Reviews (8)

What every church should know!!!
If your church has too many programs, ministries and events that is causing a sense of disconnect, then you must read this book and implement the ideas in it.This book will truly make your life and the life of the church much simpler, focused and effective in being the church rather than doing church.

Mixed feelings for the "simple church" movement
I have read the book, and can say that the idea given is a wonderful idea from which all churches can gain insight.I agree that a cluttered church cannot be as effective as a focused church, but not all focused churches fall into this model.I have not done the statistical work, but I believe there are many churches in this world who are focused to bring its membership through a process of spiritual maturity that does not look like the processes given in the book.
Much needed in the church today
This is a clarion call for the church to return to its original purpose--making disciples. Based on a research project, the authors insist that the church will make disciples when it reduces programming complexity and develops and focuses on a simple disciplemaking process that creates spiritual growth and movement in its members. A must read for today's church that keeps its members busy, but fails to develop their spiritual maturity. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Christianity - Christian Life - General    2. Christianity - Church Administration - General    3. Christianity - Discipleship    4. Christianity - Evangelism    5. Church And Society    6. Church growth    7. Evangelicalism    8. Evangelism    9. Religion    10. Religion - Christian Life   

Editorial Review

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Reviews (296)

Get rid of back pain - FOREVER
Hello All. I am 29 currently and I have had backpain on and off for over 9 years now. After a particularly nasty back spasm at the gym 2 years back ( where I could hardly walk), I was getting desparate. I looked at physiotherapy,and briefly at some other forms of exercise. I could not find lasting results anywhere and then I came across this book. It was god send. I read it in couple of hours flat. Re-read it next day. Thought a lot about what the author suggests are reasons behind the pain. It is generated from within and the cure also should come from within us. Anyone who thinks that cure CAN ONLY come fromoutside is going to be looking for a cure, the rest of their lives. I analyzed the book ( I am an engineer) and trusted the book.
5 years with back pain, no back pain for 6 years.
There I was, 18 years old, after exercising badly in the gym I developed back issues. An x-ray stated I had a back abnormality. For 5 years I had back pain, evey single day, mid to lower back pain. You know whats its like, the type thats always there.
Great Book!
Dr. Sarno is a true pioneer in regards to diagnosing and treating back pain and has made a tremendous contribution with his discovery of the mind/body connection for this condition. I did, however, as a number of reviewers have pointed out, after reading Healing Back Pain felt the need for additional steps.
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Subjects:  1. Backache    2. Consumer Health    3. Healing    4. Health & Fitness    5. Health/Fitness    6. Mind and body    7. Neck pain    8. Pain Management    9. Psychological aspects    10. Fitness & diet    11. Health & Fitness / Healing   

Editorial Review

In a distant, timeless place, a mysterious prophet walks the sands. At the moment of his departure, he wishes to offer the people gifts but possesses nothing. The people gather round, each asks a question of the heart, and the man's wisdom is his gift. It is Gibran's gift to us, as well, for Gibran's prophet is rivaled in his wisdom only by the founders of the world's great religions. On the most basic topics--marriage, children, friendship, work, pleasure--his words have a power and lucidity that in another era would surely have provoked the description "divinely inspired." Free of dogma, free of power structures and metaphysics, consider these poetic, moving aphorisms a 20th-century supplement to all sacred traditions--as millions of other readers already have.Read more

Features

• Unabridged

Reviews (212)

A Masterpiece to Mankind...
Inspirational and true teachings about various aspects of life are what you will find when you read this beautiful book. The book is short, 96 pages, and includes artwork by the author. The short chapters begin with various people (a ploughman, a judge, a woman, a rich man, an old priest, a mason, a hermit, etc.)asking the mystic to speak about different subjects of life, such as:On Beauty, On Good and Evil, On Marriage, On Joy and sorrow, on friendship, and many more)
Incredible Read
This book helped me through some really rough times when I was in a very dark place in my mind and spirit.
Lessons taught well!
It doesn't matter what faith you follow.The lessons taught in The Prophet reinforces most beliefs and is a must read for the spiritual. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Bible - Commentaries - New Testament    2. Inspirational & Religious    3. Mysticism    4. Poetry    5. Prose poems, American    6. Poetry texts & anthologies    7. Religion / Bible / Commentaries / New Testament   

Reviews (44)

Good inspirational book
I purchased this for my grandson' birthday and read it before i gave it to him.I am not very sports minded but it was a well written biography of a spectacular human being who is doing a good job of showing young men what makes a great man in God's eyes.

Molding Americas Youth
A must read for all public and private school athletic coaches. This excellent book epitomizes the characteristics deemed necessary to assist and mold America's young people.

Amazing
I played college football and pro baseball.I have very vivid memories of my coaches since childhood.I had a coach in high school, Larry Book, who made a big impression on me.He was great and I remember him fondly, though I liked him more after I left than I did when I played for him.As good as he was, we never talked about life things, real important things.Joe Ehrman's coaching style I've never really heard of or come across.He explains what it means to be a man, to love, to give, in words that I never really heard before, certainly not from a football coach.Even if you've never played football, this true story is one you'll want to read and share with others.I have multiple copies. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. 1962-    2. Baltimore    3. Biography    4. Christianity - Christian Life - Men's Issues    5. Ehrmann, Joe    6. Football - General    7. Football coaches    8. Inspirational    9. Inspirational - General    10. Marx, Jeffrey,    11. Maryland    12. Men's Studies - General    13. Religion    14. Sports    15. Sports & Recreation    16. Sports & Recreation / General   

Reviews (134)

Great Audio CD, thanks DR. JOSEPH MURPHY

In response to "B.A. Wilkins - Deadly Advice" Critique
It doesn't sound like the people you list as reasons "not" to read this book, actually read "this" book. There is a big difference, in my opinion, of putting positive affirmations in your mind, versus a witch doctor. And quite honestly, it seems the positive affirmations could and should be used in "conjuction" with medical care. Does it say anywhere in the book to forego medical care, because you will most definitely be healed? No where. So in my opinion, one has to have a "sound" mind, and not view the book as a "cure all" for all the ills in life, but rather a positive way to "enhance" your life. It is just plain stupid to to avoid getting medical care, when you have a terminal illness, or any other illness for that matter. But according to what I gather from the book, you CAN use positive affirmations, and "believe" that you are getting well, to help keep yourself in a positive state, rather than filling your head with negative thinking that you will never get well. Studies aside from this book have PROVEN that a healthy and positive attitude and mental outlook, have done wonders for recovering patients, along with their medical care. Your review did not address any of those people that read this book, because the two examples of people you list, it is apparent they didn't read the book either, (not sure what compelled you to post here?) therefore you are not qualified, in my opinion, to critique this book, as they were using apparently some form of faith healing from a televangelist, did they prescribe drinking snakes blood, too? Anyway, this book in no way says to forgo medical treatment if you are sick, and those that do, probably won't be addressing their medical problem. Can the positive affirmations and power of suggestion help you through your medical crisis? I imagine it can, (studies prove it can) in addition to proper medical treatment. Anyway, you might want to actually read the book, instead of making comments of what happened to "so and so" who didn't even read it or apply it, including yourself.

You MUST get this book
The Power of Your Subconscious Mind is an amazing book.
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Subjects:  1. Careers - General    2. General    3. Psychology    4. Self-Help    5. Mind, body, spirit: disciplines & techniques    6. Popular psychology    7. Self-Help / General   

Editorial Review

When Helen Schucman, a professor of medical psychology at Columbia University, began hearing an inner voice of rapid dictation (which she eventually identified as the voice of Jesus), she decided to start taking shorthand notes. Then, with the support and encouragement of a colleague, Schucman continued to assemble the teachings that came to her. The result is Read more

Reviews (229)

I LOVED THIS BOOK
THIS BOOK CHANGED MY LIFE I AM ABLE TO SEE CLEAR AND KNOW THE TRUTH ABOUT LIFE PEOPLE HAVE TO JUST BE OPEN MINDED AND LET THE LIGHT IN
a work in progress
I first became familiar with a Course in Miracles in the early 90's by attending classes for it at a Unity Church. Of course, without reading it had no real idea what it was about. Purchased the book soon after, read the text and started the workbook; but, I stopped at about lesson 100 because of a major life change. It was probably just as well because I really don't think I understood it clearly. A year ago I read Gary Renard's book "The Disappearance Of The Universe" which really brought it down to a human level. I started the workbook again (currently on lesson 268) and it has changed my life. My mind is much quieter, much more free of mindless chatter. Don't get me wrong, I still have those crazy days. I highly recommend everyone buying this book and keep it on hand for when you are ready for it.

I hope you all find help
because if you think this is the way to go, you are truly in need of it.First, a careful reading of the Bible mentions false prophets and such (after end point of the Bible) but otherwise says nothing occurs till time for "rapture" and 2nd coming.Unless you want to claim we're in second coming, people who hear from Jesus are either deluded or false prophets.You are free to decide which.On that basis, however, the ideas espoused in the book are either pointless,useless (if delusional), or meant to pull people to the Anti-C if false prophecy.Again, your decision. (Free-will - remember and apply it !!!) ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Alternate Spirituality    2. Course in miracles    3. Education    4. New Age movement    5. Religion    6. Spiritual life    7. Spiritualism - Course in Miracles    8. Spirituality - Course in Miracles   

Editorial Review

Fans of Augusten Burroughs's darkly funny memoir Read more

Reviews (191)

You have to read this!
As a recovering addict (3 years clean) I fell in love with this book. The way he describes his struggle to overcome the addictions, to get past his childhood trauma, and to just be a grown up was charming. I especially related to him describing how he could keep the electricity and phones turned on cause he couldn't pay the bills, not because he didn't have the money, but because he became overwhelmed at the thought of responsibility. Also the way he described his mother's suffocating needs, saying that even the smallest task ("changing a lightbulb) seemed so daunting and huge.
going through hell and back...
"Dry: A Memoir" is my second autobiographical book by Augusten Burroughs.His "Running with Scissors" was brilliant; I was awestruck at how any child can survive through such a bizarre childhood.In "Dry.." we discover that Mr Burroughs didn't exactly sail through early adulthood unscathed.Although remarkably successful in the frenetic world of advertising at a young age, the author quickly self-destructs.Alcohol, drugs and failed relationships find him in rehab while only in his twenties.From there "Dry.." recounts the author's attempts to get his life back together.A rough journey ensues.
Even Better Than Running...
Read this right after reading his childhood tale, Running with Scissors.This is more believable, more relatable and more heartbreaking.This is the one they should have made a film out of.At times I was proud of him, disgusted with him, sad for him, and found myself rooting for him.A sign of a well written book.Can't wait to read the next installment. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. 20th century    2. Advertising agencies    3. Biography    4. Biography & Autobiography    5. Biography / Autobiography    6. Biography/Autobiography    7. Copy writers    8. General    9. Literary    10. New York    11. New York (State)    12. Novelists, American    13. Personal Memoirs    14. United States    15. Biography & Autobiography / General    16. Reading Group Guide   

Features

• Audiobook
• Unabridged

Reviews (62)

Very Good Audio Bile
I recommend this audio Bible set. Each book of the Bible has its own introduction (just like the book form of the NIV Bible) and it is very enjoyable to listen to.
The best audio Bible yet
I have had other dramatized Bibles, but this one is the best yet. I like the introductions to each of the books. It also came with a very durable case that should last being tossed around in my car. I would highly recommend this version of the NIV Dramatized Audio Bible!

outstanding
Great way to zoom through the entire bible in a matter of few weeks to months, depending on your commute time.I load about 5 CD's each week with my 20-30 minute commute each way.It is just awesome to be able to saturate with God's Words without any "down time" in Christian radio stations.Highly recommend this...good quality sounds and effects that are not distracting the original Words... ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Audio Adult: Books On Tape    2. Bible - General    3. Bibles - New International    4. Religion    5. Unabridged Audio - Inspirational/Philosophy    6. NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION AUDIO BIBLES    7. Religion / Bibles / New International    8. The Bible   

Reviews (177)

Get other materials by Hawkins too.
First,
An incredibly important work.
I first learned of this book while listening to an audiobook by Wayne W. Dyer. While reading it, I realized it was one of the most important books I would ever be exposed to. The author goes into such amazing detail. This is a must-read for anyone wanting to improve not only their own life but humanity as well. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND this book and any other book written by Dr. David R. Hawkins.

Vedic Astrologer Finds Ideas That Fit
Dr. David Hawkins, a former psychiatrist, has quantified the most important aspects of human behavior to help us clearly be able to not only separate the good from the bad but also to rank the "good" in some sequence.
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Subjects:  1. Body, Mind & Spirit    2. Consciousness    3. Healing - General    4. Healing - Prayer & Spiritual    5. Human behavior    6. Kinesiology    7. New Age    8. Physiological Psychology    9. Psychology    10. Advice on careers & achieving success    11. Popular psychology   

Reviews (19)

Well-written book on an understudied yet important subject
In "The Shia Revival" Vali writes about this minority sect of Islam, which only predominates in 3 or 4 countries in the Middle East, yet has adherents in many other countries.This book is not a history, yet he writes about the history, traditions, culture, and unique aspects of the Shia throughout the book. The book is very well-written, being not too academic yet not dumbed down either.This sect of Islam is very poorly known and even less-well understood in even the Islamic world itself.Yet, as Nasr writes, the coming of age of core Shia countries like Iran and Iraq, and countries with large Shia minorities like Lebanon, Pakistan, India, and Syria mean that this is a substantial sect of Islam that can no longer be ignored.After the reading this book you will have a much more informed view of the Islamic world and its internal conflicts, as well as a better understanding of Islam itself.

Excellent Book on Shia / Sunni Strife
This well written book is an excellent treatise on the historical conflict between the Shia and Sunni Muslims and how it applies to the current situation in Iraq and to some extent Lebanon.The book has probably one of the best explanations of the difference between Shia and Sunni Muslims.It also describes how the Shia have been suppressed by the Sunni for centuries and how the Author believes there is a Shia revival occuring in the Middle East that has intensified since the toppling of Saddam Hussein from power.
Essential reading
Years ago in a world religions course I took at a conservative, inter-denominational seminary I learned all about the conflicts in Islam that are explained here by author Vali Nasr. If we understood this when we were rushing toward the invasion of Iraq, then we would have realized that the sectarian conflict that we now have in Iraq was quite predictable.
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Subjects:  1. 20th century    2. History    3. International Relations - General    4. Islam    5. Islam - General    6. Islam and politics    7. Middle East    8. Political Freedom & Security - General    9. Political aspects    10. Politics / Current Events    11. Relations    12. Religion    13. ShÃ¥i°ah    14. Sunnites    15. Miscellaneous Items    16. POLITICS & GOVERNMENT    17. Political Science / International Relations   

Reviews (2)

Another Great Book From Ms. Garrett!
I have read several of Ms. Garrett's books.They always make you feel as if you are walking in her footsteps.I, being an X-member of an Old Order Amish sect, was curious to see if there were any differences within her sect and mine.I learned alot from, "Born Amish."For my sect was a little different-which isn't shocking when there are so many Amish sects.I can't wait until she publishes another book.For she is a remarkable writer.I always recommend her books.I also recommend, "My Amish Heritage", by Ruth Irene Garrett; and, "True Stories of X-Amish: Banned-Shunned-Excommunicated", by Ottie Garrett and Ben Garrett.

Beautifully written
The book "Born Amish"is truly a beautiful book about women's roles in an Amish family in an Amish community.I read this lovely book in one setting.I hope there are more books on the way as detailed and honest as this one.I wish women everywhere could read this outstanding book.I enjoyed Ruth's first book "Crossing Over",but this is the one that details the facts of being "Born Amish"and growing up Amish.May God bless you Ruth Garrett. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. 1974-    2. Amish    3. Body, Mind & Spirit    4. Childhood and youth    5. Garrett, Ruth Irene,    6. General    7. Inspiration & Personal Growth    8. Iowa    9. Kalona    10. Kalona (Iowa)    11. New Age    12. Religion - Socialissues    13. Religious    14. Social life and customs   

Reviews (77)

anonymous
This book is amazing! I honestly can't speak highly enough about it. I heard Brother Yun preach last night, and he is completely authentic, real and in love with Jesus. Mostly what strikes me is that hearing the life story of this man makes me realize that God is all-powerful and trustworthy, and a victorious Christian life is possible!

The Heavenly Man
Read it in one day. I couldn't put it down. I had to stop half way through and pray about my spiritual life! I'm buying 10 copies for all the men I know who are serious about their relationship with Jesus Christ. It is like reading the book of Acts but it took place in the last quarter century. I checked to see if anyone could verify some of the incredible miracles mentioned in the book and found statements from people who are closest to Brother Yun and vouch for his integrity. The author checked with witnesses of the events to confirm their accuracy. God help us get as serious as Brother Yun about our relationship with Christ Jesus!

The Heavenly Man
If you feel that you are complaining too much about your life you need to read this book because you will find nothing in your life to complain about. This book is really life changing, it made me examine my own life. AWESOME BOOK, couldnt put it down. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Biography / Autobiography    2. General    3. Missions & Missionary Work    4. Religion    5. Religious    6. Biography & Autobiography / Religious   

Reviews (13)

A Wonderful Word Study/Devotional
This book is probably the best devotional I've ever owned! It is written by a man who has a deep knowledge of Greek and who knows God intimately, and his book reveals this. The book is divided into 365 daily readings, each one being just the right length, not too short (which most are) and not too long. Each day's reading begins with a topic and appropriate scripture from the New Testament, which was originally written in Greek. The author goes into great detail as he expands the meaning of the Greek words used in the scriptures, and also includes personal anecdotes (which are so interesting) and lots of encouragement for the reader (which we all need). At the conclusion of the word study are two additional sections: the first is a prayer the reader can pray that relates to the word study for the day, and the second is a declaration of faith relating to the study. At the very end of the day's reading are three questions to the reader to help him go deeper into the day's subject. The reader definitely comes away from the reading with a much deeper understanding of God's Word and how to apply it to his life. It's a wonderful book for not only personal use, but also would be a great gift. I've read several books by Rick Renner, and this is one of my favorites. I highly recommend it!!!

Truly a gem
All concerns about being able to wrap my mind around a Greek word study were put to rest with the first reading of this true gem. In modern day terms this word study is truly best I have ever encounter.Get one for yourself and a friend.What a treasure.

I highly recommend this book!
I like this book very much. I look forward to read this book every day. i learn new things I didn't know and there is a wealth of knowledge in Sparkling Gems. I highly recommend it. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Christianity - General    2. Religion    3. Religion - Church History   

Reviews (28)

Excellent With One Caveat
Wright has written a wonderful book that, while in no way coming close to replacing C.S. Lewis' classic Mere Christianity, does give us the fruit of his scholarly work, in a pastoral way that is open to many more readers. Wright here is the pastor giving us suggestions even on how to pray (I like especially his suggestion about praying with the actual words of Scripture). Wright's two main themes are really two sides of the same coin: how heaven and earth overlap in prayer, worship, and the Eucharist, and how life in the Holy Spirit means that God's future for us--which involves bodily resurrection and a new heaven and new earth-- is anticipated now on earth when we live in the Holy Spirit and experience heaven on earth in prayer and liturgy. Wright as a traditional Anglican values the Eucharist--that approach is refreshing for Catholic readers like myself, although I think he goes too far in trying to minimize the differences between Catholics and others on the Eucharist, a stance that Lewis was wise enough to avoid altogether. Catholics engage in Eucharistic Adoration. There in one singular, concrete practice is the Catholic difference that cannot be made to disappear with a wave of the hands. With that caveat in mind, I still highly recommend the book to all readers, including Catholics. For a more detailed review, see my blog above for October 11, 2006.

Home Run for N.T.!
It seems many times I'm only reading material that reinforces what I already know. This book went beyond that educational rut. It gave fresh language to what I really believe and then took me places where I could see my faith from totally new perspectives. I grew deeper in knowledge and more passionate in love with God through it. Thanks.
Simply Very Good Writing
N.T. Wright gets it right.He writes with a style that is both lucid and lyrical -- clearly explained and well-written.In fact the thing I liked most about this particular work is that the author delivers exactly what the title promises -- a short exploration of the major themes of the Christian faith that simply makes sense.
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Subjects:  1. Apologetics    2. Christianity    3. Christianity - General    4. Christianity - Theology - Apologetics    5. Religion    6. Religion - Theology    7. Christian Interest    8. Religion / Christian Life    9. Religion / General   

Reviews (149)

Everything Wrong with the Radical Right
This is an excellent book that deeply explores the history and politics of America's oil addiction, and how it is enslaving the U.S. to foreign countries. If you care about American democracy and America's independence, you will read this book.
Pretty good, but....
I agreed with much of this book.thought by the Title it would primarily be about the dangers of religion in politics. However, it seems the author thinks "radical secularism" is almost as bad as fundamentalism. It does paint a bleak picture of the future of America. Another problem was it was a bit boring at some points. Finally, a critique I have of quite a few books I have read recently. Authors, PLEASE stop using endnotes! They are very difficult to look up! Either (perferably) use footnotes (at the bottom of the page) or put notes at the end of each chapter.

A Missed Opportunity
Kevin Phillips picked a worthy set of topics but unfortunately, his diagnosis misses the boat.He tries to suggest that oil dependence, (Christian) religious fundamentalism and what he calls the "financialization" of the American economy hold great peril for the United States.He is right that the nation faces peril, but his preference to engage in feel good populism rather than truly identify policies and attitudes that put the nation at risk weakens his message.
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Subjects:  1. Christianity and politics    2. Conservatism    3. Government - National    4. Government - U.S. Government    5. International Relations - General    6. Petroleum    7. Petroleum industry and trade    8. Political Ideologies - Conservatism & Liberalism    9. Political Science    10. Political aspects    11. Politics / Current Events    12. Politics/International Relations    13. Religion And Politics    14. United States    15. Political Science / Government / National   

Reviews (17)

Great Words, Poor Performance
I know that this review will counter what many others have said about Max McLean's performance, but I want to warn people before they rush out and buy this product.
Why I Bought Three Audio Bibles
I first discovered Max McLean reading the Bible online at another website.I found reading the Bible myself with the audio reinforcement of Max McLean reading to be an excellent way to read God's Word.After reading at my computer I found the best value for this product at Amazon.I bought one for myself.I took it into my Wednesday night Bible study and the group really liked it.When I was away on vacation they pleaded with me to bring the Audio Bible back.That was enough encouragement for me to buy a copy for the class.I also sent one to my Aunt who is awaiting delivery.
Great Product!
I was very pleased with the Listener's Bible on CD. I love his voice. It was all I'd hoped it would be. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Audio Adult: Other    2. Bible - General    3. Bibles - New International    4. Bibles - Other    5. Inspirational - General    6. Religion    7. Unabridged Audio - Inspirational/Philosophy   

Reviews (140)

HEY!!! God created sex, not the innovators of Playboy and Hustler! Got that?
Ok, why the heck am I doing a review on a book concerning sexual purity? Was this really something I needed? Is it really any of YOUR business? Not really, but here I am. And after all the bumps and bruises, I say that this was indeed worth the time invested in reading this. My pastor deserves a huge thank you in letting me borrow this book. So, are you kind of uncomfortable talking about a subject such as this? Would the first few pages, let alone some of the stories get on your nerves? It did me a little, but it also cracked me up when I sat there thinking, "Hey! Come on!" Oh yeah... I'm guilty of some impure thoughts. Better yet, I'm guilty of lusting with my eyes! And now is the time to start taking captive of crap like that. So if YOU have the thought after reading this that it just might be too simplistic because of the world we live in, REALITY CHECK!!! You as a man are probably guilty somewhere along the line.