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Mead Mountain: A Matthew 17:20 Story
**Illumination Book Awards Gold Medal Winner** Riley Ellison is in love. World-famous Christian leader and bestselling author, Riley Ellison invites the press to join him in exactly two weeks, at which time he will tell Mead Mountain to move on live television, and in accordance with the promises revealed in Scripture, he claims it will move. The lines are drawn and everyone must choose a side. If the mountain moves at Ellison’s command, no one could reasonably continue to doubt God’s existence, and America will enter into the next Great Awakening. If it does not move, pews will be emptied, believers will be shamed into silence, and the faithful will be made a laughingstock worldwide. In the meantime, Ellison continues to do what he always attempt to shine Christ's joy into a dark and broken world. He encounters a gun-toting drunk, a God-hating celebrity, and a desperate woman trying to save the life of her son. Will Ellison's relentless pursuit to emulate Jesus act as a transforming force in the lives around him, or will the horrendous pain of this world cause Riley's spark to finally burn out? And will any of it be enough to overcome the biases of the reporter assigned to his story? It will take a miracle. "...One of the most uplifting and beautiful books I've ever read. This book is filled with the name of Jesus Christ and totally shows God's glory..." "...Best Christian fiction I have read! The book is riveting, thought provoking, and relevant to today..." "...I like Christian fiction, but it often follows a formula. This book breaks that mold, and will change your heart if you let it..." "...It was a story I will want to read again and there will be underlined parts in red..." "...This book took my breath away and made my heart swell. So many beautiful examples of what would happen if we lived out Christ-like love..." "...A real encouragement to me as a Christian, we must not lose hope in a world that seems to be falling apart. Our Heavenly Father sees all and is in complete control of our circumstances. Wow, the call to love is so real and we are able to love thru Christ!..." "...I doubt my little review will mean much, but if you are in a place where you feel God does not hear your prayers, read it..." "...I'll be thinking about this one for a long time..." "...Whatever you think is going to happen to that mountain, you'll be surprised...".
250 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 19, 2017
413 people are currently reading
691 people want to read
About the author
B.K. Dell
6 books77 followersChristian author B.K. Dell - Releasing Fiction from its Cage.
Please check out my website:Christian fiction
Please check out my website:Christian fiction
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews
May 18, 2017
A great story that made me smile. A man of faith visits a strip club, drives the streets looking for those who make their living by the street, and more. The reader gets the chance to safely see how this man 's work to save souls results in trials and successes. A very nice read.
Based on a five-star rating, I give it five stars!
1) Buy from the author in the future? Yes
2) Did it keep me intrigued? Yes
3) Story line adventurous, mysterious, and believable? Yes
4) Would I recommend to a family member/friend? Yes.
5) Did my idea of the book based on the cover remain the same after I read the book? Yes. The story of moving mountains is directly related to all of the efforts of the man of faith. Faith CAN move mountains and one man did move mountains in the worlds of others.
Based on a five-star rating, I give it five stars!
1) Buy from the author in the future? Yes
2) Did it keep me intrigued? Yes
3) Story line adventurous, mysterious, and believable? Yes
4) Would I recommend to a family member/friend? Yes.
5) Did my idea of the book based on the cover remain the same after I read the book? Yes. The story of moving mountains is directly related to all of the efforts of the man of faith. Faith CAN move mountains and one man did move mountains in the worlds of others.
September 13, 2018
A very inspiring book that challenges your faith. Loved it!
May 25, 2017
I couldn't put it down!!
Brilliant - I couldn't stop reading! Though not my typical genre, I gave it a try and I'm so glad I did. I was quickly immersed in the inspiring plot and easily fell in love with the rich characters. The dialogue was so natural, with just the right amount of seriousness and wit. And the author did an excellent job realistically weaving the storylines together and not leaving any loose ends. This is an excellent book and I will be passing along this recommendation to everyone I know.
Brilliant - I couldn't stop reading! Though not my typical genre, I gave it a try and I'm so glad I did. I was quickly immersed in the inspiring plot and easily fell in love with the rich characters. The dialogue was so natural, with just the right amount of seriousness and wit. And the author did an excellent job realistically weaving the storylines together and not leaving any loose ends. This is an excellent book and I will be passing along this recommendation to everyone I know.
June 3, 2017
An Awesome God
I love to read but really try to pick Christian reading and am so glad I picked "Mead Mountain". This book helped me in affirming my own faith but also pointed out how lost the world is and how much it needs Jesus Christ. Our pastor here is not superman--one can see his character flaws of his past but one sees his deep faith and trust and most of all his love for all. I loved the special ending--because we have a great God who not only moves mountains but creates them too. Thank you for this awesome book. I strongly recommend it to seekers and believers.
I love to read but really try to pick Christian reading and am so glad I picked "Mead Mountain". This book helped me in affirming my own faith but also pointed out how lost the world is and how much it needs Jesus Christ. Our pastor here is not superman--one can see his character flaws of his past but one sees his deep faith and trust and most of all his love for all. I loved the special ending--because we have a great God who not only moves mountains but creates them too. Thank you for this awesome book. I strongly recommend it to seekers and believers.
February 24, 2018
Mead Mountain is a great book for a book group discussion and our book group had many interesting points to discuss. The pastor goes to extremes to bring the word of God to people in places a pastor would not usually go to. I don't want to give away what happens but there was much to discuss about the situations in the book about repentance, forgiveness, pride, sin, faith and much more. I highly suggest the book especially for groups.
November 18, 2019
“In Matthew 17: 20, the Bible tells us, ‘If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, “Move from here to there,” and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.’”
“How much is one soul worth to God? What lengths are too far if it means bringing one of His children back to Him?”
“This is how you heal America; this is how you change the world. Not in big jumps, but small steps. Not with the collective, but the individual. Not the state, but the citizen. Not with the whole parade, but with one family, one man, one Christian.”
Mead Mountain is definitely an interesting read to say the least. If you want a book that has enjoyable characters as well as profound aspects that make you think about your own life and faith, then this book checks all the boxes. I found BK Dell’s writing to be really good, though he does have the tendency to use some big words at times (even in dialogue which took away a little of the believability). He had wonderful insights into Christianity especially as it relates to the outcasts of society that we as Christians should be doing all we can to reach. I had an idea of where this all would go and while ultimately I was right, he threw in some nice curveballs that I didn’t see coming. And this was definitely edgy Christian fiction in some of these topics he addresses. What I enjoyed most, though, is the message of people coming to faith not because of some huge monumental moment but usually by something going out of their way on a personal basis to share the love and hope of Jesus Christ. I did drop the rating to a four for a few reasons; there were some moments that just didn’t feel genuine to me. And I also wished there was more of an emphasis on baptism and repentance instead of just praying a Jesus into your heart.
For more reviews, please check out my blog!
https://wadeurspider01.wixsite.com/we...
“How much is one soul worth to God? What lengths are too far if it means bringing one of His children back to Him?”
“This is how you heal America; this is how you change the world. Not in big jumps, but small steps. Not with the collective, but the individual. Not the state, but the citizen. Not with the whole parade, but with one family, one man, one Christian.”
Mead Mountain is definitely an interesting read to say the least. If you want a book that has enjoyable characters as well as profound aspects that make you think about your own life and faith, then this book checks all the boxes. I found BK Dell’s writing to be really good, though he does have the tendency to use some big words at times (even in dialogue which took away a little of the believability). He had wonderful insights into Christianity especially as it relates to the outcasts of society that we as Christians should be doing all we can to reach. I had an idea of where this all would go and while ultimately I was right, he threw in some nice curveballs that I didn’t see coming. And this was definitely edgy Christian fiction in some of these topics he addresses. What I enjoyed most, though, is the message of people coming to faith not because of some huge monumental moment but usually by something going out of their way on a personal basis to share the love and hope of Jesus Christ. I did drop the rating to a four for a few reasons; there were some moments that just didn’t feel genuine to me. And I also wished there was more of an emphasis on baptism and repentance instead of just praying a Jesus into your heart.
For more reviews, please check out my blog!
https://wadeurspider01.wixsite.com/we...
March 16, 2018
Bright look at the miraculous
While pastor Kessler is almost too good to be true as his love is shown for the very people that Jesus loved – not the wealthy any important people but those One might call the more troubled parts of society. Jesus was criticized for spending time with tax collectors andThe less ”reputable” members of society. A rather unusual but enjoyable book
While pastor Kessler is almost too good to be true as his love is shown for the very people that Jesus loved – not the wealthy any important people but those One might call the more troubled parts of society. Jesus was criticized for spending time with tax collectors andThe less ”reputable” members of society. A rather unusual but enjoyable book
August 4, 2017
I regret buying this book. It was illogical from the beginning, and stayed that way until the end. While I appreciate the author's efforts to present the Gospel, it seems counterproductive to bring sex into the mix. A pastor visiting prostitutes?? Jesus spoke to them in the open, not in seedy topless bars. In my opinion, this book was poorly thought out and a major disappointment.
August 8, 2017
I won this book through GoodReads First Read program.
What a great book. I saw all the five star ratings and I was quite skeptical but there was no reason for my skepticism. This book tells a great story and shares the gospel at the same time. Many things that came out in the book had me nodding me head and agreeing with the observations of people in general and Christians also. For example: The main character, Pastor Ellison, has a string tied to his finger so that people will ask him about it. He will then reply that it is to remind him of how much God loves him since He sent Jesus to earth to die for his sins. A way to share the gospel by just responding to someone's question. Another character thought this was a great idea and they started to do it but then when asked they didn't follow through with sharing the gospel despite their best intentions. They soon stopped wearing the string.
Another truism that came out was someone asked if your child was kidnapped by North Korea and was being tortured what would you do? Well of course you would give your full effort to finding a way to get your child released. Yet, if our child is an atheist what do we do? Do we make all efforts to convert them to Christianity? We casually say they will work their beliefs out. If we really believe that those who aren't Christians will go to hell when they die why aren't we trying to save people including our kids? Do we really believe? The book is full of things like this that make you shake your head and re-examine your life and actions.
Pastor Ellison, a pastor at a mega-church, announces that God is going to move a mountain on a certain date-God had informed him of that. See Matthew 17:20. National publicity. Two camps-those that think the Pastor is crazy and those who believe him. Even the Pastor's supporters have their doubts. What will happen?
The Pastor also goes through a lot of controversial actions to convert people including prostitutes, strippers, reporters, TV talk show hosts, teenagers and alcoholics. Pastor Ellison gets involved in their lives with the courage that only comes from knowing he is doing all he can to save souls. His actions should be the actions we all take, yet I know I wouldn't have the guts to do that. That makes me question my own beliefs.
Great read that I recommend to all.
What a great book. I saw all the five star ratings and I was quite skeptical but there was no reason for my skepticism. This book tells a great story and shares the gospel at the same time. Many things that came out in the book had me nodding me head and agreeing with the observations of people in general and Christians also. For example: The main character, Pastor Ellison, has a string tied to his finger so that people will ask him about it. He will then reply that it is to remind him of how much God loves him since He sent Jesus to earth to die for his sins. A way to share the gospel by just responding to someone's question. Another character thought this was a great idea and they started to do it but then when asked they didn't follow through with sharing the gospel despite their best intentions. They soon stopped wearing the string.
Another truism that came out was someone asked if your child was kidnapped by North Korea and was being tortured what would you do? Well of course you would give your full effort to finding a way to get your child released. Yet, if our child is an atheist what do we do? Do we make all efforts to convert them to Christianity? We casually say they will work their beliefs out. If we really believe that those who aren't Christians will go to hell when they die why aren't we trying to save people including our kids? Do we really believe? The book is full of things like this that make you shake your head and re-examine your life and actions.
Pastor Ellison, a pastor at a mega-church, announces that God is going to move a mountain on a certain date-God had informed him of that. See Matthew 17:20. National publicity. Two camps-those that think the Pastor is crazy and those who believe him. Even the Pastor's supporters have their doubts. What will happen?
The Pastor also goes through a lot of controversial actions to convert people including prostitutes, strippers, reporters, TV talk show hosts, teenagers and alcoholics. Pastor Ellison gets involved in their lives with the courage that only comes from knowing he is doing all he can to save souls. His actions should be the actions we all take, yet I know I wouldn't have the guts to do that. That makes me question my own beliefs.
Great read that I recommend to all.
July 10, 2017
This was a really creative and thought-provoking novel. Throughout the book I kept asking myself how I would feel if a respected Christian leader came out with the claim that Pastor Ellison did in this book. Would I have faith to believe or would I consider him a crackpot or seeking glory for himself? I really liked the way the pastor was presented in the story and the way he found creative ways to reach the people who aren't usually touched by the church, as well as the stories of hope and transformed lives because of the Gospel message. It really made me think about what I should do differently in my own life.
The only real problem I had with the book was the way the author occasionally used words that were unnecessarily obscure or complex, almost as if he pulled out a "new word of the day" calendar and tried to work the word into the story. "Stepping into the caliginous club...," "...if God could soften his sclerotic heart," "to ameliorate his mind to such an apocryphal confession," "...descended on the sententious assembly." And yet simple words were sometimes misspelled or used incorrectly: "People stumbled into the isle..." (should be "aisle"); "the course twine of her string..." (should be "coarse"), for example. Fortunately the story was strong enough to overcome these distractions, but I do wish these problems had been avoided. I definitely would be interested in reading more by this author.
The only real problem I had with the book was the way the author occasionally used words that were unnecessarily obscure or complex, almost as if he pulled out a "new word of the day" calendar and tried to work the word into the story. "Stepping into the caliginous club...," "...if God could soften his sclerotic heart," "to ameliorate his mind to such an apocryphal confession," "...descended on the sententious assembly." And yet simple words were sometimes misspelled or used incorrectly: "People stumbled into the isle..." (should be "aisle"); "the course twine of her string..." (should be "coarse"), for example. Fortunately the story was strong enough to overcome these distractions, but I do wish these problems had been avoided. I definitely would be interested in reading more by this author.
September 26, 2017
Mead Mountain truly was "an inspiring Christian novel". The foundation of this book was that you should love God, love people the way that God loves them and help to bring those people to Him.
Pastor Ellison was an amazing character to follow throughout this journey. He truly followed God and His teachings throughout the book. You also learn the bumps he took along his own journey, which only made you appreciate and relate to him more. I enjoyed all of the side characters that you meet along the way as well and helped me to re-evaluate how I see others and make quick judgments instead of looking at them the way that God sees them.
This book had me giggling, on the edge of my seat, crying, shocked, confused, elated and really helped to make my fire for God burn even brighter.
This is a must read for anyone on their journey with God. From those who still aren't sure what to believe to those who have been devoted to Him for years. This was definitely a book I wanted to pick up as soon as I finished reading it and one that I've suggested that my husband and entire prayer group read.
Pastor Ellison was an amazing character to follow throughout this journey. He truly followed God and His teachings throughout the book. You also learn the bumps he took along his own journey, which only made you appreciate and relate to him more. I enjoyed all of the side characters that you meet along the way as well and helped me to re-evaluate how I see others and make quick judgments instead of looking at them the way that God sees them.
This book had me giggling, on the edge of my seat, crying, shocked, confused, elated and really helped to make my fire for God burn even brighter.
This is a must read for anyone on their journey with God. From those who still aren't sure what to believe to those who have been devoted to Him for years. This was definitely a book I wanted to pick up as soon as I finished reading it and one that I've suggested that my husband and entire prayer group read.
July 7, 2017
One of the best christian fiction novels I've read in quite awhile
Each character became a real person to me. I laughed and cried with them. I cared and loved them. I felt their struggle and cheered them on. I believed in them. B.K. Dell made this story come alive and real with a passion that ignites your heart again for the outpouring of the love of God and others. It makes you want to go shout it on the rooftops, hug everybody you meet, and never miss an opportunity to just do whatever God leads you to do, with no hesitation or questions, or fear. And... you really don't want to miss the surprise ending.
Each character became a real person to me. I laughed and cried with them. I cared and loved them. I felt their struggle and cheered them on. I believed in them. B.K. Dell made this story come alive and real with a passion that ignites your heart again for the outpouring of the love of God and others. It makes you want to go shout it on the rooftops, hug everybody you meet, and never miss an opportunity to just do whatever God leads you to do, with no hesitation or questions, or fear. And... you really don't want to miss the surprise ending.
June 16, 2017
Life Changing
The heart of this book is a question..."How much is one soul worth to God? To what lengths will God go if it means bringing one of His children back to Him? "
If nothing else, the author has managed to make me question if I truly believe God will do what He says He will do. To question if I am merely playing at being a Christian or am I genuinely living it? Reading this opened my heart to many possibilities and I am grateful that it came along when it did.
The heart of this book is a question..."How much is one soul worth to God? To what lengths will God go if it means bringing one of His children back to Him? "
If nothing else, the author has managed to make me question if I truly believe God will do what He says He will do. To question if I am merely playing at being a Christian or am I genuinely living it? Reading this opened my heart to many possibilities and I am grateful that it came along when it did.
August 30, 2017
The best Christian fiction I've read in years.
This book kept me up at night. Not because I couldn't put it down, although there was that, but because the dialog and story line hit me right in the gut. I kept asking myself, "Who would I be in this story?" I'm still reeling from some of the conversations between Pastor Ellison and his peers. You will not regret picking up this book.
I'm so looking forward to discussing this one in book club!
This book kept me up at night. Not because I couldn't put it down, although there was that, but because the dialog and story line hit me right in the gut. I kept asking myself, "Who would I be in this story?" I'm still reeling from some of the conversations between Pastor Ellison and his peers. You will not regret picking up this book.
I'm so looking forward to discussing this one in book club!
May 24, 2017
A book that starts out with a preacher in a stripper bar is probably not what you expect from a conservative Christian author. Compassion, faith, and unexpected conflicts fill this book, and I couldn't stop reading it from the first page to the last. Fiction labeled "Christian" far too often comes off as preachy and judgmental. Not this book. Not this writer. Read it. You'll thank me later.
June 20, 2017
Mead Mountain
This book is well worth reading. At a time when the US is in such turmoil, this book is released from a new author. This book is a reflection of the things occurring in the US today. I could not stop reading this book once I started. It gives me a lot to think about.
This book is well worth reading. At a time when the US is in such turmoil, this book is released from a new author. This book is a reflection of the things occurring in the US today. I could not stop reading this book once I started. It gives me a lot to think about.
July 2, 2017
An intriguing premise; a pastor proclaims that in two weeks a mountain will be moved. Join the pastor to see what happens during these two weeks.
This book speaks to many modern spiritual struggles. It is well written, and takes you places where you do not expect a megachurch pastor to take you. I highly recommend this book and this author.
This book speaks to many modern spiritual struggles. It is well written, and takes you places where you do not expect a megachurch pastor to take you. I highly recommend this book and this author.
August 16, 2017
Mead Mountain by B.K. Dell sets up a huge hook that keeps the reader reading. Will Mead Mountain tumble into the sea on January 17 when Pastor Railey Ellison tells it to up and move?
Railey Ellison is a passionate pastor who feels that God has commanded him to make a public display of Gods power on National television and in faith command Mead Mountain to move.
I must admit it is intriguing enough that I began to read and kept reading. Obviously I cannot tell you the outcome of the mountain, that would be quite a spoiler. Lucky for you, this story is not truly about whether or not Mead Mountain will move. The mountain looms in the scenery, but this story is largely about faith.
The story draws its concept from Matthew 17:20 "Because of your little faith,” He told them. “For I assure you: If you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will tell this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you."
The author of this book, at the start, sets up such a miracle as a means to cause unbelievers to believe in God. At least, that is what the characters believe the purpose of commanding a mountain to move is all about. A discerning reader might be leery.
The interesting thing about faith is that those who have it do not need a miracle to reinforce it and those who do not have faith are not likely to suddenly gain it in response to a miracle. I was happy when the book and its characters came around to this point.
It makes me think of the story of Lazarus and the rich man. I'm specifically thinking about the point made at the end. Luke 16:31 “But he told him, ‘If they don’t listen to Moses and the prophets, they will not be persuaded if someone rises from the dead.’”
The truth is, true faith that "works" can only come from one place as stated in Romans 10:17. So faith comes from what is heard, and what is heard comes through the message about Christ.
If it matters where faith comes from, or better, who we have faith in, then it is reasonable to expect first and foremost the miracles that are promised there. For example, transformed attitudes, behaviors, life-styles and even thought patterns. For further examples, resurrection, heaven, everlasting life.
Have you ever wondered why you don’t seem to have enough faith to make a mountain move but you have full confidence in an everlasting life with Christ in heaven? Let me suggest it is not due to the strength of your faith but a promise that was made.
I do not, nor have I ever met anyone who has faith as massively large as a mustard seed. Perhaps with that attitude I never will, but I do have faith and I know others who do as well, and though it seems very small, I've seen it move things more stubborn than mountains.
If you lack faith for such things, you need not look for signs. I would suggest two things. First, ask God for it. Second, immerse yourself in the Bible, read it, listen to it, go to church and listen to the preacher and Sunday School teacher.
I have deleted many words about all the stuff that troubled me in this book. After a lot of thought, typing and deleting, retyping and re-deleting, in the end, I was just not able to write about it in a fair or helpful fashion.
It will have to be enough to say that Mead Mountain is intriguing, well written and fun to read. It is a fascinating look at faith, but it had some frustrating elements and as far as a gospel message is concerned, it was there for the finding but never truly hit the mark for me.
Until next time, remember Christ, the author of salvation and the reader of our hearts.
Railey Ellison is a passionate pastor who feels that God has commanded him to make a public display of Gods power on National television and in faith command Mead Mountain to move.
I must admit it is intriguing enough that I began to read and kept reading. Obviously I cannot tell you the outcome of the mountain, that would be quite a spoiler. Lucky for you, this story is not truly about whether or not Mead Mountain will move. The mountain looms in the scenery, but this story is largely about faith.
The story draws its concept from Matthew 17:20 "Because of your little faith,” He told them. “For I assure you: If you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will tell this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you."
The author of this book, at the start, sets up such a miracle as a means to cause unbelievers to believe in God. At least, that is what the characters believe the purpose of commanding a mountain to move is all about. A discerning reader might be leery.
The interesting thing about faith is that those who have it do not need a miracle to reinforce it and those who do not have faith are not likely to suddenly gain it in response to a miracle. I was happy when the book and its characters came around to this point.
It makes me think of the story of Lazarus and the rich man. I'm specifically thinking about the point made at the end. Luke 16:31 “But he told him, ‘If they don’t listen to Moses and the prophets, they will not be persuaded if someone rises from the dead.’”
The truth is, true faith that "works" can only come from one place as stated in Romans 10:17. So faith comes from what is heard, and what is heard comes through the message about Christ.
If it matters where faith comes from, or better, who we have faith in, then it is reasonable to expect first and foremost the miracles that are promised there. For example, transformed attitudes, behaviors, life-styles and even thought patterns. For further examples, resurrection, heaven, everlasting life.
Have you ever wondered why you don’t seem to have enough faith to make a mountain move but you have full confidence in an everlasting life with Christ in heaven? Let me suggest it is not due to the strength of your faith but a promise that was made.
I do not, nor have I ever met anyone who has faith as massively large as a mustard seed. Perhaps with that attitude I never will, but I do have faith and I know others who do as well, and though it seems very small, I've seen it move things more stubborn than mountains.
If you lack faith for such things, you need not look for signs. I would suggest two things. First, ask God for it. Second, immerse yourself in the Bible, read it, listen to it, go to church and listen to the preacher and Sunday School teacher.
I have deleted many words about all the stuff that troubled me in this book. After a lot of thought, typing and deleting, retyping and re-deleting, in the end, I was just not able to write about it in a fair or helpful fashion.
It will have to be enough to say that Mead Mountain is intriguing, well written and fun to read. It is a fascinating look at faith, but it had some frustrating elements and as far as a gospel message is concerned, it was there for the finding but never truly hit the mark for me.
Until next time, remember Christ, the author of salvation and the reader of our hearts.
June 28, 2019
Riley Ellison, world-famous Christian leader, bestselling author and pastor of Mead Mountain Church, is in love. And the person he chooses to love is unconventional. A stripper. A drunk. An atheist. A suicidal teenager. A prostitute. A skeptic. A backslidden believer.
When Pastor Ellison proclaims that Mead Mountain will move on live television, and in accordance with the promises revealed in Scripture, some of the people he loves believe him and others do not. Each side knows, though, that the big event has the potential to launch the next Great Awakening or kill the Church altogether.
"Mead Mountain" is a unique book. It offers insight into the other side where sinners live, away from Christ and the religious lifestyle many believers become comfortable living. In this book, we find the story of how a broken man who is forgiven and redeemed yet also makes mistakes shares truth in a loving way with other broken souls. This book is like honey on a wound as it also tells the story of God's love for us and the lengths to which God will go to redeem one lost person.
As I read "Mead Mountain," I felt inspired to look deeper into the way I love and question the reality of my faith. Do I truly love others, even the least of these? Do I actively love others who are hurting or do I back away and hope they don't see me watching them? Do I genuinely believe that God can redeem anyone and that His Word can come true?
Despite the faith message, the author's writing is a bit choppy in places, The book also has a sermon feel in numerous places, making it seem more like a church service than an entertaining book. Also, the content is clean, but note that it does include several potential triggers including sexual content, sexual abuse, drug use, alcohol abuse, and domestic violence.
Overall, I think "Mead Mountain" gives readers an important reminder of what the Christian faith is all about. I recommend it to Christians who long to discover what genuine faith and God's love in action look like.
When Pastor Ellison proclaims that Mead Mountain will move on live television, and in accordance with the promises revealed in Scripture, some of the people he loves believe him and others do not. Each side knows, though, that the big event has the potential to launch the next Great Awakening or kill the Church altogether.
"Mead Mountain" is a unique book. It offers insight into the other side where sinners live, away from Christ and the religious lifestyle many believers become comfortable living. In this book, we find the story of how a broken man who is forgiven and redeemed yet also makes mistakes shares truth in a loving way with other broken souls. This book is like honey on a wound as it also tells the story of God's love for us and the lengths to which God will go to redeem one lost person.
As I read "Mead Mountain," I felt inspired to look deeper into the way I love and question the reality of my faith. Do I truly love others, even the least of these? Do I actively love others who are hurting or do I back away and hope they don't see me watching them? Do I genuinely believe that God can redeem anyone and that His Word can come true?
Despite the faith message, the author's writing is a bit choppy in places, The book also has a sermon feel in numerous places, making it seem more like a church service than an entertaining book. Also, the content is clean, but note that it does include several potential triggers including sexual content, sexual abuse, drug use, alcohol abuse, and domestic violence.
Overall, I think "Mead Mountain" gives readers an important reminder of what the Christian faith is all about. I recommend it to Christians who long to discover what genuine faith and God's love in action look like.
July 26, 2018
Based on Matthew 17:20 He replied, "Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you."
What a great read! This God fearing humble pastor believes God has spoken to him....he announces that on a particular date he will ask the mountain by his church to move. What ensues is the steadfastness of this man of God. A man who will travel to the lost and hopeless . He meets them where they are and risks his reputation and his relationships with even his closests friends. But he perseveres....it’s all worth it for saving just one soul. You see a mere human who is attacked spiritually, mentally and physically. He’s down but he’s not out.
What really amazed me was the Pastor’s wife. She had more faith and trust then he did. She supported him unconditionally.
Read the book! It’s fiction but it challenges our faith. Would we have the courage to do what Pastor Riley did. I am not sure we would, but I hope we will. I couldn’t wait to fiish the book. I loved it.
What a great read! This God fearing humble pastor believes God has spoken to him....he announces that on a particular date he will ask the mountain by his church to move. What ensues is the steadfastness of this man of God. A man who will travel to the lost and hopeless . He meets them where they are and risks his reputation and his relationships with even his closests friends. But he perseveres....it’s all worth it for saving just one soul. You see a mere human who is attacked spiritually, mentally and physically. He’s down but he’s not out.
What really amazed me was the Pastor’s wife. She had more faith and trust then he did. She supported him unconditionally.
Read the book! It’s fiction but it challenges our faith. Would we have the courage to do what Pastor Riley did. I am not sure we would, but I hope we will. I couldn’t wait to fiish the book. I loved it.
September 23, 2019
What did I think about this book? I’m still trying to decide that.
It’s quite an entertaining and thought-provoking story. What happens if God tells a pastor to pray that a mountain will literally move and the pastor prays in faith, believing that it will happen? I’m not going to give away any of the story details here, but things did not always go the way that I expected it would happen. There’s some good insights here about how miracles are viewed by both scoffers and believers.
The main thought that I came away with from reading this book is the amazing value that God places on each individual’s soul. Jesus gave His life for each one of us to give us eternal life. Moving a mountain doesn’t come close to comparing with that.
The pastor in this story has a heart for reaching those who seem the most unloveable. I didn’t agree with the methods he used at times to accomplish
this, but it was another reminder that we need to be sharing the love and hope to be found in Jesus with everyone.
I’d love to know what you think if you choose to read this book.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
It’s quite an entertaining and thought-provoking story. What happens if God tells a pastor to pray that a mountain will literally move and the pastor prays in faith, believing that it will happen? I’m not going to give away any of the story details here, but things did not always go the way that I expected it would happen. There’s some good insights here about how miracles are viewed by both scoffers and believers.
The main thought that I came away with from reading this book is the amazing value that God places on each individual’s soul. Jesus gave His life for each one of us to give us eternal life. Moving a mountain doesn’t come close to comparing with that.
The pastor in this story has a heart for reaching those who seem the most unloveable. I didn’t agree with the methods he used at times to accomplish
this, but it was another reminder that we need to be sharing the love and hope to be found in Jesus with everyone.
I’d love to know what you think if you choose to read this book.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
October 3, 2019
Pastor Riley Ellison makes a startling claim: he’s going to tell Mead Mountain to move . . . and it will.
This startling claim, based, Pastor Ellison says, on a Biblical promise, promptly divides the community into two camps: those who believe the mountain will move and those who are certain it will not.
Will the mountain move? And what will be the consequences?
In this inspiring, difficult-to-set-aside story, Pastor Ellison goes to extremes in his efforts to bring the message of salvation to those in need of God’s love and truth. It doesn’t always work out as he hopes, but this is not really a story about the pastor’s successes and failures. It’s about reaching out, no matter what the circumstances. It’s about having the courage of your beliefs. It’s about taking action because of your beliefs. It’s about faith.
Highly recommended.
I received a free copy of this book through the Goodreads First Reads program
This startling claim, based, Pastor Ellison says, on a Biblical promise, promptly divides the community into two camps: those who believe the mountain will move and those who are certain it will not.
Will the mountain move? And what will be the consequences?
In this inspiring, difficult-to-set-aside story, Pastor Ellison goes to extremes in his efforts to bring the message of salvation to those in need of God’s love and truth. It doesn’t always work out as he hopes, but this is not really a story about the pastor’s successes and failures. It’s about reaching out, no matter what the circumstances. It’s about having the courage of your beliefs. It’s about taking action because of your beliefs. It’s about faith.
Highly recommended.
I received a free copy of this book through the Goodreads First Reads program
January 8, 2019
Disappointing ending
This book started off great. It tells the story of one man, one pastor, who works to save souls one person at a time, spending his own capital and risking his life in the process. But he decides to take a huge risk in order to save lots and lots of people all at once. And so we watch him touching people's lives and wonder what will happen with the risk he has taken. What will happen with the mountain he says will move. It is a unique premise and had promised. But the ending, and I won't give it away here, is disappointing. And not just the ending with regard to the mountain but the ending about the people he has touched. Perhaps I had too much invested in the outcome but I was definitely disappointed by it.
This book started off great. It tells the story of one man, one pastor, who works to save souls one person at a time, spending his own capital and risking his life in the process. But he decides to take a huge risk in order to save lots and lots of people all at once. And so we watch him touching people's lives and wonder what will happen with the risk he has taken. What will happen with the mountain he says will move. It is a unique premise and had promised. But the ending, and I won't give it away here, is disappointing. And not just the ending with regard to the mountain but the ending about the people he has touched. Perhaps I had too much invested in the outcome but I was definitely disappointed by it.
January 20, 2022
Not quite sure what to do with this book...what category to put it in...It is a great idea and I am totally on the author's side, but there were things that bothered me about it...things I couldn't quite get past to give the book a higher rating. Some things/facts just seemed to appear...as with the drug problem the investigative reporter has...nowhere is there any hint of it, it just appears when it seems to help the story.
Also I found the part where the pastor visits the house of his domestically abused parishioner totally unbelievable and honestly a bit disturbing.
I get the idea of witnessing to people where they are and going to the lost to take them the Word, but it did kinda bother me for the pastor to actually go into the strip clubs...1 Thessalonians 5:22 says "Abstain from all appearance of evil" and I think his behavior borderlines on that.
But I did like faith that Pastor Ellison exhibited and some of his dialogue is really quite moving.
All in all it was an ok book, just not the great book I was expecting. Three stars for "ok"
Also I found the part where the pastor visits the house of his domestically abused parishioner totally unbelievable and honestly a bit disturbing.
I get the idea of witnessing to people where they are and going to the lost to take them the Word, but it did kinda bother me for the pastor to actually go into the strip clubs...1 Thessalonians 5:22 says "Abstain from all appearance of evil" and I think his behavior borderlines on that.
But I did like faith that Pastor Ellison exhibited and some of his dialogue is really quite moving.
All in all it was an ok book, just not the great book I was expecting. Three stars for "ok"
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 14, 2019
Never a dull moment in this novel as Pastor Ellison fills his time with many hairy adventures as he strives to win people to Christ. This includes his super attention-getting promise to move Mead Mountain in just 2 weeks from his announcement date. The story keeps you on your toes while the count-down nears the day for the big miracle to take place. His faith in God and his love for people is what impresses me most, though, resulting in several lives being changed as they give their hearts to Christ. Very interesting and meaningful reading.
November 26, 2019
How much is one soul worth to God? To what lengths will God go if it means bringing one of His children back to Him?
This book started out really weird? I wondering if I was reading a Christian fiction book or not? A man at a strip club, lap dances and money passing. It turns out to not be what you are thinking. Pastor Ellison is there to share Christ with the lost.
God has told him that Mead Mountain is going to move. Pastor Ellesions stakes everything on this promise. Will the mountain move?
This was a really good story.
This book started out really weird? I wondering if I was reading a Christian fiction book or not? A man at a strip club, lap dances and money passing. It turns out to not be what you are thinking. Pastor Ellison is there to share Christ with the lost.
God has told him that Mead Mountain is going to move. Pastor Ellesions stakes everything on this promise. Will the mountain move?
This was a really good story.
May 25, 2017
Pastor Ellison is a man of such powerful faith, he has led many people to God - people whom one would never imagine could turn their depraved lives around. Riley Ellison takes a leap of faith that becomes a concern to people all over the world. This book is a true page-turner; I couldn't put it down, but never wanted it to end. I won this book through Goodreads Giveaways - an amazing debut novel for B.K. Dell.
November 2, 2017
Will the mountain be moved?
Rev. Riley Ellison says that God is going to move Mead Mountain. The Bible says if we have the faith of a mustard seed we can tell mountains to move and they will. Does Rev. Ellison have enough faith? Will God move the mountain?
I enjoyed this book. It's a different kind of Christian book. I don't know of any pastor who is really like Pastor Ellison, who goes to the places he goes and does the things he does.
Rev. Riley Ellison says that God is going to move Mead Mountain. The Bible says if we have the faith of a mustard seed we can tell mountains to move and they will. Does Rev. Ellison have enough faith? Will God move the mountain?
I enjoyed this book. It's a different kind of Christian book. I don't know of any pastor who is really like Pastor Ellison, who goes to the places he goes and does the things he does.
June 9, 2018
... with faith the size of a mustard seed...
Wonderful main character, decent secondary characters, a VERY interesting plot, and a great story-line make this a book worth reading ... and to say that the book is thought-provoking, would be a major understatement! A book that demonstrates that one man CAN make a difference, even in the face of adversary, and even when it seems that all is lost.
Wonderful main character, decent secondary characters, a VERY interesting plot, and a great story-line make this a book worth reading ... and to say that the book is thought-provoking, would be a major understatement! A book that demonstrates that one man CAN make a difference, even in the face of adversary, and even when it seems that all is lost.
June 9, 2018
WOW! What a book!
This book is hard to put down once you get started. I chose it because I wanted something different and it had great ratings and reviews. It made me pause and contemplate how I personally would have responded to such an event. It made me happy, sad, encouraged, and hopeful with bits of laughter a long the way. Especially the ending postscript, don't forget to read that, it's great!
This book is hard to put down once you get started. I chose it because I wanted something different and it had great ratings and reviews. It made me pause and contemplate how I personally would have responded to such an event. It made me happy, sad, encouraged, and hopeful with bits of laughter a long the way. Especially the ending postscript, don't forget to read that, it's great!
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