In this powerful new work, Pastor MacArthur bypasses a superficial understanding of the Christian faith in order to explore the difficult side of Christian discipleship. As MacArthur reminds us, Jesus does not desire for his disciples to stop at simple belief, but he longs for them to follow in His steps by becoming completely obedient to God. Do not ignore this opportunity to sit under this loving, yet uncompromising teaching which calls us to deny ourselves, take up our cross and follow Christ (Mk. 8:34).
Popular perception of Jesus Christ is that of a tempered, genteel man who walked the earth, offering nuggets of wisdom to His followers. But what we sometimes fail to recognize is that although Jesus Christ offered a message of forgiveness, He also spoke challenging, demanding words about what being a follower of Christ requires.
In contrast to the superficiality of much modern Christian teaching, Dr. John MacArthur serves up the unvarnished truth of what Christ taught and lived. In simple, compelling terms, he spells out what is required of those who would follow Him. Going beyond Jesus’ life to include the crucifixion and resurrection, MacArthur shows readers that Jesus modeled the commitment and loving obedience He requires of us by making the ultimate sacrifice for humankind.
Average Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars(4.5 out of 5 stars)
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0 out of 5 stars
Reviewed by Pastor Frank Queen (michigan), August 11, 2009
I felt the need to write a second review because I came across a statement in John's book that I missed the first time around. I've always like John's works but he makes a frightening statement in this book that is grossly heretical. On page 93, he says, essentially, that salvation is a result of works. Here is the exact quote,
“It (salvation) comes from a life lived in obedience and service to Christ; it’s the fruit of our actions.”
This quote flies in the face of Ephesians 2:8-9. Can't believe I missed this quote the first time around and can't believe MacArthur would make such a careless statement. Very unlike him.
5 out of 5 stars
Reviewed by Henry Mclamb (Canton, NC), January 12, 2009
An excellent book that's a must read for all christians! There is a price to following Christ and we have to get back to preaching and teaching the true Christ not the "prosperity" Christ or the "Good life" Christ. Another home run from MacArthur for those serious about christianity truth.
5 out of 5 stars
Reviewed by Christopher Hume (Hellertown, PA), December 26, 2007
Excellent book. If you want a book about 10 steps to a "better you," do not get this. If you want a book about the hard truths about God, read this. Dr. MacArthur's expository writing style is the only way to go! The truth of the Bible is what matters, and MacArthur knows this. It is all about God, not us. This book is a must read for everyone.
5 out of 5 stars
Reviewed by Debbie Wrobleski (Oil City, PA), December 12, 2007
This is an excellent book for a study group. It challenges today's Christian to be a "real" Christian or be a part of the what John MacArthur refers to as a "lite" Christian. I highly recommend this book to anyone searching for the true meaning of Christianity.
5 out of 5 stars
Reviewed by Dan (Northridge, CA.), May 10, 2007
If you haven't any John MacArthur books yet, then I must recommend them... Highly! This book, Hard to Believe, is a great, straightforward, Bible based wake-up call/reminder that God's word is complete. Dr. MacArthur reminds us that telling the WHOLE story of Jesus, even the not-so-easy to understand parts, is crucial to God's working in a church, or working fully in our lives. Its not always easy (it is a narrow gate) but isn't eternity with Him worth it? I think so!
5 out of 5 stars
Reviewed by Gerald A Greenlee Jr (Pinetta, Fl), April 05, 2007
John MacArthur is just a straight shooter. This book gives the reality of the call man kind is to answer if they truly desire to follow Jesus.
5 out of 5 stars
Reviewed by DeeDee LaPenna (Quincy, MA), January 27, 2006
TREMENDOUS book!! A true wake-up call to the present condition of the North American church. I found it convicting and a real blessing. May we all wake-up, stop just "playing" church and follow and OBEY our wonderful Lord and Savior! (If this book doesn't shake you up, please, I urge you, examine yourself to see if you are in the faith...)
Blessings,
DeeDee LaPenna
5 out of 5 stars
Reviewed by Pastor Frank Queen (PA), January 20, 2006
Superb book! This book is greatly needed for our time. It is sends a wake-up call to the sleeping Christians of this generation to stand up and be true disciples of Christ. It is akin to the Christian Classic, written during World War 2, "The Cost of Discipleship" by Deitrisch Bonhoeffer. If it were in my power, I would put this book in the hands of every Christian in America. This book is an urgent message for perilous times.
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