Christians
sometimes concentrate on heaven but Johnson reminds us that we are
instructed to pray that God's will be done here, now. He encourages
us to be a transforming influence on our community.
Some
Christians think that influence has to be through politics or
business. Johnson believes we should bring the Kingdom influence to
every reach of society. Each of us has daily opportunities for
transforming influence. That influence comes from intentional living.
He
shares how the church he pastors has been instrumental in
transforming the attitude and value system of their city. “Success
in God's eyes is seen in the impact the message of the Kingdom has on
how people think and live in my city, region and nation.” They
found that the more they served their city with no agenda other than
that the Lord be glorified, the more the city opened up to the
message they carried.
This
is an encouraging and convicting book. I realize that many Christians
have not learned about God and His Kingdom well enough to influence
themselves and the community in which they live. Johnson has very good
suggestions about basic attitudes we are to have towards those in the
community. One that struck me was valuing people before they are
converted. Every individual has been made in the image of God and has
been given gifts by Him. That attitude of honoring others is an
important first step to influence.
This
book is a great challenge for us to impact our community. We can
carry the blessing of God to others. We can share the gifts God has
given us with others. We can reveal the nature of God to others. If
that is what you would like to do, this book will encourage you.
Food
for thought: “My assignment is to bring heaven to earth through my
prayers and acts of radical obedience.”
My
rating: 5/5 stars.
Bill
Johnson and his wife are the senior leaders of Bethel Church in
Redding, California. They have three grown children and nine
grandchildren.
Chosen
Books, 224 pages.
I
received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher for
the purpose of an independent and honest review.
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