Common Sense Christian Living

by Edith Schaeffer

Believing that the wisdom and common sense set forth in Scripture can be applied to the most troubling issues of daily life, Edith Schaeffer supplies straight answers to life's perplexing questions.

Genres: Nonfiction, Christian Living, Christian, Christianity, Faith, Theology, Family

248 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 1983

About the author

EDITH SCHAEFFER is the widow of Francis Schaeffer, and with him co-founder of L'Abri Fellowship. Her many books include A Celebration of Children and The Life of Prayer. She passed away in 2013.

Recognized internationally for his work in Christianity and culture, Francis A. Schaeffer authored more than twenty books, which have been translated into a score of languages and sold millions worldwide. He and his wife, Edith, founded L'Abri Fellowship international study and discipleship centers. Schaeffer passed away in 1984, but his influence and legacy continue worldwide.

children: Susan Schaeffer Macaulay

Reviews

[Heather · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ever since studying under Francis Schaeffer through his video series "How Should We Then Live?" I've wanted to pursue his words and learn more about L'Abri. Through a mentor at church, I'd heard bits and pieces of wisdom from Edith Schaeffer and always found them thought-provoking and wise. For these reasons, I chose to get to know Edith on a more personal level through reading her works. Although I found some of the ideas a bit simplistic and seemingly redundant, she made several key points that are worth reading the book for. The highlight for me is a discussion on continuity of the Bible and how to raise children in such a way that challenges them to ask difficult questions about Christianity instead of simply blindly accepting it as truth.

[BrontëKas · Rating 4 out of 5]

“It is important that people think seriously about the fact that God points out to us over and over again that we, His children, do not all have ‘equal’ lives. Each of us is given the grace needed sufficient for the piece of history we are living through, as we pray for help.”

I really enjoyed this one! Common Sense is full of practical wisdom. It is a bit dated in sections, but all the important stuff remains True no matter the cultural context. I will revisit this one.

[Victoria · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars. Some excellent passages, some painful passages (knowing Franky's current state...). Some parts are purposefully dated, and it's obvious it began life as talks, not a book.

[Trace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ah.... Edith Schaeffer is such a breath of fresh air. I underlined so many passages in this book - now to go back to the beginning and transcribe these passages in my journal. I will be rereading this one over again a few times!

[Andrea Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

I need to read more by this author. Old book but so timely for our day as well.

[Larry · Rating 3 out of 5]

Devotional reading.

[Theresa · Rating 5 out of 5]

A book I have returned to over and over again through the years of being a wife and mother!

Edith Schaeffer's "Common Sense Christian Living" presents encouragement to maintain a home with structure, beauty and intelligent planning in today's world of busy schedules and mixed commitments. Her forthright reasoning brings stability to those who may be unsure of the worth of home and family when our moral compass has been confused by society's influences.

Mrs. Schaeffer offers insightful solutions for families assaulted by conflicting worldviews, to persevere, build healthy relationships and in turn, relate to others using common sense solutions.

Highly recommended, especially to newly married couples.

[Stacey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I truly enjoyed reading this book. I tried to take it slowly, and more study it than just breeze through because there was so much information. I know I could read it again and more would find it's way into my mind, but that will be for a later date. I enjoyed Mrs. Schaeffer's ability to explain things on simple terms, every day terms, ordinary terms. My thought process has changed due to this book, and I am grateful for that.

[Naomi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this book based on a recommendation by Ann Voskamp (author of "One Thousand Gifts"). Overall, this book was fantastic. I thought it was a little slow to start off, but the last half was pretty practical and had wonderful, thought-provoking chapters. This book will definitely be on my read-again list!

[Hope · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another winner from Edith Schaeffer. She's the cheerleader for the thousands of Christian women who struggle to build a meaningful home life for themselves, their families and their guests. So important in a culture where stay-at-home moms (women without "real" careers) are dismissed as not doing anything important. Schaeffer was a sane voice in a mad world.

[Rhonda · Rating 4 out of 5]

I truly enjoyed this book. Mrs. Schaeffer put great thought and sensitivity into each chapter. By far, the last chapter was the most inspiring for me, Sensible Balance in the Building and the Battle.

[Barbara Radisavljevic]

This book seeks to increase understanding of the meaning of the 10 Commandments in everyday life.

[anika · Rating 5 out of 5]

an absolute MUST read

[Michelle]

Rec. by Ann Voskamp

[Jane]

A different take on life and family. Refreshing!