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Reviews of Books & Movies

Book Review: Miracle Workers, Reformers, and the New Mystics

Miracle Workers, Reformers, and the New Mystics

By John Crowder (reviewed by Peter DeHaan)

The subtitle of this book serves as an apt description of what to expect: “How to Become Part of the Supernatural Generation.”

Building upon the understanding of a Christian mystic to be “one who lived a life of deep, extensive prayer,” Crowder expands that definition to encompass “miracle workers and all who pursue a supernatural journey of divine experience.”

Towards that end, this book is essentially education by example, with over 50 mystics from the past two millennia being exposed and elucidated.

The accounts of their lives, spiritual devotion, and God-powered accomplishments are inspiring and motivating.

Although a common thread among these mystics is the intentional, dedicated, and purposeful pursuit of God, the point is made “there is simply no formula for hearing God.”

Nevertheless, if you want to pursue a mystical adventure, this book will get you started.

[Miracle Workers, Reformers, and the New Mystics, by John Crowder. Published by Destiny Image Publishers, 2006; ISBN: 978-0768423501; 391 pages.]

Read more book reviews by Peter DeHaan.

Peter DeHaan writes about biblical Christianity to confront status quo religion and live a life that matters. He seeks a fresh approach to following Jesus through the lens of Scripture, without the baggage of made-up traditions and meaningless practices.

Read more in his books, blog, and weekly email updates.

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10 Essential Bible Reading Tips, from Peter DeHaan

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Categories
Reviews of Books & Movies

Book Review: Diary of God’s General

Excerpts from the Miracle Ministry of John G. Lake

By John G. Lake (reviewed by Peter DeHaan)

This small book is a quick read, yet filled with amazing stories and accounts of God at work through his servant, John G. Lake. This work was compiled by Lake’s son-in-law and takes the form of a first-person narrative.

Trained to be a minister, Lake instead opted to start a newspaper. When his wife was miraculously healed from a prolonged illness by John Dowie, Lake was forever changed and went into the ministry.

This book chronicles his life’s works as a minister, revivalist, and healer, as well as providing the biographical framework in which these events took place.

Though the accounts may seem incredible to the modern thinker, many have been documented and verified by others.

For the post-modern spiritually inclined, however, these descriptions of the supernatural give cause for excitement and the realization that there is so much more available to those who diligently follow Jesus.

[Diary of God’s General: Excerpts from the Miracle Ministry of John G. Lake, by John G. Lake. Published by Harrison House, 2004; ISBN: 978-1577945284; 96 pages.]

Read more book reviews by Peter DeHaan.

Peter DeHaan writes about biblical Christianity to confront status quo religion and live a life that matters. He seeks a fresh approach to following Jesus through the lens of Scripture, without the baggage of made-up traditions and meaningless practices.

Read more in his books, blog, and weekly email updates.

Bogged Down Reading the Bible?

10 Essential Bible Reading Tips, from Peter DeHaan

Get the Bible Reading Tip Sheet: “10 Tips to Turn Bible Reading from Drudgery to Delight.”

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Bible Insights

A Question With Life and Death Ramifications

Peter cried when he realized he had denied even knowing Jesus. [Mark 14:72]

What makes this even more ironic is that earlier that same day he pledged his support to Jesus, claiming to be willing to die with him. [Mark 14:31]

For most people, admitting that we “know” Jesus is a relatively easy thing to do.

Yet Peter was confronted with a seemingly life and death situation: say “yes” and he too could be crucified with Jesus; say “no” and he could avoid further scrutiny, thereby saving his skin.

In the life-in-the-balance pressure of the moment, Peter caved in and said “no.”

In some parts of the world, admitting that you followed Jesus could easily result in death or at least suffering. How well would we fare in such a test?

Would we cave in or be bold regardless of the consequences?

However, beyond the literal, natural meaning of this story there is a more profound supernatural perspective. In the spiritual sense, we can say “yes” we know Jesus and live—forever; saying “no” is what leads to death.

Peter DeHaan writes about biblical Christianity to confront status quo religion and live a life that matters. He seeks a fresh approach to following Jesus through the lens of Scripture, without the baggage of made-up traditions and meaningless practices.

Read more in his books, blog, and weekly email updates.

Bogged Down Reading the Bible?

10 Essential Bible Reading Tips, from Peter DeHaan

Get the Bible Reading Tip Sheet: “10 Tips to Turn Bible Reading from Drudgery to Delight.”

​Enter your info and receive the free Bible Reading Tip Sheet and be added to Peter’s email list.