Freund der Sünder: Warum Jesus Beziehung wichtiger ist als Perfektion

by Rich Wilkerson Jr.

Pastor and writer Rich Wilkerson Jr. shines a spotlight on every Christian’s calling to reach the world, seek the lost, and save sinners with Jesus’ scandalous message of the gospel of grace.

The Bible calls Jesus a friend of sinners. What does that mean? In Friend of Sinners, Rich Wilkerson Jr. shows readers the profound implications of the reality that Jesus calls us friends not because of who we are or what we have done, but because of who he is. While he was on earth, he knew that people needed to belong before they would want to behave. He understood that the power within him was greater than the darkness around him, so he loved fearlessly.

By following his example, we can have the same clear conviction and compassion for the lost that he did. His gospel of scandalous grace cannot be overestimated. When we embrace the truth that we all need Jesus equally and when we trust him to bring transformation in people’s hearts, we will walk as Jesus walked, experiencing the glory of God in our own lives and in the lives of those around us.

Genres: Christian, Faith, Nonfiction, Christian Living, Religion, Christianity, Spirituality

Perfect Paperback

Published April 15, 2019

About the author

Rich Wilkerson, Jr. and his wife, DawnCheré, are the founders of the VOUS Church in Miami and the annual VOUS Conference on South Beach at the historic Fillmore Theater. Rich is also the host of the weekly talk show Top3 on JUCE TV, which features popular Christian personalities and round table discussion on current news. An internationally recognized speaker, Rich has logged over two million air miles preaching the gospel to hundreds of thousands of people around the globe. www.vouschurch.com

Reviews

[Melissa Walston · Rating 5 out of 5]

I simply cannot say enough good things about this book. I opened it up on a Saturday night and finished it the next morning. I couldn’t put it down. It has some funny parts but more importantly it has so many truths. It made me think hard about what kind of Christian I want to be from here on out. There is nothing like a book that feeds your soul. 💛
I received an Advance Reader Copy from Harper Collins Christian Publishers.

[Lauren Bentle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Friend of Sinners is a MUST read! You’ll finish the book with a renewed sense of how deep Jesus loves you and the world, and how we’re all called to do the same. This book conveys His message of love, purpose and service so clearly, and sometimes hilariously, through Rich Wilkerson Jr's own personal stories and relationships. I would absolutely recommend this book to anyone, with Chapter 10 - “How To Be Great” as my favorite. *I received an Advance Reader Copy from Harper Collins Christian Publishers.

[Allison Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was simply so good. Wilkerson truly knows how to grab your attention and bring you in with his knowledge and love for the Lord. I will read this again!
I received an Advanced Read Copy from Harper Collins Christian Publishers. ❤️

[Sean · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love the message and simplicity of this book. It was an easy to understand and down to earth view of Jesus. Rich communicates about Jesus as if he were standing right next to us, truly a friend.

I thought his stories were fun and inspiring as a 20-something. My only complaint would be his stories might not relate with older generations, but that’s always a give in with younger authors. I would recommend this book for those looking to looking to simply learn more about Jesus and how he is still relatable today.

I received an Advance Reader Copy from Harper Collins Christian Publishers.

[E · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC of this book. It is a MUST READ!

[Chelsea · Rating 5 out of 5]

Friend of Sinners is a phenomenal book that will inspire you to dig deeper into your faith. Each of the chapters end with a thought provoking statement and/or a question for you to reflect on.

Pastor Rich Wilkerson Jr. has written the book in such a relatable. He grabs readers attention through this personal stories blended in with Biblical passages.

We all are sinners and in need of a savior. Christ loves us regardless of the depth of our sin. This book really brought to my attention how much Jesus spent time with sinners. In our world today, we get set in the comparison trap or saying well I don't do that sin, or this that or the other thing. The reality is we all sin! God doesn't measure or compare our sins. This book calls us to love anyone and everyone, regardless of their sin.

I received an Advance Reader Copy from Harper Collins Christian Publishers.

[Lizz Bramble · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book tells the story of Jesus love for the sinner. The fact that he pursues the sinners heart even as they are in their sin. This book was a very easy read, with a very important and powerful message that the world needs to hear. There is no sin too great that Jesus will not seek to be your friend! He associated himself with sinners during his time on earth because those are the ones who needed rescuing. Rich Wilkerson Jr. weaves personal stories into his message to help readers understand the points in real life situations. He also breaks down several Bible stories and passages in ways that I had never heard them explained before and opened my eyes to so much! I absolutely loved this book and can’t recommend it highly enough!
I received an Advance Reader’s Copy from the publisher.

[Antoinette Wells · Rating 5 out of 5]

Friend of Sinners –why Jesus cares more about relationship than perfection is a MUST read for every believer!! This is an easy read with profound truths wrapped in grace. Rich Wilkerson Jr. has a gift for breathing new life to classic bible stories while sharing his own personal and funny stories. I love that the book is a reminder that Jesus is all about relationships and not religion. This book is definitely a pulse check of our own hearts. You will be reminded the way Jesus sees you, sees others. You will be changed on how you see and love others after reading this book.

"I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher."

[Nichole Beyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book offers some spectacular insight into the heart of the savior. This book highlights why Jesus is the friend of sinners and how we can be as well. Thank you God for the heart you have given to the author and how he is able to convey your heart to his readers. “He will never give up on us. He will never stop loving us. He is the friend of sinners, and when we accept his love,and his grace, we become friends for all eternity”

[Sarah Herbert · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was honestly pretty good. It wasn’t chugey like some Christian books tend to be but wasn’t to basic either. I liked the writing style, felt like I learned a lot, but also inspired. Also, the author/ pastor married kim and Kanye. Kinda wild

[Katja · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely beautiful and mind-altering.
Highly recommended!

[Caleb Hodder · Rating 5 out of 5]

We have our bible, then we have “Friend of Sinners”. This book is beyond good. It fills you up spiritually and sends you out into the world to love the people of the world. The same way Jesus loves us. Not going to spoil it for anyone, but this is a MUST read for everyone! No matter where you are spiritually. Pick this book up and read it today! You won’t put it down. Too much truth and love being spoken all in one. Rich you’re the man, thank God for you.

I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from the publisher.

[Katie Miller · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was able to read an advanced copy of the book and really enjoyed it. A read that's easy to digest but in no way "simple" - lots of spiritual meat and Rich gave me a lot to think about regarding certain Bible passages, in ways I hadn't thought of before.

This would also be a perfect book for someone who's been hurt in the past by Church, church people, etc.

I would highly recommend this book and in particular would be a great read for church small groups, youth groups of high school and college kids, etc.

[Cheri Kaufman · Rating 5 out of 5]

A well written and easily relate-able book. I started it on Friday night and could not put it down!

I received an Advance Reader Copy from Harper Collins Christian Publishers.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Amazing book that will encourage and challenge you. So many truths that are both good reminders, and hit home. It a good way. Sometimes a beautiful mirror, that helps show a not so "pretty" side of ones self. But, even that is beautiful as that means I'm hoping for change....and open for change.

I received an Advance Reader Copy from Harper Collins Christian Publishers.

[Charity Sanchez-Beristain · Rating 5 out of 5]

You know you have read a great book when you can’t put your highlighter and pen down.

Rich Wilkerson, Jr. breathes new life into some of the classic stories about how Jesus lived for the relationship and loved someone no matter their circumstances. Friend of Sinners pushes us to re-evaluate how we approach people in life. It reminds us that everyone is on their own journey and not to disqualify them based on society or “church” standards.

It was entertaining, easy to read, and honestly I was sad to see it come to an end. (I will be rereading it.). I highly recommend it for everyone!

I received an Advanced Reader Copy from the publisher.

[JoAnna Koller · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book. Reading this was my first exposure to Rich, his family and his church. Apparently they had a reality show on Oxygen Network! Definitely looking into that now that I’m done reading.
Friend of Sinners was a very eye opening read. It simplified so much of the Bible and made connections between different stories and Jesus’ Love that I wouldn’t have made before. Some great examples of how we can love our neighbor, friend, even enemy, and I believe it’s a message that is greatly needed in society today. I appreciated the quotes set in the margins that summarized the message on the given page and found myself highlighting several passages. I am taking the specific story of ‘even though a coin is lost, that does not lessen its value’ to heart. I will read that chapter over and over. So many lost coins in our lives, and they need to learn that they are still worth it to Jesus, and to us, to love.
Definitely recommended this book! I’ll be passing it along at church!

I received an early copy from the publisher.

[Jess Harrison · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must ready for everyone. I’m only half way through this book but every word I’ve read is God breathed and I can’t put it down. Wilkerson really captures the Heart of God and shows readers what it truely means to be Jesus’ friend. It challenges me to be more like Jesus and as I’m reading I am drawn closer to God.

[Shay Fort · Rating 5 out of 5]

I started this book a couple weeks ago and can honestly say that if I hadn't had a sick child to care for, I would have finished in two days max! Rich Wilkerson writes in a way that goes right to the soul as far as conviction, but importantly flows well from one thought or example to the next. Additionally, he uses plenty of examples that are relative to the millineal generation, something that is usually lacking in much of Christian writing. Friend of Sinners is a timely exploration of what it means to truly follow Jesus, today and always.

Beginning with the truths of the gospel, this book delves into the radical love that Christ has for everyone, and emphasizes that a relationship with God is never based on our holiness, but instead, God's infinite and ever searching love for us, our neighbors, and all sinners. In conclusion, he lists some ways the believer can apply these truths in their own life and follow in the steps of Jesus. By overcoming fear, shame, and apathy, we too can step out of our comfort zones and lean on God to share his message of love and grace for all.

Friend of Sinners left me truly encouraged to fully trust God to satisfy my needs and to love others (even the hard ones) more deeply, without concern for any repayment, and to remember that most importantly, we love because he loved us first.

[Luis Osio · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rich Wilkerson simplifies the mystery of a relationship with Jesus. Religion often misrepresents Jesus and gets in the way of the being able to walk with Jesus daily; which is exactly what Rich manages to masterfully present for those of us who struggle with carrying weight on our shoulders that does not belong. Whether you are devout Christian, a newcomer to faith, or a non-believer that is interested, this is a great book to read. There is freedom in walking with Jesus, not in religion.

[Christine Ebert · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is so powerful and such a good heart check on if we ourselves are being a friend of sinners. Rich Wilkerson Jr. captures Jesus and what he is all about so perfectly! Everyone should read this book and take it in their heart what it means by Jesus being a friend of sinners. The world would be such a better place if we all did that. There is so much incredible wisdom in this book, it's a must read.
I received an Advance Reader Copy from Harper Collins Christian Publishers.

[Josiah Kennealy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the heartbeat and passion that Rich Wilkerson, Jr. demonstrates in his message "Friend of Sinners." As a local church young adult pastor, I find that this message comes at the perfect time as a word for our generation. Jesus was and continues to be a friend of sinners; so is Rich Wilkerson Jr. I pray I can be, too. Highly recommend! I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from the publisher.

[Andres Grijalba · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is increadible. It's definitely one of the most personally impacting books i've ever read. While you're reading, you start feeling identified with everything Rich says. It starts tearing down mental walls of who you have believed a Christian should be, it starts confronting you about all the unnecessary burdens you've been carrying and how in your heart you've been feeling things that you shouldn't. Would recommend it to anyone who wants to have a deeper understanding on who Jesus was, is and will always be and the mission, purpose, and passion while he was on earth, and still today.
I received an Advance Read Copy of this book from the publisher.

[Jill Robertson · Rating 5 out of 5]

FRIEND OF SINNERS is refreshing and encouraging as Rich Wilkerson reminds us “we are all equally unqualified to be followers of Jesus.” This book speaks to how a clear understanding of Jesus love for us and all sinners will lead us to love and serve all. The message of the book stirs the reader to move past fear, discomfort and recognition and love and serve others knowing the way may be messy, require creativity and go unnoticed. The bottom line is we are are called to love as Jesus did and FRIEND OF SINNERS establishes the greatness of this calling.
Preorder from Amazon now or order an autographed copy from BarnesandNoble.com
#FriendOfSinnersBook

[Elizabeth Rosner · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Pastor Rich's writing style! At some points, I was laughing aloud, and at others I was underlining feverishly to emphasize the great point he just made. I have struggled with perfectionism for most of my life. The Lord has been patient with me but this book was a beautiful reminder that Jesus wants a RELATIONSHIP WITH me, and is much less moved by the actions I do FOR HIM. What freedom there is in this!!

I received an Advanced Read Copy from Harper Collins Christian Publishers.

[Mirelis Rivera · Rating 5 out of 5]

Friend of Sinners was by far one of my favorite books I've ever read. Rich Wilkerson has such a brilliant way of explaining truths with humor and letting you sink in how were all called for a purpose. I would recommend this book for everyone even if you're not Christian, it's a great book about life in general.
I received an Advance Reader Copy from Harper Collins Christian Publishers.

[Rachel Boyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great book and easy to understand and comprehend. Made me really think about what type of "Christian" I want to be. Do I want to be one with all these pre-conceived notions and ideas, or one who loves how Jesus loves? Do I want to have a relationship with people or just focus on myself? Wonderful, thought-provoking book for me.

I received and Advance Reader Copy from Harper Collins Christian Publishers.

[Andra · Rating 5 out of 5]

I started the year with reading an amazing book, I've read Friend of Sinners by Rich Wilkerson Jr and it was a great pleasure and blessing to read it.
Honestly I cried on almost every page because I was blown away by such amazing grace to have and know our bestfriend Jesus.
It opened my eyes to a new perspective on people and on friendship.
Here's one of my favorite paragraph that I've read on the book.
"We tend to measure out our love based on what we'll get back.We will spend time with people and love them as long as there is hope they'll change.Not Jesus.He didn't write off anyone.He didn't consider it a waste of time to invest in people who might never respond.Friendship wasn't a means to an end, but an end in itself."
I've received an advance copy of this book from the publisher and I am grateful for that.
The book is available for pre-order on Amazon and an autographed copy of the book it is available at https://m.barnesandnoble.com/ and it has the same price as the non-singned book.
Go get yours, you won't regret it.

[Melissa Guarino · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is amazing! Perfect for those just beginning a relationship with Jesus or those who have known Him for years. The author meets you right where you're at and so does Jesus. It's an incredible reminder of who we are and who we are meant to be. 100% recommend this book!

[Adam Metz · Rating 2 out of 5]

I struggled mightily with this book. I was not familiar with Rich Wilkerson Jr. (though, perhaps his dad's name rang a bell). I read this in connection with a Bible study I was invited to - not my typical Chrisitan reading lane. I had difficulty almost immediately. I found his stories to be narcisistic (they were almost all about him, personally - really nothing about pastoral interactions he had with "sinners" which I expected). These stories were followed by a litany of platitudes and superficial, bumpersticker type of reflections. The more I read, the more I had to wonder about this dude who spoke easily of how much he flies and trips with his family to Hawaii and Bali and Disney World. At first I thought I was being unduly critical, then learned a bit more of his context, and realized that he is another of these hipster televangelists. They are quite successsful at attracting crowds and their influence is dynamic. His large following combined with a nod towards biblical stories and principles make critique challenging and I am reluctant to do so. However, this book provides a perfect opportunity to reveal the shortcoming of his message.

The book is about being a friend of sinners - so I expected to read stories of Jesus' care for all and examples of their church or his ministry reaching out to all walks of life and that no one is beyond God's reach. And he says alot of those kinds of things, but never gives any kind of concrete example or illustration that makes you confident that this dude is using what he is selling. An overt example of this is when he talks about the last being first and the first being last - "We have to be willing to be unknown. That is hard to do, because fame and accolades are exciting." (200). What in the world does this dude know about being unknown? His family signed on for a reality TV show to help launch their church. The ethics of that aside, at the very least it shoots his credibility to talk about what it is like to be uknown. Just before this his example of humility is serving in the parking lot of his megachurch. I tried to be gracious and keep my eyerolls to a minimum, but this was the fluffiest, lukewarm book I may have ever read. Instead, it bodes as a narcissitic mega-church pastor trying to make the case that his lifestyle and the lifestyle of the opulent culture we are a part of are mostly in line and just need a slight tweak. The fact that he would even attempt to reflect on "the greatest is the least" passage shows how unbelievable clueless he is.

Read my reviews, I seldom post something so negative, but this one was something else.