Read and Found the Joy of Knowing Christ #LeadersAreReaders April 2024

I was reading one of powerful stories from Richard Wurmbrand's Tortured for Christ (1969) about how he witnessed to a Russian lady officer on the street during the communist period in Romania. "I know that it is impolite to accost an unknown lady on the street, but I am a pastor and my intentions are earnest. I wish to speak to you about Christ," Wurmbrand said as he approached her. She asked, "Do you love Christ?" "Yes!" he replied passionately, "From all my heart." She fell into his arms and kissed him again and again. It was an embarrassing situation to do this in public, so he kissed her back, hoping people would think they were relatives. She exclaimed joyfully, "I love Christ too!"

He then took her home to meet his wife and talked to her where it was safer. He read to her selected Scripture passages. Along the way, he discovered that she knew nothing (Biblical facts, Gospel stories, what the Saviour and salvation mean) about Christ - absolutely nothing - except the Name. And yet she loved Him. He wondered, "How can you love somebody if you know only his name?" When he inquired, she explained, "As a child, I was taught to read by pictures. For an 'a' there was an apple, for a 'b' there was a bell, for a 'c' a cat, and so on. When I went to high school, I was taught my holy duty to defend the communist fatherland. I was taught about communist morals. But I did not know what a 'holy duty' or 'moral' looked like. I needed a picture for these."

"Now I knew that our forefathers had a picture for everything beautiful, praiseworthy, and truthful in life," she continued. "My grandmother always bowed down before this picture, saying it was the picture of one called 'Cristos' (Christ). And I loved this name by itself. This name became so real to me! Just to say this name gave one such joy!" Wurmbrand commented in the book: "Listening to her, I remembered what is written in Philippians that at His Name every knee should bow. Perhaps, the anti-Christ will be able for a time to erase from the world the knowledge of God. But there is power in the simple Name of Christ (Jesus) and this will lead to the light."

That day, the lady officer found (and was found by) Christ in the pastor's home and since then, the One whose name she loved lived in her heart in person. So, what does this story have to do with reading books, especially the Scripture? The goal is to know the personhood of God, and the primary means, special revelation, is through the Book. Secondly, through books about the God of the Book. Read and be led to the light! May you find the joy of knowing Christ. From pictures to words to Person.

 #LetsMakeReadingCoolAgain #LeadersAreReaders #1Book1Week

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Keep On Reading! #LeadersAreReaders March 2024

I will never know which authors and/or books God will use to make a difference in my life, so I just keep reading with expectation and prayer, knowing that if I do, the possibility is high, and if I don't, it's next to zero. This reminds me of the Ethiopian eunuch who read the Book of Isaiah but didn't understand it until the Holy Spirit, through Philip the Evangelist, explained the Scripture to him. The story is in Acts 8:26-35,

"God’s angel spoke to Philip: 'At noon today, I want you to walk over to that desolate road that goes from Jerusalem down to Gaza.' He got up and went. He met an Ethiopian eunuch coming down the road. The eunuch had been on a pilgrimage to Jerusalem and was returning to Ethiopia, where he was a minister in charge of Candace's finances, queen of the Ethiopians. He was riding in a chariot and reading the prophet Isaiah. The Spirit told Philip, 'Climb into the chariot.'

Running up alongside, Philip heard the eunuch reading Isaiah and asked, 'Do you understand what you’re reading?' He answered, 'How can I without some help?' and invited Philip into the chariot with him. The passage he was reading was Isaiah 53:7-8. The eunuch said, 'Tell me, who is the prophet talking about himself or someone else?' Philip seized the opportunity. Using this passage as his text, he preached JESUS to him" - and the eunuch got baptized, and Philip went on his way.

So, you will never know which authors and/or books God will use to make a difference in your life, just keep reading with expectation and prayer and the Holy Spirit will give you understanding. Amen.

 #ServeToLead #LetsMakeReadingCoolAgain #1Book1Week #KeepOnReading #HabitOfReading #TheBook

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The 10-Minute Rule #LeadersAreReaders February 2024

The months of February and March are quite packed for me but I still managed to find time to read. First, it's due to necessity. If I don't read, I can't do my work and ministry efficiently. Secondly, it's due to habit. Since reading books is a part of my life, I can't imagine a day without reading, especially the Scriptures, even if only for a few sentences. Thirdly, it's due to a principle that I've practiced since last year: the 10-Minute Rule. Namely, starting to read from a book for at least 10 minutes every day. My aim is at least 10 minutes, but usually, I end up reading longer than that.

I find that this rule is helpful because it is achievable and a good way for me to jump-start my mind's engine! Plus, if I don't feel like I want to read (which is rare), I can just endure the 10 minutes and close the book! So, would you like to try a 10-Minute Rule? If it's too hard, try 5 minutes; you have to at least try. Reading books 1) keeps me inspired by other people’s thoughts and if I read the Scriptures, by God's thoughts, wow!; 2) gives me a different perspective; 3) restores my ability to be more discerning with my time; 4) encourages me to spend time with lasting benefits; 5) opens the creative flow as concepts and ideas appear in my mind; and many more. Pick a book, set the timing to 10 minutes, and read!

NOTE: Currently, I'm exploring Roman Catholicism. The book on the Eucharist by Bishop Robert Barron is inspiring, and as I examine the Scriptures and some traditions regarding the argument for transubstantiation, I find myself more inclined to this interpretation. Jimmy Akin, Trent Horn, Joe Heschmeyer, and especially Scott Hahn and Brant Pitre have argued very well on this subject. However, in the case of a book by Father Frederick William Faber on Purgatory, I still find myself skeptical. As I heard half a dozen arguments by Catholics to defend the doctrine of purgatory, I came to my initial suspicion that it is more philosophical rather than Scriptural. By the way, a debate between Trent and James White on this subject is interesting.

#ServeToLead #LeadersAreReaders #The10MinuteRule #ReadingIsLiving #LetsMakeReadingCoolAgain

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Going On Retreat (2014) by Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen, Audiobook

For the past two months, I've been Catholicised (I made up that word) myself with a few good Catholic books and podcasts especially by Brant J. Pitre. Along the way, I stumbled upon recorded sermons and talks by the late Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen (recommended by Bishop Robert E. Barron). I'm immediately hooked by this man. He was known for his TV and radio broadcasts. Bishop Sheen was someone who was not only rock-solid theologically (obviously, I still have beef with some of the Roman Catholic major doctrines) but also a master communicator and could relate concepts with great insight, wisdom, humor, and seriousness that appealed even to the non-Catholics like me. When I hear the man, I hear a deep spiritual giant.

So, I searched for his other recorded materials and found Going On Retreat a live sermon series in the form of an audiobook (6 hours+). Here Bishop Sheen teaches the priests and seminarians during a retreat (1973?) on such topics as the Nature of Christ, The Holy Spirit, Sin and Guilt, The Blessed Mother, the Apostle Peter, etc. Two concepts that stuck with me are: 1) 'Priest-Victim' - where he discusses the nature of sacrifice, the difference between priesthood and victimhood, and the need for priests to be both; and 2) 'The Daily Hour' - the need for priests to pray and fast as spiritual habits that nurture the soul and those who they serve. He once said, "Prayer begins by talking to God, but it ends by listening to Him. In the face of Absolute Truth, silence is the soul's language. Fasting detaches you from this world. Prayer re-attaches you to the next world." His Bible expositions - style and substance - on the Cross of Christ and the lives of the apostles Peter and Judas are superb! Go listen!

#ServeToLead #LeadersAreReaders #ArchbishopFultonSheen #Retreat #Priesthood #LetsMakeReadingCoolAgain

To read my other book reviews/summaries, CLICK HERE

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Jesus and the Jewish Roots of Mary: Unveiling the Mother of the Messiah (2018) by Brant Pitre, Audiobook

Photo taken from the internet

When I was considering Roman Catholicism many years ago, I had a few essential obstacles that hindered me from being one. But after I read books, listen to podcasts, examine the Scripture and Church history, and watch videos about Catholicism from both Catholics and Protestants (I don't take from atheists or agnostics for this important subject), I understand more and more of what I still disagree with, realizing the misunderstandings that I once believed, and observing straight-out anti-Catholic lies that people spread about the church.

For example, Mary of Nazareth, the wife of Joseph, and the mother of Jesus Messiah, My Lord and Savior. I still disagree with the claim of the prominence of Mary in the Scripture. It is definitely hinted at (as the author shows in this book) but it is not obvious (like the divinity of Jesus or the apostleship of Peter). I do, however, agree based on Scripture, traditions, and logic that Mary is the "Mother of God" (theotokos). It's NOT that she is the originator of the being of God (creator) or part of the Godhead (trinity) BUT because she gave birth to the eternal Son of God who became human (incarnation). If Jesus is God (He was/is), then, Mary is the mother or bearer of Jesus, who is God. I have no issue if Mary's perpetual virginity is true, I understand why there is a need to believe in the immaculate conception of Mary even though I think it is more philosophical concept rather than theology, and I'm still skeptical about the assumption of Mary to heaven (there is no internal evidence nor external refutation). But let's be objective: no true Bible-believing Catholics and the Church's Catechism teach people to worship Mary as/like/equal to God or goddess. Ignorance of this fact is a sign of gullibility. Veneration is not adoration (but of course, individuals' beliefs and practices might differ or even error and idolatry).

I thought about all of these - and more - when I listened to Dr. Pitre's book. Here he shows readers how deeply rooted Catholic views about Mary are in the Scripture by taking them step-by-step from Genesis to Revelation. He decodes how the Scripture itself, especially the Old Testament and ancient Judaism, claimed to teach that Mary is indeed the new Eve, the Mother of God, the Queen of Heaven, and the new Ark of the Covenant (the last part about she is also the last Rachel is very interesting). After I finished with this book and listened to his interviews, I'm still not a Catholic but I've become more appreciative and admire the blessed Mary as the servant of God and the mother of God. Because of His immeasurable grace: "Blessed are you [Mary] among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! ...the mother of my Lord... blessed is [Mary] who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her from the Lord... For behold, henceforth all generations will call [Mary] blessed" (Luke 1:42-42, 45, 48).

#ServeToLead #LeadersAreReaders #Catholicism #MaryOfNazareth #JewishRoots #JesustheMessiah #LetsMakeReadingCoolAgain

To read my other book reviews/summaries, CLICK HERE

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Read To Understand Other People's Beliefs #LeadersAreReaders August 2023

When I was talking to an Anglican church lay leader about the Roman Catholic understanding of the Lord's Supper or Eucharist, he thought I was a Catholic. When I said no, he was surprised because it seemed to him that I was defending the Catholics' position, but in actuality, I was just explaining to him what they believe and how they interpret the Scripture and traditions on this matter.

Another time, I was having a casual-turned-serious conversation with a colleague about Calvinism and the five solas. He sounded very convicted, so I challenged him with some questions, thoughts, and Bible quotes. A few months after that, I heard him say to another colleague of mine that I was a Calvinist. I'm not. Perhaps he heard me say, "If I agree with this and that point, does it mean that I'm a (number) point Calvinist?" To the non-Calvinist, I talk like a Calvinist. To the Calvinists, I defended the Arminian. I'm neither (who says there are only two choices? Who says I have to choose?). Likewise, I argue like an atheist when I talk to a Jehovah's Witness and other cults, for example, when they approach me or my students.

Why do I do this? I do this to those who are confident with their positions (friends) and to those who think they have figured it all out (acquaintances and strangers), not to the weak believers in faith. First, for fun and intellectual joy (some may find it intimidating. Well, I'm sort of). Secondly, to challenge other people's assumptions. Thirdly, examine mine. Fourthly, to apply what I've read. And finally, with the previous one, to understand why they believe what they believe. Sometimes you're wrong or in error, and sometimes you make enemies and/or make them think, but you will always learn new things. One of the ways to equip yourself for this kind of conversation is to read widely in the narrow areas of your interests. Read books that you're curious about, books that you don't agree with, and books that enrich your mind and foster empathy.

#ServeToLead #LeadersAreReaders #ReadWidely #NarrowInterests #NonConformist #LetsMakeReadingCoolAgain

To read my other book reviews/summaries, CLICK HERE

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Jesus and the Jewish Roots of the Eucharist: Unlocking the Secrets of the Last Supper (2018) by Brant Pitre, Audiobook

I believe in "the holy catholic Church" as the Apostle's Creed puts it. Thus, I'm part of the catholic, universal Church but not a Roman Catholic. I'm not pro-Catholic but not anti-Catholic either. I believe they are among the most committed and sincere Christians I ever met. There are many strengths and weaknesses in each true Christian denomination but the beauty of Catholicism, to me, is their rich traditions and reverence for the Eucharist or the Holy Communion.

Basically, there are four (4) views about the Eucharist (Greek: eucharistia, meaning thanksgiving): 1) Consubstantiation. According to this view, the bread and wine maintain their physical identities and the real presence of Christ’s body and blood co-exist with these elements during communion; 2) Memorialism. This view suggested that the bread and wine are merely symbols of the body and blood, designed to commemorate His death and resurrection; 3) Reformed. This view - hybrid from the first two - recognized the spiritual presence of Christ in the elements as well as the commemorative purpose of the sacrament.

But the fourth view, offered by the Roman Catholic, is 4) Transubstantiation. It simply means that the bread and wine during communion literally transform into the body and blood of Christ. The appearances of bread and wine remain the same but Christ is present as substance. In this regard, I think the Catholics read the Scripture more literally than many others (not necessarily the correct way, depending on the context). And this is what Dr. Brant Pitre labor to explain in this wonderful book. He examines the Old Testament and ancient Judaism on the words and deeds of Jesus to reveal the amazingly Jewish roots of the Eucharist. He explains skillfully the New Exodus, the Eucharist as the New Passover, the New Manna from Heaven, and the mysterious New ‘Bread of the Presence' in the Tabernacle and Temple of God. To me, this book is the most convicting argument for the transubstantiation view so far. Love it!

#ServeToLead #LeadersAreReaders #RomanCatholic #TheEucharist #JewishRoot #BrantPitre #LetsMakeReadingCoolAgain

To read my other book reviews/summaries, CLICK HERE

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Try Reading Nonfiction Books #LeadersAreReaders June-July 2023

Obviously, based on my monthly reading lists, I love to read nonfiction books. The reasons are many. For one, I always have the urge to learn something new. That urge is definitely sparked by my reading choices. Second, I like to challenge myself. Not all books are well written, and that goes for nonfiction too. However, I believe that a well-written piece of nonfiction can read like a novel (Robert Greene's books are excellent examples of what I'm talking about here). I love learning about human nature, psychology, philosophy, theology, a bit of history, and fascinating ideas — cliche, I know.

Third, it’s a never-ending rabbit hole of topics. For example, I might read a book about miracles, signs, and wonders. Then pick a Bible commentary on the Acts of the Apostles, then a book on Charismatic and Pentecostal movements, then a book on church history and early fathers, then... you see where I’m going with this. Every book provides a gateway into the next. Reading nonfiction has introduced me to all walks of life, great ideas and discoveries in the world’s history, people who make a difference in the world, stories of faith and inspiration, and new perspectives on seeing things around me.

Some people might argue that you can learn all these things from fiction, and you can; I’m not arguing with that. I guess what I’m trying to say is, don’t be afraid to try something new. Challenge yourself to read one nonfiction book and go into it with your eyes wide open. You might be surprised at how satisfying it can be.

#ServeToLead #LeadersAreReaders #NonfictionBooks #TryNewThings #LetsMakeReadingCoolAgain

To read my other book reviews/summaries, CLICK HERE

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Enjoy the Simple Things In Life - Read Books #LeadersAreReaders May 2023

I always bring a book or two with me. I might forget to bring my money or office keys, but a book I will never forget. Rarely do I leave the house without a book. If you steal my bag pack or string bag, I can't promise you a fortune, but you'll be educated if you read the book inside it (pray for a wise thief!). I don't mind the extra weight. It's like carrying a friend with me; books offer companionship. I'm okay when I'm with people, and I always enjoy the presence of my loved ones. But most of the time, I like to be alone. Solitude, not loneliness. I've mastered the art of I-don’t-care if I’m surrounded by people who won’t talk to me and/or who I don't find interesting as long as I can read my book. I don't mind flight delays sometimes (AirAsia!) or long queues at the government office (not that I'm always in a queue) as long as I have my book with me. I happily lose myself in pages of words.

If reading is not part of your daily habit yet, I highly recommend slowly incorporating it into your life. There are many articles you can find on the Internet about the value of reading, but let me just highlight one of the main reasons for me: If you can enjoy a simple and inexpensive thing in life, you can enjoy life! New, hardcover, and popular books are expensive, but they are not always good. Buy them only if you think this is a worthwhile investment. But as a starter, buy secondhand books, borrow from friends or church libraries* or go to the local libraries. If you're in Kuching, go to the state library, Pustaka Negeri Sarawak, sign up for membership (just RM10), and you can borrow up to ten books! Ask for a suggestion from me or leaders who are readers around you.

If you can find joy, satisfaction, and love in a simple thing such as reading a book, you can almost find them all in other things too. In this age of smartphones and screen time, we tend to think of distraction as a negative word. What if you choose positive distractions, such as reading? What if one book (or more) could change your life? What if you decide to do it today?

#ServeToLead #LeadersAreReaders #ReadingBooks #LittleThingsInLife #Joy #LetsMakeReadingCoolAgain

To read my other book reviews/summaries, CLICK HERE

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I Am N: Inspiring Stories of Christians Facing Islamic Extremists by The Voice of the Martyrs, Audiobook Review

 I Am N: Inspiring Stories of Christians Facing Islamic Extremists (2016, audiobook 6 Hours 12 minutes) by The Voice of the Martyrs

Most Christians in Borneo - Sarawak and Sabah - are very comfortable. We are too relaxed and have no sense of urgency. Lukewarm, soft, and dying. We tend to forget that Christian persecution is a very real thing for many people throughout the world, even our brothers and sisters in peninsular Malaysia. It's easy to get comfortable in a place that has fairly freedom of religion and little social stigma for believing in the Lord Jesus. We experience some persecution, yes, but it's nothing compared to others in closed countries. Read books, reports, stories, and videos about Christian martyrs and missions - and God's Word daily - to be awakened from spiritual sleep and ignite the passion to share the Gospel with the lost souls.

"I Am N" by VOM is one of the books that I recommend you to read and reflect on (if you're interested to read an ebook and listen to the audiobook, please let me know). What does "N" stands for? In northern Iraq, radical Muslims (ISIS) spray-painted the Arabic letter ن or “N,” on the homes and businesses of Christians. "N" represents the followers of Jesus of "N"azareth. They were then publicly exposed as Jesus-followers and offered the option to become Muslims a.k.a. convert to Islam, leave their home, or die. Over 100,000 brave believers left with little more than the clothing on their backs because they would not compromise their faith. This book is therefore a compilation of real stories of "N" around the world. You'll read about the stories of sacrifice, courage, joy, perseverance, forgiveness, and faithfulness. You may (as I do) get angry, sad, and mad at first, and then filled with joy, love, gratitude, and compassion, and be moved to pray. It's bitter and sweet.

We need to recognize these persecuted followers of Jesus as our brothers and sisters in the family of God and embrace them in that intimate unity: “Remember those who are in prison, as though in prison with them, and those who are mistreated, since you also are in the body” (Hebrews 13:3). We will not be silenced. Write up, speak up, and pray up!

#ServeToLead #LeadersAreReaders #PersecutedChurch #Discipleship #JesusTheLord #FamilyOfGod #TheVoiceOfTheMartyrs #LetsMakeReadingCoolAgain

To read my other book reviews/summaries, CLICK HERE

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The 16 Undeniable Laws of Communication: Apply Them and Make the Most of Your Message (2023) by John C. Maxwell, Audiobook Review

 The 16 Undeniable Laws of Communication: Apply Them and Make the Most of Your Message (2023) by John C. Maxwell

You can have the greatest idea in the world, the most loving heart in the universe, and the wisest wisdom in heaven, but if you cannot communicate your ideas, feelings, and thoughts well, all these are powerless. Robert Frost humorously but rightly observes: "Half the world is composed of people who have something to say and can’t, and the other half who have nothing to say and keep on saying it." Communication skills are important. I once had a friend during Bible study who I sensed had something worth saying but couldn't express well because he was struggling to find words, phrases, and ways to communicate his points. Blessed message but poorly executed. Have you experienced the same thing?

This is why - especially if you're a leader but also not necessarily because everyone communicates in one form or another - you need to learn how to communicate well. Even if you're already good at it, I think John C. Maxwell can still add more value to you. I've read Mr. Maxwell's Laws books on leadership, teamwork, growth, and now communication (by the way, readers and doers are two different matters). This one is as good as the others. It has all the lessons that you can learn from his other book, entitled Everyone Communicates, Few Connect except more. Most of the 'laws' are not new or unique, but Mr. Maxwell, a very good communicator himself, has the gift of making complicated insights simple. If you have to choose only one book to read on communication this year, then, I highly recommend this one. These 'laws' are truly undeniable.

According to John C. Maxwell, there are five (5) essentials to communication: 1) Who Say It (The Law of Credibility, Observation & Conviction); 2) What Is Said (The Law of Preparation, Collaboration & Content); 3) How It Is Said (The Law of Connecting, Leverage, Anticipation, Simplicity, Visual Expression & Storytelling); 4) When It Is Said (The Law of Thermostat & Change-Up); and 5) Why It Is Said (The Law of Adding Value & Results).

In my first round of listening to the audiobook (8 hours 57 minutes), three laws that speak to me are:

• The Law of Credibility: Your Most Effective Message Is the One You Live
• The Law of Simplicity: Communicators Take Something Complicated and Make It Simple
• The Law of Change-Up: Sameness Is the Death of Communication

As for now, I want to focus on these three. I will listen to this audiobook again next month.

#ServeToLead #ReadersAreLeaders #The16UndeniableLawsOfCommunication #CommunicationSkills #JohnCMaxwell #LetsMakeReadingCoolAgain

To read my other book reviews/summaries, CLICK HERE

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Reading to Escape - And Come Back #LeadersAreReaders February 2023

My leader once asked me, “You read a lot of books. Is this a form of escapism for you?” My answer was (and is): “Yes, in one sense it is for the purpose of escape, but not so much as escapism. I’m not reading to avoid reality, but I do read to temporarily escape to another world.” For me what’s dangerous is when we read to escape from responsibilities. What I’m promoting is that we read to escape to another world where we get help, encouragement, and inspiration in order for us to return home to reality and live responsibly.

Good - Christian or non-Christian, fiction or non-fiction - books can bring glory and honor to God, the Giver of Thought and Word when they help us to see more of God’s greatness, beauty, creativity, and reality. Books that help us to understand and appreciate His creations and providence in history. Spark our imagination and critical thinking. Bring awareness to things visible and invincible. See good versus evil. Light conflicts with darkness. These are the kind of books that I want to escape to. Nora Ephron writes, "Reading is escape, and the opposite of escape; it's a way to make contact with reality after a day of making things up, and it's a way of making contact with someone else's imagination after a day that's all too real."

#ServeToLead #LeadersAreReaders #LetsMakeReadingCoolAgain #ReadingIsEscape

To read my other book reviews/summaries, CLICK HERE

THINK BIG. START SMALL. GO DEEP.

What Love Is This? Calvinism's Misrepresentation of God (2018 Revised Edition) by Dave Hunt, Sort-of Review

 What Love Is This? Calvinism's Misrepresentation of God (2018 Revised Edition)
by Dave Hunt

I can't remember clearly when was the first time I was exposed to Calvinism. Come to think about it, perhaps it was through books that I read (seem obvious) or sermons that I heard, or both. For sure I was reading lots of books by avid Calvinists in the past such as C.H. Spurgeon, John Piper, J.I. Packers, R.C. Sproul, and my all-time favorite John MacArthur (a.k.a. JMac). God has used - and continues to do so - their books and teachings to shape my mind and understanding of the Scripture. But I have this against them: the core teachings of Calvinism, especially on soteriology (the doctrine of salvation), are incompatible and inconsistent with Scripture. By core teachings, I'm referring to five points that can be summarized by the acronym TULIP. Having said that, I do believe (for now) that Reformed Theology is the closest to biblical Christianity as compared to other major theological systems. We must keep in mind that all theological persuasions are not perfect. It is the Word of God alone that is inerrant, infallible, and perfect.

I'm friendly to the Calvinists but I'm not one. So, am I an Arminian? No (By the way, Jacob Arminius was a good guy. And the opposite of Calvinism is not only Arminianism. Grow up!). How about a Provisionist? Interesting but not yet fully persuaded. For now, although it is helpful to know where ones stand theologically, I have no affiliation with any label. To say, I'm a Biblicalist is a cliche. But I do want to say that there is no biblical mandate or obligation for us to make the decision. Maybe the best way, for now, is to either ignore the label or settle with one or continue to learn and explore. I choose to be proactive. I've been listening to dozens of debates, podcasts, and talks to wrap my mind on these matters. I would like to encourage you to do the same (except for not being too obsessed). On the topic of Calvinism, I highly recommend the late R.C. Sproul's What Is Reformed Theology? Understanding the Basics book and talk series on Ligoniers Ministry YouTube Channel. R.C. was a good teacher, theologian, and communicator. On the other hand, if you want to read on the topic against Calvinism, then, I highly recommend the late Dave Hunt's What Love Is This? Calvinism's Misrepresentation of God. I have other recommendations too but for basics, try these two as your introductions.

I love Dave Hunt. He was the embodiment of "zeal with knowledge" and "logic on fire" on par with Walter Martin. He addresses many topics and wrote numerous books on theology, the church, prophecy, cults, occults, New Age, and other religions and critiques of Catholicism, Islam, and yes, Calvinism, among others. You will either love him or hate him but think you must! In this book, Dave Hunt hopes to show how Calvinism misrepresents God's love, decrees, sovereignty, will, foreknowledge, grace, nature, character, gospel, and, of course, the Scripture. Some things I agree with, some statements I disagree with, and many times I hold my judgment. There are strengths (for example, quoting well-known Calvinism proponents to define their own terms) and weaknesses (for example, the tone of his writings, if you're not familiar with him, seems angry and very critical) as any provocative book would have. If you're a Calvinist, you will be triggered by the chapters on the (other) "horrific" beliefs and practices of John Calvin and his early followers of the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. And not to mention that of Augustine of Hippo. So, read this book at your own risk!

NOTE: Btw, there are other good (some are better!) non-Calvinist teachers and writers that you should explore too such as David Pawson, Chuck Missler, A.W. Tozer, Adrian Rogers, C.S. Lewis, Michael Heiser, Frank Viola, John Stott, Hwa Yung, etc. Read widely.

To read my other book reviews, CLICK HERE

#ServeToLead #LeadersAreReaders #DaveHunt #Calvinism #Reformed #GodsLove #Theology #LetsMakeReadingCoolAgain

THINK BIG. START SMALL. GO DEEP.

The Power of The Word and words #LeadersAreReaders January 2023

I was doing a house cleaning last week when I discovered my old notes with amazing stories in them. Let me share one about the transforming power of the Word. It is written by Peter V. Deison about a man named Ramad. Ramad was the most dangerous man in all of India. His gang attacked, plundered, and terrified the remote villages of the area. He was wanted dead or alive. While ransacking a small home in one of these villages, he found a small black book.

At first, he started to throw it away, but he noticed that the paper was very thin and just the right size for roll-you-own cigarettes. Each evening after a meal Ramad would relax with a smoke. He would take out the little book, tear a page out, and fold it over for the tobacco. One evening while folding the paper, he noticed the writing was in his own language. So each evening after eating, he would read a page of the little book - presumably the New Testament - and then smoke it.

One evening, by God's grace, over time, he was convicted! He knelt and asked Jesus Christ to forgive his sins and confessed Him to be his Lord and Savior. At once he turned himself over to the police, much to their surprise, and turned from a bandit to an evangelist for Christ in the prison! It became Ramad's first mission field where he led many other prisoners to Jesus.

I heard and read many real-life stories like this when God's Word - even His servants' words a.k.a. books about the written Word - made a change in people's lives. It's true: "Know it in your mind; Stow it in your heart; Show it in your life; Sow it in the world." Amen!

#ServeToLead #ReadersAreReaders #PrisonMinistry #ThePowerOfTheWord #Repentance #ChangedLife #LetsMakeReadingCoolAgain

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The Art of Exceptional Living (2003, audiobook) by Jim Rohn, Simple Review

I think I've listened to this audiobook more than four times already. I can finish most of the late Jim Rohn's famous sentences because they are very profound and memorable. He is a good storyteller and each story is filled with life lessons. His emphasis on personal philosophy is very important. To him, it means to use one's mind in all aspects of life. Refining one's mind or philosophy can change everything and it doesn't have to be very big at the beginning. It's about implementing simple, good, and positive disciplines daily. For example, if every day for an hour or two I decided to study the Scripture instead of playing online games, full-time ministry-wise, I have begun to turn my life around. By simply changing my philosophy, I can overcome ignorance, laziness, and unproductivity.

Here are my Top 5 favorite quotes - and they have become my personal philosophies - by Jim Rohn from this audiobook:

1. "Learn to work harder on yourself than you do on your job."
2. "Don't wish it was easier, wish you are better. Don't wish for less problems, wish for more skills. Don't wish for less challenges, wish for more wisdom."
3. "The major value of life is not what you get. The major value of life is what you become."
4. "Formal education will make you a living; self-education will make you a fortune."
5. "If you don't like how things are, change it! You're not a tree!"

A few things that you should keep in mind when reading books and/or hearing audiobooks on personal development (which also can fall into the category of self-help), especially as a Christ follower: #1 Develop and strengthen your Biblical worldview; #2 Apply the spiritual gift of discernment and critical thinking; #3 Learn and read widely but stand on the foundations of the Word of God deeply; #4 Don't believe someone who says, "I read my Bible ONLY." He or she is either delusional or impractical. Avoid at all costs; #5 Have a balanced perspective of human depravity and human potential; and last but not the least, #6 Don't read too many self-development or self-help books. Read the best of the best and leave most of them behind. In fact, most of them I wouldn't recommend at all because they can expose you to new-age teachings and the like. Ask me if you want to know more.

#ServeToLead #JimRohn #TheArtOfExceptionalLiving #SelfDevelopment #LeadersAreReaders #LetsMakeReadingCoolAgain

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Reading Releases a Trapped Mind #LeadersAreReaders December 2022

There was a little girl who was dealt a bad hand in life. When she was one and a half years old, a childhood illness took away her sight and hearing. The poor girl was trapped inside her mind. She hadn't learned to speak, so she uttered gibberish and animal-like sounds. She always went into unprovoked fits of rage, smashing dishes and physically attacking anyone in the room with her. Many doctors diagnosed her as mentally ill. They recommended putting her into an asylum for the rest of her life. But, thankfully, her parents refused.

When she was 7, the family hired a young woman to tutor her. For weeks the tutor tried to communicate with her by spelling words into her hand. She could feel the tutor's fingers on her palm, but the symbols or gestures didn't have any meaning to her. She was still trapped... Then one day, she was holding a cup under a gusting water spout. The tutor kept spelling the word W-A-T-E-R into her hand. Suddenly, the little girl understood the letters represented an object! In that flash of recognition, the door to the world flew wide open for her. She ran around the room, grabbing objects at random, begging the tutor to spell the name into her palm. As a grown-up girl years later, she wrote, "Spark after spark of meaning flew from hand to hand." That day and beyond, she was free and no longer trapped inside her mind. She became a voracious learner!

The rest, as any good story has to end, is history. Her name is Helen Keller and her amazing tutor is Anne Sullivan (read Keller's The Story of My Life). Like Keller's breakthrough, reading can help us to break out from our mental prison. Reading - and writing too - has the power to transform us by connecting the dots of information, imagination, and possibilities. At times when we felt trapped inside our minds, unable to understand or express our thoughts and feelings, reading and writing are great ways to a breakthrough. Victor Hugo once said: "To learn to read is to light a fire; every syllable that is spelled out is a spark" ✨

#ServeToLead #ReadersAreReaders #FreeYourMind #ThePowerOfReading #HelenKeller #AnneSullivan #Breakthrough #LetsMakeReadingCoolAgain

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Simplicity In Preaching: A Few Hints on a Great Subject (1882, 2022) by John C. Ryle, Summary-Review

Simplicity In Preaching: A Few Hints on a Great Subject (1882, 2022) by John C. Ryle

 

For the past two years, I've been listening to and reading lots of material from John Charles Ryle (1816 to 1900). Currently, I'm reading his well-known volume Expository Thoughts on the Gospels on Luke part one. His books are very easy to digest and understand just like what this title hinted at. But it's not just simple, it's also profound and Biblical. There is no use in being simple if the essence is shallow and worldly. TikTok's 'Christian' video is simple but almost always has no depth. The aim, in the case of this subject, is simplicity in preaching Jesus Christ. So, it's true that the statement "Change your mind, change your life" is simple but there are no Biblical truths in that like the statement, "Having Christ in your life will change how you live." This is what I get from J.C. Ryle's book.

If you're thinking of reading this short book, the four (4) introductory remarks are good reminders of what he meant and don't about the subject. Read it! And here are five (5) brief hints as to what seems to be the best method of attaining simplicity in preaching according to J.C. Ryle:

1. Understand your subject.
2. Use simple words.
3. Aim for a simple style of composition.
4. Use a direct voice.
5. Use anecdotes and illustrations.

There are lots of juicy quotes that are worth remembering. Here are some as closing for this summary review: "Take care that you have a comprehensive knowledge of the subject upon which you are going to preach"; "It is appropriate to use fine words... before classical groups and in preaching before educated audiences. But you may be sure that when you preach to ordinary congregations, the sooner you... use plain, common words, the better"; "All the simplicity in the world can do no good unless you preach the simple gospel of Jesus Christ so fully and clearly that everybody can understand it. If Christ crucified does not have His rightful place in your sermons, and sin is not exposed as it should be, and your people are not plainly told what they need to believe and be and do, your preaching is of no use!" ⚡

#ServeToLead #LeadersAreReaders #SimplicityInPreaching #PreachTheWord #PreachChrist #JCRyle #LetsMakeReadingCoolAgain

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Increase Your Personal Intellectual Capital #LeadersAreReaders October 2022

When I was working in management, I use to read monthly articles by the late Peter F. Drucker (1909-2005) in the business magazine. My workplace was near the bookstore. At the age of 90, he was more active than most 25-year-olds. As a consultant and an author known as 'the father of management thinking,' he was continually working on new books, most of which became bestsellers. Yet, midst his massive accomplishment, he still found time to read three to five hours a day on a wide range of subjects - a habit he first cultivated as a young man. Like Charles H. Spurgeon, one of my heroes of faith, you just have to admire them but don't need to emulate them.

"Every few years I pick another major topic and read in it daily for three years," Drucker once said candidly. "It's not enough to make me an expert, but it's long enough to understand what the field is all about. I've done this for 60 years." When I enter the full-time ministry, I somewhat learned this strategy from Drucker (and Spurgeon): read widely, from many different fields NOT just Christian books. Drucker is the epitome of the 'knowledge worker,' a term he coined to describe the most valuable resource in the new economy - intellectual capital. "Your knowledge and your experience are your new wealth. They belong to you, not your company. Leave an organization and you take that wealth with you."

Learning how to learn and increase your intellectual capital with practical skills. Be valuable. One of the best ways (meaning, not the only way) to do this is by READING BOOKS and/or through good literature. It takes curiosity and also discipline. In the Information and Digital Age, like the late Peter Drucker, the discipline of reading will be well rewarded. Wherever you go, you take that wealth with you.

#ServeToLead #PeterFDrucker #LifeTimeLearner #ReadersAreReaders #IntellectualCapital #KnowledgeIsWealth #LetsMakeReadingCoolAgain

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Lead Like Christ: Reflecting the Qualities and Character of Christ In Your Ministry (Audiobook, 2021) by A.W. Tozer, Book Review

I like to think of A.W. Tozer (many have called him a modern-day prophet) as a very bold and manly writer. We need more men of God like him. I'm not comfortable calling a living person a "man of God" anymore because the last time I said that to the late Ravi Zacharias, I was frustrated and ashamed of myself after the exposè. Of course, it's not wrong (if due respect) to call someone a man or woman of God, it is safer for the soul and faith, in my opinion, to reserve that title or honor to the long-gone, time-proven, faithful Christ followers such as A.W. Tozer. Although he passed away in 1963, his influence - writings and Christian living - is critical today. My first encounter with Tozer was through his classic book, The Knowledge of the Holy and also a biography by James L. Snyder entitled A.W. Tozer: In Pursuit of God. I have some issues with Tozer's mysticism but his love for God and His Word surpassed my judgment and is remained central in his life and writings.

Lead Like Christ edited by James Synder for modern readers is a compilation of Tozer's sermons on the Epistle of Paul to Titus which particularly focus on spiritual leadership. If you're looking for a management-side or practical method of leadership, this book is not for you. For that, as I see the importance of knowing how to lead, I would recommend other books. But if you, as Tozer puts it, have "an incurable hunger and thirst for the deep things of God" you will be blessed by this book. His insights on the Scripture, particularly the Letter to Titus, are admirable. His thoughts on the impact of spiritual warfare, the urgent need for sound doctrine, the call of servanthood, the three words he uses to describe Titus (integrity, discretion, and enthusiasm), and more are skillfully articulate to connect to the topic of spiritual leadership. He gives examples of Paul, other apostles and prophets, his contemporaries, and chiefly the Master, our Lord Jesus Christ.

There were times when I have to pause and reflect on what he said and consider my own walk with God and the people I try to lead. As Paul said to another of his mentee, Timothy, "Keep a close watch on yourself and on the teaching" (1 Timothy 4:16), that is, teach "accords with sound doctrine" (Titus 2:1). We need more leaders today. But not the worldly kind of leaders. We need Christ-centered leaders that can turn the world upside down with silent obedience and loud character that bring glory to "our great God and Savior Jesus Christ" (Titus 2:13). This is a high calling, Holy Spirit, help us! Amen.

#ServeToLead #LeadersAreReaders #LeadLikeChrist #AWTozer #LetsMakeReadingCoolAgain

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Take the Cue From Mark Zuckerberg! #LeadersAreReaders September 2022

In 2015, Mark Zuckerberg shared his New Year's resolution to focus on books. The founder of Facebook decided to read one book per week (I did it a few years ago). To show his commitment, he created a special page, "A Year of Books", where he initially share the books that he read and where other readers can find new books and participate in discussions about them. The picked books help to learn about different cultures, beliefs, histories, and technologies.

This is how Mark Zuckerberg explains his decision in a Facebook post on 3rd January 2015: "I’m excited about my reading challenge. I’ve found reading books very intellectually fulfilling. Books allow you to fully explore a topic and immerse yourself in a deeper way than most media today. I’m looking forward to shifting more of my media diet towards reading books." I guess that also includes social media like Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp... how ironic.

Steve Jobs won't let his kids use an iPad, Bill Gates limited screen time for his kids, and Mark Zuckerberg said reading books allow us to go deeper on a topic than most media. Maybe we should take the cue: Reduce social media and device usage, and increase your time for reading books.

#ServeToLead #LeadersAreReaders #LetsMakeReadingCoolAgain

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