Followers of the Way: ancient discipleship for modern Christians

by Simon Reed

One of the most pressing issues in today's church is encouraging people to become true and effective disciples of Jesus Christ.

If, in simple terms, discipleship is about connecting more deeply with God and connecting God with the whole of life, Simon Reed argues, we're looking at a lifelong process for which we require long-term skills rather than short-term courses. The Celtic and Desert Christians, drawing on Old and New Testament practices, taught and modelled how to do this through the practice of living by a Way of Life. By drawing together today's need for disciples and Celtic Christianity, Followers of the Way inspires authentic Christian discipleship for the contemporary world.

Genres: Christianity

160 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 22, 2017

Reviews

[Jo Kneale · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's a short book on first reading, and you can have it all read in a day, but implementing it will be the work of a lifetime: setting rhythms of prayer, work and rest, finding the companions you need on the way and a lot of time listening... Not to Simon, no, but for a still small voice inside to guide you.

I think Christians across the Western world need to start thinking in terms of not being the majority any more, of needing to support each other far more than an hour on a Sunday and of taking Jesus' offer to Follow Him far more seriously.

The book has no denominational allegiance, but it is very socially just with an emphasis on environmental concerns, simple living, prayer for healing. Simon sets out ten waymarkers (areas of life) that a disciple should bear in mind, along with three principles of life that he says should inform our path. The principles, in modern parlance, are simplicity of heart, purity of mind and obedience both to God and to modern authorities although it also involves listening to God and preparedness for doing what we are called to do.

I do like what Simon Reed has to say about a lot of things, but I'm concerned that he risks letting modern society influence his ideas too much. There are questions facing the modern church that need more than just unquestioning acceptance or affirmation and how we, as Christians, move forward in the global, digital, technical future will heavily impact both current believers and future generations of Followers.

[Lori Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

So practical, so relevant, everyone needs to read this!

[Mark · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good, readable and concise introduction to living a "Way of Life," ideal for those who are new to the idea. The book is let down by Reed's insistence that people on "both sides" of the same-sex marriage debate should come together despite their differences. I'm not sure whether Reed realizes how much he is asking of LGBT+ Christians like me. Similarly, the Bible doesn't give the clarity on sexual relationships that Reed suggests.

[Anthony Risson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well written; encouraging and thoughtfully offered by someone who has been walking in a Way of Life for some time. The insights, encouragement and wisdom offered in this text are meaningful and applicable for our time, wherever we may be.

[Debbie Williams · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting and thought provoking, but some of his assertions don't sit very comfortably with me. You need to read and make up your own mind.