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Experiencing God: Knowing and Doing the Will of God, Workbook
Experiencing God: Knowing and Doing the Will of God is the revised and expanded edition that helps leaders to promote the classic, best-selling 13-week study and conduct an Experiencing God Weekend or churchwide spiritual growth emphasis. Written by Henry Blackaby, Richard Blackaby, and Claude King, the Experiencing God Bible Study is based on the Experiencing God book, which has sold millions of copies worldwide. Participants will understand and apply seven realities of experiencing God. Churches will be helped to better function as the body of Christ, as members understand how to experience God as a church.
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First published June 1, 1976
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October 23, 2023
Experiencing God is considered a modern Christian classic. Despite this, my thoughts on the book are mixed.
The point of the book is to find ways to experience God. In particular to see where God is working, and to be involved in His work. Overall, I thought that the principles that Blackaby presents for doing this are pretty solid. Nothing comes to mind that made me really wary when it came down to his basic principles of how to experience God.
There were two things that I did dislike about the book though. First, it suffers from appearing to be a bit prideful. I don't know Henry Blackaby so I have no idea what he is really like, but the writing style of the book just smacks of arrogance sometimes. Even in trying to be humble at one point he says that God had to look high and low for someone as ordinary as me. Not to mention constantly referring to some conference where he tells how somebody's life was changed by reading his book. Not that it isn't good to have testimonials, but the frequency of such examples, with few examples that don't involve the book or Blackaby himself, started to rub me the wrong way.
The second problem I had with the book, was that it gave a lopsided view of how God may speak to you. Many of Blackaby's examples are amazing. It is about how he and his wife were called to Canada to pastor a small church and all the amazing things that were done there or how people were called to serve God in amazing circumstances and amazing outcomes. These examples naturally led me to ask is this how God speaks to everybody? What about God speaking to people in the everyday, in our communities, in things that are not "full-time ministry." I think there has to be balance here; we need to be challenged that we are not just settling for the comfort we have where we are, but I do not believe that God calls everyone the same way. We are not all meant to be Paul or Moses at least in terms of our accomplishments. So while I thought it was solid on its principles, the tone of the book and the examples it gave slightly diminished its value in my eyes.
The point of the book is to find ways to experience God. In particular to see where God is working, and to be involved in His work. Overall, I thought that the principles that Blackaby presents for doing this are pretty solid. Nothing comes to mind that made me really wary when it came down to his basic principles of how to experience God.
There were two things that I did dislike about the book though. First, it suffers from appearing to be a bit prideful. I don't know Henry Blackaby so I have no idea what he is really like, but the writing style of the book just smacks of arrogance sometimes. Even in trying to be humble at one point he says that God had to look high and low for someone as ordinary as me. Not to mention constantly referring to some conference where he tells how somebody's life was changed by reading his book. Not that it isn't good to have testimonials, but the frequency of such examples, with few examples that don't involve the book or Blackaby himself, started to rub me the wrong way.
The second problem I had with the book, was that it gave a lopsided view of how God may speak to you. Many of Blackaby's examples are amazing. It is about how he and his wife were called to Canada to pastor a small church and all the amazing things that were done there or how people were called to serve God in amazing circumstances and amazing outcomes. These examples naturally led me to ask is this how God speaks to everybody? What about God speaking to people in the everyday, in our communities, in things that are not "full-time ministry." I think there has to be balance here; we need to be challenged that we are not just settling for the comfort we have where we are, but I do not believe that God calls everyone the same way. We are not all meant to be Paul or Moses at least in terms of our accomplishments. So while I thought it was solid on its principles, the tone of the book and the examples it gave slightly diminished its value in my eyes.
August 9, 2011
I had no God previously since 1976; and I was introduced to Nichiren Shoshu Buddhism that came in after Gautama Siddhartha Buddhism which came down from the Primal Buddhism which there are no ancient writings just artifacts. My friend and I had trained during electronics in the making of pc boards, she was Japanese and we became friends and she introduced me to the Lotus Sutra. The Major Writings of Nichiren Daishonin Plus writings of Daisaku Ikeda. There is no god in Nichiren Shoshu. They held to a monistic view believing that there is no separation between Creator and Creature but being protected by Buddhist, Hindu, and Shinto gods regarded as spiritual forces. The main chanting of mantra was enlightenment, propsperty, and healing from chanting nam-myoho-renge-kyo expressing devotion to the law of karma. Fulfilling worldly desires that brings enlightenment, which can be achieved in a life time.
This was founded by Soka Gakkai in 1930 by Tsunesaburo Makiguchi (1871-1944. Not the same as Ancient Buddha which they only found artifacts of a Buddha sitting yoga style.
Well the Lord had other plans for me my neighbors were Christians and they had a friend that played guitar it was the guitar that attracted me to church. I thought that is what they meant by church. So I attended and received salvation and lost my roommate. Was blessed with a good job, and gained prosperity in Spiritual things of God. I had spiritual encounters a few times before the Japanese roommates, but did not know how to seek God properly.
I recommend this to all new born again Christians that need to develop a strong love and relationship with God. The author and I have many things in common except I do not have the Church religion background.
I stepped out in faith, and I have the same fundamental experiences when face to face with God in my life with God...spiritually speaking. It is a must read book and their is scriptures and it is only for those who want to become wealthy spiritually instead of worldly wise.
This was founded by Soka Gakkai in 1930 by Tsunesaburo Makiguchi (1871-1944. Not the same as Ancient Buddha which they only found artifacts of a Buddha sitting yoga style.
Well the Lord had other plans for me my neighbors were Christians and they had a friend that played guitar it was the guitar that attracted me to church. I thought that is what they meant by church. So I attended and received salvation and lost my roommate. Was blessed with a good job, and gained prosperity in Spiritual things of God. I had spiritual encounters a few times before the Japanese roommates, but did not know how to seek God properly.
I recommend this to all new born again Christians that need to develop a strong love and relationship with God. The author and I have many things in common except I do not have the Church religion background.
I stepped out in faith, and I have the same fundamental experiences when face to face with God in my life with God...spiritually speaking. It is a must read book and their is scriptures and it is only for those who want to become wealthy spiritually instead of worldly wise.
May 19, 2009
When I read this the first time I was so excited to find someone who believed exactly as I did about the way God speaks to His people. Of course, Blackaby provides a tremendous amount of scriptural support for his position, so that was also very helpful. His view remains unusual, though no longer unique.
Where some might say, "Don't just stand there, do something," Blackaby answers "Don't just do something, STAND THERE." Be still and wait on the Lord. He will lead you (provided you are doing the other things in the book...)
Where others say, "the Lord helps those who help themselves," Blackaby answers that God often does nothing until His people can "cease striving" and rest in Him.
I have never read a better explanation for the way God speaks, including how to know His voice, and the various media through which he speaks (whether scripture, other Christians, circumstances, or the Church). This is an excellent book and I cannot recommend it too highly.
I'm glad they made a 'book' version. The workbook is probably better because it is so engaging. But so many people will not buy or really use a workbook, so the book version will reach a lot of people.
Where some might say, "Don't just stand there, do something," Blackaby answers "Don't just do something, STAND THERE." Be still and wait on the Lord. He will lead you (provided you are doing the other things in the book...)
Where others say, "the Lord helps those who help themselves," Blackaby answers that God often does nothing until His people can "cease striving" and rest in Him.
I have never read a better explanation for the way God speaks, including how to know His voice, and the various media through which he speaks (whether scripture, other Christians, circumstances, or the Church). This is an excellent book and I cannot recommend it too highly.
I'm glad they made a 'book' version. The workbook is probably better because it is so engaging. But so many people will not buy or really use a workbook, so the book version will reach a lot of people.
April 23, 2013
A concerned Christian's review: Nobel intentions but with more theological holes than you can shake a cross at. For example the very thesis verse is taken out of context and thus flawed. To hear the flaw in theology, you can listen to Stand to Reason's podcast episode from 04/21/2013 ( http://www.strcast2.org/podcast/weekl...) and listen to the segment from 1:03:00 to 1:18:30.
This is not to say that it is without value. It is good at getting people into the word and getting people used to the idea of seeking God on individual level. In that regard, it's great. However, due to the flawed theological premise, it could lead to long-term disillusionment, frustration, and unfounded fear and doubt for believers who have been told through the book that if they're not hearing from God that there is something wrong with their Christian walk.
For a far better guide to good Christian living that can be used as a study, I would recommend Decision Making and the Will of God by Garry Friesen. http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/56...
This is not to say that it is without value. It is good at getting people into the word and getting people used to the idea of seeking God on individual level. In that regard, it's great. However, due to the flawed theological premise, it could lead to long-term disillusionment, frustration, and unfounded fear and doubt for believers who have been told through the book that if they're not hearing from God that there is something wrong with their Christian walk.
For a far better guide to good Christian living that can be used as a study, I would recommend Decision Making and the Will of God by Garry Friesen. http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/56...
June 5, 2012
We read this book with our Bible study group and it was a good one to dive into with others to discuss. Blackaby covers all the different ways we can experience God and how important it is to pay attention to each of these. The overall theme of the book is to pay attention to how God could be working around you and how He wants you to be part of that. Instead of asking in prayer all the things you want, ask Him what He wants for your life, what you should jump into and for guidance.
The book discusses different ways that God can speak to his people and how each of us can experience Him as couples, in our children's lives, in the church, marketplace, and His kingdom. I will admit that at times I felt like there was story after story about Blackaby at a conference and how someone's life was changed by something he said. But if you can get past some of that there is good ideas to grasp onto and new ways to look at convening with God.
Blackaby does a wonderful job at making sure the reader understands that this whole following God thing is not easy and that you will run into hardship and obstacles as you try to follow His will for your life. I wish he would have gone into this a little more but he does an overall good job of covering it.
Best Parts:
-I always view my circumstances against the backdrop of the cross, where God clearly demonstrated once and for all His deep love for me.
-When you trust that God always gives His best, you will devote your heart to whatever assignment God gives because you know in that role you can experience everything God has in His heart for you.
-God wants a watching world to come to know who He truly is. He does not call you to get involved in His activity merely so people can see what you can do. He will call you to an assignment that you cannot accomplish apart from His divine intervention. God's assignments have God-sized dimensions.
-If you're focused on self, you'll always seek to protect yourself and pursue what is most comfortable and what most builds you up. ...But if you are God-centered, your focus remains on Him alone. Storms may rage around you, but as long as you have God in your sight, you'll stay the course.
The book discusses different ways that God can speak to his people and how each of us can experience Him as couples, in our children's lives, in the church, marketplace, and His kingdom. I will admit that at times I felt like there was story after story about Blackaby at a conference and how someone's life was changed by something he said. But if you can get past some of that there is good ideas to grasp onto and new ways to look at convening with God.
Blackaby does a wonderful job at making sure the reader understands that this whole following God thing is not easy and that you will run into hardship and obstacles as you try to follow His will for your life. I wish he would have gone into this a little more but he does an overall good job of covering it.
Best Parts:
-I always view my circumstances against the backdrop of the cross, where God clearly demonstrated once and for all His deep love for me.
-When you trust that God always gives His best, you will devote your heart to whatever assignment God gives because you know in that role you can experience everything God has in His heart for you.
-God wants a watching world to come to know who He truly is. He does not call you to get involved in His activity merely so people can see what you can do. He will call you to an assignment that you cannot accomplish apart from His divine intervention. God's assignments have God-sized dimensions.
-If you're focused on self, you'll always seek to protect yourself and pursue what is most comfortable and what most builds you up. ...But if you are God-centered, your focus remains on Him alone. Storms may rage around you, but as long as you have God in your sight, you'll stay the course.
July 7, 2018
Henry Blackaby cares a lot about God’s kingdom and about people. He wants people to experience true life-changing faith and that’s a wonderful impulse. But, he makes some logical flaws that could end up being detrimental to people’s faith. Blackaby promises that believers today can hear the voice of God the way people did throughout the Bible, ex. Joseph, Moses, Daniel, Paul. And God will give specific instructions to each of us. Blackaby does not account for believers today having the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, which was not the case in the Old Testament, or believers today having the entirety of God’s inspired Word (the Bible). Hebrews 1:1 clearly teaches that God does not speak to people today the way He did in the past. Also, if tuning our hearts to listen to for specific instructions from the Holy Spirit was essential to being a good Christian as Blackaby says, you’d think the epistles from Romans to Jude would spend significant time telling people how to do it. But, I can’t find any such instructions. Instead the epistles are full of exhortations to follow the commands of Christ which are clearly known to anyone who has access to the written Gospels.
Blackaby says that, just like in the Old Testament, when God speaks today we will clearly know it is God. This will be because we have such a deep relationship with God. I fear that as people do not clearly hear God’s voice to them, they will become depressed thinking it is their own fault because they are not devoted enough.
Blackaby says that, just like in the Old Testament, when God speaks today we will clearly know it is God. This will be because we have such a deep relationship with God. I fear that as people do not clearly hear God’s voice to them, they will become depressed thinking it is their own fault because they are not devoted enough.
September 16, 2017
This book is filled with both good and bad theology. Unfortunately the bad theology is enough to cause the reader to be misled by the major theme of the book: how to find God's will? Blackaby bases his entire theological foundation on the misinterpretation and poor application of several passages in the fifth chapter of the Gospel of John. This makes the entire book built on a faulty interpretation of an important passage that is about the trinitarian nature of God and not about how the Christian finds God's will. Most Christians will not agree with my take on this book because Blackaby's work is so popular and so many Christians have gone through an "Experiencing God" seminar. How can such a popular book be so wrong?
My advice concerning this book is to Google "critiquing Experiencing God Henry Blackaby" and read what other apologists have said about the false information contained in Blackaby's book.
My advice concerning this book is to Google "critiquing Experiencing God Henry Blackaby" and read what other apologists have said about the false information contained in Blackaby's book.
October 16, 2013
As I participated in a group study on Henry Blackaby’s book: Experiencing God, I not only discovered some great insights (like the value of focusing on being Christ-centered verses self-centered, the power of the Holy Spirit, and the importance of fellowship, prayer, and God’s Word), but I have also found some areas of concern in the author’s methodology and philosophy. It may seem like semantics, but men cannot do God’s work, only God can do God’s work. More importantly, only by following Christ as our example can we please God, and I believe that the only way to know how to be like Him is through careful (and prayerful) Bible study.
Unfortunately, several of the author’s extra-biblical personal examples suggest that unless your goal or task is truly God-sized, it may not be what God wants you to be doing. Preposterous! Furthermore, I got the impression that Blackaby unequivocally believes that he indeed knew (and consistently knows) the will of God. Surely anyone can look back at a situation or an event and infer that God had a hand in the results (especially events that could be classed as miraculous), but to declare that you can accurately predict what is (or is not) God’s will is the height of presumption.
Even more bombastic was Blackaby’s statement that, “If you have trouble hearing God speak, you are in trouble at the very heart of your Christian experience.” [1] Although obviously Scripture is quoted in each and every chapter, it reads like there is far more to a true relationship with God than reading and applying His Word in every aspect of your life; it implies that God speaks directly to us outside of His Word. This almost charismatic “sensing” or “feeling” of God’s will borders on mysticism which requires pure emotion rather than thoughtful biblical precision. To me, this approach is a far less reliable method of discerning God’s truth. Blackaby’s assertion that “Truth is a person” (Jesus) is a nice slogan, but it overly simplifies an answer to Pilate’s rhetorical question, “What is truth?” (John 18:38)
Luckily, I happened to have another book that I was reading in parallel with this study, which provided an unexpected balance. It was simply a book of President Abraham Lincoln’s quotes and famous speeches. In it I found that Lincoln wrote, “I do not boast that God is on my side, I humbly pray that I am on God's side.” [2] Did honest Abe presume to know that he was doing the will of God? By no means! He simply hoped that his actions were in line with what he knew from his studies of Scripture. And did he know the Bible? Indeed he did!
Years before his renowned political career, in a tiny one-room schoolhouse in Indiana, each student in turn regularly read from a single classroom Bible. Lincoln had read and listened to God’s Word in its entirety even before his own family could afford to buy a Bible of their own. Throughout his life he often quoted from this “Great Book” in his discussions, debates, letters, and speeches.
What was Lincoln’s view of the Bible’s role in his own philosophy and how he conducted his life? Read the words he spoke to a delegation of black Americans who had presented the President with a Bible in 1864. “So far as able, within my sphere, I have always acted as I believed to be right and just; and I have done all I could for the good of mankind generally. In regard to this Great Book, I have but to say, it is the best gift God has given to man. All the good the Savior gave to the world was communicated through this book. But for it we could not know right from wrong.” [2]
This, I think, brings the focus back on to where it should be…the Bible. “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord.” (Isaiah 55:8) Was it God’s will that the Union should win that terrible War Between the States? Could not His will have still been done if the outcome had been reversed? In this case, would a Union defeat have meant that Lincoln was not on God’s side? Maybe someday we might know the answer to these questions, but I would conjecture that a defeat would not have changed Lincoln’s convictions. I believe that God can work his will in many ways, both through positive experiences and even through negative experiences resulting from the travesty of our human condition.
Do we really require extra-biblical messages from God in order to know the Truth? Definitely not, and I hope to live my life like historian Wayne Temple wrote regarding President Lincoln, “The longer Lincoln lived, the closer he felt to God and the more he relied upon God for sustenance.” [3]
References:
[1] Henry Blackaby, Richard Blackaby, and Claude King, Authors, Experiencing God: Knowing and Doing the Will of God.
[2] Gordon Leidner, Editor, Abraham Lincoln: Quotes, Quips, and Speeches.
[3] Wayne Temple, Author, Abraham Lincoln: From Skeptic to Prophet.
Unfortunately, several of the author’s extra-biblical personal examples suggest that unless your goal or task is truly God-sized, it may not be what God wants you to be doing. Preposterous! Furthermore, I got the impression that Blackaby unequivocally believes that he indeed knew (and consistently knows) the will of God. Surely anyone can look back at a situation or an event and infer that God had a hand in the results (especially events that could be classed as miraculous), but to declare that you can accurately predict what is (or is not) God’s will is the height of presumption.
Even more bombastic was Blackaby’s statement that, “If you have trouble hearing God speak, you are in trouble at the very heart of your Christian experience.” [1] Although obviously Scripture is quoted in each and every chapter, it reads like there is far more to a true relationship with God than reading and applying His Word in every aspect of your life; it implies that God speaks directly to us outside of His Word. This almost charismatic “sensing” or “feeling” of God’s will borders on mysticism which requires pure emotion rather than thoughtful biblical precision. To me, this approach is a far less reliable method of discerning God’s truth. Blackaby’s assertion that “Truth is a person” (Jesus) is a nice slogan, but it overly simplifies an answer to Pilate’s rhetorical question, “What is truth?” (John 18:38)
Luckily, I happened to have another book that I was reading in parallel with this study, which provided an unexpected balance. It was simply a book of President Abraham Lincoln’s quotes and famous speeches. In it I found that Lincoln wrote, “I do not boast that God is on my side, I humbly pray that I am on God's side.” [2] Did honest Abe presume to know that he was doing the will of God? By no means! He simply hoped that his actions were in line with what he knew from his studies of Scripture. And did he know the Bible? Indeed he did!
Years before his renowned political career, in a tiny one-room schoolhouse in Indiana, each student in turn regularly read from a single classroom Bible. Lincoln had read and listened to God’s Word in its entirety even before his own family could afford to buy a Bible of their own. Throughout his life he often quoted from this “Great Book” in his discussions, debates, letters, and speeches.
What was Lincoln’s view of the Bible’s role in his own philosophy and how he conducted his life? Read the words he spoke to a delegation of black Americans who had presented the President with a Bible in 1864. “So far as able, within my sphere, I have always acted as I believed to be right and just; and I have done all I could for the good of mankind generally. In regard to this Great Book, I have but to say, it is the best gift God has given to man. All the good the Savior gave to the world was communicated through this book. But for it we could not know right from wrong.” [2]
This, I think, brings the focus back on to where it should be…the Bible. “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord.” (Isaiah 55:8) Was it God’s will that the Union should win that terrible War Between the States? Could not His will have still been done if the outcome had been reversed? In this case, would a Union defeat have meant that Lincoln was not on God’s side? Maybe someday we might know the answer to these questions, but I would conjecture that a defeat would not have changed Lincoln’s convictions. I believe that God can work his will in many ways, both through positive experiences and even through negative experiences resulting from the travesty of our human condition.
Do we really require extra-biblical messages from God in order to know the Truth? Definitely not, and I hope to live my life like historian Wayne Temple wrote regarding President Lincoln, “The longer Lincoln lived, the closer he felt to God and the more he relied upon God for sustenance.” [3]
References:
[1] Henry Blackaby, Richard Blackaby, and Claude King, Authors, Experiencing God: Knowing and Doing the Will of God.
[2] Gordon Leidner, Editor, Abraham Lincoln: Quotes, Quips, and Speeches.
[3] Wayne Temple, Author, Abraham Lincoln: From Skeptic to Prophet.
February 27, 2017
I have tried numerous times to get through this workbook, and I have just been unable to. I find myself skimming the pages just to hurry and finish the days worth of information. I'm unable to put my finger on WHY. In most (although not all) instances I don't really disagree with what Blackaby is saying. Yet, I just can't get anything out of the study. No joy, no insight, no pull or enlightenment. Unfortunately, I've found completing it more of a chore than I desire. Perhaps, it's just the workbook form that I dislike. Maybe I'll pick it back up and love it at some time in the future.
October 2, 2011
Can Lead Christians to Experience God But Can Also Lead Them Astray
“Experiencing God” by Henry Blackaby and Claude King (and now also Richard Blackaby) seems to be a book for which reviewers find no middle ground. Almost all of the reviewers on Amazon give the book 5 stars (with one 4 star book) and one 1 star review. I find that the book has the potential to lead many to a deeper, more meaningful experience with God but also has the potential to lead many into false views of how God works with His people today.
For my complete review, see http://www.giveusthisdaydevotional.co...
“Experiencing God” by Henry Blackaby and Claude King (and now also Richard Blackaby) seems to be a book for which reviewers find no middle ground. Almost all of the reviewers on Amazon give the book 5 stars (with one 4 star book) and one 1 star review. I find that the book has the potential to lead many to a deeper, more meaningful experience with God but also has the potential to lead many into false views of how God works with His people today.
For my complete review, see http://www.giveusthisdaydevotional.co...
October 11, 2010
This is a GREAT Study. It is very intense and hard core. It will literaly grip you and make you want to put it down because there is no way to get through it without being changed by it.
If you are seriously committed to hearing what God wants you to do or what He is trying to tell you, then I highly recommend it. If you are struggling with your committment, i still recommend it, but you will be faced abbruptly with "His Will".
If you are seriously committed to hearing what God wants you to do or what He is trying to tell you, then I highly recommend it. If you are struggling with your committment, i still recommend it, but you will be faced abbruptly with "His Will".
October 16, 2022
I recently purchased the book and it has changed my perspective of various things in a good way. It’s a great study book for everyone. New believers, people who know the lord from a long time.
As it is a study book and not a story book so it gives you time to think and ponder upon various aspects of life after each study.
As it is a study book and not a story book so it gives you time to think and ponder upon various aspects of life after each study.
October 27, 2021
This ended up being a DNF for me. I just couldn't get into the writing style; also, reading other reviews gave additional insight into book contents that gave me pause on continuing further. I sure appreciate that insight!
November 17, 2023
This book was so amazing!! During a year of prayer and fasting this booked helped guide me in my relationship with the Lord to confirm He is calling me to be a missionary in Kenya! Truly opened my eyes to see God’s heart and mission around me.
March 29, 2021
If you are looking for a good, though provoking Theological studies, this is the book to go for.
June 24, 2017
When I say that I am a Christian, I don't mean that I just believe in God, and go to church. I mean, I am a Bible believing, Gospel teaching, praying, hands up worshiping, church going, holy spirit filled, child of the King, Jesus praising, woman of God who has gained much wisdom - saved by God's grace - and humblingly receiving mercy on a continual basis for I am a sinful human being.
Having said that, what I got from Experiencing God Bible Study, is we don't matter one iota to God except that we bring others to Christ through our works. If you go through spiritual boot camp in your life as a Christian, suffering, growing pains, lots of valleys, very few mountain tops, etc. it's because He is preparing you to do His work. That's all that matters. If you are disobedient, and don't do what he tells you to, he will use someone else to get the job done and then take everything away from you, never talk to you again, and basically throw you away.
If God heals you, or blesses you in any way - it's only because He wants you to do some kind of big God-sized work. If you don't, you are useless.
I'm not saying this is what the Bible says. I'm saying this is what I personally understood from this bible study.
Also, he is inconsistent in his teachings. Especially in explaining how we hear from God (via the Holy Spirit). Which is a whole other rant I won't get into.
See, I gave my life to the Lord in 1996. Near the beginning of the Millennium, I remember seeing on TBN, advertisements for a new approach for churches to grow. How they could follow a proven business plan, and it will make them rich. This is when the emergent church as we know it today, all started. Then, you have some new-age teachings that have crept into the church as well.
For anyone who has spent the bulk of their lives as a Christian the past 2 decades, has been taught a slant on the Bible that teaches what God can do for us - not what we can do for God.
The good news about this Bible study, is it offers a needed balance.
The bad news is, it goes way overboard.
The examples at the beginning of each chapter show how the "formula"(which he denies is a formula) he teaches, brings about a good work of God. And are mostly about planting churches. This is excellent. But, back up and read how it all started. Someone gets an idea or a feeling that God wants to do a work. But does he teach that is how we hear from God? Yes and no. It's not very clear because he contradicts himself.
In one part, they shared the miraculous healing of their daughter from cancer. I wrote this along the side of the page: These people are so single mindedly focused on dedicating their lives to seeing how God wants to work through them - they seem to be more happy about how God used that to increase the faith of those who were praying, then they were about their daughter being healed.
Being a Christian is no easy walk. But, if I were a baby Christian and did not have discernment - this book would be a thorny weed of impossible doom to choke out any hope.
Having said that, what I got from Experiencing God Bible Study, is we don't matter one iota to God except that we bring others to Christ through our works. If you go through spiritual boot camp in your life as a Christian, suffering, growing pains, lots of valleys, very few mountain tops, etc. it's because He is preparing you to do His work. That's all that matters. If you are disobedient, and don't do what he tells you to, he will use someone else to get the job done and then take everything away from you, never talk to you again, and basically throw you away.
If God heals you, or blesses you in any way - it's only because He wants you to do some kind of big God-sized work. If you don't, you are useless.
I'm not saying this is what the Bible says. I'm saying this is what I personally understood from this bible study.
Also, he is inconsistent in his teachings. Especially in explaining how we hear from God (via the Holy Spirit). Which is a whole other rant I won't get into.
See, I gave my life to the Lord in 1996. Near the beginning of the Millennium, I remember seeing on TBN, advertisements for a new approach for churches to grow. How they could follow a proven business plan, and it will make them rich. This is when the emergent church as we know it today, all started. Then, you have some new-age teachings that have crept into the church as well.
For anyone who has spent the bulk of their lives as a Christian the past 2 decades, has been taught a slant on the Bible that teaches what God can do for us - not what we can do for God.
The good news about this Bible study, is it offers a needed balance.
The bad news is, it goes way overboard.
The examples at the beginning of each chapter show how the "formula"(which he denies is a formula) he teaches, brings about a good work of God. And are mostly about planting churches. This is excellent. But, back up and read how it all started. Someone gets an idea or a feeling that God wants to do a work. But does he teach that is how we hear from God? Yes and no. It's not very clear because he contradicts himself.
In one part, they shared the miraculous healing of their daughter from cancer. I wrote this along the side of the page: These people are so single mindedly focused on dedicating their lives to seeing how God wants to work through them - they seem to be more happy about how God used that to increase the faith of those who were praying, then they were about their daughter being healed.
Being a Christian is no easy walk. But, if I were a baby Christian and did not have discernment - this book would be a thorny weed of impossible doom to choke out any hope.
February 20, 2018
I agree with Blackaby's general premises, that we need to do a better job of listening to God through prayer and reading. However, it seems like he draws some conclusions that don't always follow. While God does often give us areas of progressive responsibility, we are not always the best at determining which are the actual areas of greater responsibility. He seems to give the impression that only if we move into international business, large evangelism campaigns and full time paid ministry are we really following God. I don't read that in the Bible as being true. I don't think that shaming a pastor in front of his congregation by telling him that he's hiding God's work is appropriate. I disagree that taking a teaching position is "the world's way" instead of "God's way". I disagree that we can make the conclusion that facing challenges in life is evidence that we are out of step with God. It is likely that Blackaby has experienced God differently from the way I have and many others I have observed have. Not a terrible book, but I would read carefully if you're a more "regular Christian" instead of one raised in the church by pastors who became a pastor and whose children and grandchildren are pastors.
July 24, 2024
Overall trajectory is pretty good. Many examples he used were very subjective and unhelpful. He or his church “felt led” to do something several times but we are never told about the actual process of coming to that decision. Without further explanation, feelings are what seemed to be emphasized in this book despite the Bible being full of wisdom that we ought to use in our decision making. Additionally, he said that if it’s something you can do in your own power then it can’t be from God - I agree theologically that we can’t truly obey God without the Holy Spirit in us. However, the context seems to suggest we have to look for these “big” things to do in our life and we aren’t obeying God enough otherwise - where are the examples of the “ordinary” life of raising kids, leading a godly marriage, working diligently at a job, etc.? All of those are obeying God - he might not be calling you to start a new church or go overseas.
June 4, 2023
Loved this book. It was initially slow going, but felt the Lord speaking/convicting me at certain points. I have been quick to share the stories in this book to those around me. The coolest part was reading over a passage which shared that it’s possible for God to be active around you and you don’t recognize it, as in the story of 2 Kings 6:17 when Elisha’s servant’s eyes were opened to see the horses and chariots of fire around him. That morning, Kip had just shared that SAME story with me as we were talking about Old Testament passages and the differences in culture/lifestyle during that time period. All in all, loved the book and truths (albeit hard sometimes) that it shared.
September 3, 2007
This was a wonderful devotional--the best I've ever used. Henry Blackaby skillfully guides you through selected Scriptures and reflection questions to a deeper understanding of God, His word, and your faith in Him. I read this a long time ago--I actually want to get another copy of the workbook now, years later, and go through it all over again. Who can't use a little help with their spiritual walk?
February 20, 2022
Good study! We did this as a Sunday School class and did help me think through some things the Lord was speaking to me about. Also, it helped me to evaluate how deep or shallow my relationship with the Lord has been at times and how it is now.
October 26, 2023
This book has been my go to for the past year, and I finally finished it!!!! It has been so applicable through every season and brought me back to the basics of having a willing and surrendered heart to the Lord’s will.
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August 7, 2024I experienced stress every time I saw an illustration with a stick person.
May 25, 2017
"Most Bible studies help people. This one changes lives forever."
I'd have to agree. This workbook right here is one of the most life-changing experiences of my young adult life so far.
Myself and a small group from my Bible study decided to start this Bible study in November, 2016. We broke each unit up into two weeks. This study really opened my eyes to what the Lord desires from me. Not from my entire life as much as from day to day.
This book list seven things to go with the study beginning with how God is always at work around us, how He desires a love relationship with us that is real and personal, how important and crucial it is to the Christian walk to obey Him.
I didn't agree with everything in this book. The author spoke about making a covenant relationship with church members and also had one or two statements that I didn't quite agree with. However, the majority of it I did.
If you ever decide to read this amazing study, I strongly encourage that you do! However, it will have an impact on you. Henry and Richard Blackaby and Claude King don't really use nice little watered down words...they're straight to the point. Are you willing to surrender all to God? Absolutely? If the Lord called you home this very second, could you stand before Him and truly say, "I love You with all my heart?" How would you rate your walk with God? Oh, yes, these were all tough questions. But I encourage you...this study is so worth it. Coming away from it, I can honestly say that I feel like I have a deeper relationship with God and not only that, but I have gained a whole new perspective on Him as my Lord and Sovereign King. This study really helped me recognize His activity where He was working somewhere near me and, as it says so often in the pages, to join Him.
I'd have to agree. This workbook right here is one of the most life-changing experiences of my young adult life so far.
Myself and a small group from my Bible study decided to start this Bible study in November, 2016. We broke each unit up into two weeks. This study really opened my eyes to what the Lord desires from me. Not from my entire life as much as from day to day.
This book list seven things to go with the study beginning with how God is always at work around us, how He desires a love relationship with us that is real and personal, how important and crucial it is to the Christian walk to obey Him.
I didn't agree with everything in this book. The author spoke about making a covenant relationship with church members and also had one or two statements that I didn't quite agree with. However, the majority of it I did.
If you ever decide to read this amazing study, I strongly encourage that you do! However, it will have an impact on you. Henry and Richard Blackaby and Claude King don't really use nice little watered down words...they're straight to the point. Are you willing to surrender all to God? Absolutely? If the Lord called you home this very second, could you stand before Him and truly say, "I love You with all my heart?" How would you rate your walk with God? Oh, yes, these were all tough questions. But I encourage you...this study is so worth it. Coming away from it, I can honestly say that I feel like I have a deeper relationship with God and not only that, but I have gained a whole new perspective on Him as my Lord and Sovereign King. This study really helped me recognize His activity where He was working somewhere near me and, as it says so often in the pages, to join Him.
August 28, 2020
It is sad that the reformed fad (basically Calvinism, but they don't use that word because they don't want you to know what they really are) is infiltrating the Baptist Church. Blackaby, like most Calvinist, pick and choose scripture without looking at the whole Bible. His poor theology in trying to interpret John in this book is wrong. I can worship with Calvinist, talk theology with Calvinist and be friends with Calvinist, but there is a problem when Calvinist pretend they are something else. When asked if he were Calvinist Blackaby responded, "I'm a Biblicist."--which is the textbook response of a Calvinist who doesn't want people to know they are a Calvinist. I think Inigo Montoya said it best in the 1987 movie the Princess Bride, "I don't think that word means what you think it means." If you have to hide what you are....then there is a problem. I have many Presbyterian friends who say what they believe with pride. I don't doubt their salvation and they don't doubt mine, but we have some spirited debates about the love of God and who can be saved. If you are a Christian searching for more substantial theological discussion you should avoid like the plague these "reformed Baptist" who use deception to force a flawed theology into the Baptist Church. Talk to a Presbyterian, they are honest about who they are and, like me, you might learn a thing or two from them. As for these "reformed theologians" they are the false teachers Peter warned us about.
September 10, 2022
Would not recommend. Blackaby makes some good points about the necessity of a love relationship with God, trusting God with our futures, and the reality of God being involved In the details of our life. However, the whole teaching of the book is a system for hearing special, divine, and personalized guidance from the Lord.
The proof texts Blackaby uses for this are poorly dealt with and amount to a series of eisegetical arguments. To be sure, Blackaby uses a lot of Scripture, but his conclusions are not exegetically derived.
For a more detailed, yet gracious criticism see Greg Koukl’s review: https://www.str.org/w/henry-blackaby-...
See also Greg Gilbert’s review: https://www.9marks.org/review/experie...
See also Doug Beaumont: https://douglasbeaumont.com/2017/01/0...
See also Justin Peters: https://kootenaichurch.org/book-revie...
See also Dan Phillips: http://teampyro.blogspot.com/2009/04/...
The proof texts Blackaby uses for this are poorly dealt with and amount to a series of eisegetical arguments. To be sure, Blackaby uses a lot of Scripture, but his conclusions are not exegetically derived.
For a more detailed, yet gracious criticism see Greg Koukl’s review: https://www.str.org/w/henry-blackaby-...
See also Greg Gilbert’s review: https://www.9marks.org/review/experie...
See also Doug Beaumont: https://douglasbeaumont.com/2017/01/0...
See also Justin Peters: https://kootenaichurch.org/book-revie...
See also Dan Phillips: http://teampyro.blogspot.com/2009/04/...
April 20, 2024
I have no doubt that the Blackabys sincerely intend to bring Christians into a greater, God-glorifying faith with the teaching in this book, and it offers a lot of helpful insight that I know many believers have found positively challenging and encouraging. But the tone and content struck me as potentially problematic, littered with confusing references to God speaking (but what do you mean by this????? I asked often in the margins) and standards I do not think the Bible places on followers of Jesus. For example, if you "have trouble hearing God speak" I suggest it does NOT immediately signify that "you are in trouble at the heart of your Christian experience." The study often lacks nuance and grace that would help clarify some of the bold statements that threaten to give some readers a false fear that they do not, even cannot, be in God's will because they personally do not experience some subjective idea of "hearing God." I appreciate a Bible study that challenges and holds a high view of Scripture, but this study has too much troubling content for me to recommend it.
April 22, 2021
I refuse to believe God is the controlling, punishing maker that Blackaby promotes. Blackaby makes up "requirements" in order to have any relationship with God...ones that are not found in the Bible. Blackaby states if you don't hear God directing you, than your relationship with God is not happening and you will suffer His punishments as a result. He says not to boast, yet Blackaby boasts about all he's done and how people give to Blackaby all the time to do God's work. He said if we follow his guidance, we will have the close intimate relationship God requires and we will be honored by God. Sorry, but I could not make myself jeep reading or doing the brainwashing gonna Blackaby pushed throughout the workbook. Blackaby really doesn't know that God is all about love...not this Hitler agenda!
October 9, 2023
While there were some valuable points, I found the text to be almost prosperity gospel material, even though the author states otherwise. I struggled with the author claiming that an individual struggling in all aspects of his life was unrepentant sin. Didn’t Job’s friends falsely accuse him of this? Wasn’t some struggle to show God’s glory? When we are weak, he is strong. The author claims that if we believe, we will have victory. What is victory? Victory in Christ is not how this world views victory. I felt there were conflated views of self too. Scripture and prayer changes the life of the church or an individual, not necessarily this study. This study didn’t save dying churches. The Holy Spirit did. This might not have been the author’s intent to seem prideful, but that was what I perceived.
July 29, 2024
I read this when it first came out and then when one of my friends told me she was reading it once again, I decided to pick up the new edition. I forgot how good it is. I don’t like workbooks but this one is worth the time.
It’s a primer to how to walk with God. There are many ways in which you make personal what God what you are reading and learning. Each day ends with a favorite scripture from the day, a prayer, and identifying what God wants the individual to do in response. At some point in the study, they have you go back and write down the list of responses from the end of the days which was a profound exercise for me.
Definitely worth your time. It is 12 weeks but keep in mind that you can do it slowly picking it up when possible.
It’s a primer to how to walk with God. There are many ways in which you make personal what God what you are reading and learning. Each day ends with a favorite scripture from the day, a prayer, and identifying what God wants the individual to do in response. At some point in the study, they have you go back and write down the list of responses from the end of the days which was a profound exercise for me.
Definitely worth your time. It is 12 weeks but keep in mind that you can do it slowly picking it up when possible.
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