Christianity Today

I am a mis_sionary in a restricted country. I read David's "Radical" about a year ago - which was a tremendous inspiration and encouragement to continue sharing Good News. Can hardly wait for his new book "Follw Me". I've appreciated his being "sold out" for the cause of Christ, and taking Biblical stances seriously. I thank God for David Platt!

I know that I will thoroughly enjoy this book when I buy it on MP3 - but I percieve that I will have problems agreeing with the doctrine of his silence by affirming people in their faith when he has no idea from which theological camp they come from - nor caring as though it is irrelevent. Too many authors hide among the silence of "theological standardisation" assuming that all who love Jesus must have come through the door of sincerity and have no need for further encouragement, like Apollos in Ephesus. "Getting Serious" should include getting serious about the DOOR as well as the PATH! This man is just another Apollos - powerful, zealous, versed in Scripture yet needing to hear the rest of the story (Acts 18).

I tend to agree with Rick Dalbey that we need a special anointing from the Holy Spirit to bear Spiritual fruit. Otherwise, we fall into a trap of condemnation and bondage, attempting to do good works in an effort to prove to ourselves that we are saved. The truth is we are never going to be good enough to satisfy God. Jesus died that we might be reconciled to God. The important things are reconciliation, fellowship and relationship with the Lord. Yes, being obedient is part of that. Being baptized in the Holy Spirit sounds good too if it promotes a closer walk with Christ. Spiritual fruit will follow as we seek the Lord and the power of the Holy Ghost. Jesus came to set us free. His burden is light and His yoke is easy.

"You assume, because of Platt's denomination, he has no understanding of such a thing; which, lets be honest, is the only reason you replied to this article." What? I have no idea what you mean Garret. I was raised as a conservative baptist. I spent years doing bible studies, trying to be more holy, heard many sermons exhorting more devotion. Then I was baptized in the Holy Spirit as people laid hands on me. Suddenly I could not get enough of bible reading. I witnessed to everyone I saw. I discovered that His yoke is easy and His burden is light. That is why I comment. I fell in love with jesus. Not to correct anyone's theology.

Rick - Platt is neither laying out a discipleship template or expounding upon the nature of the Holy Spirit. This book is about the sovereingty of God and the sufficiency of Christ, in our lives. And while I'm sure you see ministry and pneumatology as inseperable, not everyone emphasizes, "baptism of the Holy Spirit." You assume, because of Platt's denomination, he has no understanding of such a thing; which, lets be honest, is the only reason you replied to this article. If you weren't, we'd actually be engaging what Platt is saying. Ruth - I would read Platt's response on page 5 to the question: "What about, say, a factory worker who loves Jesus and wants to follow him, but works long hours because he needs to support his family? How would you counsel him?" I believe his point is that, following Jesus means being ready and willing to go wherever He asks whether that be in a Factory, or South America; after all, if we're unwilling to go then are we really following Him?