guys seem like nice people but I just didn't vibe.
The authors focus on how to thrive in today’s world with the same principles that Daniel did in Babylon. They’ve right to help the reader discover what it takes to live victoriously in a world increasingly hostile to people of faith. It’s a book that should be read more than once.
What a inspirational read. Excellent book. You will gain awesome insight on how to be courageous by standing and trusting God in this world. Awesome read.
I loved this book and the Benhams ability to be very frank about how Christian complacency is not biblical. I found it convicting and inspiring. Thanks guys!
Very well written, good job of staying “on theme”. Particularly important work for the societal issues of our times. Real-world examples and helpful encouragement for 21st century Christians.
I could not lay this instruction book down. One if the best books on challenging Christians to live among the lions in this culture that seek to disable, destroy us f r on being effective for God. They list the challenges facing us just a s they did Daniel. Daniel never compromised nor can we. A must read for every believer.
This book relates the book of Daniel to today's culture in America. Overall I liked the points that were made and the reminders to stand firm and have courage. The fact that this book is written by twins makes the pronoun usage awkward, but other than that, an enjoyable book.
Would strongly recommend this book for all Christians who are looking for Biblical ways to live a Holy and Succesful life on earth in this modern time.
I listened to this book at a time when I needed the encouragement to be bold. I was thankful for the reminders of truth amidst a situation where others were twisting it.