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Raising Passionate Jesus Followers: The Power of Intentional Parenting
Hope and practical help for parents whose greatest longing is to shepherd their children into a vibrant faith in God. For Christian parents, there is no greater joy than seeing their children learn to walk with the Lord. And there is no greater fear than that their children will walk away from God. After serving together in pastoral ministry and raising their now-grown children, Phil and Diane Comer know those hopes and fears well. Like all new parents, they were intimidated and unsure about how to take on the task of spiritually training their young children. But now, with all four of their children grown and establishing their own households of faith, Phil and Diane have embarked on a quest to help the next generation of parents raise passionate Jesus followers. Drawing on years of pastoral counseling, teaching, leading, and decades of watching families from the perspective of pastors and leaders in ministry, Phil and Diane instruct, guide, encourage, and offer hope and practical help to Christian parents. Raising Passionate Jesus Followers is a manual full of practical, biblically based, and time-tested guidelines that parents will be able to turn to again and again through every stage of their children's development, including . . .
304 pages, Paperback
Published March 6, 2018
396 people are currently reading
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews
November 3, 2023
Update 2023 - revisted this and still as good as the first time.
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YOU GUYS. This is now one of my top 3 parenting books! I don’t make Kevin read many of the parenting books I read - I usually give him the highlights. BUT I will ask him to read this one.
If you LOVE Parenting by Paul Tripp (and don’t we all?!), you will also love this. I feel like it puts some more meat on the bones of what Tripp had to say. The Comers did such a great job fleshing out principles and giving PRACTICALS! Sorry for all the caps, I’m just excited.
I don’t agree with every iota written in this book (I never do), but I base my ratings on things I’ll glean versus things I’ll leave...and the ratio on this book is way more gleaning than leaving. Also, not many contemporary Christian parenting books are written by grandparents - those who have already done the hard work, have fruit to show for it, but also realize the mistakes they made and how they would’ve done certain things differently. So I appreciated the perspective.
Full disclosure: the last few chapters are on raising teenagers and young adults, so I skipped those! So technically my review can’t be fully counted :)
——————
YOU GUYS. This is now one of my top 3 parenting books! I don’t make Kevin read many of the parenting books I read - I usually give him the highlights. BUT I will ask him to read this one.
If you LOVE Parenting by Paul Tripp (and don’t we all?!), you will also love this. I feel like it puts some more meat on the bones of what Tripp had to say. The Comers did such a great job fleshing out principles and giving PRACTICALS! Sorry for all the caps, I’m just excited.
I don’t agree with every iota written in this book (I never do), but I base my ratings on things I’ll glean versus things I’ll leave...and the ratio on this book is way more gleaning than leaving. Also, not many contemporary Christian parenting books are written by grandparents - those who have already done the hard work, have fruit to show for it, but also realize the mistakes they made and how they would’ve done certain things differently. So I appreciated the perspective.
Full disclosure: the last few chapters are on raising teenagers and young adults, so I skipped those! So technically my review can’t be fully counted :)
August 7, 2021
Hands down, the best book I have ever read. I have no words other than I cannot recommend this book enough. Truly cannot recommend this book enough.
Incredibly helpful in guiding your heart, thoughts, actions as a parent & where to have your utmost goal set in helping your children make the decision to love & follow Jesus. This book felt very redemptive in showing ways our parents may have fallen short (as we all will in one way or another) & how we can be intentional to avoid that. I really have no words other than READ IT. Recommending it to anyone who is pregnant, current young parent or even grandparent. SO GOOD!!!
Incredibly helpful in guiding your heart, thoughts, actions as a parent & where to have your utmost goal set in helping your children make the decision to love & follow Jesus. This book felt very redemptive in showing ways our parents may have fallen short (as we all will in one way or another) & how we can be intentional to avoid that. I really have no words other than READ IT. Recommending it to anyone who is pregnant, current young parent or even grandparent. SO GOOD!!!
July 30, 2025
Absolute gold. A great instruction manual. This is a resource that I’ll continue to come back to through the different stages of parenting. What a beautiful, difficult, and worth while calling parenting is.
March 14, 2022
What is the goal of Christian parenting? For our children to love God and to love others as JESUS did/does. This book is radical in its simplicity and I just highly recommend it for that as well as other points.
The Comers discuss how they raised their children, but not in a follow these 5 golden steps and your children are guaranteed to love Jesus and others for life. If anything, their humility and wisdom in the process of parenting (not knowing what they were doing, getting help, finding community, asking other parents for their "secrets", etc) exudes throughout their anecdotes and teaching moments. There's a funny part in their acknowledgments where they "own up" to "plagiarizing" from an older couple that taught them most of the material that became how they raised their four children (who are now adults and parents), the book, and Intentional Parenting (their ministry). It's said in jest, but I appreciate it because it's a reminder that they're not reinventing the wheel here. This type of parenting is, as aforementioned, radical in its simplicity.
I also appreciate as I've mentioned in other book reviews of similar content their wisdom regarding discipline, particularly in a Christian parenting context. As in, it's not a cookie cutter formula. As in, regardless of choosing to spank or not, there is MORE to discipline than that. Discipline is teaching our children how to have the appropriate skills to function in society (in a nutshell), and in the Christian sense, to live as Christ did (love God, love others (and self)). It is rich and nuanced, as other parts of parenting, and... radical in its simplicity (If there's one point I want to drive home, it's this. Only slight apologies for sounding like a broken record).
The book is also helpfully outlined to help understand the various stages of children's lives and how to meet them and parent them in these stages (I appreciate how the Comers address that while the ages are mentioned, it's stages of life. And they clarify each part by saying what they will know, or should be learning, by the end of the stage). There are some things like a values test to see what your values are - like what you want them to be and what they actually are, which is kind of nice as a reality check of what am I *actually* valuing via actions (or we, since if you do it with your spouse/partner, they likely will have different familial values. Yay, discussion for dates ;) ).
And most important, the importance of prayer and being in God's Word as the life of Christian parenting. No surprise there, but also, so good. As in, it's life, not a checklist, drudgery meh bleh religious ick (or if it is, maybe it's being done wrong :X).
This was a good read that I know I will be revisiting over the years. Highly recommend this grace-filled, powerful read for those curious about and/or looking for a refreshing book on Christian parenting. And isn't that fitting. Come, you who are thirsty to the living water. Be refreshed.
The Comers discuss how they raised their children, but not in a follow these 5 golden steps and your children are guaranteed to love Jesus and others for life. If anything, their humility and wisdom in the process of parenting (not knowing what they were doing, getting help, finding community, asking other parents for their "secrets", etc) exudes throughout their anecdotes and teaching moments. There's a funny part in their acknowledgments where they "own up" to "plagiarizing" from an older couple that taught them most of the material that became how they raised their four children (who are now adults and parents), the book, and Intentional Parenting (their ministry). It's said in jest, but I appreciate it because it's a reminder that they're not reinventing the wheel here. This type of parenting is, as aforementioned, radical in its simplicity.
I also appreciate as I've mentioned in other book reviews of similar content their wisdom regarding discipline, particularly in a Christian parenting context. As in, it's not a cookie cutter formula. As in, regardless of choosing to spank or not, there is MORE to discipline than that. Discipline is teaching our children how to have the appropriate skills to function in society (in a nutshell), and in the Christian sense, to live as Christ did (love God, love others (and self)). It is rich and nuanced, as other parts of parenting, and... radical in its simplicity (If there's one point I want to drive home, it's this. Only slight apologies for sounding like a broken record).
The book is also helpfully outlined to help understand the various stages of children's lives and how to meet them and parent them in these stages (I appreciate how the Comers address that while the ages are mentioned, it's stages of life. And they clarify each part by saying what they will know, or should be learning, by the end of the stage). There are some things like a values test to see what your values are - like what you want them to be and what they actually are, which is kind of nice as a reality check of what am I *actually* valuing via actions (or we, since if you do it with your spouse/partner, they likely will have different familial values. Yay, discussion for dates ;) ).
And most important, the importance of prayer and being in God's Word as the life of Christian parenting. No surprise there, but also, so good. As in, it's life, not a checklist, drudgery meh bleh religious ick (or if it is, maybe it's being done wrong :X).
This was a good read that I know I will be revisiting over the years. Highly recommend this grace-filled, powerful read for those curious about and/or looking for a refreshing book on Christian parenting. And isn't that fitting. Come, you who are thirsty to the living water. Be refreshed.
July 2, 2025
This is a parenting book I want to own. This book challenged me not only as a parent, but also as a follower of Christ in my relationship with God and others. I want to be able to model these practices to our kids, but I first need to know His ways in my heart. I think this book also challenged my original goal of parenting (just get’em over the faith line) by providing a new desire: that in addition to submitting their lives to Christ, they would become servants of Him too. Can’t recommend enough. Simple, straightforward, and encourages you to walk with God the whole way.
October 27, 2025
A great read! Written by John Mark Comers parents, this was encouraging and insightful. This book came from a pretty traditional, conservative perspective (and even then, there were a few things I didn’t fully agree with) but overall would definitely recommend.
March 10, 2018
This may well be the best book I have read on Christian parenting. It answers so many questions and is full of biblical and practical instruction.
We live our lives intentionally, planning and making lists. Yet we think we can raise godly children without doing so intentionally. Shepherding a child to a godly adulthood does not just automatically happen. The Comer's provide the theological basis for intentional parenting as well as suggestions for developing a parenting plan that is effective and doable.
I am impressed with the biblical foundation they lay. For example, they reference Luke 2:52 and outline the three areas to intentionally focus on: character development, relationship building, and spiritual training. The tools they employ are also based on a biblical basis, such as 2 Timothy 4:2.
The Comers walk readers through the growth stages, giving practical suggestions along the way. They have insights into guiding the strong willed child. They advocate really knowing each child and how that shapes parenting techniques. They clarify the difference between punishment and discipline. They help readers to know what to do if they've parented in a wrong way so far. And perhaps my favorite emphasis is that parents must themselves be passionate followers of Jesus and model that behavior.
The Comers share how they formed their own vision of raising disciples for generations. That vision shaped their parenting goals and even determined which television programs they watched. Knowing that one plan does not work for all families, they help readers develop their own parenting visions and plans.
I highly recommend this book to parents and potential parents. You will find within its covers a wealth of information and practical help in raising godly adults.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Handlebar. My comments are an independent and honest review.
We live our lives intentionally, planning and making lists. Yet we think we can raise godly children without doing so intentionally. Shepherding a child to a godly adulthood does not just automatically happen. The Comer's provide the theological basis for intentional parenting as well as suggestions for developing a parenting plan that is effective and doable.
I am impressed with the biblical foundation they lay. For example, they reference Luke 2:52 and outline the three areas to intentionally focus on: character development, relationship building, and spiritual training. The tools they employ are also based on a biblical basis, such as 2 Timothy 4:2.
The Comers walk readers through the growth stages, giving practical suggestions along the way. They have insights into guiding the strong willed child. They advocate really knowing each child and how that shapes parenting techniques. They clarify the difference between punishment and discipline. They help readers to know what to do if they've parented in a wrong way so far. And perhaps my favorite emphasis is that parents must themselves be passionate followers of Jesus and model that behavior.
The Comers share how they formed their own vision of raising disciples for generations. That vision shaped their parenting goals and even determined which television programs they watched. Knowing that one plan does not work for all families, they help readers develop their own parenting visions and plans.
I highly recommend this book to parents and potential parents. You will find within its covers a wealth of information and practical help in raising godly adults.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Handlebar. My comments are an independent and honest review.
July 17, 2025
This might be my favorite Christian parenting book so far and I’ve read many! Anytime I meet siblings that are all passionate Jesus followers, I ask them what they think their parents did that helped influence them the most and they ALL say, “they loved Jesus and they lived that way”
This book also makes it clear that passionately following Jesus yourself is the most effective way to raise passionate Jesus followers. But I also really appreciated the practical tools they gave for discipling & shepherding kids. They talked about several things I’ve never read in any other parenting book. For example, they explain how every family can have different “values” and that’s okay but we should ask ourselves if those family values are pointing our kids toward the main Goal of raising passionate Jesus followers who intentionally love people.
They also explain the box tool, which I love!
I was also really encouraged by their frequent reminders that we need to be looking at the heart of our children. There are times that black & white discipline will not help them because we need to parent their heart.
I could go on and on about all the things I learned from this book but you’ll just have to read it yourself :D
This book also makes it clear that passionately following Jesus yourself is the most effective way to raise passionate Jesus followers. But I also really appreciated the practical tools they gave for discipling & shepherding kids. They talked about several things I’ve never read in any other parenting book. For example, they explain how every family can have different “values” and that’s okay but we should ask ourselves if those family values are pointing our kids toward the main Goal of raising passionate Jesus followers who intentionally love people.
They also explain the box tool, which I love!
I was also really encouraged by their frequent reminders that we need to be looking at the heart of our children. There are times that black & white discipline will not help them because we need to parent their heart.
I could go on and on about all the things I learned from this book but you’ll just have to read it yourself :D
January 10, 2024
I originally picked this book up again to re read the 0-5 section. I ended up reading the whole book again, because it’s just that good. Comer offers and gospel oriented approach to parenting with MANY practical applications and personal anecdotes. I’d recommend this book to anyone looking for a reliable parenting book.
March 14, 2024
A great book on parenting that encompasses all ages of your children’s life into adulthood. It also has a great Appendix for those that choose to follow Jesus during their children’s development.
While I don’t agree with everything in this book, I think it is a VERY helpful resource for parents that want to raise their children to love Jesus.
While I don’t agree with everything in this book, I think it is a VERY helpful resource for parents that want to raise their children to love Jesus.
June 23, 2023
I appreciate how serious but real this book was. It recognizes the difficulties, but drives home responsibility and ways to tackle the hard stuff. I’m sure I’ll be revisiting this one a lot through the years.
July 21, 2021
"May you have the privilege of raising Sons and Daughters who love God with passion and who love people on purpose, who set their Hope on Jesus Christ, the solid rock.
And may the kingdom of God come crashing down into your home and family, bringing his Beauty and glory to every corner of the earth. Amen." ~ page 272
And may the kingdom of God come crashing down into your home and family, bringing his Beauty and glory to every corner of the earth. Amen." ~ page 272
January 8, 2024
Appreciated how it was broken down by ages so I could focus on the ages of our kids now…really valuable gospel centered info that we want to do a better job implementing!
July 9, 2024
5/5
I’m so grateful for this book and the sweet friend who gave it to me. The heart behind parenting that the Comers share, the honesty about the work, and the Biblical backing is exactly what I needed to read/hear.
I read this while earnestly praying that God would grant wisdom for some specific parenting issues — and while this book doesn’t detail my issues with discipline, I learned so much about the steps to create a “foundation” and the Holy Spirit is filling in the rest as I lean in (imperfectly). I’m sure there are other amazing parenting books out there, but this one came at the right time with the right words — looking forward to revisiting it when my oldest hits the next 6-10 stage.
I’m so grateful for this book and the sweet friend who gave it to me. The heart behind parenting that the Comers share, the honesty about the work, and the Biblical backing is exactly what I needed to read/hear.
I read this while earnestly praying that God would grant wisdom for some specific parenting issues — and while this book doesn’t detail my issues with discipline, I learned so much about the steps to create a “foundation” and the Holy Spirit is filling in the rest as I lean in (imperfectly). I’m sure there are other amazing parenting books out there, but this one came at the right time with the right words — looking forward to revisiting it when my oldest hits the next 6-10 stage.
March 19, 2025
So good! Up there with “Habits of the Household” and “M is for Mama.” Such a beautiful and clear vision for what parenting is all about: “What is your one and only goal? To raise children who love God with passion and love people on purpose.” Amen!!
Other favorites:
“From schools to careers to the church we chose to make our own— everything came under the scrutiny of this question: Will this help them draw closer to the Redeemer or possibly push them away? Will this make disciples or create disinterested rebels?”
“Your children will become who you tell them you see them becoming.”
Other favorites:
“From schools to careers to the church we chose to make our own— everything came under the scrutiny of this question: Will this help them draw closer to the Redeemer or possibly push them away? Will this make disciples or create disinterested rebels?”
“Your children will become who you tell them you see them becoming.”
December 11, 2023
A book you will come back to AGAIN and AGAIN. Our purpose as parents is not to raise perfect children, but children who are passionate about Jesus. The book walks through the stages of spiritual development and what parents should consider and expect at each stage as we raise our children to “love God with passion and love people on purpose.”
Powerful! A must read for any parent who wants to build their home on a firm foundation— Jesus Christ.
Powerful! A must read for any parent who wants to build their home on a firm foundation— Jesus Christ.
July 28, 2020
No two parents are the same and the process of raising children to adulthood is a challenging one. The Comer's book provides excellent advice, grounded in scripture and a solid faith, that my wife and I will be implementing at every stage in our daughters' lives. We are thankful for this book and its impact on our family.
August 9, 2024
Easily one of the best parenting books I’ve ever read.
I started and re started this book multiple times over the past few years and then finally read it all the way through again this summer. It goes chronologically in ages and stages of your child/parenting journey. This book was extremely motivating to dig into scripture and battle in prayer over my family and the families of others I love. 10/10 recommend.
I started and re started this book multiple times over the past few years and then finally read it all the way through again this summer. It goes chronologically in ages and stages of your child/parenting journey. This book was extremely motivating to dig into scripture and battle in prayer over my family and the families of others I love. 10/10 recommend.
March 29, 2025
4.5⭐️
This is a wonderful book with a lot of good, practical advice about parenting. I didn’t give it 5 stars because there were a few things in different stages that I didn’t necessarily agree with, BUT despite that, overall this is a book I would recommend and would read again and have already taken some tips from.
This is a wonderful book with a lot of good, practical advice about parenting. I didn’t give it 5 stars because there were a few things in different stages that I didn’t necessarily agree with, BUT despite that, overall this is a book I would recommend and would read again and have already taken some tips from.
September 2, 2025
What I like about this book is knowing the fruit these parents have produced (John Mark Comer) and the way the book is outlined in stages of kids lives and what they need at each stage. The authors give practical insights and but are intentional to give principles, not just applications. Solid parenting book for thinking about the personal discipleship of our kids.
April 27, 2023
This is a MUST read for all parents who are following Jesus. Full of sound, scripture based, and practical parenting advice from toddler years through adulthood. It paints such a beautiful picture of our ever changing relationship with our children.
December 19, 2024
TOP FAV parenting book! I listened to the audio and halfway through ordered the hard copy so I can read again and highlight things I want to really make sure I remember. One of the best books on intentional parenting with practical ways to implement into your home immediately. Highly recommend!
August 10, 2018
Excellent parenting book. The Comers weave biblical truth and practical helps together in a way I’ve never seen before. I would recommend to any parent!
May 8, 2024
WOW WOW WOW!!! 100/10!!! Might just be one of my life books right here!!
October 17, 2024
Hands down the best, most applicable and encouraging parenting book I’ve ever read!
March 27, 2025
This was easily one of the best parenting books that I have ever read! I will definitely be revisiting it as new parenting seasons and stages come.
March 31, 2025
I liked a lot of his thoughts!
December 13, 2025
This should be an annual read for all parents. So encouraging and challenging.
August 5, 2021
This is a book I have on hand and love to reread.
July 15, 2021
A practical guide on parenting. Though I did not agree with everything Phil and Diane espoused, I did find it to be a helpful foundation that I look forward to implementing as Beckett grows.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews