Living the Spirit Formed Life

Rating:
Summary: Quality description of Christian disciplines
Review: Having read many of Jack Hayford's books I must say that this one is more direct than some of his earlier works. In it, he takes a no-nonsense approach to explaining Christian disciplines.

His purpose for writing the book is to give readers a biblically based approach to Christian living. Basically he tries to answer the question "Now that I am a Christian, what do I do?" Or "Being a Christian seems so difficult, how do I do it?". As expected, he gives a very detailed outline of how "Spirit filled" Christians approach and apply their faith in practical terms. He covers most topics of importance to one's walk with Jesus to include prayer (the second half of the book is all about prayer), worship, bible reading/studying, daily devotions, and many others. I really like the fact that he includes many scriptures to explain the Biblical foundation for it, and why each is important.

Dr. Hayford does come from a pentecostal denomination, so readers should expect to learn a lot about the Holy Spirit's role in Christian living. For those who are not Christian's don't worry. He does not view Christianity as a purely emotional or experience oriented religion. Instead, he gives a very balanced explanation of how Christians should try to live out their life for God.

I recommend this book for anyone looking to strenghten their faith in God. If you are a new believer, this book will help provide you a roadmap for life. If you are a more mature Christian, this book will help remind you of what God expects of us as Christians, and practical ways to deepen our faith in Him.

Rating:
Summary: What a Tremendous Book!
Review: Pastor Jack Hayford (known to many of us as the writer of "Majesty") clearly explains many of the vital disciplines of what it means to be transformed by the power of the Holy Spirit. Having pastored the same church for almost half a century, Pastor Jack knows intimately of what he speaks/writes.

The chapters on giving, forgiving, and fasting are some of the best ever written anywhere by anyone. The theme of discipleship using the Twelve chosen by the Lord Himself only magnifies how much the Father loves His children, and how committed He is to our growth.

This wonderful book makes a magnificent gift for ALL CHRISTIANS! Yes, Pastor Hayford is indeed a "thinking man's Pentecostal preacher"--but he is so much more. He is a warm, gracious shepherd reflecting the heart of the Great Shepherd..our Lord Jesus!

Get this book!

Phil Hoover
Chicago