Raising Giant-Killers: Releasing Your Child's Divine Destiny through Intentional Parenting

by Bill Johnson, Beni Johnson

With honesty, humor, and keen biblical insight, bestselling authors Bill and Beni Johnson help you discover the keys to successful parenting in God's kingdom. "Parents, we rule for the purpose of protection, but we also serve with the purpose of empowering," they write. "We want to release our children into their destiny--that's the privilege of parenting."

In these pages you will gain the wisdom, kingdom concepts, and practical tools you need to help raise your children to their best.

You'll discover how to parent to their uniqueness, gifts, and strengths, as well as how you can demonstrate and reveal who God is to your kids. The authors also address pressing issues parents face today, including how to

· be fully engaged in hearing what the Lord is saying over each child
· maintain relationship and discipline
· develop character
· train your children for worship
· fan the flame of what God has put in their hearts
· and more

No matter what age your kids are, you have an incredible opportunity to shape their hearts, minds, and values. Here is everything you need to help your children walk into the destiny of their lives and see them become the awesome people they were created to be.

Genres: Parenting, Nonfiction, Faith, Christian, Christian Non Fiction, Christianity

240 pages, Hardcover

First published December 4, 2018

About the author

Bill Johnson and his wife Brenda (Beni) Johnson are the Senior Pastors of Bethel Church in Redding, California. Johnson is a fifth generation pastor.

Johnson was born in Minnesota in 1951 and became a Christian as a young child. Soon after, Johnson read seven books on prayer, which significantly affected his perspective and subsequent ministry.

Bill Johnson and his wife have three children: Eric, Brian and Leah.

Johnson speaking at a conference
Bill Johnson and Beni (Brenda) began as singles pastors under his father at Bethel. In 1979, they became senior pastors of Mountain Chapel in Weaverville, California.

While pastoring in Weaverville, Johnson attended a 1987 conference led by John Wimber, founder of the Vineyard Church Movement. According to Johnson "A number of healings and manifestations broke out and I didn't know what to do with it. I didn't object to it, I wasn't opposed to it; I just didn't know how to pastor it in a way that it would continue and increase".

In 1995, Johnson attended the Toronto Blessing revival at the Toronto Airport Vineyard church. Johnson relates: "In Toronto I said, 'Lord, if You touch me again I will never change the subject.' So I went up for prayer every time it was offered. I didn't have anything dramatic happen, but I came home and said, 'I am going to give the rest of my life to this.'"

In February 1996, after 17 years of leading the Weaverville church, the Johnsons were invited to become senior pastors of Bethel. Today Johnson describes Bethel as a church where "everything we do either fuels revival or is fueled by revival." Under his leadership, Bethel left the Assemblies of God in 2006 to become a nondenominational charismatic church.

According to a recent book written by Johnson, "Face to Face with God", Bethel is "a church where supernatural encounters with God happen regularly, miracles are common, and the congregation has an infectious passion for spiritual growth." The church has approximately 1,500 members, and a School of Supernatural Ministry.

Their Bethel School of Supernatural Ministry has 1,200 students enrolled with over 370 from other countries. Johnson leads a network of churches dedicated to global, multi-generational revival, Global Legacy. Johnson has written a number of books and travels extensively as a featured revival conference speaker. Johnson is also involved with the Northern California Revival Fellowship, a group of north Californian pastors committed to revival.

Source: Wikipedia

Reviews

[Lydia Howe · Rating 3 out of 5]

WHY I CHOOSE THIS BOOK

My parents have done a great job of raising their kids with intentionality and a Kingdom mentality, and this book seemed like a great way to learn some practical tips on how to do that. I want to be the kind of person who helps all the children I interact with on a regular basis (not just my kids because I currently don’t have any) live the lives God created them for.

WHAT I THOUGHT ABOUT THIS BOOK

Raising Giant-Killers was a bit of an unusual read for me because so much of the book had great information that I was like Yes, this kind of thing needs to be taught! But then other parts of the book had me shaking my head in perplexment or disagreeing totally with a point.

Some of the things I really liked in the book include:
* Talking about how to raise children with intentionality. Parent’s have so many amazing opportunities to speak into their children’s lives and help them to prepare for living healthy, impactful lives. This book shares examples of how to do this in a practical, life-changing way.
* Speaking words of life. What we say really does make a difference. This is true when we say something directly to someone, and even when we’re just talking about them. The Bible is very clear that words have the power of life and death and we’re supposed to guard what we say. I’m so thankful for my parents speaking life to and about their children. This book does a great job of showing how important that part of parenting is.
*Exposing children to the right things. Parenting isn’t only about guarding your children from harmful things but also making sure they are exposed to the correct things. And by “correct” I don’t mean easy. The authors do a great job of showing how important it is for kids to see the needs of the world and develop helping, compassionate, and loving hearts.
*Learning about God from a young age and Praying over them. It’s never to early to start teaching your children about God and praying for them. One of my favorite parts of this book is where the authors talk about praying scripture over your family. There’s even a section in the back that includes a lot of scripture that can be prayed. That’s something my parents have done all my life and something that is really important.

And now I’m going to talk briefly about what I didn’t like…

The second page of the book had a statement that I disagree with, so that set a rather wary tone for me while reading the rest of the book, so I’ll address that with a bit of detail:

The authors say that we were all born into a war (which I agree with), but then they go on to say that even Adam and Eve were born into a war because in Genesis 1:28 they were told to “subdue” the earth. The authors say that this implies that there was disorder outside the Garden of Eden, then go on to use the word “chaos” to describe what life was like outside of the Garden. But this is during Creation Week when everything was still perfect. In fact, just a few verses later in Genesis 1:31 the Bibles says “Then God saw everything that He had made, and indeed it was very good.” Something that is very good isn’t full of chaos and disorder. (You can read more at Answers in Genesis which has a ton of good information about this type of thing.)

There were also multiple other, smaller things throughout the book that I don’t agree with or condone. Some of the things were just the authors being more dogmatic than I believe scripture warrants, or else them taking things out of context. There were enough of these things that even though I really liked parts of the book (as mentioned above), this isn’t one I would recommend to everyone.

CONCLUSION

The authors are parents to three grown children who all seem to be doing really well in life. That, to me, is a big selling point, because that means they are talking from experience and not just theory.

RATING

I’m giving Raising Giant-Killers 3 out of 5 stars.

((This book was given to me by the publisher in exchange for me reviewing it, all thoughts and opinions are my own.))

[Robin · Rating 3 out of 5]

Much of my parenting journey has been birth out of intentionality. I remember being pregnant with my oldest and realizing what a special gift it was to be his mom. From the very beginning of my life as a parent, I wanted nothing more than to be intentional in my interactions and choices with my children. So when I heard about this newest book by Bill and Beni Johnson, I was intrigued. And hopeful. Releasing my child into his divine destiny? Sign me up!

But coming away from this one, I have many mixed feelings. I wanted so badly to whole heartedly endorse this book; I struggle to put into words the strange mixed bag of emotions that I'm stepping away with. Let's try to break it down:

Pros:
The Johnson put a special emphasis on being intentional in our parenting. As parents, we can't live in reaction to our children. Through prayer and guidance, we need to take active, intentional steps in preparing for this journey.
Speaking life over our children. In today's world, so much is breaking our children down. It's become the norm, not only to speak poorly of ourselves, but to speak poorly of others. There is very little filter and often that leads to breaking others down with our words and attitudes.
Praying over our children from a young age. It's never too early, or too late, to be praying over our children, their identity, and the lives they will live in, and out, of our homes.
Cons:
There were some questionable verses taken out of context that sent up red flags right away. I often felt a check in my heart that things just didn't line up.
The authors make some far fetched guesses as to the background of some prominent Biblical characters, potentially skewing the intended message to fit their agenda.
This is one of those books that I struggled with reviewing. There was so much good focused on being intentional, speaking identity, and building up our children with our words and attitude. And for that, I am extremely grateful for this book and the Johnson's message. But there was just too many red flags popping up left and right concerning the theology that is the backbone of this book. So I think for a seasoned parent that's looking for refreshment and refocusing, this could be the answer. But for a new parent, or a new Christian, I really hesitate to recommend this book. In all reality, Raising Giant Killers has some great meal, but it filled with bones. Chew carefully.

*Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

[Heather Gmiterek · Rating 5 out of 5]

I got this book on a Friday, finished it on Monday. I couldn’t drink it in fast enough. I have taken lots of notes and really wrestled with some concepts. I will read it a few times I am sure. Not everything lines up with our family values but everything pointed me to Christ and asking discernment for our family and what we are called and anointed to do. I am anxious for my husband to finish it, and to lend it to all my friends so we can digest it together.

[Lauren Kingsbury · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book as a group study. Reading only one chapter a week. I can’t express enough how good this book is. I’m happy we went slow and took in everything RGK has to offer. Bill Johnson does a great job of focusing your mind on the kingdom and intentional parenting. This is a book I would re read every few years as it relates to the changes in my kids and me as a parent (and seasons of life).

[Kyrie Beckman · Rating 5 out of 5]

A book that entered my life at the perfect time!

[Jessica Chandler · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a must read for parents and grandparents who are invested in the legacy being formed by this next generation. Bill sets the standard for high expectations, loving unconditionally, and teaching our children how to own the faith. It’s a book I’m sure I will go back to again and again.

[Ingrid O. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rasing Giant Killers Releasing Your Child’s Divine Destiny through Intentional Parenting

I was on the fence with this book for a few reasons but we will get to that in a minute. This is the first book that I have read fro Bill Johnson with Beni Johnson. There was some things that I liked and some things that I really kind of turned me off a little.

The book did have a lot of great information that you can glean from but it also had some things that left me with a big question mark or I just did not agree with because some of the Scriptural references were taken out of context especially the illustration used in Genesis 1:28. I also feel that the book was a bit dogmatic in the points it was trying to convey.

However, it also had some great points to learn from such as speaking words of life and encouragement to your children. Building them with positive feedback instead of deconstructive criticism. The authors also shared on how parents should pay attention to what they expose their children to the right things and teaching them about God and his Word.

I received this book from Chosen a division of Baker Publishing Group for review all thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Aimee · Rating 1 out of 5]

Stopped was rather intrigued by the title. Found it dry and preachy. Stopped reading after a few chapters when the author said he paid his grandkids $500 to read and discuss one of his previous books with him. That was completely unnecessary bragging and off-putting to the point where I felt I just lost interest in anything else he had to say.

[Laurel · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a book for equipping our children with Christian values to help them get through life. The authors are Pastor Bill Johnson and his wife, Beni, of Bethel Baptist Church in Redding, California. I don't read a lot of self help books, but I feel this one is worth the time. As I was reading I thought,"This book is full of wisdom and would be so beneficial if parents and grandparents put this into practice."

It's filled with solid Christian wisdom, but one of the nuggets of wisdom that made a huge impression on me was from the mother of the famous Spanish painter, Pablo Picasso. "Pablo, whatever job you chose to do in life, you will be a success. If you decide to be a monk, you will be the Pope." What an attitude to distill confidence in a child!

The Johnson's sent their three children to Christian school, and were so glad they did. They felt their children developed great values this way--and most important learned that though academics are important, the heart is much more important! Attitude is actually on the grade card.

Stop and think! What do you want for your child? Surely you'd like to raise a happy, independent child. Sure, you may hope they'd have a satisfying career, marry and have children. But it's better to instill in them, that it's more important to have a relationship with God. If they chose to be single and they are happy great! What we greatly detest is greed, selfishness, narcissism, etc. which leads to job hopping, divorce, drugs, and gulp...jail. This book designs how to avoid these negative events by raising children to grow into adults with a firm foundation in life.

[Cora Groenewald · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a parent I attempt to raise my children according to Grace and the Gospel, yet, I found it hard and challenging. Raising Giant Killers by Bill Johnson, not only inspire and support christian parents, but also gives you practical tools on how to connect with your children and never to give up. There is always an answer, inspiring parents not to give up in dismay but find hope in the truth.

I recommend any parent to read this book and to try his biblical methods. In my humble opinion there might be a few things people don't agree with, but overall the message portrayed throughout the book is that there is hope in any situation, turn to Jesus and He is the anwer to any parenting obstacle.

[Melissa · Rating 3 out of 5]

I always get excited when I see a Bill Johnson book come out. I enjoy hearing him speak, he is full of humble wisdom.

But, if I am honest, I haven’t found a book yet that I love by him. That doesn’t mean this book isn’t good. It is. It is full of Godly wisdom that you can definitely apply and use but I found my mind wandering and I would have to go back and read.

I’m sure it’s me and for whatever reason his writing style doesn’t capture me. But, as I said, this book really is full of wisdom and ways to raise our children to be giant-killers.

A copy of this book was given to me though Netgalley.com. All opinions are my own.

[Jonah Sinclair · Rating 3 out of 5]

I thought this book was adequate at best. This seems to be a consistent review for me for books from Bethel. I love Bethel and their messages, but sometimes great preaching doesn’t translate to great writing.
I didn’t disagree with anything Johnson put down here, it’s just that it also didn’t feel particularly helpful. There were surprisingly few actual parenting testimonies, and the ones that he did provide lacked any real vulnerability in my opinion, presenting only the successes and none of the failures.
There’s good stuff here, but again, I can imagine a collection of preachings where this would feel so powerful, whereas in a book it feels more fluffy and honestly incomplete.

[OneMoreCat · Rating 2 out of 5]

I randomly downloaded this audio book just for something to listen to without knowing anything about it. It wasn’t exactly what I expected from the title, but I kept listening for any good information. Something about it just felt off to me. I’m really good at picking up the “energy” around things and felt like the author’s understanding of the Bible wasn’t quite right. About halfway through he mentioned he was the pastor at Bethel church and then those feelings made sense. I decided to stop listening since I figured it wouldn’t be wise to take advice from someone coming from a church of false teachers. There are better books out there.

[Tabitha Roberts · Rating 2 out of 5]

Even though there were some nuggets of wisdom throughout the book, I found the author’s point of view to be out of touch - as a white male with power and money, not taking into consideration the plight of others and the lack of privilege to be able to do some of the things the author recommended. The writing was braggadocious and preachy. He got on his soap box several times. These things alone were a great turn off. I would not recommend this book to others. It was lacking in application. Borderline heretical.

[Lainey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was very impressed at the way this book was written. Each chapter taught me something new, and gave me food for thought. I honestly felt like I could read this at any point in my life, whether I had kids or not, because it taught me not just about being a good parent but about being a good friend and disciple maker as well! There were a couple of times but I had to stop the book so that I could think on and repent honestly! I very muchly enjoyed it. I have never read any parenting books beside this one so I have nothing to compare it to, but it was definitely the best one I've ever read :)

[Tom Burkholder · Rating 3 out of 5]

In the book Raising Giant-Killers, authors Bill and Beni Johnson write about raising kids to be released into the world to change the world. They write: “We want to release our children into their destiny – that's the privilege of parenting.”
I was excited to read this book because of the description and title. But I was disappointed. It was very dry and recycled many clichés. I received a copy of this e-book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[victoria · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was incredible, beyond writing in every word and charming to read with also had a story that will be help and leading to all the parents raise their child with focused on highlighting on the thing that they were doing right and the thing that they had a gift or a particular grace with also focused on their future too. I highly recommend to everyone must to read this book. “ I received complimentary a copy of this book from Chosen book program for this review “.

[Deeps George · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must read for all parents who need to understand the process of intentional parenting under the guidance of the Word Of God. Bill and Beni lay out there lives as parents helping us to learn and understand through their eyes the purpose of being parents in today’s world and acting as representatives of Christ. A powerful book that should open our eyes in how we should be as parents as well lead our children to be better men and women in today’s world.

[Jermaine Cantu · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great parenting book and my first book to read by Bill Johnson, pastor at Bethel Church. A few takeaways for me included the following:

1. I should expose my kids to the supernatural.
2. I need to study and explore the word more with my kids. My local church can’t do it all.

My favorite sentence from the entire book was “Anyone who is bored might want to examine how closely he or she is following Jesus, as He is anything but unexciting.”

[Jane Riordan · Rating 1 out of 5]

I was getting along quite nicely with this book, not necessarily agreeing with everything but finding some parts interesting; and then Bill Johnson declared that he was an advocate of spanking.

At that point, I put the book down. My husband and I have raised four children ourselves, without ever raising a hand to them and I am completely against physical punishment of children. To me, Bill Johnson's belief in it negates any parenting advice he might have.

[COURTNEY MCGEE · Rating 3 out of 5]

Gosh, if only this book ended at chapter 10 it would have been a solid 5 stars. There were too many references to things that had little to do with biblical parenting- political, financial and social topics. I get that the choices parents make affect their children but I wasn’t looking for that here. Some scriptural references were taken out of context and that also started to make me doubt the advice being given. Again, should have called it quits at the end of chapter 10.

[Connor · Rating 4 out of 5]

Most of this book I’ve heard before, in bits and pieces. But I owe a great deal to Bill Johnson and his teaching, and I can personally attest to his integrity in parenting. This book serves as a solid overview of his principles for life in family. More than anything else, it made me question whether I have been intentional enough as a husband and father. For that, I am thankful.

[RaeAnne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an excellent read. It is all about living with intentionality and leaving a legacy by parenting with purpose on purpose. I was encouraged in what we are already doing and inspired to do even more. There was one chapter that I disagreed with because I have a different philosophy, but I could still appreciate his approach. We need more books out there like this for parents!

[Amber · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyed this read, I wouldn’t say it was the most enlightening book for parenting, but there were a few nuggets in there. I would say overall what I got from the book was to help our children be more In tune with the Holy Spirit. So having more conversations about how the Holy Spirit is working in their lives and helping point out when He is.

[Gregory · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another fantastic book from Bill regarding how he raised his children and how the generations impacted his whole family.

It’s simple consistency and intentional Kingdom-mindedness.

Strong practical concepts, but certainly spiritually focused and pointedly showing that it’s more how the parent is versus what to do for the child.

[Brittany Andrew · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book had A LOT of good information and I learned a lot but it was really hard to get past the part when he mentioned he would spank his kids with wooden spoons, he explained why but it was so hard for me to listen to this book after that. It may not bother everyone like it did me, but it was definitely a trigger for me. Just a heads up.

[Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best parenting book for Jesus-lovers ever! A practical guide to spiritually leading your home. It really helps to remember what’s REALLY important and what the REAL measurements of success are! I need to buy the print copy of this book so I can write and highlight all over it.

[Joel Stralnic · Rating 2 out of 5]

I respect these people and their ministry.
There are great concepts here but I think this book would benefit from more practical tips.

At times I found some of the paragraphs to be redundant and made me wonder why they were included.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Had to wait on this multiple times because I was borrowing the Audio from the library. It was so good that I am looking to buy it in print now. It was a great listen, but now I want to highlight portions and be able to go back and reference things.

[Autumn Gonzales · Rating 5 out of 5]

The most profound yet practical parenting book I’ve ever read. You will not find empty platitudes or gimmicks here, only tried and true logic and Biblical teaching. Highly recommend for any parent, new or old, so many convicting and constructive points.