A Mile Wide: Trading a Shallow Religion for a Deeper Faith

by Brandon Hatmaker

An irresistible call for readers to think bigger and go deeper into faith from TV personality Brandon Hatmaker. Now in trade paper. What if we’re just skimming the surface? Christianity holds out the promise of a better way and a better day. So we’ve studied, joined more small groups, and checked all the boxes—yet, we’re still hungry for more . What if the gospel we’ve come to know is even deeper than we ever imagined? What if the same gospel that works in us to change us continues to work through us to change everything else? Speaking from more than twenty years of experience working in the local church, Brandon Hatmaker leads us past the hurdles between our current lives and the lives we crave. He shows us how Jesus changes everything and how a greater understanding of the gospel leads to deeper faith, richer community, and more fulfilling purpose.

Genres: Christian, Nonfiction, Faith, Religion, Christianity, Theology, Christian Living

224 pages, Paperback

First published September 13, 2016

About the author

Brandon is an author, biker, humanitarian, and a huge fan of the underdog. He co-stars in the HGTV and DIY Network series "My Big Family Renovation."

After more than 20 years of working in the local church, he co-founded and is now the Managing Partner of The Legacy Collective (www.legacycollective.org) and The Legacy Investor Group LLC which focuses on partnering, pioneering, and funding sustainable solutions to systemic social issues.

Reviews

[Anna LeBaron · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the book A Mile Wide Brandon Hatmaker states (about Jesus' parable of the soils), "...the quality and depth of the soil represents our heart's receptivity to his truth. Our receptivity determines the fruit, not the other way around. Instead of focusing on more fruit, we're challenged to focus on the condition of the soil."

With that, he proceeds to aid the reader in turning over the fallow ground and the topsoil of the heart. Seed that falls on hardened soil cannot take root and grow and is left to the birds.
Seed that falls on good soil eventually becomes fruit-bearing trees.

Brandon states, "...we're better at being and making converts than we are at being and making disciples." We are invited to consider discipleship through a new set of lenses, all of which are critical in our formation. He spells out, in everyday language how to go about deepening our relationship with God and with our neighbors. He offers a fresh perspective on loving others, calling them: The Outcast, The Outsider, and The Insider.

This book left me hungering for greater depths in my faith and with an action plan to make it happen.

I received an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for my honest review.

[Anna · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Mile Wide is an excellent book. I appreciated the balance between practical advice, stories, and challenges. This book causes you to stop and think what it really means to love your neighbors. It is definitely a book I recommend and I will be rereading this gem.

I received an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

I don't remember the last time I read a work of Christian nonfiction by a male author.

Scratch that - I do. I remember getting so mad at John Piper in college that I swore I would never read another straight, white dude's ideas about God ever. EVER.

So fast-forward a whole bunch of years, and I discover and fall in love with Jen Hatmaker. So when I hear her husband has a new book coming out, I am - despite my best intentions - curious. I decide to give it a shot.

And it was good. And honestly, that's saying something, because I've read some pretty amazing books in this genre this year, so he had a fairly high standard to live up to. His book was a nice mixture of big dreams - as Christians, we are called to step out and meet the needs of the world - as well as practical steps - start by slowing down, and identifying what actually needs to be done where you live. Hatmaker introduces a new way of living and relating to the world, but doesn't stop at the ideas - he gives individual people the tools to make change, in their own house, neighborhood, and community. His words are challenging, and I found myself nodding with agreement on one page, and feeling convicted on the next.

There are a couple of tiny, stylistic things that kept me from falling completely in love, but overall I found it to be excellent. I'm so glad I put my misconceptions aside and gave this one a try. Definitely recommended!

(I received a review copy from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion - thank you!)

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a PDF copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

This book is full of truth and so much more wisdom. Brandon "gets" the things that frustrate me about church culture. A real connection with Jesus and following his personal lead in my life is far more desirable to me than adding a few more bible studies or retreats and developing my religiosity instead of learning to love. (Bible studies and retreats are awesome, but can be counterproductive sometimes.)

A bit too many discussion questions (10) at the end of each chapter for my preference but would work well in a group for people to pick and choose which resonate most.

[Dana Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brandon tackles some of our common blind spots about the gospel with his typical style of grace and truth. This is a must-read book! I found myself saying out loud, "YES! That's what I've been trying to say!!" multiple times. A Mile Wide is as challenging and as it is practical, every chapter offers steps to make it relevant in your life. I cannot wait to go through it again with my small group when it is released.

I received an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Barbara Seidle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brandon Hatmaker has done it again with another amazing book designed to help you grow in your faith. After decades of being a Christian and desiring a deeper faith, I had become leery of books offering a solutions to the struggle I faced in my faith walk. I read A Mile Wide with hesitancy at first, but by the end of the first chapter I knew this book would be different. Brandon offers a practical guide to true discipleship. So many of the Christian nonfiction books I have read focus on developing a better prayer life or quiet time or on increasing numbers in church services, small group, and events. While not bad things, they don't leave me living more like Christ. The current American Christian church environment is lacking something, and much of the Christian writing struggles to distinguish between Christ and cultural expectations. I have sought a more active life of hands on service for years, including trying to rework the small group I run at church, but the end result was always the same. Reading Brandon's book opened my eyes up to the pieces I believe have been missing all this time. Chapter 4 on Discipleship was transformative. After reading A Mile Wide, I believe that many people worn thin by the weekly demands of active church membership will lay those burdens down at the foot of the Cross and come away with spiritual rest. I have already started implementing the things Brandon lays out so clearly in this book, and I am excited to see what God will do.
*I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.

[Jana Craft · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hatmaker does it again: he made me reach deeper and further into my faith and come up questioning. A successful second book, Hatmaker's personal search for a deeper relationship with God and the people who inhabit his world is evident here. There is not one line in the book that smells fishy or feels fake, unlike many others in this genre that can be preachy and pretentious at times. Rather, Hatmaker takes a risk and is both vulnerable and challenging. Why settle for a shallow faith when you can have a deep river of love from the One who we are made to seek? (Sometimes he's funny, too.)
Note: I received an advanced readers copy in exchange for an honest review. Meaning, I got to read the book before it came out, I don't know Brandon, and if it was bad I'd definitely tell you.

[Karah Hawkinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent! Encourages deeper thinking about faith and service. I highlighted and took notes all over the margins. Definitely something I will turn to again and again.
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.

[Xamayta · Rating 4 out of 5]

As with any book, it will hit you according to where you are in life. My guess is that this book will either challenge the legalism right out of you, or confirm what you already knew deep inside or give you the courage to step out and live the gospel!

Brandon does a good job at exposing some of the dysfunction of modern day Christianity, but does so in a very humble and non-judgmental way. The book is a simple read, but calls you to dig deep. As a life coach, I was really encouraged to see that each chapter ends with soul searching questions, which can easily be used for personal introspection or in a group setting, which will most certainly call you to action.

[Kelli Moore · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mr. Hatmaker addresses important societal and faith issues with honesty and a love for Jesus that extends to a genuine love for others.

[Courtney Birkbeck · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Mile Wide was extremely interesting to me. As someone who grew up in a cult, I am very interested in reading books about how to trade my religious thoughts and ideas for a faith in God that goes so much deeper than man-made ideas.

Brandon Hatmaker covered so many areas in shallow religion that I realized on a deeper level how shallow my faith in God was. The concept of going further with in my relationship with God has been daunting at times, because of the confusion I've had. This book brought more clarity to my heart and soul and I am so excited about implementing many of the ways Brandon talks about, on how to go deeper with my relationship with God. Having faith is so vital to our walk with God and I think Brandon did a great job helping people get from point A to point B.

I would suggest this book to all of my friends to read (and have been promoting this book a lot already) if they want to go from having a s0-so relationship with God based on religion to finding a deep rooted faith that goes so much deeper than church on Sunday's and prayer before meals.

[Andrea · Rating 5 out of 5]

(I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.) In "A Mile Wide" Brandon Hatmaker tackles the tension that Christians since Jesus' time through to modern day have struggled with: the seemingly warring concepts of Grace and Truth. He proposes that it's not only possible to balance both, it's the very thing God requires of us. This book is a journey downward, past the false idols of human intellect and pride, down to the humble depths of love that Jesus calls us to. It's the answer to the nagging feeling many of us sense that there must be more to our faith than the limits of the religion we find ourselves a part of. Brandon offers hope for those who are searching for more of God's power and glory within the everyday confines of our day-to-day lives. This book is practical, heartfelt, and sage advice on how we are to "act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly" with our God (Micah 6:8).

[Christa Held · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is not just a book. This is a handbook for doing life well! I've read and re-read most of these chapters until I've nearly memorized the challenging and convicting words. Brandon cuts deep and quick to bring us exactly where we need to be--wondering, considering and evaluating how we do life and church. If you've been sitting back thinking 'is this all there is?', please read this book and set yourself on a course towards powerful commitment to God's word and life's best. If you work in ministry, this book will encourage you to be stronger in your work with others. I've loved all of Jen's books (B dog's wife), but this one really hit the spot!

[Jennifer Bolen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Raised Pentecostal, now an adult backslider - Brandon Hatmaker says everything in this book that I thought and felt before leaving the church. I loved every single word of this book. For years, the thought of being a cookie-cutter Christian truly bothered me. I knew there had to be more to church than just being worried about the new dress worn to Sunday service. This book has helped to renew my faith and see that my walk with God can be just that - mine.

I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.

[Maddie Dumas · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a free e-copy of this book, and I'm so, so grateful. Brandon Hatmaker spoke truth that I needed to hear. After reading it, I'm inspired to follow more closely to Jesus and be a true disciple. I feel convicted (read- convicted, not guilted into) to show more grace. Ultimately to love and live and love as Christ does. Highly recommend.

[Ticcoa Leister · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an Advanced Reader Copy of A Mile Wide in exchange for an honest review.

In the first section of the book, Brandon Hatmaker challenges us to look a bit deeper at our faith while also simplifying the true intent of the gospel. Rather than seeking out the “do’s” and “don’ts” of following Jesus, Hatmaker encourages us to look to Jesus’s interactions with people and how he met them where they were instead of requiring them to check off a bunch of good behavior/expectation boxes before interacting with them.

In the second section of A Mile Wide, Hatmaker discusses the need for community among believers and non-believers. He is passionate in his belief that the church should be missional, not sequestering themselves in a church building all the time, but intentionally serving others in the local community. Hatmaker extols the benefits of varying the types, locations, and venues for small group meetings and service projects, stressing that the meeting people where they are, like Jesus exemplified in the gospel, is the key to building relationships with them: “Jesus almost always met people at their greatest felt need as a part of addressing their spiritual need. He had compassion that allowed him to see through people and speak their language. Community and commission is that shared language between believers and nonbelievers.”

With a tone that is more conversational than condemning (you won’t find condemning words here, convicting, perhaps, but not condemning), A Mile Wide is a must read for anyone who desires to live out their faith in more missional-minded way. Highly recommended!

[Abbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found myself being constantly reminded of powerful truths throughout this book. To quote Mr. Hatmaker: "Disciples learn to capture the moment. They see the supernatural in the common. They don't wait for experiences to come their way; they look for moments already there." Yes! But I forget so often. I need to be reminded of these things so that I can deepen my faith. That is the goal of the book, to throw off what is shallow and meaningless and dig in deep to the meat of the gospel.

I feel better grounded after reading 'A Mile Wide'. Better prepared to not only greet the world but to make a difference in it. I don't need to change my job or move or start a new ministry: I just need to look for opportunities in the everyday to show God's love. I'm grateful for this book and the reminder to minister to those right in front of me...because if I spread myself too thin my relationships will be shallow (just an inch deep).

I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.

[Jennifer Lane · Rating 5 out of 5]

The tile of this book doesn't do it justice. The book delivers on ideas for growing deeper faith, but it also includes so many wise thoughts about church and Christian culture. I've read some of the chapters multiple times because Brandon Hatmaker completely reframed concepts that we might take for granted, such as discipleship, fellowship, and community outreach. I believe that this is a momentum changing book for church members and church leaders. As we reframe how we are discipled and how we disciple others, to include not just book learning but action, we can refocus our charge as a Christians to include meeting needs that bring justice to our communities. If you long for a truer and more fulfilling mission in your Christian life, this book is for you.

[Kathi Roach · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given an advanced copy of this book. I am a big fan of Brandon's wife Jen and have read most of her books. I haven't read Brandon's other book. I must admit that I was slightly hesitant about this book because I feared it may be a "dude's book" and I wouldn't relate. I can honestly say this is a book for EVERYONE. It is packed with truths that relate Jesus' teachings to the issues we struggle with today in our world. The book is broken into two halves: The Gospel In Us and the Gospel Through Us. Brandon addresses both aspects with truth and grace. This book is going to be a game changer for American Christianity and the church as we know it. You will not regret reading it. It's one you'll highlight, underline, quote, and re-read until it's dog eared and broken.

[Jenni Dickey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book makes you think. I read certain chapters multiple times and got something new out of it every time. I feel this is a book I will be reading again. I will definitely recommend it to my friends.

[Julie Presley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This books is fantastic and has had me in tears more than once as the Lord confirms what He has been speaking to my heart through the words Brandon has written. I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Missi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Brandon Hatmaker begins the process of reclaiming Christianity from the culture's clutches in this book. His honest critique of himself and the church begins the process of reminding us who God has created us to be as His people and how that plays out in our culture today.

In a world that is seeking community, authenticity and love, Hatmaker gives practical, biblical principles and ways of living out Micah 6:8.

[Elizabeth Noles · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brandon Hatmaker once again has written a book that is pulling the church out of what has become the norm into deeper waters. A Mile Wide will challenge your faith, your depth and how you look and hunger for things of God- and ultimately share them with the world. The chapter on community will press your heart in ways that hopefully move us to be more present and connected outside of the 4 walls of the church building.

[Stefani Drake · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher in exchange for my honest review. As a Christian and avid reader, I stand by my 5 star rating of this book. Brandon Hatmaker does an excellent job at digging into the tension that many Christians face with the church in today's culture. The pull toward something more, the questions that one is too afraid to ask in church- these are all addressed in Brandon's book as he takes on modern day Christianity in America and offers his perspective on what faith is all about: to love God and to love others. While many of us have heard that a thousand different times at church, Brandon offers a fresh approach to doing life as a Christian- be normal, be present and seek God in all that you do.

In "A Mile Wide," Brandon writes: "Our job, as missional people, is to clear the clutter to allow the Spirit to move in those moments. It's to commit ourselves to a rhythm and lifestyle that places us firmly in the middle of possibility." To me, that sums up this brilliant book- we need to get out of our own way and let God step in. To Him to be the glory and the honor. What an amazing life we can be living when we finally step aside, see God in the quiet moments, and learn to extend love and grace and mercy because of all that He has given us.

[Kelly Shank · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wasn't sure what to expect when I started reading this book. Normally I don't read male authors but I decided to give Jen Hatmaker's husband a chance. Reading this book is like sitting with a friend and honestly trying to solve the world's problems. It teaches, is honest, and is challenging-all without any air of superiority. "A Mile Wide" is soul food for the restless misfits of the conventional church world. Brandon Hatmaker put onto paper my inner most thoughts about what the church's purpose should be and how we achieve the most good. He challenges the standard definition of discipleship and raises the bar for what it means to be on mission. We no longer get a passing grade for showing up each Sunday and warming a seat.

"True Christianity is lived along the way, between the church services and Bible studies. Programs and events on the church campus are a significant part of the Christian journey, but they do not define us. The purest moments of communing with God and other believers, whether in exaltation or confession, are mostly responses to who we are, not the other way around."

I received an Advanced Reader Copy from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.

[April]

For most books, I am a speed reader. For a book that causes me to break old ways of thinking and expands my personal world views, my pace is considerably slower. A Mile Wide falls firmly in the second category.

Brandon Hatmaker invites us to the table, speaks kindness and understanding to us, and then breathes truth into the space. What I was left with was joy that I was heard, and convicted about my own efforts to grow deeper in my relationship with Christ and others.

This book feels like going to church, but also sitting on your front porch with your best friend. You know, the one who has seen you at your worst but loves you anyway? That.

This book is helping on my journey to break the chains of trying to fit myself and others into the mold of "proper" religion. It won't let me sit on my throne of my own self-righteousness. It freed me up to simply love people more rather than worry about what was "right" and "how it's done."

Read this book. Then go sit on your front porch, share a glass of your favorite beverage, and love God and others the way he loves them.

*I received an advanced readers copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion. All thoughts are mine.

[Laura Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

In his new book, A Mile Wide, Brandon Hatmaker gets it on some level that I hope to one day. Everything I read in his new book seemed to agree with all I know from scripture. Some chapters I have lived and know to be profoundly true from personal experience. Other chapters I intend to implement in my life. If you want to get away from your sit-in-the-pew-and-soak Sunday school Christianity… and want get-outside-your-box and make a difference in your community by living out your faith … this book is for you. It’s a manual on how to do just that. A Mile Wide is a road map to help you navigate connecting the dots and making your faith become relevant, not just for you, but for others. It’s a game changer, yall… seriously you need to read this book.

I received an Advanced Reader Copy from the publisher in exchange for my honest review. I loved it so much I wrote down all the quotes I loved from the book and passed it on to a friend who in turn agreed to forward it to another reader.

[Luain · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brandon Hatmaker puts words to how I have felt in my Christian life for years - that there has to be more - that I am missing the important part of being a Christian. That being a Christian is not just inviting friends to church, but inviting friends to share your life with, to invest in, to meet them and make a difference in each others' lives wherever you are, not just within the walls of the church building. Brandon doesn't just talk about it, but gives very practical steps in how to make a difference in other people's lives and to show the love of Jesus in our everyday conversations and activities. A Mile Wide has challenged me to strive to be a better disciple of Christ and to be on mission to show Christ's love in more tangible ways to people that I meet throughout my day. I recommend this book and am anxious to share this book with my friends and family.

I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for my honest review of this book.

[Patty Parker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brandon Hatmaker uses an age old phrase "mile wide, inch deep" to challenge all believers (and those exploring their faith) to go deep. With authenticity being a buzzword these days, the action it requires to live out this definition is sadly a rarity.
Hatmaker fights for the Bride of Christ by calling back the disenfranchised and reminding those residing behind the walls of the church of the true purpose of the gospel. The gospel transforms every part of our life. Every part. And it moves us to live out this transforming experience in every day of the week. "True Christianity is lived along the way, between the church services and Bible studies."

Each chapter provides discussion questions that help the reader turn these inspiring words into action. This book needs to be in the hand of every pastor, small group leader, parent, teacher and student.

I received an advanced pdf version of the book in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Elizabeth Rosner · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a PDF copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

This book is transformational, and I don't use that word lightly. I am involved with a church that serves many folks in need in our community. I purchase backpacks, raise awareness, send books to prison, and collect items to be donated. In none of these instances am I personally or relationally involved. Brandon Hatmaker has broadened my definition of discipleship, and given me new areas to pray that the Lord will enlarge my tent. I no longer want to be satisfied with only monetary and prayerfully covering the least of these. I want to be directly involved, investing in our community. Great read!!