Get Rid of These 4 Books from your Church Bookstore Now! With Tim Challies

[@thomaslee8712]

Tim Challes’ experience resonates with me! I lost my wife of 36years due to stage 2 throat cancer in Jan 2020, and fell into depression till Aug 2021. All throughout that dark, lonely & painful journey, i kept praying, “Father, i do not know why You chose not to heal Rachel this time, but You know what You are doing and that’s good enough for me! Now Father, give me something worth living for!” I am now engaged in my own initiative to provide water filters for clean and safe water for impoverished and underprivileged communities on offshore islands near Singapore!

[@devin_3875]

Oh, I am delighted to hear your story! I’m in deep grief myself. My prayers are similar to what you say.

[@michelem7986]

Praying the God of all comfort continues to comfort you, and encourage your heart. Dig into the Word. So good you're bringing fresh water to others. This opens the door to share the living water -- the Gospel. ✝️ ❤ 📖 One temporal, and the other eternal.

[@MGAF688]

He did heal her. She lives in eternal perfection.

[@margyeoman3564]

What a true way to move forward with purpose in life. ❤

[@merrittascott4408]

​@@MGAF688 Hi mgaf, I have heard that said so often and It never made sense to me. Finally I understood, healing is not dying. Healing is here and now.

[@JonGardner]

Books to add/keep: 8:42 The Holiness of God 10:21 Ashamed of the Gospel 13:10 The Discipline of Grace Books to remove: 14:38 Jesus Calling 24:15 The Shack 35:54 The Purpose Driven Church 41:45 Ninety minutes in heaven

[@veronicageorge7820]

Thank you

[@marknrobin1744]

Helpful!! Thank you!

[@deeannemason7003]

@@UnapologeticallyChristian1960. 😊to add or to remove?

[@JessicaNoelle.]

Thanks!

[@marjorieellsworth3311]

Thank you for your help.

[@gracelatour3441]

Discernment is not the difference between right and wrong, it is the difference between right and almost right

[@SPARTANSIX-1]

That is a word of wisdom there friend.

[@wordsofjames]

Almost right IS wrong.

[@rinihogewoning6528]

​​@@wordsofjamesYes but I think the point they were making is being able to recognize deception which is more difficult to spot in comparison to obvious error. Deception is harder because people don't know they are being deceived, especially initially.

[@bereantrb]

That’s Spurgeon.

[@jamesedwards.1069]

Yup. The most dangerous heresies are the "close but no cigar" ones.

[@garydodson8970]

Stepping out on a limb to say this but a word of caution about the three books recommended by Tim Challies. Tim himself holds to Reformed/Calvinistic theology (not to debate it as right/wrong here) as well as the authors of the books he recommends. This in itself is not damning but something to be aware of in reading their books. Understanding that there is a theological “lens” that Calvinists view things through and understanding were they are coming from can be important in understanding their presentation of the topics covered in their books. This does not mean everything they have written is wrong or that there isn’t something to be gained from their writings. At the same time some of what they have written may be colored by their theological beliefs and depending on where you fall on the subject, you may wish to read carefully and filter things from the perspective of reformed theology they are coming from.

[@noelle1418]

Thank you for writing this.

[@PanhandleFrank]

" ... there is a theological “lens” that Calvinists view things through ... " Unlike Arminians, who DON'T view things through a theological lens? 😉 "understanding were they are coming from can be important in understanding their presentation of the topics covered in their books" I'd like to ask you a Q I've put to other non- / anti-Calvinists in this thread: Do you think that RC Sproul's Calvinism distorts his understanding of the holiness of God? (If you've read the book, that would be ideal. But if not, could you at least posit a hypothetical?) "you may wish to read carefully" Good advice for ANY book, REGARDLESS of the author's understanding of salvation.

[@garydodson8970]

@@PanhandleFrank So if I had used "belief" or "view" would it even have mattered? OF course we all have a belief or a lens. That's just basically saying "I've got one but you've got one too" that really changes nothing. How polarizing to generalize everyone who isn’t Calvinist to be Arminian. It’s very stereotypically labeling of people to place everyone “else” who doesn’t believe as they do as the perceived opposite of what they believe. By supposing that anyone that disagrees with any belief system I hold to then automatically falling into the other belief system it establishes an “us versus them” which creates that polarization. Why do you need to be in agreement with Arminianism because you don’t agree with everything in Calvinism or vice versa? If you call yourself one of the other that then so be it but don’t automatically assume and label. But on to the bigger question you asked, “Do you think that RC Sproul's Calvinism distorts his understanding of the holiness of God? (If you've read the book, that would be ideal. But if not, could you at least posit a hypothetical?)” First I think you are asking an over reaching question that isn’t part of the differences between Calvinist and non-Calvinist. If we are talking about God’s holiness in a vacuum apart from anything else then you might think you have me cornered by having to agree with you that it doesn’t. And by the way Calvinist and non-Calvinist should be in agreement about the holiness of God. But what is important to consider depending on which belief system you adhere to is not just His holiness, but rather the expression of that holiness toward a fallen sinful world of people. What is the implication that His holiness has toward fallen man? How are the demands that His holiness requires met or satisfied by fallen sinful mankind? In the case of Calvinism you have the elect where his holiness is satisfied by choosing them to accept and be in Christ as their covering. Then on the other hand there is His judgement that His holiness demands upon the non-elect, or the reprobated who are to be eternally damned and have no hope whatsoever that God predetermined to be so as well. So it isn’t His holiness that is at question, but rather the perceived result of how His holiness is manifested toward His creation. I apologize ahead of time but a little snark here: ""you may wish to read carefully" Good advice for ANY book, REGARDLESS of the author's understanding of salvation." According to Calvinism, how could "I" read carefully anything if my response is predetermined by God's sovereignty? Shouldn't I only see what God has determined that I would see? I fell that I have already hijacked Alisa Childers KZbin page here enough in this discussion that I probably will not continue to reply further. Thank you for being patient with me and God Bless.

[@lancethefilmguy9392]

​@@garydodson8970There's alot of Snark types of Christians in this comment section lol. It seems like this happens whenever there is a disagreement in a video.

[@eboronkay]

@@PanhandleFrank Thank you. I listen to a lot of sermons, vlogs, and Christian audiobooks all along the spectrum of Christian thought. We have 3 pound brains and no one has it 100% correct. I also am reading the Word daily, reading in multiple translations and even paraphrases. I lean on this ““Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things.” ‭‭Philippians‬ ‭4‬:‭8‬ ‭ My biggest concern is to not make anything or anyone an idol but to glean the good from anyone who is genuinely humble and serving God, knowing they will be doing it imperfectly.

[@karenm8692]

My husband is a pastor and he always uses funerals as an opportunity to preach the gospel since there may be people there who may never have the opportunity to hear the good news of the gospel any other time and because people have a more tender heart towards their own need of Christ and their own mortality. Thank you for this book review (I haven’t got as far as the rest of your talk yet).

[@IMOO1896]

I attended the funeral (at my home church) of a teenage boy who took his own life. There were many teens there. Not in any phrase did the pastor even try to approach the teens with the Word of God and how He will change lives, change mindsets, and is One we can depend on. I was extremely affected by this. Teens went away without hearing the life changing message of Jesus!

[@JulieSevelson-nb9nj]

What was going on the this young boy's life, that he wanted to end it so badly? Was he a church member too ? Churches are notorious for not listening to abuse victims,was he being mistreated at home ? If this was the case, kids need to be protected from abusive situations and people way more than us actually done. Don't leave these kids in these negatives situations,please.

[@16121961100]

God who is sovereign- and through that lens and then allow that sovereignty to interpret our circumstances. I wouldn‘t say that that is the only way… We rather stay in Christ and in his Presence we receive what there is to do spontaneously what to do because there are many way’s and individual way‘s He would line the individual to go. His Anointing could spontaneously and immediately change a situation. Not only the Word in the Bible alone. Don‘t get stuck with Jony‘s way of thoughts and the was she lives. For me that is not the only way God as sovereign God works. He as sovereign God can do miracles and I think that this interview doesn‘t include that aspect enough.

[@teresaibarra6046]

I attended a Women's Bible study several years ago and the Pastors wife decided it would be a good idea to use The Shack as a study. I voiced my disapproval and only later did she admit it was a bad idea. What was disturbing to me were the new believers that attended the study and did not yet have the discernment to know truth from deception. 😢

[@jokelley9701]

I was in a Bible study last year and the two leaders were talking about how great the movie is and suggested everyone watch it. I sat down and watched it for awhile and I was shocked they suggested it.

[@sandraryan7058]

Disagree. Loved the book. It is very closed minded to believe that God can come in whatever form a person needs. I love how everyone thinks they are an expert in what God does.

[@BelleRidesAgain]

Many years ago, I read a little bit of this book. Of course the imagery used to describe God the Father & the Holy Spirit was...unconventional...but I felt the love of God, and an assurance and peace every time I read this book. I can't say much more than that, as I didn't read that much of the book, but the Lord can minister to us through anything or anyone.

[@summersojourner]

@@sandraryan7058 God makes it very clear that He is the Father, not some shapeshifter that can appear in different ways to relate to different situations.

[@neliacorki65]

​@sandraryan7058 My dear lady, that's why it's important to know the truth . Don't perish for lack of knowledge.. These people use scripture to discern scripture, not from their own flesh. Now that's wisdom 😊

[@olivialouise3148]

I also lost my son a few years ago and it only brought me closer to God and gave me a yearning to know Him more and therefore got me diving into his word more than ever before which led me to change churches and find the real Jesus. Hallelujah! Praise God! He is so good, perfect and Holy. I appreciate that more than ever before.

[@ColinEvans-zr1oh]

Try the life of God in the soul of man scougal

[@bethsalt]

After my husband’s death, the books about heaven really helped me to process through my many thoughts and feelings. I didn’t have any shift away from truth because I saw that they were someone’s perspective of a vision rather than Biblical truth. There is always wisdom needed when reading any book about spiritual truth because we all know and see in part.

[@sw9868]

@bethsalt Well said!

[@MattieDianeMunson]

Just read the Bible (I recommend the KJV) I got caught up in the Jesus Calling insanity

[@YosemiteLee]

@bethsalt. Wisdom.

[@byroncarden152]

@@sw9868Yes, my experience was similar in losing my wife 17 years ago. Secular resources were less than helpful, 90 Minutes in Heaven helped. No substitute for Scripture and the Holy Spirit.

[@mosart7025]

A year or so ago I was our church librarian. I knew there were books I was going to get rid of for sure, but some I had never heard of. I took a tablet with me and connected to the Internet and looked up book reviews. I found Tim's review site and was able to get the scoop on quite a few heretical, questionable, or misleading books. I came to the conclusion that we (churches) should have a list of quotes from suspect authors taped up in our libraries and bookstores so people can see why we are worried. And we need to teach our congregations to look at bibliographies and see who authors are quoting in their books, If they reference Warren, or Foster or Merton, etc. get your guard up and be prepared to question their conclusions. Most people seem to think that if a book mentions Jesus or God it's OK. My motto now is: If it is popular it is probably wrong. If it is very popular it usually very wrong.

[@jonmerrick9654]

“Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.” -Matthew 7:13-14 KJV ✝️🤍🕊️

[@barefootkid592.0]

I won't go beyond the Bible and the teachings of John MacArthur, I'm tired of it all, I just want to read and hear the truth!!

[@merrittascott4408]

​@@barefootkid592.0 Hi barefoot, we have the written Word of God to know what is of God and what is of another spirit.Studying the scriptures is understanding more clearly than only reading. On Utube are some excellent teachers of the Word. Andy Woods takes his time and brings other scriptures to confirm what is written. Voddie Baucman is an awesome minister as well. Andy has over a thousand videos of expository teachings of a book in the Bible. He also has teachings on many topics such as angels, revelation, judgment, prayer, the fall of Satan and 1/3 of angels. He has many teachings on questions we've had and wanted to know biblical Truth.

[@jeanniestaller797]

​​@@barefootkid592.0You also have to be careful with John McArthur. Weigh everything against the Bible.

[@ebriggs3498]

@@barefootkid592.0: if you just want truth STOP reading John MacArthur! He is full of hate and doesn’t teach truth.

[@stevecorry2118]

I came across your blog this morning and it really spoke to me. The words of Tim Challies were spot on and I want to see more of both of you. I am a former pastor and I lost my career due to a very unfaithful wife. I didn't ask why because I was afraid I couldn't stand the answers. I am now 81 and I haven't preached in over 30 years but I never put my faith aside. God is so good.

[@janicechilcoat6355]

I admire your honesty. May God continue to bless you abundantly.

[@BelleRidesAgain]

Yes, abundantly. ✝

[@brennajlawrence1911]

Hi Steve, yes, it is a blessing to hear straight assessments of "Jesus Calling" and "The Shack." Both of these sent me "reeling" and I warned everyone I talked to and wrote letters to small group leaders about the false "teaching" and garbage in these. They are both complete heresy. "Jesus Calling" is laced with new age false gospel. I appreciate Lisa Childers very much also. I enjoy her blogs. I recently learned that her father is Chuck Gerard who was one of the main members of Love Song. I think was their band's name. They were a major worship band in the very early days of Calvary Chapel, (Chuck Smith), which started in Costa Mesa, CA. Chuck Gerard was at Calvary Chapel San Jose a few times this summer live. He is very good and solid in God's Word. I did not know that Alisa is his daughter until that time this summer. God Bless you, Brenna

[@rhondasmith1901]

So true I belong to a denomination that has completely lost its way by being what the community wanted them to be instead of what God wanted them to be. Thank you for your insights. Most are Leaving due to this. Being in the Word helps to discern these things.

[@ajb.822]

Yes, and prayer. But without having ever become born again, surrendered your life to God in Christ ( vrs. just a head-knowledge assent of belief, or an adding of Jesus to YOUR life, even a "decision to follow Him, that isn't a surrender tho ... ), one ( likely hasn't become born again) isn't spiritually alive yet, so, won't have the Holy Spirit indwelling, thus that discernment. Esp. that subtle discernment that something " seems off" even b4 you have any clear, prove-able reason why. Of course, we can't speak dogmatically against anything based on only that feeling, but we should at least use it to prompt us to more prayer, study, caution, advice to others to do the same, etc. . Obviously, we're not to go around trying to pluck up tares/tell them apart from immature wheat, but we CAN encourage all to just be sure to pray with humility and surrender, and to be like the Bereans, checking everything against scripture, diligently.

[@merrittascott4408]

Hi Ronda, God instructs us to come out from darkness. The Holy Spirit is competent to open eyes of those who want Truth. We do ourselves no good or wisdom to win souls for our Savior. This is a place where the Holy Spirit is not welcomed.

[@maryvandeusen5554]

Bet that’s the Episcopal church.

[@vgil1278]

@@ajb.822 -But what do you do if you think you may not be truly born again( for ourselves?) For our salvation?

[@brennajlawrence1911]

I know, we have no choice but to get out and look for a good, BIBLE teaching Church. Brenna

[@annieharrison851]

Amen. I love how he finished with when suffering comes we know who God is. This has helped me with my 2 miscarriages and gives me an understanding of Gods will-- not my own. Still praying to be a mother someday but if not- all glory still goes to God.

[@ajb.822]

Hi. I can't imagine your pain of miscarriage - I've never been pregnant at all - but I have felt the pain, as a woman, of un-acheived motherhood, and I really wanted to have the experience of a child inside me, too. Obviously, other than that I could possibly adopt or foster but that hasn't been able to happen yet for us either, with all the health challenges I've had, and job situations my husband, and more. Anyways, it's actually the least of my problems in a way, yet for some years there was VERY hard and sad (even tho I knew when I married my hubby that he couldn't have kids). It's just a visceral longing for a season for a woman ! ANYway, I want to encourage you 2 ways. #1: You ARE a mom, if you've been pregnant ! Your children are waiting for you, with Jesus ! I think maybe you'll even get to ( maybe ??) raise them during the millennial reign... I think it's possible. Either way, you'll be with them ! #2: God may have some other way for you to fullfill your motherly longings. Definitely not negating your pain, loss or natural longings for your own, natural-born children - we're created for that ! But, a beauty out of, in spite of, among the ashes thing, and definitely a blessing for the children you can share love and godly, motherly mentorship with. May God RICHLY bless you !

[@MGAF688]

Eternally, you're a mother of two. In Heaven, you'll be reunited with those two children. My wife and I went through the same. We know that in eternity, we'll see our unborn child.

[@barefootkid592.0]

I have always had a desire to have a husband and family, but it just was not in God's will for me to..I'm 60 now and very happy content and joy filled everyday! I'm content with the Lord being my one and only great relationship.. I pray for your womb to open and that God will bless you with a little one, but if God decides this is not what he has called for you, I pray that he will comfort you, and give you contentment, joy and peace.. 🙏

[@cathyculpepper474]

I've had four miscarriages and four children. I know one day I'll get to meet my other children in heaven and live with them for eternity ❤️

[@bevfitzsimmonds3382]

​@@MGAF688Amen! ❤🫂

[@Teal_Seal]

I’m not defending The Shack as a whole, but it helped my dad let go of his obsession with a contractor who defrauded him. He took the contractor to court, but justice was not served. It helped him trust God in that situation - even though he couldn’t understand it.

[@Not2daysatan]

I do believe God will often work within things that are not biblically sound. Perfect example is a person being saved at a fraud money based mega church. We should pray for God's protection over people exposed to progressive "Christianity". Pray that God's hand be on people and use those "tickling ears" pastors regardless of their misguided teachings.

[@robertdesantis6205]

The book of Proverbs would be more profitable reading 🙏

[@suzannemartin6817]

The author of The Shack never intended it to be published. It was a story he wrote for his children trying to detail how the Lord walked him through his dark season after his daughter was kidnapped and murdered. God deals with us in our own place knowing us intimately. The book and movie helped me to understand and accept more how deeply God is involved with our process and how He seriously loves us even when we are totally having a wrong and defensive heart toward God. BUT I never once thought God was a big black woman! I understood that in the authors life that neighbor was a true safe place for him and support. So what I saw from that is that God wants us to feel safe with Him. Our problem is when we assume every story is supposed to be theological. And attacking it is always based on the assumption that it was intended to be theological instruction. It’s inappropriate for us to assume that God did NOT show himself to the author in the image of his neighbor. But it’s equally important for us to know that He knows us and what we need to drop our defenses.

[@gracepilditch9388]

A lot of secular books have helped me I must admit, and there’s usually a kernel of truth but books like The Shack are positively dangerous. People are, I’m afraid not discerning and gullible. We go to God’s Word for truth. I found his depiction of God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit particularly offensive. Shocking!

[@sw9868]

​@@suzannemartin6817 Love this comment! Spot on!

[@sueribs]

This was such a great interview! I read Tim's book to give to a friend who lost her son, 3 months before the Lord chose to have me walk through the same valley of death and season of sorrow.. The book prepared me without my knowledge, but with Gods' love. On April 27, 2023 my youngest 35 year old son Andrew died. I continue to grieve with Hope and am so thankful to have my Cornerstone be Christ Jesus, Who is loving me through this truly life changing grief. I was recently sent a copy of Tim's book , so now I am reading it again, with tears and agreement , and thankfulness for God's gift of Tim Challies expressing what I am feeling. Thanks for this interview!

[@rosalvabooksllc354]

I am so sorry my sister. May He always hold and comfort you and your family.

[@diannebutler1807]

I'm so sorry for your painful loss and grief. The Bible tells us God knows and numbers our tears. Someday we will understand it all, when we're WITH HIM, and see ALL as He sees. God Bless and Comfort you.

[@sueribs]

amen and thank you@@diannebutler1807

[@sueribs]

He has , He does and He alwayss will, for He is God! Thank you.@@rosalvabooksllc354

[@celinebowman6309]

I ordered his book after listening to this interview and am reading it now. It arrived in two days. It’s wonderful. My husband went to Heaven 2 years ago this month. This book is perfect for me to be reading now. God bless Tim and his family.

[@janetsmith9380]

The most comforting verse for me in suffering is job: the lord gives and the lord takes away. Blessed be the name of the lord.

[@carolmaloy1442]

It's been 20 years since our 18 year old daughter was killed in a car crash. I read these books and had a mixture of "that's not right " to being somewhat comforted. Since then, God has revealed the truth to me. A pray continually for discernment.

[@roguesinger247]

The bad books are bad, but the recommended books are off in their own ways - calvinism introduction by popular calvinist authors. I know people want new and exciting things, but JMac, John Piper, and RC Sproul are just as popular as "popular" christian progressive stuff. Maybe not in secular bookstores, but they dominate christian bookstores. They're like christian superstars, and many people have turned them into idols, their own little gods with shrines of all their books. I have heard many people say, "I knew that person was a real christians because they listened to John McAurther". Or when someone asked for help studying the bible, their pastor(!) said they couldn't go wrong with John McArthur. I know many people feel that JMac and other calvinist preachers are "safe" because they are not progressive, but it also seems to cause them to check their brain at the door and believe everything these pastors say without checking it against the Bible! All of these books need to be checked against the Bible. No book is "safe" to check your brain at the door and believe it is all biblical. We are to be good Bereans, and check to see that what our teachers are sharing is really biblical.

[@kalopharvey9662]

Unfortunately most Christians do check their brains at the door and aren't good bereans and accept without question what they're being taught. Which is why Calvinism is so pervasive in today's Church. I know of no Calvinist that was actually saved in a Calvinist Church. This heroe culture we have has created Calvinists because of high profile "theologians" like Piper, Sproul, and MacArthur. I must be extremely lucky that I don't fall into heroe culture and can't think of a single theologian that I would accept their teachings outright without doing my work as a good berean and test it, I also have the luxury of a large library of resources as well as Bible software resources. I am happy to invest in these things so I don't get hoodwinked into bad teaching.

[@claudiaparker373]

I just wanted to say, about the book Jesus Calling, that I have read it through many times, and time and again, God spoke to my heart just in the way I needed it at that time. It put Jesus on a close, personal level, just like He is in my life. Every morning, I read the days message from Jesus Calling, then I spend time in my Bible. I, personally, don't see anything wrong with the book, I am always blessed by it, and at 78, it's always uplifting to find peace and encouragement. God is good, praise God for His loving kindness❤blessings

[@carmenburnham1088]

I’m glad you said that and agree. People who do not have not experienced the Holy Spirit in that capacity as she writes do not understand her journaling. She is not channeling a spirit like automatic writing of spiritist. She is writing from the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. As you said, her writings have and do minister to many.

[@natashamiller4860]

God can use anyone or anything at any time as a tool for reaching those He wishes to reach, for blessing and/or punishing those He chooses bless and/or punish, for producing the results wants to produce. The Bible (especially the Old Testament) is filled with one example after another of God using evil and wicked people to produce the results He wants (oftentimes to punish Israel). I think it is important for us to remember that fact. That doesn’t necessarily mean that since God chose to use an evil/wicked person to fulfill His will that they magically stop being evil/wicked. The same is true about authors, speakers, musicians, etc. You can have a book, song, speech, etc that God used to speak to your soul in a way nothing else has been capable of doing. But, that doesn’t change the fact that they have propagated heretical messages. If we are aware of an issue yet choose to continue to read/watch/ listen it, we will receive a double consequence for our sin…for the oruiguduxs

[@gretchenpotma7606]

I agree about Jesus Calling. It's been a huge blessing to me and I know at least two people who have become Christians through it--who otherwise might not have opened the Bible on their own. The Scripture passages are listed on each page. Anyone can look them up and verify them. There are many, many other books that belong on the top 5 list instead.

[@dcarr-kr7hk]

While in the mission field sone years ago a fellow missionary gifted me JESUS CALLING. She said, "I got it because I've never heard anyone talk about the Holy Spirit that you do." So, I have read it. While ministering in a (fairly dangerous) 3rd world country, I was daily edified in reading it. I am planning on keeping it. I don't know if it is one of the books (and I don't have over an hour to listen to this) but (nothing personal) I don't care. God used it in my life exactly as He purposed and I am grateful to Him for all of the people He used me to serve and blessed (in part) as I took time to seek Him daily after reading that daily devotional. As for The Shack? There is a mayor of "danger signal" that goes off in my head (rather repeatedly) when something is off scripturally. I had a friend who gave us copies because she'd been blessed but as I read it that "signal" kept going off again and again. I could NOT finish it as it gave me the creeps.

[@kimmagill5044]

I can see and understand what he is saying about Jesus is Calling, but it did help me get stronger in my faith when I was younger and has helped many in my Family... want to get in God's word...When I used to read it, Id go to the verses at the end of each devotional and read my Bible afterward, spending time with Jesus and his word...and it was powerful.

[@markRunner8871]

Stick with the Bible if you truly want to hear from Jesus.

[@dcarr-kr7hk]

@kimmagill5044... Me too. I ended up readying the Bible daily (something I funny necessarily do every day), had wonderful (sometimes broken) times of prayer, prayed and texted others (as I was lead) all before stepping my foot out of the door into a foreign country. As I left to return back to America a missionary said to me, "I can't tell you how many times you sent me a text and it was the PERFECT thing to say." And then I explained to her how stupid I often felt (almost every time) when I was prompted (by the Holy Spirit) to do so but went forward in faith. So... I am not concerned about what anyone here says about a book that God used to, not only draw me closer to Him but to also bless others. It just makes me give Him thanks! 😄

[@monicathrasher3561]

I have enjoyed Jesus Calling for years. It has led me closer to The Gospel. I have been comforted in my sufferings. It has been so relatable to my experiences with my relationship with Christ. I will keep it and continue to gift it.

[@Elizabeth-tb5oh]

Same. Jesus Calling has blessed me. I’ve not read it in a while as I’m now reading J.R. Miller daily readings. The Shack I never saw anything of value in it but apparently some people are blessed by it. Can it be the Holy Spirit blesses as He sees fit. Are we to play Holy Spirit and tell people what to read or not. Years ago I was young in my faith and picked up a book I thought was Christian. The first time I was reading the Holy Spirit drew me away from it and had me pick up the Bible where I read: trust in the Lord, with all your heart, and lean, not on your own understanding, but in all your ways, acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy path. God lives us, teaches us, protects us and guides our steps so that we will not stumble.

[@catz2505]

Thank you for this video. I so needed to hear every word spoken. I am in grief and struggling and trying to find my way alone. Thank you.

[@jperez8677]

Ask God to direct your path, to live inside you and he will show you the way. Acknowledge that Jesus died for us all and that we are sinners and want to follow our Lord and Savior. God bless you.

[@elliescamp7209]

2 most important things to me when I hear a preacher is 1. Does he teach correct doctrine that God showed me as a new believer and 2. Does the true character of God flow through the teaching. We know our shepherd’s voice. We follow Him.

[@Micah-6.8]

But you won’t know either of these things if you don’t know and rightly divide the preaching with the Word of God. If they are not using scripture as the basis for their message, that should be a huge red flag. Your method leaves you open to deception. Satan knows God’s voice too, as he was at one time in direct contact with him.

[@IAM2388]

I may agree with the books but let's not forget celebrate recovery was started at Saddleback Church and this is a really successful ministry where repentance is no joke

[@eboronkay]

Indeed!!! I have been in 12 step programs for 30 years. It helped me ‘treat the symptoms’ but not actually ‘find the cure’. In 2014 I joined Celebrate Recovery. It has made all the difference because my Higher Power is Christ the Holy Triune God. Now I’m changed because I have surrendered control to Him. I am finally growing into the woman He always intended.

[@ToOpen6seven]

So sorry for the loss in both of your family of these precious and beautiful children. I know God has been your help and strength through it all.

[@dougmcminn9346]

Two rules I was given many yrs ago 1) after reading the book is my view of God lifted up not downgraded 2) after reading the book is my understanding of the scriptures deepened - two sound tracks to be guided by -

[@jenniferadame7326]

I watched the shack with the expectations of this just being a movie , I found issues with the doctrine but I enjoyed their explanation of how God sees us and how much he loves us . I didn’t pay any mind to anything else . I only saw this as a story .

[@Lazydaisy646]

I found it very disturbing and distressing

[@jeanienapier6566]

So did I. The book was disturbing to me.

[@bcatcool]

People are so weak. THe shack had a few issues but installing fear into everyone is so OTT.

[@suzannemartin6817]

It WAS a story. It was the authors account, meant only for his children, of how the Lord brought him through that very dark season. The ONLY problem with the book is that people think erroneously that it was meant to be theological instruction.

[@biblicalworldview1]

It is just a story. However it is a story that represents God that people read and feel like they understand God better somehow after reading it or watching the movie. This is extremely problematic. For people to know who God is they need to read the Bible not a book that misrepresents him.

[@debbystuebs733]

I had serious red flags on The Shack. I too could not pin point what it was, but everyone I knew who had read it, raved about it!! I guess the lesson here, trust that inner discernment 💕✝️

[@Vangie759]

I had the same experience with The Shack….. couldn’t pinpoint why, but it didn’t gel with my spirit.

[@KingsDaughter1957]

Ditto! So I went online and found Dr. Michael Youssef's discussion of it and he explained it best and then I thought "ah HA!"

[@joannawert3095]

Truly puzzled as to why some people liked The Shack so much and why they didn't see red flags. My mom gave it to me. She was one who apparently loved it. (She also had 0 discernment, in my estimation.) I read it cover to cover hoping to get something worthwhile out of it. That never happened.

[@sharonmiller7215]

It's someone's view and opinion. Stop!

[@joannawert3095]

Why would you feel guilty?@johneldred4195

[@laurenharper1510]

I have been through some pretty extreme grief as my daughter died. Jesus calling always help me go forward into seeking Jesus with all my heart. I’ve read the Bible daily for 1-2 hours for years , as well as cover to cover several times. I have not seen a problem biblically with Jesus Calling. The shack, however, gave me so many red flags in my spirit, that I couldn’t finish it.

[@gdhhayes2129]

The Jesus Calling gave me a feel good experience but when it was drawn to my attention the pitfall of it ( my adult daughter pointed it out) I began to recognize it. I was born and raised in a false religion; one that began by a charismatic young man who claimed to have personal visits fromJesus and Angels. After decades of loyal activity in that church I began to question some things. Ultimately I came out of that false religion but I find i must still be very careful about being deceived as Satan is so very cunning. He deceives often through posing as "light". He imposes a lie amongst truth so that we swallow the lie along with truth never even recognizing we are taking in lies.

[@teresapitchford9892]

I agree with you regarding Jesus Calling, it is a tremendous blessing to me.

[@lauracheever]

A Christian friend gave me a nice, leatherbound copy of Jesus Calling as a gift, but I never read it. I felt a little guilty about neglecting her gift, but I just didn't feel good about it. Now I know why!

[@pollynevers8201]

Same exact story with me. Even a leather bond copy. I threw it in the trash last week when getting rid of books I knew I would never read. The next day I heard a podcast talking about this book! I’m glad I never read it.

[@pollynevers8201]

Bound not bond

[@carolcollins6243]

My mom really got into Jesus Calling. She was in her 80s and just couldn’t imagine that anyone would write something for Christians that might be questionable in light of truth. She bought copies for all five of her children and grandchildren. I didn’t know much about the book but I couldn’t get into it. I just had an odd adverse reaction to the daily devotions. The book lay on my bedside table for several years. Then I ran across an article about Sarah Young and the backstory of Jesus Calling. I finally realized why I struggled with the book and Sarah Young’s writings.

[@sandyriggers4667]

Same here, exactly! I felt bad about not wanting to read it, but I guess the Holy Spirit was guiding me away. We should be praying always for discernment in these times.

[@barefootkid592.0]

My sister gave me the leather bound with my name engraved 😔 I felt really bad when I had to throw it out, but I can't have a book full of mysticism in my home..

[@montgca1]

I understood Jesus Calling was Sarah's own personal conversations with God...there were some things I didn't agree with but there were revelations that were eye-openers for me about my relationship with God...

[@Copwriter]

Alisa, thank you for interviewing Tim. I've been blessed by his writing for some time now. We lost our oldest son in 2017. Like Tim's son, our son was following the Lord and was taken suddenly. I look forward to reading Seasons of Sorrow. God bless you both.

[@conservativemama3437]

So sorry for your loss.

[@kate60]

No one knows your sorrow. God will be glorified in this. You will understand later

[@michelem7986]

🙏🏻

[@stockinettestitch]

I wanted to know the Bible without having to read it - which is why I bought Jesus Calling. A couple of KZbinrs I liked had mentioned it in a positive light. I read a few days’ worth and something made me look it up on KZbin. Wow! I got MacArthur, Dave Hunt, Warren B Smith. I tore up that book, a few pages at a time, and never looked back. Sarah Young recently died, btw. I hope she made things right with God.

[@applesauceandoranges]

Wow that's put well...wanted to know the Bible without reading it. That's where a.lot.of. people are and why there's such a market for these.books.

[@robertdesantis6205]

You can't know the Bible w/o reading it. You'll only get opinions which may or may not be sound. Bible study is hard work. There are no short cuts. Acts 17:11

[@L.Fontein7]

Please re-think not reading the Bible. Look at it this way... Reading scripture and being familiar with the Bible is one way that the Lord talks to us; how He communicates with His children. Plus (and here's the guilt portion of my post), I'm not much of a reader, but I'll ask you the question that continually haunted me and motivated me to finally read the Bible: When you get to Heaven after all the wonderful, incredible things the Lord has done for you, not the least of which was saving your sorry soul...Do you really want to stand there and look Him in the face and have to say "Sorry God, I didn't feel like reading your book..." Yikes - not me!!

[@lexifan23]

Wow, having read the Bible and knowing it is the only thing that makes reading other books ok. It is the standard we are judging what is true.

[@aquaseahorselove3939]

Whenever you receive information about the Bible from an outside source, you're receiving that information through a filtered version of the person communicating it. I became a Christian from reading the Bible. I read the whole Bible from cover to cover. I started with the New Testament and read it all the way through and then I went back to the Old Testament and read it all the way through. When I was reading about Jesus in the New Testament, my first thought was, WOW why haven't I ever heard anyone tell me about THIS Jesus before? I was floored with how loving and compassionate Jesus was. This comment is a year old, but I hope you have been able to read the Bible for yourself by now. It truly is life changing.

[@fomessenger3784]

I like what Alissa shared about having been around the charismatic movement and how much richer deep diving in Scripture is - being satisfied with the fullness of His Word. I’ve gone from Calvary Chapel for my early years to a Pentecostal Church for several years and now back, including 5 years in BSF. Jesus is the living Word. We know His voice in the Bible.

[@feltonite]

I appreciated so much Tim's comment that God prepared him ahead of time in the knowledge that God is good. Looking back, I think that might have been the case for me in the loss of our son back in May. I was able to run and cling to God in spite of human logic to the contrary.

[@racheltonner2509]

So glad to hear the Holiness of God first on the list! One of my favorites! Knowing Scripture is also a book by Sproul that every Christian should read.

[@Cookies-i2f]

Alisa, I like how calm you speak, and that you dress comfortably and not showy with tons of makeip and jewelery. Your shirt is a good colour for you. As a Canadian we often find American Christian women loud and over the top.

[@OctoberSkiesBenediction]

As an American, I often find American Christian women loud and over the top.

[@Janer-52]

Thank you, Alisa and Tim! This video really blessed me. I had a very negative reaction to both the first and third books you mentioned to be avoided, and you gave me clarity about why I would have had that reaction. Fortunately I had not purchased them. I really appreciated your discussion of how each of the 5 books did not line up with God's revelation of himself. I now have a template of how to assess a book rather than just my internal reaction. At a relative's urging, I did read The Shack. Going into it, however, I knew it wasn't going to be Biblical, so I read it as I would have read a science fiction book (pre-salvation). I enjoyed it as a story. When discussing the book afterwards with my relative, I was able to easily say it didn't line up with God's word, and no, it didn't change the way I perceived God. I was disappointed when you mentioned the last book as I had believed the little boy's account. When reflecting on it, however, the Lord showed me examples of falsehood, so I am at rest. Thank you again. Shalom

[@debm1674]

I was privileged to hear Tim share in January 2023 at the Speak the Truth in Love conference in Spring, TX. Thank you both for this much needed message of discerning what comes across as Christian. R. C. Sproul's book of the Holiness of God was a powerful beginning (20+ years ago) of getting me out of yo-yo feeling-based Christianity and learning the importance of Scripture as our authority and knowing who GOD really is! --Holy and Sovereign. Many of us who've grown under bible-based teaching churches after leaving "fluffy feeling" based churches, charismatic churches, liberal/progressive - and yes even a couple from Lakewood Church/prosperity gospel teaching have learned that the more popular something is - watch out and discern carefully first. The Bible is our authority - 2 Timothy 3:16

[@lisfong]

This was wonderful! Thank you Alisa and Tim for such a wonderful conversation!

[@carolbradley4845]

Years ago I read The Shack. I remember wondering why so many people liked this book. I wasn’t impressed at all and it left me feeling unsettled. I threw it in the trash. Years later the movie comes out and by this time (Thank God) people like Tim had sounded the alarm about the author. I refused several requests to go see the movie and voiced my opinion. I was accused by my cousin (who claims to have special ministry in deliverance) that I had a “spirit of religiosity”. It hurt my feelings but I got over it by reading my Bible. Thank you Lord for Your Word. On a side note…. When I was a young Christian, I knew that the world was full of false teachers false prophets, false teachings, etc. I prayed a very simple prayer. Please Lord, I don’t know a whole lot. I want to learn Your Word. please protect me from false teachings. He has protected me time and time again and I thank Him for it. Same thing with “ Rabbi” Jonathan Cahn. I would like for you all to do a video on this guy.

[@lancethefilmguy9392]

Not a fan huh?

[@annieb7919]

@carolbradley4845 I pity your poor trash can!

[@annestansell1523]

As a teen I received Christ, my family was Catholic. I attended a church recommended to me that was charismatic this was about 1971. I had just started reading the Bible and had no clue what was going on there. They told me, if I said I was happy all the time I had a lying demon. I went home so upset, my mom asked what was wrong. I tried to explain. Even though she only understood Catholic, she gave me some of the best "spiritual advice" I ever received. "Don't worry about what others say. Go to bed things will seem better in the morning." I did and things were better, I realized I could just find somewhere else to go. I don't think my mom was a Christian at this point, didn't understand my newfound faith but she loved me. God uses who he will.

[@Goodtogo4567]

Sounds like your mom has the spiritual gift of wisdom. BTW history tells us Catholics are the first christians, and compiled the Bible in 375 AD.

[@JacquelineRPrice]

I felt the same way when I read Blue Like Jazz, Velvet Elvis and The Shack. There were so many of my Christian friends who were fawning all over these books and gushing about them. I read them and was like, ummm, no, something is definitely off here.

[@lancethefilmguy9392]

What's wrong with Blue Like Jazz?

[@amylynnhunt55]

I had such a strange, now less strange, experience with The Shack. Every time I would pick it up, I got physically ill. ", Everyone" read it, and recommended it. I finally tossed it. Blue Like Jazz was given to my Mom and she had a very similar reaction. She did love Jesus Calling... but now I know my amazing lover of the Bible Mom was in the beginning of early onset Alzheimer's then.

[@saramarotto8466]

TY ...I could never say it but I just thought "The Shack" was so weird and woke.

[@carolyndavis6657]

I was recommended The Shack and bought it but couldn’t get into it so I ended up tossing it. I doubt I read a chapter. I read few books besides the Bible. Right now I’m reading the 1689 Baptist Confessional of Faith and some of the sermons of Jonathan Edwards. I love listening to RC Sprouls so I’ll probably read the book you mentioned. Thank you.

[@Lazydaisy646]

They made my skin crawl

[@GraceAlone50]

When I was waffling on leaving a liberal church where I had so many relationships Jesus Calling was one of my tipping points. It was in our church library. I brought it up to my pastor who defended it. I started conversations with other women in the church and found out they were not only all reading it but responded in confusion about why I was bothered by it.

[@brennajlawrence1911]

Oh, I know exactly what you mean. I haven't had to bring it up to a pastor but I had to with a small group leader. He was VERY offended and so was his wife. I liked them so much. I looked up GREAT articles and reviews about it from Lighthouse Trails and The Berean Call. Both are great ministries like Tim Challies. I wrote a detailed letter on the computer and copied the articles from both Lighthouse Trails and The Berean Call and included that in my letter. He said he read it. I couldn't go back to the small group. He doesn't seem to hold any grudges but I don't know that he has repented. The people who have no discernment on these don't read God's Word and they don't listen to good, strong Bible teachers - bar none. God Bless you, Brenna

[@marydiggins9294]

The Holiness of God by RC Sproul helped me grow up in my faith. I also met RC, and he impressed me intensely.

[@Michele-hd1uh]

I just went through the original Holiness of God with the gentleman who did the original video taping from the 70's when RC Sproul looked like a beatnik.

[@marydiggins9294]

@@Michele-hd1uh I had the originals on VHS, and benefited immensely from them.

[@debiowinyo1441]

Such a great interview providing lots to mull over and DO. Thanks to both of you! Putting these books on my wish list. I actually read The Holiness of God by Sproul about 25 years ago but did not like it because I had a wrong understanding of who God is. Praise God that He opened my eyes and brought me to repentance and faith in what Christ did for me on the cross to avert God's just wrath over my sin, to Himself who never sinned. What amazing grace and unspeakable mercy!

[@GinaRM444]

I am so happy to see Tim on this podcast. I have followed him for a while, saw him in person in April 2023. and read his book, Season' of Sorrow. He is a blessing as he loves the Lord and brings the light of the Lord through his ministry.

[@darrolbuckton949]

Just a-b-s-o-l-u-t-e-l-y a-m-a-z-i-n-g. I was mesmerized by this podcast......and, Yes! I was totally moved. Jesus Christ Is The Only Way! Watching from South Africa 🇿🇦

[@worshipmusician45601]

I'd love to hear this conversation with Kevin Thompson, Mike Winger, Warren Mcgrew, Dr Michael Brown, Tim Stratton. Maybe this could be a series.

[@barefootkid592.0]

Mike Winger is sus

[@malissiajones7761]

I don't read any of this kind of material. I haven't since many years ago. Podcasts like this remind me of why that is.

[@MrCatlover2012]

I believe the Bible with the guidance of the Holy Spirit is all we need to live a true Cristian life!!

[@richardharris8538]

Christianity is utterly implausible. The bible is an appallingly bad guide to ethics. It's just Bronze Age through Roman Period mythology. Its primitive understanding of morality was based upon the whims of warlords and slave-owning tyrants. The book’s errant theology is predicated on the gross lack of moral understanding demonstrated by the god-fella, (who starts off implying he was one of several gods). He told Adam and Eve that they must not eat fruit from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, because that would supposedly give them moral understanding. It therefore follows that he created them without moral agency. They were then tempted with the fruit, and lied to about the consequences. So the only grounds for punishing them would be for disobedience, even though they couldn’t have known that was wrong. But the god-fella set them up to fail, and then punished them and all their descendants. Obviously, far and away the most immoral person in this sorry tale is the god-fella, and the Christian concept of "original sin" is an absurdity, so there was no need for the god-fella to sacrifice himself. This invalidates the basis for Christianity. Furthermore, the accompanying cosmology is ridiculous. It was obviously authored by ignorant people who believed the Earth was flat, and who had absolutely no idea of the nature of the Earth, the solar system, stars and galaxies. They were also ignorant of the theory of evolution by natural selection. I realized the Christian religion and all others are puerile, irrational nonsense when I was twelve years old. Then there’s a problem with Jesus, (apart from the complete lack of historical evidence that he actually existed). Why would the Judeo-Christian god, Yahweh, decide to manifest himself on Earth by inseminating a woman, and then have to wait for nine months until he was born? And what about the dangers of childbirth? Before modern medicine, one in five women died during childbirth, (puerperal fever was a common killer), and it was also risky for the babies. Furthermore, infancy was a hazardous time for the young, with half of them never living beyond the age of five, often dying of infectious diseases. And Yahweh didn’t even inform the people of the germ theory of disease, (unless he told Mary, and she forgot to pass it on).

[@pennyelrich5231]

Except scripture speaks about teachers and those who are taught by teachers of the Word. Heb 5:12 "Although by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to reteach you the basic principles of God’s word. You need milk, not solid food!" And Gal 6:6 "Nevertheless, the one who receives instruction in the word should share all good things with their instructor." These are just two that very clearly state that teaching is a part of the body of Christ experience.

[@pianogal853]

36:24 I'm glad you mentioned The Purpose Driven Church - people at church wanted to have studies using it, but it never quite sat right with me. I just didn't want to waste time reading it to figure it out.

[@gerriewretham-roos]

Wholesome, grounded wisdom born from deep relationship with God almighty, loved it!

[@francesgandy3589]

The first book God gave me to study was Job!!! at age 60 and I promise you my first thought was What a really BIG God I have and the second was how little I am . Then He Loves me like I could never love in this life. My prayer since has been help me look more like Jesus everyday.

[@jeez3838]

“The Shack” plot hit so close to home for me so I read it. Then I tossed it in the trash in a fit of rage because I realized it was New Age mumbo jumbo and not biblical.

[@pamplachte5089]

It is reality. Not New Age. As someone who was molested as a child, it let me know I was not alone. It is scriptural. Thank God I had people in my life and still do and I do not have to forgive, do not ever have to have people addicted to their politics in my life.

[@kmacintosh1448]

If you listened to a talk by the author you'd realize it was based on his life.

[@Elaine-xd2fb]

Alisa Your Voice is so Perfect for Broadcasting. You are So Easy to Listen to. You Bring the Truth Out in the Open ❤❤❤

[@Nucc3]

I purchased Tim's book on the DISCIPLINE of SPIRITUAL DISCERNMENT when it first came out and I keep going back to it to see if my discernment is improving. I lived near Tim when he was in Toronto and I was hoping to get a meeting with him specifically about discernment, however I can recommend it to be a 5 star must purchase book to strengthen and deepen your faith in Christ.

[@Stiletto2016]

So sorry about the loss of your son. I lost my son too almost 9 years ago.

[@stephanieanderson4106]

Excellent conversation! Thank you! Loved his remarks on our need to "construct" a deep trust in God in this age of deconstruction.

[@bradtalley4121]

Preparing for trials by knowing what God reveals about Himself in His Word is such great advice. From the time I was saved I've had a hunger to know Who God really is. Motivated by Psalms written in acrostic using the Hebrew alphabet, I used the English alphabet to list truths about God, with Scripture. This has helped me in the middle of the night when walking through various trials. In the dark I may not remember the Scripture but I remember God is Almighty, Beautiful (Ps 27:4), Creator, etc. You do have to get creative with some letters like X, God X's out our sins through faith in Christ. And as I keep studying I add truths to lean on. Sometimes I fall asleep before Z, but Zion's King (Ps 2:6) never sleeps, He always is in control.

[@khgblast203]

Congrats to Tim and his wife on their 25th anniversary. Our heartfelt condolences to them on their loss. We also have 2 daughters and a son who is now with Jesus.

[@Teal_Seal]

Wow. I’m so sorry 😢

[@patriciamccool5243]

So good! Thanks so much for this program. My adult niece recently passed away. Her Mom, twin sister, husband, brother and children remain. I will suggest the book to her Mom.

[@idahojoe8232]

Tim is dear solid bro , thank you for having him on… Best Regards, Joseph

[@pauljones9467]

Thank you Alisa and Tim, when I was a youth pastor I used Tim’s “ Great Sermons Series” and many years later, I still get former youth talking to me about how those videos spoke to and encouraged them. Thank you both for your love of God’s word and sharing it.

[@anissahodgson1686]

The Shack was required reading for my son's Christian studies internship. We struggled through that. It's sad that those in charge chose this reading to explain the Trinity...sigh

[@nykka3]

What school was this?

[@thecrew777]

Very sad indeed!

[@megaloschemos9113]

Awful book, seriously couldn't understand why some Christians were gushing over it

[@suzannemartin6817]

Very sad because The Shack was a story of how God walked one man through a desperate season of grief and depression soon.

[@NmarjjbbLopper]

Thank you. This was always troubling for me as I would start the No WAY books and bam- could not read them. Some were the Bible study class or Sunday school choice. I simply hated them. We even had a Ladies Conference speaker who ” whispered “ and at the end young ladies rushed to the front of the church to pray. I wanted to stand up and yell in rage that she was bewitching. As for the ones CHOSEN : Cherished books. Rescued from the flood by my church. I went out in a boat, lost my clothes, furniture, appliances. They rescued my treasured books. God is so good.

[@roz6088]

Thank you so very much for calling these books out. For years I have been telling friends of my concern in regards to the Jesus Calling books and The Shack. None would listen to me so I finally shut up sharing my feelings. I don't pretend to be full of discernment. I have been side-tracked myself many times in my walk with Jesus. One of the churches we had attended for many years made A Purpose Driven Life a requirement to read. We have since left that church. Btw, Alisa, it was great having you in Tucson again, and what a blessing to hear you sing. Your book Another Gospel has really woken me up. Planning to read your latest book very soon. Tim Challies, thank you for your insight. My sincere condolences on the loss of your son. May God greatly comfort you and your family and give you strength each day.

[@sarahsays194]

I'm not fully convinced on throwing out Jesus Calling. The one I have has multiple verses that tie into whatever the point of the day is on every page. It's fairly feel good, yes, but it doesn't shy away from sin aspects as well, and so far I haven't seen her take such exteme liberties so as to drop it. I also haven't felt any Holy Spirit red flags.

[@teresapitchford9892]

Amen, I totally agree with you.

[@brandylou9132]

I wish I could find a place of study in which people were not sucked in to writings that do not exemplify, or glorify God and Jesus. Especially in Women's studies. Thank you for this podcast

[@thecrew777]

Really quite helpful. Thank you Tim! Thank you Alisa! Love and prayers for Tim and his family. Knowing the character of God makes ALL the difference. It made the difference for me of being lost forever or salvation in Christ.

[@OliveWeitzel]

Mc Arthur's book "Slave" is GREAT for born again believers! I bought it 2nd hand in German, paid 30 Euro and do not regret it! A MUST READ for every true believer!

[@standingfortruth1768]

The mega church model- too big to know your pastor of him to know your name= small groups= cliques= nobody concerned about others outside their little clique. All parties, cookouts, etc it's usually the little clique invited. So sad- breaks my heart to see how things have changed since 1986.

[@oneknb]

I so much agree with Tim's choices and appreciate this presentation. Like Alisa, I also have had qualms about particular books (including The Shack and Jesus Calling) but haven't really known how to distinctly say why. Friends and family have loved and gifted these "off" books, yet I was disheartened about that. I agree again with Alisa about encouraging people to directly read/listen to The Bible instead of books/teachings of men. For many years within churches I have wondered, "What Bible are they reading??" It's so true that we can't communicate truth without ruffling feathers of those who have no ears for it: there is no reasoning things out together allowed. Truth-tellers are often called Bible-thumpers, legalists, religious-spirited Pharisees and self-righteous. Yet that is not the heart of so many like me who agree with the content of this video. Thank you for some confirmation. It feels good to hear it spoken so well. It spurs me to pray fervently once again for true revival among my relations especially, even though many attend church.

[@conniekline9881]

Thank you for this interview with Tim Challis. I tried “Jesus Calling,” but it wasn’t setting well with me, for the reasons Tim stated. I never read The Shack, but do remember the hype and controversy regarding it. The review regarding The Purpose Driven Life was pushed by my pastor at my old church, and it was timed with surveying desired neighborhoods, and trying to get deep pockets into the church, the correlation you drew helps me make sense of why it wasn’t setting well with me either. Thank you for the recommendations.

[@barefootkid592.0]

I found Jesus calling sickening, I couldn't stomach the romantic overtones, it was weird to read and made me feel extremely uncomfortable!

[@davidwireback8621]

I don't believe you at all I have been reading Jesus calling off and on for a few years. And what you're saying is absolutely false. Everything she says in here she has a scripture reference to it.

[@davidwireback8621]

I don't believe you at all I have been reading Jesus calling off and on for a few years. And what you're saying is absolutely false. Everything she says in here she has a scripture reference to it.

[@mariabarnes9197]

Based on what has been said about "Jesus Calling" "'of course we want more direct communication from God, but the bible is what has been given us,'" we should be content with what we have. So my question is, what about Enoch, "that preacher of righteousness, who Walked & Talked w/ God til he was not?" Why do we dismiss the biblical account of his ongoing hearing from God?

[@karenkamer5696]

......add to that beautiful list, Corrie ten Boom❤

[@brentglittle]

Suggestion. When doing separate subjects ( books) separate them on the timeline so we can look at one instead of forcing us to wade through 1 hour to get to a particular review.

[@kathym9322]

I love the Jesus Calling devotional. She’s not quoting scripture, but scripture references are under each devotional. I haven’t listened to this presentation yet, so not sure what you said about it. But I do like it.

[@teresapitchford9892]

I love Jesus Calling too, I have been reading it for 4 years now and it has been a tremendous blessing to me.

[@argerm57]

Regarding the conversation around "The Purpose Driven Church", Paul Washer has a saying that goes something like, if you draw people using carnal means, you have to keep them using carnal means.

[@jayjaychadoy9226]

I haven't read Tim's book. My 40 year old believing and baptized son died by suicide in 2021. He had had a time in the wilderness and it had come to an end, and ge was embracing his faith again. I do not know why God chose this timing for him. What I do know is that He is showing me His sovereignty, and His faithfulness and goodness. He is showing me all the reasons I have to not just know Him more, but reasons to be grateful that He died a suffering death. Thank you Tim for reminding me that death is not the end. Although I don't listen to many of the life after death stories, I believe that we are to talk to each other about heaven as we are instructed to do. Not everyone wants to do that, but maybe it's a way to start the gospel story. I see that God is using me for that. May we all be comforted in our suffering by learning more from our bibles, by way of the holy spirit, and God's presence, in Jesus name.

[@kimkretzsinger5670]

Thank God I haven’t lost my grip on Our SOVEREIGN 1LORD GOD ALMIGHTY with the unexpected loss of my only child to a drug overdose at the age of 26 on March 10. Giving God all the praise and glory for His Comfort , Peace, and Joy in this deep dark valley 🙌🙌🙌🙌✝️✝️✝️✝️

[@kristencobb230]

I felt the same reading Jesus Calling. Way too many liberties taken with the word of Jesus. Elaboration, interpretation, and honestly fabrication. Thanks for confirming what my gut told me. Taking mine off the shelf.

[@lindarieker1555]

Jeremy Herrell, a new Christian podcaster, reads from Jesus Calling every day. I usually don’t listen to that part.

[@carolynboyd8539]

Many of the minister’s donot write these books it print name on hoping to get abig sale. A lot of these books takes people away from Bible. You have to start from beginning of the Bible, the Old Testament is like a story. The problem no, Christian book is like the Bible. Many take verse of Bible tell it like they think it means. There are few good ministers not very many. God will show you if you are believer. I had to stop going to church because ministers are not teaching right. I can’t stand the religious music, I like the good old Christian music that make since. They tray your emotions, it’s your heart.

[@geraldarcuri9307]

This is good advice... IF your church leadership encourage reading at all. I offered to set up and manage a lending library at our church, letting the pastor and elders "curate" the content. I didn't get to first base with the idea. Why? The ostensible reason given to me by the pastor is that he was too busy to read a lot of books before approving them. That was a dodge. The real reason is that he doesn't trust the congregation to read broadly, even in well-vetted, known Christian literature. It's a weird sort of intellectual fundamentalism that infects many smaller evangelical churches today. Very narrow-minded. And we wonder why Christians are often ridiculed as being simpletons? Look no further than local pastors who don't encourage intellectual curiosity and rigor in their congregations. The adolescent-minded church does not threaten them with having to hone their own theological minds. Sad.

[@kellylundblad2616]

I have enjoyed Jesus Calling, I HATED The Shack which was recommended by my pastor at that time I was really disappointed at his recommendation. Tim is spot on in pin pointing why I hated The Shack, just offended my spirit.

[@rebeccastaib551]

God bless u both for this conversation! Death comes to us all, and the ones we love but it is the gospel of Jesus Christ that is our only hope and He is faithful and mighty to save. Thank you Jesus! It’s this truth that we must hold so tightly onto because like Tim said, we have to be prepared for tragedy and lean into who God is and what the Bible says now! I’ve never felt so at peace with the idea of death, as when I was in college and I was diving into my relationship with Jesus for myself. I was in a car accident (praise God I only had a concussion) but as we went air borne I thought “I’ve never been married or had kids, and that’s ok Jesus I might see u now!” I knew in my heart that He was better than anything in this life I could ever receive! So good to have the fruit of the spirit in my life and the peace that surpasses all understanding! But also I just have one question about this talk, as a naively young person and Christian, I read the novel the shack in high school, I loved it, and I watched the movie years ago, and loved it, cried every time, I even brought an unbelieving friend with me to the movie and she felt conviction and had some spiritual battles happening and I thought it was a good thing! I haven’t watched it or picked up the book in years, and maybe I would understand the issues better now- but what specifically in it was progressive? From what I remember, it was a good picture of God’s forgiveness and walking through grief. Thoughts!

[@shaydame0777]

God bless you! Just my two cents, but yeah, i agree with you. I think we should all be cautious with anything we read, watch, or hear, outside of the Bible, but i think many books can teach lessons in wisdom. A broken clock is still right twice a day. Next, they’ll be attacking CS Lewis’ Narnian series, or others for being fictional, yet he found a way to present the gospel in a children’s fictional story, and did it wonderfully. There seems to be so much bashing and witch hunting these days and less time spent just talking about how awesome our saviour is and speaking on His word and sharing testimonies. Btw, yours is amazing! Praise God for His protection and care over you! I don’t want to diminish the fact that we must call out false doctrines and teachers, but i also think we must pray for discernment in doing so, and maybe let some things be personal convictions for people. Kinda like how many people have attacked me for listening to Christian metal and aggressive worship, but if they’d just read the lyrics and get to know the artist’s lives, they may chill out some on it. Those bands lead me face down in tears in worship. Anyway, sorry for the long reply lol, i just get excited about these things. 🙏🏼😊

[@rebeccastaib551]

@@shaydame0777 this makes me feel a bit better! Haha thank you for your reply! Yeah, I guess we could pick apart any artistic work and see the bad side of it if we’re really searching. And thank you! Yes, praise God for everything he’s done for us!! :) I’m right there with u too with the different genres of Christian music- I’m not particularly into rap, but there are some rap artists that their lyrics are sooo fire, it brings me to worship the Lord in such a deep way!

[@shaydame0777]

@@rebeccastaib551 You’re welcome, and thank you as well. So true. I think many just try to dig up anything to criticize even if at times it’s meant to be helpful. As long as art isn’t becoming sinful, we must try to see some good in it. Like the secular music argument. I won’t listen to things glorifying sex, drugs, partying, paganism or other religions, but i can see God in a love song about someone’s significant other. Many love songs have such good meanings. Even if someone wrote about a dog or a tree, God created those things and i can see His glory in them. And i agree.. i love some gospel rap too! 😊 esp some of the older ones like Mars ILL, ILL Harmonics, Grits, i could list so many. I listen to so many diff genres. Music is life to me. Praise God, He is so good!

[@lancethefilmguy9392]

​@@shaydame0777This is probably the best response to the video. I totally agree with you on how the Church Culture has done a disservice in trying to tell the truth in love. Sometimes, it seems like some Christians don't tell the truth in love but in criticism. And yes there is a difference. Telling the truth in love only works if the person you are speaking to knows that you love them. If it's a random stranger, they will assume that you hate them for disagreeing. Also, the truth in criticism is where some folks care more about being right than the truth. Sadly, like you said, there are some people who want to condemn anything that they don't agree with and all that does is make us dislike each other. As Christians, we are not always going to agree on everything. A Baptist preacher & a Methodist preacher will have some differences in their preaching. However, as someone once told me, as long as they believe that Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever [Heb. 13:8] and if they believe that for God so loved the world He gave his only Son that whoever believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life [John 3:16], then that is more important than anything else.

[@shaydame0777]

@@lancethefilmguy9392 amen! Thank you so much! Absolute truth and you said it perfectly. God bless, my friend!

[@sabrinadawn4112]

My former American Baptist pastor had encouraged the whole church to read The Purpose Driven Life when it first came out. Thankfully, I barely got through the first chapter. I changed churches for personal reasons in 2016. That pastor retired in 2017, and was involved in the hiring of a new pastor who preaches a watered down gospel, from what I know from members who recently left the church, because their voices were not being heard when they shared their concerns about the new pastor. Sadly, the church membership today has changed from 300 members to approx 30. It's truly heartbreaking.😪 I believe we are living in times where God is slowly separating the wheat from the tares. I regrettingly did get sucked into Jesus Calling and gave copies to 3 of my good friends for Christmas gifts. The worst part is I gave them as gifts without having read the devotional myself first. Ugh!😐 I am passionate about Biblical truth, but I guess I didn't realize that Sarah Young had said she was getting "extra biblical understanding" from God? Maybe it was because it was late at night when I would read a page from her book before bed, which I would end up forgetting by morning?😆I'm so glad I know now, and of course I will be more discerning in what I am reading from now on. It is so true that we will always offend the person we are lovingly trying to help see the errors when they are believing in something false. I actually welcome it! I want someone to tell me if I am believing in something false. "He who listens to life-giving reproof will dwell among the wise. He who ignores discipline despises himself, but whoever heeds correction gains understanding." ~Proverbs 15:31-32

[@Lazydaisy646]

Our church did it , i believe most of us realised as we got through it , it was lacking any substance and Biblical grounding including my husband who was the Pastor who had decided we should do it on the recommendation of a mentor. He was new to ministry at the time and learnt a big lesson, always check for yourself and no matter how much you trust someone, they might be in error on this.

[@suemcdermott2947]

That was pushed in South Africa too, sadly.

[@Pfrazier43]

The loss we endure in this life is common to all men. How we handle it is the difference. Why as Christians do we endure sorrow. My question is why not. The world would want to be " christian" to escape the problems, not to deal with their sin problem. In our sorrow we either blame God or grow closer to Him. Shortly after breaking my back I lost my husband of 45 years. Not only was I fighting the loss of my husband but trying to deal with the physical problems because the fracture was not healing and never did. But God is good. I am now 15 years past that trauma and I love my Jesus more than ever. He walks with me day by day. He is faithful.

[@DannyGarriga]

Ever since I started to listen to your podcasts, I’ve become more into deeper Bible reader recognizing the importance of studying the scripture to avoid being deceived. Thank you for these podcasts. -Danny-

[@clm3436]

Regarding near death experiences I think we limit God when we expect Him to treat each person exactly the same. These stories should never contradict God's word, but within it there is freedom for God to be fully sovereign, loving, and just according to one's relationship with Him.

[@Jaime-SuperSuffix]

The main problem with "The Shack" is its opening "acknowledgements" supposedly written by one of the characters in the story, which suggests the book is based on a true story. So it misleads people from the start. I thought it was based on a true story when I read it, with the names changed and connection to the actual events downplayed in order to reach a larger audience (a book that directly states that these miracles happened would not be believed and would not sell under the "nonfiction" category; it would have a larger audience under the genre of fiction). The author has a webpage where he condescendingly "apologizes" to those who have been misled by saying he thought it was obvious the acknowledgements were just part of the fiction.

[@thecrew777]

Wow. How utterly irresponsible!

[@valeriemckay7064]

Yep, I read that several years ago and he had me too for a while though not terribly long. When I had the same realization I was not impressed with his character or the story.

[@teresapitchford9892]

Tim, I would like you to quote specific days and words in Jesus Calling which you find bad /unscriptual . I have been reading it for 4 years now, Not to replace my Bible, but in addition to it. I have been very blessed and encouraged in my walk with the Lord. I also pray over it before I read, and have never felt that I should stop reading it.

[@tuppence144]

Great conversation. Thanks for finding and sharing these gems with us.

[@beckimertz8512]

Tim Challes' list of books made me trust myself more on books. I've read three of the books and my thoughts about all of then was pretty much the same as you discussed.

[@michelem7986]

Jesus Calling was heavily promoted in Family Christian bookstores (one of the few brick and mortar Christian bookstores remaining at the time the book was published). It was also one of their $5 promos. A quick peek before purchasing andit looked like a sweet women's devotional. Also available in mass market retailers. A different Jesus is going to be of the world and therefore loved by the world.

[@karenhubbard5037]

Still can't figure out why you people have such an issue with Jesus Calling

[@annarenejungert1272]

Jesus calling is not scriptural. Do some research. She speaks as if Jesus is speaking. She changed some of her books. If the Word of God is sure why would she change it in her book.

[@larryy2101]

I have used JESUS CALLING daily as one of my morning devotional readings for 13 years. It has always been an inspirational and meaningful read. I am grateful to God for the writings of Sarah Young.

[@hotsxychele]

Jesus Calling is not scriptural as Sarah Young added to scripture as if it was not sufficient enough on its own.😢 the Bible tells us not to add to or take away from the word of God.

[@kathym9322]

@@hotsxycheleShe’s not adding to scripture. It helps others see how much Jesus loves them. It’s not to add to scripture. I certainly don’t think if it as scripture, I think of it as a friend talking to a friend. Sone people might like visuals to help them realize how much God loves them.

[@joyceperez5505]

I NEVER READ THE SHACK , AND IVE NEVER THOUGHT THAT THE PURPOSE DRIVEN LIFE LINED UP WITH THE WORD..NEVER LIKED HIM...HE SPEAKS IN A STRANGE TYPE OF MANIPULATION!!!!I NEVER WASTED TIME ON TRYING TO GET INTO HIS WHETEVER... I DONT WASTE MONEY ON UNTRUTH....

[@kathleenkeane3067]

Alisa this conversation was so helpful, thanks to you and your guest.

[@lisaengel89]

It's just so sad that Hobby Lobby can't be discerning with the books they sell. I did see one by Voddie Baucham in there other day and that quite pleasantly surprised me.

[@captdawn]

I want to defend The Shack as the best logic of damaged people hurting more people who then become damaged and pass the dysfunction on... That was a breakthrough for me to forgive a child molester. Of course, I am accountable to Scripture first and only, but The Shack served a purpose in my journey. I am thankful it fell into my hands.

[@ritabrandow1318]

It is New Age movement. The Holy Spirit isn't a female. I know I came out of the New Age movement. The scriptures says in Cors 10- 4-5 Satan appears as an angel of light . This is from a humble spirit and no way want to offend you

[@lwb8326]

@@ritabrandow1318, it's written as an allegory, not a text book on bibilical theolgy. If read as an allegory, it is a profound book. I am an ultra conservative, evangelical, Bible college trained Christian. I avoided "The Shack' like it was from the devil himself until I was in the first and only true faith crisis in my life at age 56 after the sudden loss of my pastor husband. "The Shack" has had a profound and lasting impact on my faith and deepened an already deep relationship with God. I didn't go off the rails biblically or theologically-I remain a conservate and biblically sound, committed Christian. I can understand how it could seem new age and one must understand that the book is an allegory.

[@karenwatson4031]

I've worked in many church libraries. I did get rid of the books you have mentioned.. something was so off . It amazes me that many Christians have no discernment. They would donate books that I didn't put in the library. They didn't notice that the books weren't there. I don't think they even read books. Thank you for sharing.

[@marshallalbritton9521]

This is an excellent interview. Thanks

[@cindybaker7153]

I just cleaned out our church library with my husband’s, the pastor, guidance. I found it was a dump of many years from other people’s library clean out. It was 16 large box loads. If we didn’t know of them, I would quickly read thru and research the writer, then share with the pastor. We need to be careful what we bring into the church. His picks are in my husbands large library, which my husband shared with others. I am currently reading about Mrs. Spurgeon and her life as a Pastor’s wife.