Review: “Fearless”

27 Nov

“FEARLESS” by Max Lucado

As a reviewer for Thomas Nelson Publishers, I receive very few disappointing books – however, I have been disappointed by this one.

But let me get one thing straight before I tell you why…

I’m a big fan of Max Lucado. When I was a new Christian, Lucado’s gift-book titled “The Cross” formed my understanding of the Atonement in a significant way. I appreciate his ‘easy-reading’ writing style. I appreciate his warmth and ability to ‘spin a good yarn’.

However, I was left feeling under-whelmed by this book.

It’s my belief that if an author is going to tackle the subject of suffering (or ‘fear’), that author must be willing to go DEEP. To go deep into the scriptures, deep into the issues and causes behind suffering, deep into the purposes and providence of God. Unfortunately, what I heard from Lucado was mainly platitudinous story-telling and superficial teaching.

That may sound harsh, but I had such high hopes for this book.

One reviewer has labeled Lucado “skillful as a surgeon” in his treatment of the topic… That he is skillful is without doubt – but as a surgeon I require him to go deeper into the flesh. It may require more time (the book is only 200 pages), it may require more detail, but as a surgeon [going deep] is what must be done.

4 Responses to “Review: “Fearless””

  1. Phillip Brown December 7, 2009 at 8:43 PM #

    Nice! Good to see, more reviews, keep em coming.

    • Jono Smith December 8, 2009 at 5:26 AM #

      Thanks bro. J

  2. Phillip Brown December 8, 2009 at 5:38 PM #

    I think a weekly comment on what your reading would be awesome. Your call.

    Phil.

  3. Jono Smith March 21, 2010 at 1:11 PM #

    Hi Todd,

    Thanks for your interest in jonosmith.com

    Unfortunately, I won’t be able to endorse bookschristian because my own preference is bookdepository.
    This is because they offer free shipping, which for Australian buyers, is a huge bonus.

    If ever you are able to offer this at competitive prices, I’d be happy to endorse your store – until then, my conscience forbids it.

    Thanks,
    Jono

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