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48 Laws of Spiritual Power: Uncommon Wisdom for Greater Ministry Impact
A fascinating look at what will increase spiritual power in your life and ministry. In 48 Laws of Spiritual Power, best-selling author Frank Viola lays out the unchanging principles of tapping into God’s power and releasing it to serve others. These laws are based on over thirty years of ministry experience—trench-tested in Frank’s life and the lives of others who have spent decades in ministry. Though these laws may seem counterintuitive and uncommon, they will equip you to look for God’s power in your ministry. In short, digestible chapters packed with secrets of effective and impactful ministry, 48 Laws of Spiritual Power will equip you with what you need for your ministry to thrive. With straight-to-the-point insights, the book provides a unique perspective on God’s work and practical tools for overcoming the inevitable hardships that are part of any ministry.
48 Laws of Spiritual Power
Help you access God’s power in your personal life and release it in the lives of othersIntroduce you to uncommon wisdom that is rarely talked about in seminary or Bible collegeGive you a fresh look at how to transform your ministry with the power God is ready to grant you
The key to effective ministry is God’s power.
48 Laws of Spiritual Power
Help you access God’s power in your personal life and release it in the lives of othersIntroduce you to uncommon wisdom that is rarely talked about in seminary or Bible collegeGive you a fresh look at how to transform your ministry with the power God is ready to grant you
The key to effective ministry is God’s power.
251 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 18, 2022
138 people are currently reading
94 people want to read
About the author
Frank Viola
65 books204 followersFrank is a bestselling author and in-demand conference speaker. You can find his books, podcasts, articles, messages, and courses at http://frankviola.org.
Viola doesn't interact on GoodReads. If you want to contact him, you can write him directly with a question or comment at frank@frankviola.com.
Viola doesn't interact on GoodReads. If you want to contact him, you can write him directly with a question or comment at frank@frankviola.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
May 12, 2022
Definitely for people who have faith in their faith and ready to absorb some good advice.
An easy to read and follow book for those who needs some encouraging words and need to make some good changes in their lives.
I definitely love the cover and how the entire book has presented the core parts providing answers and explanations for each reference used.
Bullet wise presentation of crisp points; clear definite division of chapters and topics; short chapters and easy references a good read I would say.
Thank you, Tindale House Publishers, for the advance review copy.
An easy to read and follow book for those who needs some encouraging words and need to make some good changes in their lives.
I definitely love the cover and how the entire book has presented the core parts providing answers and explanations for each reference used.
Bullet wise presentation of crisp points; clear definite division of chapters and topics; short chapters and easy references a good read I would say.
Thank you, Tindale House Publishers, for the advance review copy.
September 17, 2025
This might be of my favorite books on Christian life and leadership. Did not know what to expect and was suspicious that the book might get weird, based on the title. Instead, it's packed with wisdom. From refusing offense, to detesting celebrity culture, to avoiding isolation and so on. These principles are like rocks which when combined together create a strong foundation. I love the format of short, easily digestible, very challenging/thought-provoking chapters. I highly recommend and will read again in the next 12 months.
November 13, 2022
What A Book! Magnificent
In Frank Viola's prelude, he states that he wrote this book for two groups of people.
1) Those who regularly preach or teach God’s Word. This includes pastors, teachers, missionaries, and church planters, both inside and outside the institutional church.
2) All of God’s people. Why? Because every true disciple of Jesus is called to be a servant.
He further quoted Acts 27: 23, KJV "Every one of us who knows the Lord can have the glorious privilege of saying of Christ, “He is the One ‘whose I am, and whom I serve”.
I love this scripture and the fact that throughout this book the author provides many more.
The author states that his goal in writing this book is to encourage, inspire, and equip the readers for greater impact in God’s kingdom, and he has two final words.
1. First, some laws may appear to contradict others, but this is a mark of their truthfulness. Biblical truth is often paradoxical. Jesus is fully God but also fully human . The Bible exhorts us to judge, yet it also tells us to judge not. [6] And consider these two proverbs that sit right next to each other: Do not answer a fool according to his folly, or you yourself will be just like him. Answer a fool according to his folly, or he will be wise in his own eyes. PROVERBS 26: 4-5 The laws of spiritual power often follow this paradoxical pattern. In some contexts, a law will apply one way, but in another context, it applies an opposite way. You’ll see what I mean as you read. The point: Aristotelian logic always breaks down in the light of God’s eternal truth.
2. Second, I encourage you to supplement this work with two other resources. One is my landmark book, Insurgence:
• Reclaiming the Gospel of the Kingdom.
• The other is Hang On, Let Go: What to Do When Your Dreams Are Shattered and Life Is Falling Apart.
He states that iIf you understand the gospel of the kingdom and embrace it, as he explain in Insurgence, you will find it easier to implement the 48 laws he discusses in this book.
This is a wonderful book with the 48 laws being very meaningful and practically for applying in our everyday life as we draw closer to God. Highly recommend to both, leaders of churches, as well as to worshippers.
This book is much appreciated, thank you Frank Viola.
In Frank Viola's prelude, he states that he wrote this book for two groups of people.
1) Those who regularly preach or teach God’s Word. This includes pastors, teachers, missionaries, and church planters, both inside and outside the institutional church.
2) All of God’s people. Why? Because every true disciple of Jesus is called to be a servant.
He further quoted Acts 27: 23, KJV "Every one of us who knows the Lord can have the glorious privilege of saying of Christ, “He is the One ‘whose I am, and whom I serve”.
I love this scripture and the fact that throughout this book the author provides many more.
The author states that his goal in writing this book is to encourage, inspire, and equip the readers for greater impact in God’s kingdom, and he has two final words.
1. First, some laws may appear to contradict others, but this is a mark of their truthfulness. Biblical truth is often paradoxical. Jesus is fully God but also fully human . The Bible exhorts us to judge, yet it also tells us to judge not. [6] And consider these two proverbs that sit right next to each other: Do not answer a fool according to his folly, or you yourself will be just like him. Answer a fool according to his folly, or he will be wise in his own eyes. PROVERBS 26: 4-5 The laws of spiritual power often follow this paradoxical pattern. In some contexts, a law will apply one way, but in another context, it applies an opposite way. You’ll see what I mean as you read. The point: Aristotelian logic always breaks down in the light of God’s eternal truth.
2. Second, I encourage you to supplement this work with two other resources. One is my landmark book, Insurgence:
• Reclaiming the Gospel of the Kingdom.
• The other is Hang On, Let Go: What to Do When Your Dreams Are Shattered and Life Is Falling Apart.
He states that iIf you understand the gospel of the kingdom and embrace it, as he explain in Insurgence, you will find it easier to implement the 48 laws he discusses in this book.
This is a wonderful book with the 48 laws being very meaningful and practically for applying in our everyday life as we draw closer to God. Highly recommend to both, leaders of churches, as well as to worshippers.
This book is much appreciated, thank you Frank Viola.
October 29, 2022
I have read dozens of books on pastoral leadership, church growth, and transforming congregational culture. Frank Viola’s _48 Laws of Spiritual Power_ is unlike any of those books. Most other books on leadership, even Christian leadership, do not focus on the important principles that Frank explores in this book. Even though many of the 48 laws are what I would consider “common sense,” Frank frames them in ways that give new insights, and he brings them to life in helpful, practical ways.
It is significant, for example, that Frank begins with “Never Hurt God’s People” as the first law. How could anyone disagree with that? But as Frank unpacks that law, he shows that many of us Christian leaders fail to follow this key principle by focusing on our own “success” in terms of “ministries” and “programs” and defending ourselves instead of focusing on the people whom God has called us to serve. Frank sets the tone for the whole book with this simple, important law which is key to allowing God’s power to flow through us as leaders.
Frank also embraces the truth that paradox is part of our life in Christ. There are no simple answers that hold in every case and circumstance. Allowing the Holy Spirit to work in one’s life means accepting that there are things about the Christian life that may seem contradictory. For example, Frank affirms Law 13: Be A Reservoir, Not a Canal and Law 34: Be a Channel, Not a Pond. This sounds like a contraction but upholds the paradox that we need to take time and make space to be filled with God’s love and power (be a reservoir), and we need to let that love and power flow through us to others (be a channel).
There are many books that teach leadership techniques, strategies for managing change, or ways to resolve conflict. But there are not many books like _48 Laws of Spiritual Power_ which invites us to follow the principles that will help us to open ourselves to the transforming power of the Holy Spirit. Only that power will make people into humble, faithful, servant-leaders who help other followers of Jesus deepen their faith.
Thank you, Frank Viola.
It is significant, for example, that Frank begins with “Never Hurt God’s People” as the first law. How could anyone disagree with that? But as Frank unpacks that law, he shows that many of us Christian leaders fail to follow this key principle by focusing on our own “success” in terms of “ministries” and “programs” and defending ourselves instead of focusing on the people whom God has called us to serve. Frank sets the tone for the whole book with this simple, important law which is key to allowing God’s power to flow through us as leaders.
Frank also embraces the truth that paradox is part of our life in Christ. There are no simple answers that hold in every case and circumstance. Allowing the Holy Spirit to work in one’s life means accepting that there are things about the Christian life that may seem contradictory. For example, Frank affirms Law 13: Be A Reservoir, Not a Canal and Law 34: Be a Channel, Not a Pond. This sounds like a contraction but upholds the paradox that we need to take time and make space to be filled with God’s love and power (be a reservoir), and we need to let that love and power flow through us to others (be a channel).
There are many books that teach leadership techniques, strategies for managing change, or ways to resolve conflict. But there are not many books like _48 Laws of Spiritual Power_ which invites us to follow the principles that will help us to open ourselves to the transforming power of the Holy Spirit. Only that power will make people into humble, faithful, servant-leaders who help other followers of Jesus deepen their faith.
Thank you, Frank Viola.
October 26, 2022
Buy this book for your pastor / elder / minister / priest. If you ARE a church leader (as I am), get it in your hands as fast as you can.
Frank Viola's newest tome, The 48 Laws of Spiritual Power, is the antidote to ministries that are toxic to the people in the pews and / or to the pastor. I come from a Protestant background where 20-somethings with talent are thrust into ministry and expected to bring results—the results being numbers of people and wowee-zowee entertaining worship services. Viola explodes these unhealthy church leadership models and paints a picture of what Jesus-empowered ministry can and should be.
Viola digs deep here and lays out a series of 48 theses that feel fresh, yet are consistent with the teachings of the ancient Fathers. Just read the table of contents and you'll see that a spiritual feast awaits. I've highlighted my copy extensively.
As usual, Viola writes in clear, succinct chapters abounding with memorable aphorisms and actionable advice. Perhaps the core idea is that the key to effective ministry is personal transformation. People follow who you are and what you do, not so much what you say. Therefore, the minister must be someone who has been broken at the cross of Jesus. Yet Viola also shows how the minister must nurture his own soul, body, and mind before leading others. And the pastor must learn to rest and leave results in God's hands. I found the book encouraging, challenging, and yet comforting. I will read it again and pass copies along to my ministry colleagues.
A final note. The title of this book is a riff on Robert Greene's 48 Laws of Power. Really the only thing tying them together is the number 48; Viola's book is not in the same format as Greene's and none of his 48 Laws are intended to correspond to or answer Greene's list.
Frank Viola's newest tome, The 48 Laws of Spiritual Power, is the antidote to ministries that are toxic to the people in the pews and / or to the pastor. I come from a Protestant background where 20-somethings with talent are thrust into ministry and expected to bring results—the results being numbers of people and wowee-zowee entertaining worship services. Viola explodes these unhealthy church leadership models and paints a picture of what Jesus-empowered ministry can and should be.
Viola digs deep here and lays out a series of 48 theses that feel fresh, yet are consistent with the teachings of the ancient Fathers. Just read the table of contents and you'll see that a spiritual feast awaits. I've highlighted my copy extensively.
As usual, Viola writes in clear, succinct chapters abounding with memorable aphorisms and actionable advice. Perhaps the core idea is that the key to effective ministry is personal transformation. People follow who you are and what you do, not so much what you say. Therefore, the minister must be someone who has been broken at the cross of Jesus. Yet Viola also shows how the minister must nurture his own soul, body, and mind before leading others. And the pastor must learn to rest and leave results in God's hands. I found the book encouraging, challenging, and yet comforting. I will read it again and pass copies along to my ministry colleagues.
A final note. The title of this book is a riff on Robert Greene's 48 Laws of Power. Really the only thing tying them together is the number 48; Viola's book is not in the same format as Greene's and none of his 48 Laws are intended to correspond to or answer Greene's list.
October 17, 2022
Frank Viola has produced another masterpiece. In 48 Laws of Spiritual Power, he has removed the veil that allows pastors, preachers, teachers, and most importantly, everyone who desires to be used the Lord for his service, to see would hold back power in their ministry. Through what he calls “laws”, he effectively shows the way to increase spiritual power along with those things that hinder spiritual power in a ministry. Each law is based upon the scripture and from practical experience. Each of these laws were seen in the life and ministry of Jesus, Peter, John, and Paul. If you are thinking about entering ministry, read this book first. The practical advice Viola gives is far greater the price of the book. He will give you much to think about and to pray over. If you are already in ministry, you will see situations that you have come through, are in the midst of, or will be going through. You will find advice that will help you now. If you are at the end of your ministry, there is applications for you as well. It will be worth your time and effort to read through it. As Frank has said at other times, this book is best when you use the drip-drip effect. Read it through once to get the overall theme of the book. Then go back through it a second time, spending more time meditating on each “law”. There is much that can be gleaned out of each chapter by spending time with it in prayer and looking at how it applies to your own life and ministry. Then read it a third time for even more insights that you missed the first two times. This book is definitely a must read.
November 10, 2022
As someone who is generally averse to "laws" in a title (it is a personal issue), it was a pleasant surprise to see how these laws play out. One of the most difficult things for an author to do is stay grounded in the internal spiritual realities while providing something practical that impacts the external world.
Frank Viola walks that tightrope beautifully here. The 48 laws cover a lot of ground that emphasizes the centrality of the life of Christ within us, while offering how that can be fleshed out into everyday experience. There is no soft-peddling the struggles or trials in life and how we truly are in a battle that requires the power of one greater than us in order to fight the good fight well. Whether dealing with attitudes, beliefs, or practices, the mindset offered always involves the reality of a Christ who works within us and there are practical measures that can be used in life and ministry.
I've always enjoyed Frank's ability to take apparent contradictions and provide context and that skill is apparent here also. A great example is Law 34: Be a Channel, Not a Pond. He begins the chapter by stating "this law may appear to contradict Law 13, but it does not. Law 13 (Be a Reservoir, Not a Canal) has to do with the timing of service. This law (Be a Channel, Not a Pond) has to do with the nature of service."
This is a great book that can be digested in long sections or just a quick read of individual chapters. I believe it will be something I reference frequently. It introduces "laws" without being legalistic and is also highly encouraging. 5 stars.
Frank Viola walks that tightrope beautifully here. The 48 laws cover a lot of ground that emphasizes the centrality of the life of Christ within us, while offering how that can be fleshed out into everyday experience. There is no soft-peddling the struggles or trials in life and how we truly are in a battle that requires the power of one greater than us in order to fight the good fight well. Whether dealing with attitudes, beliefs, or practices, the mindset offered always involves the reality of a Christ who works within us and there are practical measures that can be used in life and ministry.
I've always enjoyed Frank's ability to take apparent contradictions and provide context and that skill is apparent here also. A great example is Law 34: Be a Channel, Not a Pond. He begins the chapter by stating "this law may appear to contradict Law 13, but it does not. Law 13 (Be a Reservoir, Not a Canal) has to do with the timing of service. This law (Be a Channel, Not a Pond) has to do with the nature of service."
This is a great book that can be digested in long sections or just a quick read of individual chapters. I believe it will be something I reference frequently. It introduces "laws" without being legalistic and is also highly encouraging. 5 stars.
May 25, 2022
This book was targeted primarily to "those who regularly preach or teach God’s Word" … which the author immediately expands to include all the faithful “because every true disciple of Jesus is called to be a servant - a minister - in some capacity.”
Thus all of these “Laws,” or Rules, are designed to super charge your ministry by ultimately strengthening your relationship with the God and allow Him to do the heavy lifting … basically it repeats what virtually every spiritual self help books says … you can do nothing on your own.
Each Law is introduced with a clear title that summarizes the concept, then specific examples of the issues along with practical steps to identify the issues in your own ministry and/or how to correct them when you find them. Most of these are fairly common and even intuitive … but many are still difficult to put into practice. That is where this book shines … and while I don’t necessarily agree with everything here; I have no doubt that these Laws can provide an effective foundation for my own ministry.
I was given this free advance review copy (ARC) ebook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
#48LawsofSpiritualPower #NetGalley
Thus all of these “Laws,” or Rules, are designed to super charge your ministry by ultimately strengthening your relationship with the God and allow Him to do the heavy lifting … basically it repeats what virtually every spiritual self help books says … you can do nothing on your own.
Each Law is introduced with a clear title that summarizes the concept, then specific examples of the issues along with practical steps to identify the issues in your own ministry and/or how to correct them when you find them. Most of these are fairly common and even intuitive … but many are still difficult to put into practice. That is where this book shines … and while I don’t necessarily agree with everything here; I have no doubt that these Laws can provide an effective foundation for my own ministry.
I was given this free advance review copy (ARC) ebook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
#48LawsofSpiritualPower #NetGalley
October 21, 2022
I have read all of Frank's books, and this one does not disappoint. Written in Frank's style -- short, consumable nuggets of truth that hit right to the heart, with humor along the way -- this book is sure to give every believer something to chew on and think about. The 48 Laws of Spiritual Power is like a guidebook on how to operate within the power that the Spirit has granted you, and warnings for typical ways that we humans step outside that divine power and operate in our flesh.
As an example, one chapter is about people pleasing. Frank states, "People pleasing usually stems from a deficient sense of self-worth. Men and women seek to please others because they want to be accepted and loved... The antidote for the disease of people pleasing is to have your own Gethsemane with fear - the fear of man. If you fear God, you don't have to fear anything else." He encourages the believer to decide to switch your allegiance from pleasing others to pleasing God and then goes on to give practical steps on how to accomplish the task.
Such great insights for ministry leaders and believers learning to function within the body of Christ. I highly recommend keeping a copy in your library.
As an example, one chapter is about people pleasing. Frank states, "People pleasing usually stems from a deficient sense of self-worth. Men and women seek to please others because they want to be accepted and loved... The antidote for the disease of people pleasing is to have your own Gethsemane with fear - the fear of man. If you fear God, you don't have to fear anything else." He encourages the believer to decide to switch your allegiance from pleasing others to pleasing God and then goes on to give practical steps on how to accomplish the task.
Such great insights for ministry leaders and believers learning to function within the body of Christ. I highly recommend keeping a copy in your library.
October 16, 2022
I highly recommend this work and would even go as far as to say it's essential reading for any follower of Jesus; especially if you have the privilege of leading others in any capacity.
So, why spend your time reading this particular book?
1) it's straight to the point, no messing about. I feel that Frank "packs a punch" in distilling uncommon wisdom in a succinct yet weighty writing style. At the same time, the endnotes are fantastic and you can explore any idea mentioned in the book in more depth.
2) most of the lessons laid out are as rare ocean front property in Arizona. I've been a Christian nearly 25 years, have read very widely, and you'd be hard pressed to find a book of this quality on Thurs particular subject.
3) if you are someone who knows there's more to the Christian life and ministry than fads, gimmicks, or business methods, this book will give you a great place to begin to unpack what "more" actually is and what it looks like
4) you need this book. I've lost count of how many non Christians reject our Lord over our bad behavior. Why not take the narrow road and be the exception? If you relate, this book is a first step and it's for you.
So, why spend your time reading this particular book?
1) it's straight to the point, no messing about. I feel that Frank "packs a punch" in distilling uncommon wisdom in a succinct yet weighty writing style. At the same time, the endnotes are fantastic and you can explore any idea mentioned in the book in more depth.
2) most of the lessons laid out are as rare ocean front property in Arizona. I've been a Christian nearly 25 years, have read very widely, and you'd be hard pressed to find a book of this quality on Thurs particular subject.
3) if you are someone who knows there's more to the Christian life and ministry than fads, gimmicks, or business methods, this book will give you a great place to begin to unpack what "more" actually is and what it looks like
4) you need this book. I've lost count of how many non Christians reject our Lord over our bad behavior. Why not take the narrow road and be the exception? If you relate, this book is a first step and it's for you.
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October 25, 2022I have been a disciple of Jesus since I was 10 years old and served as a pastor for over 25 years and I would have loved to have these "48 Laws of Spiritual Power!"
I love how Frank Viola has presented each one of these laws in context of life and has shown how they are broken and how they can be put into practice.
You would think that these are common knowledge in the church, but the struggle is that they are not common practice in ministry leadership.
Whether you have been a follower of Christ and leading in ministry or just starting, these laws will guide you and empower you to be effective in developing a heart to build life-transforming relationships that will unleash God's power.
"A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are disciples, if you love one another." John 13:34-35
This book is a must read, but more importantly, the "48 Laws of Spiritual Power" are VITAL to put into practice.
You don't know what you don't know!
Now you CAN know!!!
I love how Frank Viola has presented each one of these laws in context of life and has shown how they are broken and how they can be put into practice.
You would think that these are common knowledge in the church, but the struggle is that they are not common practice in ministry leadership.
Whether you have been a follower of Christ and leading in ministry or just starting, these laws will guide you and empower you to be effective in developing a heart to build life-transforming relationships that will unleash God's power.
"A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are disciples, if you love one another." John 13:34-35
This book is a must read, but more importantly, the "48 Laws of Spiritual Power" are VITAL to put into practice.
You don't know what you don't know!
Now you CAN know!!!
October 18, 2022
Frank Viola has done it again! I have been impacted and transformed by many of his other book such as Insurgence and From Eternity to Here, but this one has so many practical handles for ministry and life. I believe this book is geared towards those in a ministry profession but each of the laws are applicable for all believers (after all we all are a royal priesthood!). The application of this book and its godly wisdom will take anyone and their ministry to the next level.
The most impactful chapter for me was law 19 on developing an instinct for the cross. I really think it frames what should be the heart of ministry; dying to self and being willing to lose in order to win. The fact that we can waste our transformation by resisting the way of the cross was a powerful image.
This is an incredible book. Thank you Frank. The wisdom and unveiling of Christ's upside down way of spiritual power is a gift to the church.
The most impactful chapter for me was law 19 on developing an instinct for the cross. I really think it frames what should be the heart of ministry; dying to self and being willing to lose in order to win. The fact that we can waste our transformation by resisting the way of the cross was a powerful image.
This is an incredible book. Thank you Frank. The wisdom and unveiling of Christ's upside down way of spiritual power is a gift to the church.
October 19, 2022
As a pastor of a local congregation, I found this book to be one of the most helpful tools for growth and renewal.
When In Ministry you are constantly seeking help to grow yourself while leading those you’ve been called to lead; this book is one of those resources. Well researched and a heart for the truth of the Gospel message leaves this as a book I will refer to over and over.
Frank Viola dives deep into many questions that I have found myself asking over the years and answers them with wise, biblical counsel and encouragement. A must read for anyone who is seeking to grow, not only as a pastor, leader, or teacher of the church, but spiritually in their walk with Christ.
If you are doing work for the Kingdom, this book will help guide you through some of the toughest questions (even those you may not know you have at the moment).
When In Ministry you are constantly seeking help to grow yourself while leading those you’ve been called to lead; this book is one of those resources. Well researched and a heart for the truth of the Gospel message leaves this as a book I will refer to over and over.
Frank Viola dives deep into many questions that I have found myself asking over the years and answers them with wise, biblical counsel and encouragement. A must read for anyone who is seeking to grow, not only as a pastor, leader, or teacher of the church, but spiritually in their walk with Christ.
If you are doing work for the Kingdom, this book will help guide you through some of the toughest questions (even those you may not know you have at the moment).
October 22, 2022
This is a fantastic book!
Alternate titles might include:
-“What Every Disciple Needs To Know”
-“What Every Ministry Leader Needs to Know if They Didn’t Know Already”
-“What Every Seminary Needs to Teach!”
-“48 Things I Wish I Knew When I Started Serving the Lord”
Frank takes his 30+ years of ministerial and personal experiences and squeezes the essence of it into these pages of pure godly wisdom, and he peppers it with humor.
I liken this book to having a sort of spiritual father that I can learn from, giving powerful tidbits one after another throughout this book.
If you love your pastor/celebrity status, don’t buy this book. If you aren’t walking in humility and refuse to learn from others, don’t buy this book, it’s not for you.
If you’re seeking practical, godly wisdom you should buy this book.
Alternate titles might include:
-“What Every Disciple Needs To Know”
-“What Every Ministry Leader Needs to Know if They Didn’t Know Already”
-“What Every Seminary Needs to Teach!”
-“48 Things I Wish I Knew When I Started Serving the Lord”
Frank takes his 30+ years of ministerial and personal experiences and squeezes the essence of it into these pages of pure godly wisdom, and he peppers it with humor.
I liken this book to having a sort of spiritual father that I can learn from, giving powerful tidbits one after another throughout this book.
If you love your pastor/celebrity status, don’t buy this book. If you aren’t walking in humility and refuse to learn from others, don’t buy this book, it’s not for you.
If you’re seeking practical, godly wisdom you should buy this book.
October 28, 2022
The amazing thing about this book is that it reads like sitting down over a cup of coffee with a mature spiritual mentor about each topic. Each chapter being short and to the point avoids wordy build up and speaks to the important issues right away. The chapter on “Beware of an empty house” might well have saved and reframed the spiritual walk of my household. I read this chapter to my wife and not only did it give insight but because the writing is so practical we pulled a plan of action to move forward right from the chapter. This book might well have been called 48 conversations with the Holy Spirit, because each insight is biblically based and spiritually life giving. Your specific spiritual background or heritage makes no difference to the impact this book will have on your life and ministry. Read it, absorb it and apply it to your life. You will be ever grateful.
July 2, 2025
This book draws its title from the well-known "48 Laws of Power," but its connection is very loose, at best. The author advertises the book on podcasts as a direct counter to the aforementioned text, which has a more heavenly focus compared to its counterpart, but the book itself doesn't really position itself that way in my opinion... I think, as a standalone book, it is fine at describing forty-eight *rules for success in ministry,* but not forty-eight laws of spiritual power.
Don't get me wrong, there's some good content in there, but the naming of the book itself is misleading, as there is no real connection between this and Robert Greene's book. The forty-eight laws described in this text basically boil down to go rules to abide by in the world of ministry.
Don't get me wrong, there's some good content in there, but the naming of the book itself is misleading, as there is no real connection between this and Robert Greene's book. The forty-eight laws described in this text basically boil down to go rules to abide by in the world of ministry.
October 27, 2022
How did Frank Viola know what I had been and was experiencing in my current journey? As I read the 48 Laws of Spiritual Power, God’s wisdom and Spirit poured out and both encouraged me and admonished me by His grace at the same time. The timely wisdom in this book touches things and areas I had not heard in my religion and leadership classes in college. Much of it I had heard only in passing from a few men who intimately knew the Lord. The 48 Laws in this book resonated with what God has taught me and is teaching me. I encourage anyone who is in a place of leadership or feels the Lord leading them into leadership to read this!
October 16, 2022
The title says it all. These are 48 simple but powerful lessons that, when applied, will change your Christian journey. It is helpful to anyone in a leadership role. As a fiscal and spiritual leader, I find Viola's succinct and poignant words of wisdom inspiring and affirming. This book will raise the level of skill and spiritual power for anyone who reads thoughtfully and literally applies the laws. If you're looking for a gift for a new leader, this one is well worth it. It is what a wiser, more seasoned senior leaders would say when mentoring over a cup of coffee.
October 17, 2022
The essence of this book is keep your eyes on Jesus and desire Him only. As you grow in your love for Him don't be sidetracked by disappointment and hurt. The love and eternal purpose of God is where we need to focus our life not on the pettiness of the world or even sadly other believers. This is a simple to read book filled with practical wisdom and guidance to keep always deepening our relationship with Jesus with the cry of our heart to know Him, live in Him, and let Him flow through our lives unhindered by the things that so easily entangle us.
October 18, 2022
The writer of Proverbs says it all: “A man has joy in giving an appropriate answer, and how good and delightful is a word spoken at the right moment—how good it is!” - Proverbs 15:23 AMP
I picked this book up and can’t put it down!
The 48 Laws of Spiritual Power brought life, peace, and clarity to me in this season of my life.
Frank gives powerful and wise insight into areas that are not commonly talked about.
This book is ESSENTIAL to someone who seeks to know Jesus and make a Kingdom impact, especially those who preach and teach.
I picked this book up and can’t put it down!
The 48 Laws of Spiritual Power brought life, peace, and clarity to me in this season of my life.
Frank gives powerful and wise insight into areas that are not commonly talked about.
This book is ESSENTIAL to someone who seeks to know Jesus and make a Kingdom impact, especially those who preach and teach.
November 27, 2022
48 Laws of Spiritual Power: Uncommon Wisdom for Greater Ministry Impact by Frank Viola is a must read for any Christian – especially those who are considering going into leadership of any kind…or who are coming to the realization that, as Christians, we already ARE in leadership.
I've enjoyed this book because it is written by a man who has paid the cost of this life and wants to share what he's learned so others won't make the same mistakes. By the same token, he offers a multitude of ideas which equip us to experience the spiritual power Jesus intends for all believers.
I've enjoyed this book because it is written by a man who has paid the cost of this life and wants to share what he's learned so others won't make the same mistakes. By the same token, he offers a multitude of ideas which equip us to experience the spiritual power Jesus intends for all believers.
October 19, 2022
This book is a valuable resource for any Christian who desires to effectively minister to others. It reveals a unique and important perspective on God’s power as it relates to life and ministry. The author has written out of many years of personal experience, and therefore it is full of many powerful practical and Biblical truths. I also loved the short chapters, which made it easy to read and absorb the concepts in bite-sized pieces. This book is well worth the investment of time to read!
October 19, 2022
This book is chocked full of amazing "spiritual nuggets" that I wish i would have known when i started in ministry...Many of my peers in ministry have been quietly asking the kinds of questions and dealing with the kinds of challenges that Viola offers incredible deoth of insight around....very practical and simple for any leader to incorporate these into their life and ministry...highly reccomend!
January 29, 2023
This book is a must-read for any Christian leader. It takes a balanced approach to following Jesus in a church setting. It offers conviction and encouragement, never afraid to say things like they are. I am not a fan of beating around the bush, and Frank Viola does a great job practical, in-your-face insight into living holy, building strong relationships, acting humbly, and walking in God’s power.
July 4, 2023
Been reading this one for a while - but really glad I took my time through it! Frank Viola is pretty direct which can be harsh at times, but with the content in this book it feels like he has the right to be.
If you’re a leader in your church or plan on going into ministry, there’s lots of valuable wisdom from Scripture and from experience to tuck into your back pocket when you need it. I’ll be re-reading this in the future!
If you’re a leader in your church or plan on going into ministry, there’s lots of valuable wisdom from Scripture and from experience to tuck into your back pocket when you need it. I’ll be re-reading this in the future!
October 3, 2022
This book is simply amazing! Such a fresh view on ministry, so powerfully written. It's got great humor in it too. As a person who takes ministry seriously, I couldn't put it down. Many "aha" moments and some laughing. I cannot recommend this book enough to pastors, leaders, teachers, anyone who does any kind of ministry. The book is brilliant. I'll be reading it again.
October 26, 2022
I just finished reading Frank Viola's newest book 48 Laws of Spiritual Power. I found this book to be chuck full of wisdom w/o the use of guilt or shame. It is full of wisdom that the author gained through the school of hard knocks. Each chapter is short and concise and full of quotes I will be coming back to in the future for sure. My intent is to purchase a dozen of these books so that I can use them in a small-group format. Even though each chapter is short the references and notes that he quotes in them will generate life-changing discussions.
October 24, 2022
Frank Viola hits another home-run! Written in short chapters, 48 Laws for Spiritual Power, is designed perfectly for self-reflection and meditation. This book is a must-read for anyone in ministry, or anyone in the Body of Christ, really. If believers get a hold of the spiritual truths contained in this book, the Body of Christ will be revolutionized.
October 24, 2022
If I had to recommend just one book, other than the Bible, for those hungry for practical wisdom on their spiritual journey or desire to be more effective serving others, this would be it. Each chapter provides impactful yet digestible nuggets of truth with endnotes for further exploration.
You will find yourself turning to it again and again!
You will find yourself turning to it again and again!
May 26, 2023
Excellent! Profoundly practical and essential advice for those seeking a deeper walk than they are experiencing form praise team performances and topical preaching. Straight talk from a true veteran and practitioner of walking in the Spirit and sharing in a church that is led by Jesus and expresses “body-life”
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