Dying to Live: The Power of Forgiveness

by Harold L. Senkbeil

In our age of religious consumerism, confused theology, and shallow piety, many Christians are searching for something more. The vital, Christ-centered spiritual life cultivated by the Reformation is often overlooked (even in Reformation churches). In this book, Pastor Senkbeil recovers the rich heritage of Reformation spirituality. In the process, he takes the reader on a gripping journey into the depths of the Christian life.

Genres: Theology, Christian

184 pages, Paperback

First published March 18, 1994

About the author

Rev. Dr. Harold L. Senkbeil (b. 1945) served as a parish pastor in the LCMS for 32 years, most recently at Elm Grove Evangelical Lutheran Church, Elm Grove, Wisconsin (1987-2002), and as Associate Professor of Pastoral Ministry and Missions at Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, Indiana. In 2001 he was recognized by Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, Missouri, in the bestowing of the degree of Doctor of Divinity, honoris causa. Dr. Senkbeil is a 1988 recipient of the Servus Ecclesiae Christi Award. Since July 2008, he has served as both Adjunct Professor at Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, as well as Executive Director with DOXOLOGY: The Lutheran Center for Spiritual Care and Counsel.

Reviews

[Ben Copeland · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book wasn't quite what I expected based on the title, but it turned out to be a good introduction to Lutheran spirituality. The premise is that the Christian life is first incarnational, then sacramental, and finally liturgical. I like the flow of the book, and the way Senkbeil shows that the grace of God in His incarnate Son is applied sacramentally, which sanctifies life liturgically. It is not heavy reading by any means, but is a great introduction to liturgical spirituality, a topic which needs some good introductory material.

[Christopher R Townsend · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christ centered, well worth reading

Christ centered theology
Love God and neighbor as self
So thankful for Christ

A very helpful book that is invigorating to one's faith. Pure gold. Coming from a Reformed Presbyterian background, I found this very helpful for understanding the spiritually of a more liturgical tradition.

[Kristin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book of Christian formation through Word and Sacraments is founded in forgiveness through Jesus Christ. It is not a book about Christians forgiving each other. I was challenged and read about one chapter a day so as to not skim the theology presented.

[Dan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent book about Lutheran spirituality. I don’t really get the subtitle, the publisher probably picked it. This books all about giving you tools to have in your spiritual tool belt.

[Debbi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I would put this book up there with Schmemann's For the Life of the World as having a profound effect on my life. This is not a book about forgiving others (although that element is there), but rather a book on the the Incarnation and Forgiveness from God.

[Luke · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a great read, very well written, and highly thought provoking. Great for Bible studies, pastors, and members alike!

[John · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best books on living the Christian life I have read. Every Baptized believer in Christ would do well to read this book.

[Luke · Rating 5 out of 5]

Helpful, concise guide to Christian faith. Puts some things together in a nice way and says old truths in a fresh, creative way.