Jesus Wants to Save Christians: A Manifesto for the Church in Exile Audiobook

" I thought I would read this book because I enjoyed the basic good news of Love Wins, and its message that God's love outshines God's judgment. While I'm glad I read it, this book did not take hold of me in the same way. It does set out the truth of western imperialism as going against the message of Christ: justice, rescue for those in need, a home for the homeless. It leaves me aware of my failure to live out, or up to, the message of mercy. "

" Reading about Bell's "New Exodus" understanding of Scripture helps me to understand why he believes what he does. It's all quite interesting, and on a practical level there is much to be learned from Bell's writing and videos, but his theology misses the whole point of the Bible. Jesus isn't just a good role model, he's our Creator and God. He didn't just come to save us from our own self-centeredness, he came to save us from sin. "

" An excellent reminder of what the church's purpose should be here on earth - to change the world for the better. "

" All the white space and repetitiveness made this book a difficult read. That's a shame because there are some thought provoking ideas that get lost in the presentation. "

" Empire. What happens in the minds and hearts of Gods people when they lose sight if the Passover, Exodus, and story of Jesus. Robs look into the world of New Exodus Theology is phenomenal and is worth everyone's attention. It will grip your mind, heart, and leading up to and most importantly our actions. "

" The political message of this book seriously threatens to overshadow any wholesome message you could derive from it. I do not recommend it to others for this reason alone. Perhaps the most disturbing part is when Bell rails against the politicization of Christianity in lobbying government, then, literally three pages later (p. 161 contrasted with p. 164), advocates the use of money currently being spent on the Iraq war for humanitarian efforts. Don't misunderstand, I agree, but I think a book marketed to revitalize the church should not delve into politics. The truly more egregious errors pertain to the blatant misinterpretation of scripture (p. 169 provides a clear example). Before you open this book, I strongly suggest developing a strong, scriptural, spiritual foundation. Then if you want to check it out, I suggest you read with discernment, just like any other "Christian" book. "

" My favorite books of his by far... written before he decided no one was going to hell. "

" excellent so far. really giving me lots to think about the bible and the gospels. "

" Bell does a great job showing the contradictions between the way many churches function (and Christians live) and the example of Jesus. "

" I read this book in one sitting. It is excellent. I don't buy all of the theology but I found it immensely valuable anyway. I love how Rob and Don make connections that I've never thought of. Brilliant. "

" This book started off slowly enough that it was put-down-able, which is a shame, because about halfway through it really picks up and that's where it became valuable to me to continue reading. Press through the beginning and get to the good stuff. "

" This book was excellent! Again, Rob Bell has done a great job making Christian accountable for how they are viewed. This book truly makes you decide what kind of Christian you want to be... Me, I want to be a Christian Jesus would want to save! "

" amazing. every Christian in America should read Chapter 5 "

" Excellent - I enjoyed it just as much as Rob Bell's earlier book, Velvet Elvis. Rob Bell made me think a lot about God's perspective of our world. It brought up a lot of questions about how God views the oppressed, the poor, our country, and the world. "

" looking good! "

" I found it pretty boring and wrong on many many points. I still enjoyed most of it though "

" Although this book seems too short, it is filled with challenges for those who consider themselves Christians. I like the references to different people having a sense that something about the world is not quite right. This is one of those books that can shake us out of lives of daily repetition. "

" An excellent entry-level introduction to the Biblical theme of "New Exodus" theology. Convincing and convicting. "

" All the white space and repetitiveness made this book a difficult read. That's a shame because there are some thought provoking ideas that get lost in the presentation. "

" It made some good points that will stick with me, but I also found it one-sided and inaccurate in parts, so it's not something I intend to reference a lot. But I'm really glad I read it. There are several things I jotted down in my journal that I really liked. "

" I haven't (but barely) begun reading this book. The title is very provocative... we shall see. "

" They tell it like it is... the church is in exile, Christianity was never intended to be a religion of empire, and we've done violence to it by trying to make it one. "

" Getting the bigger picture of our mysterious God "

" I read this so long ago. All I can remember is that it took me forever to finish. It's so completely dry. I felt as if I was reading an exegesis for one of my college courses. "

" This book challenges the church to be relivant in today's society and to seek God with a pure heart. The importance of attempting to serve God without our own ideas getting in the way is discussed. "

" Every seven seconds, somewhere in the world a child under the age of five dies of hunger, while Americans throw away 14 percent of the food we purchase. "

" Good thoughts from Bell as usual, but not as enjoyable for me as Velvet Elvis or much of his other work. Still a worthwhile read. Basically is a good outline of a peaceable Liberation Theology. "

" Excellent contextual study for those looking to reconcile the Old Testament with the New Testament. "

" Prepare ye the way of the Lord Make a straight path for Him here Into the heart of the world Exiled in bondage and fear Release those held captive in chains That once had bound you before Let justice and mercy flow through you Prepare ye the way of the Lord "