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Summary: Finally, a book besides the Bible that can change your life.
Review: I had heard the name of this book dropped here and there, always seemingly with some special excitement that stuck in my mind. So when I saw it in the store I decided for some reason I needed it. Just one of those things where the Spirit leads and you don't know what's happened until later.Dallas Willard's grasp of the Christian life as exposited by Christ himself, particularly in the Sermon on the Mount, is absolutely compelling. Willard mildly castigates both the theological Right and Left for, respectively, emphasizing saving faith alone in the Christian life as though how we live our lives on earth doesn't really make a difference, and preaching a 'social gospel' bereft of the spiritual or eternal significance that gives it its meaning or moral impetus. He then goes on to put forward a very vivid picture, using a wonderfully consistent and contextual view of Jesus' teachings, of what God intends for our lives here on earth. The author's treatment of the subject seems entirely original and unfettered by the various passing trends of thought that seem to color so many Christian books, and as such also sounds almost radical. But read it for what it is, and you'll find it to be as clear and natural an interpretation of Kingdom living as you'll ever hear. I can hardly imagine a more welcome book for my own spiritual life, and expect it may be so for others too. I would put this book on a par with C.S. Lewis; perhaps even higher since Dallas Willard has crafted a work of not only intellect, but great applicability. This book seems like a life's work, and if so, then I'd have to say it certainly seems to have been worth it. It can be difficult, out of the deluge of Christian books out there, to pick one out as absolutely essential, but as far as I'm concerned this would definitely be such a one, and I ardently hope others find it too.
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Summary: Set Free
Review: This book has transformed my life! Even a spiritual journey of over 30 years has not prepared me for the simple truth Dallas Willard has delineated and expounded in this book that explains so eloquently the true "kingdom heart", the heart of Jesus. After reading this book, I feel that I truly know the heart of Jesus better and my own heart as well. The truth Dallas Willard reveals in this book has truly "set me free". I recommend it highly for anyone seeking the intent of Jesus's message in this world "flying upside down".
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Summary: Only the beginning...
Review: I'm now finishing my third reading of this book. Why? It's that good and I need a "course correction" now and then. It has helped me think more clearly about who God is and what He is trying to do with my life. Willard provides a coherent picture of what discipleship is (and is not) and leads the reader to examine his beliefs and whether they encourage or hinder "doing what Jesus taught". (We "do" according to what we really believe.) Willard, like the apostle Paul, repeatedly pleads with the reader to not only be reconciled to God, but to rely on Him, not just for dying, but for living, Now and into Eternity. After all, this is God's world and the only way for us to come to grips with reality is to know Him and rely on Him. A classic by a person who knows what he's talking about.
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Summary: The key to opening your mind's door!
Review: What pearls of wisdom Dallas Willard so easily reveals! Reading this book was like a light going on in my mind. This is the key to ushering in the Kingdom of God.
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Summary: Beyond Amazing!
Review: When I began to read this book, I assumed that Richard Foster was simply being extravagant and indulgent in the forward- lining up this book with the writings of Wesley, Luther & Augustine. He was NOT! The treatment of the texts, in both grammatical and contextual examination (the centerpiece of systematic theology), is astounding. But what is most amazing is the incredibly common-sense attack he makes on application of the "kingdom among us", the "heavens" and the beatitudes. Even great writing can rarely change a persons beliefs- this book will! "Divine Conspiracy" will not only force you to examine your own prejudices on many texts, it will call you to action. The absolute best book, outside the Bible, I've read!
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Summary: Remarkable, Powerful, Important
Review: The divine conspiracy is destined to become a classic for thoseseeking to understand the nature and heart of God. The book ismasterfully written, combining humour, theology, and philosophy seamlessly into a tapestry that leaves the soul breathless. A life-changing read for anyone who wants to discover the real message of Jesus. DON'T MISS IT!
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Summary: Freedom
Review: Buy this book. Its deep yet concise. Revlatory but not confusing. Penatrating yet simple. Dallas Willard has a great grasp on the kingdom of God and the gospel. And, the real test of its effectivness: its driving me to search God for deeper love and understanding.
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Summary: An absolutely deserved 5 stars
Review: Of all the books (with the exception of the Bible) I have read in the past two and a half years on the topics of Christianity, discipleship, and renewal this book-The Divine Conspiracy is the absolute best. Dallas Willard has clearly been gifted by God as both an author and teacher. He exhibits these gifts in this wonderful book. One cannot read this book and not be challenged. Discipleship is not for just the few. It is a demand on every Christian. We are not following the call of Christ if we do not heed the call to discipleship. Mr. Willard seeks (quite effectively) to lead us in this path. I beseech you ... wherever you are spiritually, get this book and then read it.
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Summary: Most challenging book I have read in five years
Review: Willard's chapter on discipleship struck to the heart and has helped me to grow in Christ. His take on the beatitudes is possibly the best I have ever heard, as he balances the difficulties and brings out the heart of the message Jesus preached.
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Summary: If you're a struggling Christian, read this book!
Review: Dallas Willard gets you beyond mere conceptual Christianity. He shows you how to become a true follower and lover of Jesus, God in flesh, the most brilliant person to ever walk the face of the earth.
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