I was first introduced to Rob Bell and his ministry a few years ago. I watched him speak at Willow Creek a sermon entitled "The Goat Has Left the Building" from Leviticus. It was a dynamic and captivating message from which I was encouraged and challenged. He spoke with clarity and passion and pointed people to Jesus throughout the message. There is no doubt that Rob Bell is a gifted communicator with a passionate desire to follow Jesus. And, yes, I believe he "desires" to follow Jesus (more on that as we go through the book).
The book "Love Wins" is another example of his giftedness. It is clear, well-written from a literary standpoint, captivating; quite frankly, it was difficult to put down. I'm sure the broo ha-ha over the book fueled my curiosity to some degree. What also fueled my curiosity is the fact of Rob Bell's influence over my generation and those younger than me. Many of these are the children and grand-children of the great people I get to serve with who make up First Baptist Church, Thomasville, NC (www.fbctville.com).
It is my prayer that this review will be done in grace and love by speaking to the issues raised in the book, how they are raised, and a biblical response to those issues. I pray that I will be simple, clear, and effective in helping the readers of this review be informed and able to respond to the issues with biblical clarity and grace.
So, here we go...stay tuned...
Looking forward it. Lay it on us.
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