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Seven-Mile Miracle: Journey into the Presence of God Through the Last Words of Jesus

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"Seven-Mile Miracle" was created on location in the Holy Land, designed to bring individuals, churches, and small groups into a deeper understanding of Jesus Christ and his redemptive work. Based on the seven last sayings of Jesus on the Cross, "Seven-Mile Miracle" takes the reader to those exact locations during Christ's last hours, and reveals the resurrected Son of God like never before.

182 pages, Paperback

Published February 6, 2018

217 people are currently reading
974 people want to read

About the author

Steven Furtick

33 books752 followers
Steven Furtick is the founder and lead pastor of Elevation Church in Charlotte, North Carolina, named by Outreach magazine as one of the top 10 fastest growing churches in the nation. In four years, Elevation has grown to more than 6,000 people in regular attendance in three locations. Steven holds a degree in communication from North Greenville University, and a Master of Divinity degree from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He and his wife, Holly, have two young sons—Elijah and Graham—and make their home in the Charlotte area.

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240 (34%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
66 reviews1 follower
April 17, 2017
Practical yet challenging. As a mature believer, I learned several new insights on what it means to walk with and live for Jesus in my daily life.
72 reviews1 follower
February 18, 2017
From the cross, Jesus speaks seven short statements. Seven, the number of completion, perfection. Steven Furtick calls these seven statements mile markers in the Christian's walk to Emmaus, the Christian's journey in relationship with Jesus.

I was intrigued by this claim and eager to read this megachurch pastor's ideas and learn about the seven mile markers on the road to Emmaus.

Furtick uses ways of relating to today's America throughout his book, including reducing the celebration of Easter by calling it the "Super Bowl of Christianity" in the first sentence of the introduction. He also created an acronym for "More of God" in the introduction. (p. 2) I paused and re-read the paragraph. Then, I looked at the back of the book and the endorsements on the inside. Later, I visited the Elevation Church website. Then, I understood. Perry Noble was preaching that week. Perry Noble's book, The Most Excellent Way, was another book that bordered on the irreverent and took Scripture out of context.

As with any book or writing, please search the Scriptures as the Bereans did to make sure that the book agrees with the Word of God, Acts 17:11

Yet, there are nuggets of truth sprinkled throughout the book like these two:

- "The anointing of God is only produced under pressure." (p. 89)
- "The salvation of God begins when our human striving ends." (p. 134)

2 Reasons Why I Won't Read Another Book by Furtick

1. MISHANDLES SCRIPTURE

The first statement of Jesus addresses forgiveness: "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do." Luke 23:34 Furtick writes, "The Savior says, 'Forgive them, Father, when they don't know what they're doing or even when they know exactly what they're doing.'" (p. 36). If I had not been reviewing the book for Blogging for Books, I would have stopped reading at page 36. Jesus told the Father that the people did not know what they were doing when they nailed Him to the cross. Jesus, the Son of God, had no question that the people did not know what they were doing.

Furtick uses the ESV and NIV to make the points he wants to make. However, I could not find any translation that quoted Jesus telling Peter "three times to 'feed my lambs.'" The ESV translates the words of Jesus as "feed My lambs ... tend My sheep ... feed My sheep." John 21:15-17 The NIV translates it as "feed My lambs ... take care of My sheep ... feed My sheep."

In addressing the fifth statement of Jesus, "I thirst" John 19:28, Furtick writes, "Again, he struck the rock and got water out of it, but God accused Moses of not having faith in him. We're not sure what exactly Moses did wrong. Maybe the problem was that Moses struck the rock twice, because once should have been enough if he really trusted God." (p. 112)

Perhaps if Furtick had read God's instructions to Moses, he would have understood that Moses disobeyed the Lord by striking the rock instead of speaking to the rock.

“Take the staff, and assemble the congregation, you and Aaron your brother, and tell the rock before their eyes to yield its water. So you shall bring water out of the rock for them and give drink to the congregation and their cattle. Numbers 20:8

2. MANIPULATES HIS PEOPLE

In 2014, an investigative reporter wrote an article about Elevation Church planting people in the church to stand up and go forward to be baptized. ChristianPost.com followed up on the article and quoted Rev. David Key, who teaches at Emory University's Candler School of Theology, referring to services like this as a "'Disneyfication' of religious services."

In Seven-Mile Miracle, Furtick indicates that he did not defend the process of getting attendees to go forward for baptism. Instead, he wrote that he announced that the church would be "holding another baptism that Sunday night! And that night was one of our most remarkable worship services ever, as hundreds more people were baptized as a declaration of their faith in Jesus Christ." (p. 139)

Manipulation.

I received a copy of Seven-Mile Miracle : Journey into the Presence of God Through the Last Words of Jesus, from Blogging for Books for my honest review.
Profile Image for Abbi.
235 reviews5 followers
September 5, 2017
"I've often said, you have to follow Jesus for yourself, but you can't follow Him by yourself, at least not effectively. Your spiritual success will only be as strong as your support system."

I've been reading Pastor Steven Furtick's latest book, Seven-Mile Miracle over the last 7 weeks in conjunction with listening to his sermons about each chapter. I didn't find this book to be as profound as some of his others (i.e. Crashing the Chatterbox, Greater) but he definitely makes you stop and think long & hard about your journey with Christ.

The chapters on Relationship, Abandonment, and Triumph resonated with me the most. I am a self-reliant extrovert and am guilty of getting in my own way at times. Although I have a big personality, I do a lot of things solo and operate from that perspective, which is not always a good thing. But like Pastor Steven said... "You have to make the journey for yourself. But you don't have to make it by yourself."
Profile Image for Sarah.
958 reviews33 followers
February 9, 2017
This book is a powerful book that will help you refute any lies you've been believing in your life or things that have been holding you back. The world will try to distract you, the enemy will distract, but Steven Furtick reminds us that God always looks at our heart. God is always pulling us towards Himself, so we can be more life him. This book will point you back to Christ. It will have you remembering why you fell in love with him, who he is as your Savior and it will help you fix your eyes on the things of eternity, not earthly.

If you like listening to Furtick online or through social media, you will love the way he engages the reader. I really enjoyed this book and think it is the work the read. I give this book 4/5 stars. Thank you to the publisher for providing me a complimentary copy for review. I did not need to provide a positive review to receive this book.
Profile Image for Brian Powers.
2 reviews1 follower
April 13, 2017
An in depth look at the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ

So Jesus said a few things on the cross. Pastor Furtick takes us through all 7 "words" in great depth, tying it all in with the works of His life and many of the prophecies of the old testament.

It's teaching from start to finish with dozens and dozens of scripture references to support the teaching. This isn't a book I think I can get by reading just once. Now that I've read it through, I can go back, read t again and take detailed notes and answer all the questions that pastor furtick asks at the end of each chapter.

I really enjoyed this book. I think you will too.
Profile Image for Rolando.
17 reviews
March 25, 2017
This is another great book from pastor Furtick. This book gave me a new perspective when looking at Jesus's last seven words and their meaning especially during this time leading up to Easter. Every section is supported heavily by scriptures which can be easily found for further study and reflection. I highly recommend this book. You won't be disappointed.
Profile Image for Jill.
421 reviews
March 28, 2018
Based on Jesus' last words, Steven Furtick's "Seven-Mile Miracle" offers a unique insight and perspective.  A person's final words are treasured by their loved ones. They are remembered forever. Jesus' last words have been recited often, especially at Easter, and thought to contain wisdom for the ages.  They mean everything.

Furtick uses Jesus' words of forgiveness, salvation, relationship, abandonment, distress, triumph and reunion and compares them to our earthly walk with God.

I have always appreciated Furtick's insight and unique perspective on Scripture.  He is easy to understand and presents a clear, concise message. He rarely rambles, but includes enough information to get his idea across.

Although too late for this season, there is a 40-day reading guide perfect to prepare for Easter.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Blogging for Books, as part of Waterbrook Multnomah’s Book Review Blogger Program. I was not required to write a review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Profile Image for Amber Burkhead.
59 reviews3 followers
July 17, 2017
Steven Furtick makes Jesus' journey to crucifixion come alive in Seven Mile Miracle. He not only sheds light on the significance of each of Jesus's last seven statements before death, but shows us how each effects our lives today. He speaks in a relatable tone that can be understood by people who just met God, as well as delivering new perspectives to people who have been following Him for some time. While some parts seemed a little basic to me, I still underlined or highlighted something in each and every chapter.

The experience is only enriched and deepened by watching Furtick's sermon series (also titled Seven Mile Miracle) that goes with the book. I highly recommend doing this! Especially if you're looking to dive a little deeper into what you read in each chapter. You can watch for free on Elevation Church's website.

Overall, I'd definitely recommend this book and sermon series to anyone who wants to better understand the significance of Jesus' sacrifice and/or strengthen their relationship with God.
Profile Image for Meghan.
168 reviews9 followers
March 17, 2017
I love Steven Furtick's books and his preaching. While this book was shorter than the others, it's a great read in the Lenten season heading into Easter.

My favorite part is the analogy he uses by sharing his experience of being separated from his young son in the airport. When he realizes his young son wasn't troubled, scared or upset by the absence; he questions him- only to be told that the child didn't fear because he could hear his father's voice and knew he was coming. How much more so can we be assured and comforted if only we listen to our Father's voice in complete confidence that He is coming?! So good!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Keaton Davis.
413 reviews8 followers
October 15, 2021
Furtick breaks down the words Jesus spoke during his time on the cross.
This really opened my eyes to His journey and how it relates to our lives and our walks as well.
Wow wow!!!!!!!!
Profile Image for Rachael.
24 reviews1 follower
April 27, 2024
The first two-thirds of the book are good things I have already learned. The last third held gems for me.

"And this is the point I want you to remember when the distress in your life becomes so great that you find yourself in desperation mode: We have to go to the right source of water for our thirst. We have to go to Jesus for help."
page 113

"And when you have to go through hard things in life, God is digging a well within you. When you are disappointed or hurt, God is digging a well within. When things happen that you don't understand, He's digging a well. When people you care about walk away, God is digging a well. He's digging a well, and living water will flow from it."
page 123

"Maybe you've been struggling to get over some kind of sin habit or addiction, and you haven't gotten anywhere.
Maybe you've been trying to restore a relationship, but so far the doors remain shut.
Maybe you did what everybody says you should do -you went after a big dream- and it ended in humiliating failure.
Maybe you've fought a battle against injustice or unfairness and the other side has prevailed.
Maybe you've received a medical diagnosis and you're facing the fact that you'll never regain full health. Discouraging to be sure. But is this really the end of hope for you?
I can't promise that you will have exactly the kind of victory you want in this life (though it may be more possible than you think!). But I can definitely tell you that, if you are traveling through this life with Jesus, then in one way or another, at one time or another, all your defeats will be overwhelmed in Christ's victory."
page 131

"The good news is that God does not "take" in order to deprive you of something. He takes you so that He can bless you. When God is blessing you, it makes all the taking worthwhile."
page 159

Joseph de Beaufort summarized Brother Lawrence's view, in part, saying he "resolved to make the love of God the end of all his actions."
page 163
Profile Image for Becky B.
9,353 reviews184 followers
March 30, 2018
Furtick looks at the seven last phrases Jesus said before his crucifixion, and looks at their historical, theological, and modern practical spiritual importance.

I've never read a book by Steven Furtick before, but I have heard good things about his church, and this seemed a timely read for the week before Easter. I found his historical notes interesting, the metaphor of the road to Emmaus used throughout was helpful and made good points come alive more, and his overall writing was very readable, approachable, and easily applicable to anyone's Christian walk. It wasn't fluffy stuff, but it wasn't so scholarly as to be hard to work through. It was a nice balance of relatable stories from his life, touches of Bible scholarship, bringing passages of the Bible to life for modern readers while conveying the historical understanding, and poignant questions to ponder were worked in as well as provided at the end of each chapter intro. It was a great read in this week before Easter as the book focuses on Passion week events, but would be good any time really.
115 reviews2 followers
July 22, 2017
A fresh idea on an overlooked journey

I understand that Pastor Furtick is a controversial person. I do not attend his church, nor even live on his side of the country. I don't have to agree with someone, to learn something from that person. That preamble said, I enjoyed this book, and learned a lot from the viewpoint Furtick came from in discussing this 7 mile journey to Emmaus. I do disagreement with Furtick's use of "Abandonment" versus "Forsaken" at Calvary. I believe Christ was forsaken, he was never abandoned, but that is IMHO.

Since reading this book I have set out on my Fitbit to log 7 miles in a day and consider that journey of Cleopas and his companion. What might have the complaints been, the sorrows, complaints, challenges and what the response most likely was. I enjoyed the spiritual exercise as well as the miles of contemplation.

Profile Image for Brandon Lim.
6 reviews
August 28, 2017
This book fits perfectly for those who deeply wants to know the meaning of Jesus' final 7 sentences on the cross. Pastor Steven explained and puts it down very nicely with details that we never think of! As always, I can feel Pastor Steven's passion for Christ in every page of the book. Every detail, every statement, it's just solid amazing. Each of us are on a journey of life, let Jesus lead the journey! 182 pages ain't enough for me. I guess it did the work, the book left me wanting more of Jesus!
Profile Image for Marisa.
201 reviews6 followers
June 2, 2018
Borrowed this book from my local library ebook collections and finished it quickly within a week. It was so easy to read and it gave me such a new perspective in many aspects - eg. understanding how Jesus spent his final days on Earth and such.

I have been a Christian for roughly 9 years or so (only) Although most of the content isn't new to me- I have heard/ read of them over the years, yet, I felt that it was a good refresher since I have forgotten about some facts over the years. Definitely worth reading, whether you have just believed in Christ, or have been following Him for years ;)
Profile Image for Heather.
1,172 reviews9 followers
June 16, 2018
As always, I love how Furtick makes the scripture relatable and easy to comprehend! This is a fabulous description of the final words of Jesus as he hung on the cross. It’s detailed and actually contains real life applications of where we may see similar things now. There are also some very quotable lines towards the end of the book #7mile ! I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to get further insight in to their Bible, as well as anyone looking to learn more about Jesus and His sacrifice.
Profile Image for Jackie.
230 reviews5 followers
December 30, 2025
In 7-Mile Miracle, Pastor Steven Furtick pulls creative illustrations and eternal perspective from a few moments and encounters in the life of Jesus and relates them to our lives, no matter what season we are currently in. This is my first time reading a Steven Furtick book and I can honestly say that I did enjoy it. While I was in Nashville, I went to see Steven Furtick at his Elevation Worship Tour and after that I became aware of who he was. Reading this book really gave me a great insight on how to walk my journey intentionally whilst understanding the different seasons Christ followers are bound to encounter. This is a very easy book to read and I recommend it! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Profile Image for Matthew Horvat.
124 reviews3 followers
April 23, 2022
This is the third of Pastor Steven's books that I've read, and might be one of the most impactful. Taking the statements of Jesus while on the Cross, he lays out the entire gospel and walk with Christ. Using the walk along the road to Emmaus as example, he breaks down each statement as one mile on the 7 mile journey.

Everytime I picked the book up, I had to complete the chapter, I had to keep going. Only other responsibilities kept me from finishing this book in one day, one sitting.
Profile Image for Clayton .
574 reviews
August 30, 2025
There are several times in the book where the author does not take the time to do some serious study, but lazily just states he doesn’t know to show humility. He probably could have reduced his workouts to do some study. This study (“sayings from the cross”) has been done by others and much better.
8 reviews1 follower
March 8, 2018
Wonderful

I really enjoyed this though provoking book leading up to the Easter season. Great reminders and seven step process to understand what Jesus went through on the cross. It connects to personal life.
Profile Image for Josh Atkins.
100 reviews20 followers
March 12, 2020
What I loved about this book was the content that Furtick presented; about taking the 7 mile journey with Jesus through his teachings. Each mile represented one of Jesus’ sayings in the Bible with Mile 7 being one of His last. Very much enjoyed this short but fulfilling read.
83 reviews7 followers
May 10, 2020
a mile for a day - you can finish this book within a week. but it's worth going back to it from time to time. never hurts to remember what Jesus said on the cross. it pretty much sums up what we should be doing in this life. no need for self-help books.
213 reviews7 followers
May 19, 2017
Very well written book.Easy to understand for the lay person.Refreshing too.
Profile Image for Kelsey Goncalves.
92 reviews5 followers
May 22, 2018
awesome book that breaks down the last few days of Jesus on earth.
Profile Image for Matthew.
86 reviews
June 8, 2019
Brilliant for people new to Faith in Jesus🙌🏼
Profile Image for Christi Barron.
69 reviews1 follower
January 14, 2020
This book reads like Furtick preaches, real, honest, and with a fresh perspective.I suggest reading through the Gospels first to refresh your memory. Great boom!
Profile Image for Linda O'Dell.
Author 16 books11 followers
March 7, 2020
Very good book on the Last 7 statements of Christ and what they mean to us
Profile Image for Mona Randall.
496 reviews48 followers
September 21, 2020
An interesting, fresh perspective on the last words of Jesus. His comments from Bishop T. D. Jakes and the last chapter was the crescendo of the entire book. Well written and highly recommended!
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