As a former pastor who has endured the devestating effect of a superior's distorted view of God, I know all too well what becomes of personal faith (and that of an entire congregation) when God is viewed/presented as distant, untrustworthy, fearful, and yes -- arbitrary and cruel. I have witnessed enough resulting hardship to last my lifetime. In "Servants or Friends?", Graham Maxwell has managed to keep his eye on the ball -- to keep his clarian voice faithful to the truth. God is not as so many within the church have adopted. God is not as so many in church leadership today would have us believe. God is in fact our friend...approachable, dependable, faithful, trustworthy...friendly. This fact (though muddled so terribly by so many within contemporary Christianity) is never-the-less the heritage of God's children. In simple and plain language Graham Maxwell restores the kindness of God to the faith. At every turn he encourages honesty, free questioning, and the intelligent, thoughtful consideration of his readers. This is not a book for those who's battle cry is "God said it, I believe it, that settles it!" -- for such banners deny one of the greatest gifts of God...friendship. God offers a honest friendship and He desires a trust who's foundation is understanding...rather than a threatened or coerced trust resulting from the blind obedience of a slave. On the other hand, perhaps this is just the book for such servants -- they deserve so much more.I recommend this book to all who have suffered under the lies of those who wish to dominate the children of God. The truth will set you free.I recommend this book to those who have lost their way. Who can't deny God, but can't experience an encouraging friendship with God. You are not alone.I recommend this book to those souls who are crushed by the demands of obedience, who fear God, and who know there must be more. There is.Friendship with God is the key to any real relationship with God...Some would not want you to know this. Maxwell has dedicated his life to spreading the good news.Whatever your reason, or background, read this book with honesty in your heart. There is still hope.Thomas Friedheim admin.kirkman@alltel.net
A Compelling and Beautiful Picture of God
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 24 years ago
In Servants or Friends, Graham Maxwell illustrates the core of the Gospel: that God wants us to be his friends, not his servants. This radical idea was stated by Jesus in John 15:15--"I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master's business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you." (NIV)For those who think Jesus is on their side, but are not so sure about God, it is comforting to know that the Father wants to be their friends. In clear, simple language, Maxwell shows how salvation is not a matter of "blood" or "legal justification," but is a matter of maintaining a loving, trusting relationship with God.This book transformed my view of God; I know that God is on my side, and I never need to fear.
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