Book
The Truth Shall Make You Odd: Speaking with Pastoral Integrity in Awkward Situations by Frank G. Honeycutt (Brazos, 2011)
The Facts: According to Honeycutt, clergy “truth telling” in all areas of ministry is crucial to a congregation’s ability to thrive. Satan’s opposition to truth, and our own fear of honesty’s consequences, must be faced and overcome in every church.
The Slant: Many assume that telling the truth is the norm among pastors and their churches. But this isn’t always the case. Honeycutt, a Lutheran pastor, argues that honesty must be reexamined and reclaimed. Focusing both on congregational life and pastoral vocation, the author pulls no punches describing the havoc Satan wreaks on Christians through dishonesty. The book contains many practical ways to speak and live truthfully in a culture of deception. The section on adult catechesis and conversion is a good example.
—David Swanson
Book
Folly, Grace, and Power: The Mysterious Act of Preaching by John Koessler (Zondervan, 2011)
The Facts: Koessler wrote Folly, Grace, and Power because he couldn’t find a suitable text for his course on the theology of preaching. In fewer than 150 pages, Koessler covers the relationship of preaching to many important theological themes, including the Holy Spirit, humanity, inspiration, and eschatology. At the same time, he takes care to demonstrate the practical outcomes of thinking biblically about preaching.
The Slant: Knowing that the book was developed by a professor as a required text might not excite you. But fear not, Koessler speaks with the voice of a seasoned pastor and preacher. It is clear that he knows the challenges of preaching regularly, and in difficult situations, such as at funerals. The book is not a manual of preaching mechanics. It focuses instead on the values and purpose of preaching. Pastors will find this book valuable, especially Koessler’s chapters on authority and language.
—Brandon O’Brien
Group DVD Study
Not a Fan: Small Group Discipleship Study For Adults by Kyle Idleman (City on a Hill Studios, 2011)
The Facts: The Not a Fan study is a six-week video-based program designed for small groups. It includes a six-lesson DVD set, leader’s guide, and 42-day “Follower’s Journal” for daily interaction with the material. Kyle Idleman’s goal is to encourage churchgoers to abandon their status as mere “fans” of Jesus and commit to following him. The DVD lessons are creatively packaged as a film narrative that highlights one man’s journey from “fan” to “follower.” Many other resources are available to customize how your group engages with the curriculum.
The Slant: The Not a Fan study raises some excellent, tough questions regarding Jesus’ repeated calls to follow him. The group resources are helpful, but most valuable are the practical exercises in the accompanying “Follower’s Journal.” These consist of interesting questions and personal “check-ins” to help cultivate self-reflection and sincere devotion. The video is well produced and evocative. One possible drawback: Idleman’s critique against consumer faith is packaged rather, well, consumeristically. The study ends by suggesting a “T-shirt challenge,” which may distract from the study’s lesson. But overall, groups that decide to benefit from this solid study won’t be disappointed, so long as they have a plan for continuing on as “followers” of Jesus once the DVD player has been turned off.
—Paul Pastor
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