Grow Up! Are you a Child of God or a Man of God?

Jeremy,
I found your book to be easy to read. I have been a Christian for over 30 years. I did not feel like you were judging or putting others down. You tried to encourage them to a deeper walk with God. I felt that you accomplished that in your book.

My Boy's Daddy

Hello Jeremy:

Wow! What a challenging book! I am a seminary graduate and I can testify to you that more education does not equal spiritual growth. As you have so well-articulated, spiritual growth does not come through biblical memorization and all the other things that we strive to do in the power of our flesh, but through the hard times in life, trusting in Him day in and day out.

For that reason, one's authority to speak to the issues of the heart in this book has nothing to do with his or her level or education or pastoral credentials. I (bravely) read through all the chapters and was challenged on so many levels to press deeper and deeper into God. What you have written is not easy to put out there and doubtless you will come under fire-mostly from other Christians, whom I am finding more and more to often be the source of the most contention-much more so than people who are in the world.

God's richest blessings to you and may He give you the resilience of Jeremiah (your namesake!)

James Revoir

Your straight forward, easy-to-read writing style is perfect for this genre. Your prologue is well done, it sets the tone for your book and you don't pull any punches in that it's not for everyone. Your Christian message and love of God comes through loud and clear. Backed.

Andrew Burans
The Reluctant Warrior: The Beginning

This is a very thought provoking read which makes it great in my mind!! Backed with pleasure.

Liz
The Cheech Room

Jeremy. Not my normal read but very well written and on its way to being a really good read. I found some parts of it really deep but on the whole, I managed to stick with it. Good narrative and will be well accepted by the readers who like this genre. I wish you luck and score this high.
Sean Connolly. British Army on the Rampage. (B.A.O.r) Please consider me for a read or watch list wont you?? Many thanks Sean.

This is a useful book which does what it says on the tin, makes you think about your faith. I know of many people who fall into the category of baby Christians, and some of them are ministers. Thanks for sharing this, I can see that a study group would find it really helpful as a starting point for discussion.

Hey Jeremy, I've read the foreword and first chapter of your book so far. I've added it to my watch list and look forward to reading more. I respect your straightforward approach. I write in much the same way.

If you get a chance, please check out my book on forgiveness. It's called "Here We Go 'Round The Mulberry Tree." I believe you will really enjoy it. Be blessed!
-Mike Jonker

Jeremy,

I enjoyed this little snippet; short and to the point.

Thanks for sharing for your strong Christian beliefs. it's to the point and clear cut walk with faith. ;) No doubt there was heart in this writing.

I loved the title - I was drawn to it. Thanks for sharing such a wonderful story.

Mari

I hear you ask how can one believe in Him and not attend church.

Brian, are you sure you were reading MY book? I never said in any chapter of my book "How can you be a Christian and not go to church?" I agree that you can have a relationship with Him every day of your life, without having to go to church to do it. As a matter of fact, that was kind of the point of the book. I'm sorry if there was some confusion, but please do not say I put something in there that was not there.

Hi Jeremy
I've only read the first two chapters so far, but I'll have to come back to it. It is thought provoking. I have been a christian most of my life since I was about five or six. Sure I went to sunday school every sunday but by the time I reached my teens I realised that church was not for me. Don't get me wrong I'm still in contact with God and his son, but I just do not attend church. I hear you ask how can one believe in Him and not attend church. The answer is simple God and Jesus are in my heart and head. I do not need to go to church every sunday to show my love for them. To me it is just letting ones peers see that they believe. To me you can be a true believer without listening to a minister. It is also a long time since I've opened my bible. Again I don't think such a thing is needed to believe in Him. God is all around us and I speak to Him most days sometimes aloud sometimes just as thought, but I know he hears me, just as though it is a prayer. You may think I am an oddball christian, but these are my beliefs and I would not change or will not change my communications with Him. You have been very brave to bare your soul for others to criticise. I could not do that. I keep my beliefs to myself, but good luck to you if you help others to find God to be as much a part of their lives as He is in mine.
God bless.
PS
You may want to read some of my Tales for Children to your daughter. If you do I haope she enjoys them.
Once again God bless.
Brian.

Dear Jeremy
I could not put this down once I started reading and finished it in one hit. Very thought provoking and I had the immediate sense that you were speaking the truth. I am quite wary of American Christian teachers because of the wacky fringe. I have backed you and given you 6 stars, though I am sure that was not you motivation for writing! I will be reading your book again at a slower pace to take it all in. Thank you for being obedient to God and sticking you neck out.

Love in Him

Kathryn

Jeremy, congratulations of this well written book. I love the introduction. It was that introduction that captured my attention. I love it. All well said. As a Christian and a child of GOD I am so frustrated with the baby Christians and I do hope that these well written books that are coming out fast will help prepare people for the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. That going to Church does not make one a Child of GOD it is the personal relationship that we have with him. Because people are not even trying to listen they miss the blessing that should come to them and His never ending love which brings His grace. Lovely writing. GOD bless. I hope you do well.
Please visit my book and leave comment for me. Thanks with GOD's love. I have given you four stars and you are on my watch list.

Catherine
If Only You Could Tell.

Grow up! Are you a Child of God or a Man of God? by Jeremy Willis
Very convicting and heartfelt.
I like your introduction because it is aimed at everyone not just Christians.
Your story of God saving you, is very real and deep. The excitement clearly comes out in your writing.
Your writing is simple but well portrayed to grab the reader and then let God do the rest.
Grand work and I do like the cover. It's perfect.

Shelby Z./Driving Winds

P.S. Please read my pirate adventure Driving Winds.

I am not really qualified to offer an opinion on the contents of this book, as you very reasonably point out in your prologue. What I read was clearly argued and non-judgemental and the personal touches make the argument interesting. The style is clear and you write in a professional and straight-forward way. The idea of engaging the reader with the question of why prayers are not answered is an excellent hook. I suppose we have all wondered that at various desperate times.
High stars for a likeable book.

Beautifully written and argued superbly well.

Best wishes Philip John

Read through chapter 3. I was very impressed with your grasp of scripture and the teaching on prayer. I have no comment on your writing, except I found the reading effortless and easy to understand.
Highly starred and watchlisted! Georgia
The Woman From E.A.R.L.

You ask about Romans 8:28 and say “everyone knows about that right?” Well, I would submit that not everyone does. And as your target audience is growing Christians it is likely they won’t either. I would suggest with this first chapter that you confine it your faith walk. I feel it will give the rest of your message more of an impact.

Project Z

The part where I said everyone knows about it was supposed to be more ironic than anything else. It's a well "quoted" but hardly "well quoted" verse many in the Christian community use to basically say "get over it" when there are hard times. Since this book was mainly skewed towards the Christian perspective, I didn't feel the need to explain it. Thanks for the comment!

Jeremy,

I found it interesting that you are concerned that you will make some enemies or alienate people. Such things always happen when challenging the status quo. So, good for you for being brave enough to walk down the path that you believe you have been called to.

I think a person’s faith walk is always fascinating. In the first chapter you get into that and tell us about your church and Ginger. As well as how you asked to be baptized, only to find that your pastor had forgotten. You go on to tell us about your stint in the army and reconnecting with Ginger, the girl from whom you first really ‘heard’ about Christ. This should be the focus of this chapter, your walk. Instead you seem to lose the plot, so to speak.

You ask about Romans 8:28 and say “everyone knows about that right?” Well, I would submit that not everyone does. And as your target audience is growing Christians it is likely they won’t either. I would suggest with this first chapter that you confine it your faith walk. I feel it will give the rest of your message more of an impact.

I’ve read all that has been posted and it is clear that you have been studying. Sometimes the need to convey what you’ve learned seems a bit overwhelming to me even though the information is fascinating. I’d like to see some ideas of how to apply this practically, to make it more, user friendly. I can only think that would help those that have just set their feet upon this important journey.

I wish you the very best with this.

Project Z

Hello Jeremy-
book- Grow up! are you a child of God or a man of God?

I do my best to look at Christian books from time on this site, as i like to think I am a Christian myself-

loved the forward and the way you have it written- every line so tenderly written with great understanding for the non-believers. How could one not want to read more-

And as you say yourself further on down ' please read with an honest heart'

I read all of the 11 chapters posted early this morning and made some jottings-
There is nothing complicated to read in this brilliant book, as you tell it with tender care-
~Everything so wonderfully revealing at a nice easy pace as you tell us about the power of prayer and God;

recommended 6 stars-

tom bye
book - from hugs to kisses-
You will enjoy my trip to heaven in chapter 16 as you will 18 and 19 read please and enjoy in my book,thanks

I'm not a Christian, so I'm not sure I can offer you any advice on content, but I thought this was very well written and easy to read. It flows really well and I zipped through the early chapters.

It's weird you suggest people might be put off because you aren't a pastor, but to be honest these days the "career" Christians are the ones who are the hardeest to have respect for. Like the pastor who forgot to baptise you. I think a genuine layman giving his heartfelt opinions with nothing really to gain from it is probably a more powerful message.

Wish you luck with it.

Well done, Jeremy. I think you did a great job on explaining your beliefs and what it really means to be a Christian follower of Christ. It takes a lot of courage to actually disagree with traditional doctrine on matters you have discussed in your book.

Backed with: Stars *****

Your friend,
Darran. H

Hi Jeremy!
I didn't find anything negative in your message, I enjoyed every word. As a matter of fact, for me, you confirmed everything I've always felt in my heart as a Christian. If sharing how you came to understand, develop, and love your personal relationship with our Father, and it helps others who are struggling develop their relationship, I believe you have done exactly what God wanted you to do. I loved it and backed it !
God Bless Jeremy,
Dana P.

This is not my usual read, probably because I fall into some of the categories you set out in your introduction. However, I do think this is a compelling read and I was intrigued enough, despite your honest introduction, to continue reading. You write very well and I think you maintain interest throughout. Perhaps because it is such a powerful book, you do not have the shelf support of other, more broad ranging books but you should not let this dampen your spirits.

Good luck.

Laura
Beneath The Blossom Tree

Hi, Jeremy -

I was poking around on Autho tonight checking out some of our Christian books. I would buy your book if I found it in the bookstore. It's aimed directly at me - someone who is growing in faith.

One thing I might suggest for your manuscript while it's on Autho is to move Chapter 1 - the information about you - to later in the book. This would put your chapter about prayer front and center, where more critics would read it (most people read 1 or 2 chapters)

Many blessings to you,
~AudreyB
Forgiveness Fits

Jeremy,
I found your book to be easy to read. I have been a Christian for over 30 years. I did not feel like you were judging or putting others down. You tried to encourage them to a deeper walk with God. I felt that you accomplished that in your book.

My Boy's Daddy

Enjoyed what I've read so far. God bless you for having the courage to write as you feel, think, and know. I've been praying for boldness for all the Christians in this nation. From what I've witnessed, the best apostles, preachers, prophets, and teachers of God's word did not go to seminary school! God calls us as we are; but praise Him for not leaving us as He finds us! And Holy Spirit is the best teacher. God does confound the wise though. We all have different views on the way to read God's Word or how to understand it; that's why there are so many versions of the Bible.

God is speaking in various ways, though many turn a deaf ear. At my church we go on prayer strikes around the area, or even have times of warring, so we pray outloud. It was a long time before I felt comfortable praying outloud, and I've was saved at 8. The first time I really heard God speak to me, He told me I was healed!

New convertrs do need discipleship; this would be a great read for them; and it's good for those of us who like to know other peoples view-points as well.

Keep up the good work and may God bless you!

I really tried to take a read of this and remain objective.

But it isn't for me.

Not just the encompassing subject matter, but the writing.

It's clear you are a smart man. Your book is on the rise.

And it appears as though people, who read in this genre, are enjoying it.

Good Luck,

T.L Tyson - The Reign Of Billie Blackwater

Hello Jeremy:

Wow! What a challenging book! I am a seminary graduate and I can testify to you that more education does not equal spiritual growth. As you have so well-articulated, spiritual growth does not come through biblical memorization and all the other things that we strive to do in the power of our flesh, but through the hard times in life, trusting in Him day in and day out.

For that reason, one's authority to speak to the issues of the heart in this book has nothing to do with his or her level or education or pastoral credentials. I (bravely) read through all the chapters and was challenged on so many levels to press deeper and deeper into God. What you have written is not easy to put out there and doubtless you will come under fire-mostly from other Christians, whom I am finding more and more to often be the source of the most contention-much more so than people who are in the world.

God's richest blessings to you and may He give you the resilience of Jeremiah (your namesake!)

James Revoir

Jeremy,
There are a lot of Christian books uploaded here at authonomy. Yours is the second one I've backed in the two years I've been here. I am a non-Christian... no religion. I backed your book because of the clear and simple writing, and good structure. I also backed it because I appreciate the free-thinking behind your message. I believe that "growing up" is about having the courage to find your own way... and it seems to me that that's what you have described in your book.

Good luck with this...
Rodney
(Greendale)

Hello Jeremy-
book- are you a child of God or a man of Go ?

Well laid out pitch, so honest and up front.
foreword make for some interesting reading'
And,yes, i am a Christian myself.
After reading a few chapters, i can see that you yourself are a beacon of light and hope.
The quotations you selected and print are apt and reminds me of the prayers book, read during the Latin
mass at that time.
It written in a very straight- forward that makes for easy reading.
For those who are genuinely interested. it will do them a lot of good.
good luck with this book of yours
tom bye
from hugs to kisses'
oblige and glance at mine, and if you like it , please back and or comment. thanks Jeremy

I love your honesty! Your relatable voice has engaged me, and I know I will continue to read more. Having walked with the Lord from a young age also, I believe these are words that need to be said--words that will undoubtedly encourage and impact many lives. Thanks for sharing this!

~Faith Rose
Now to Him

Hello! So, usually I only comment when people have requested via messaging (for time purposes...my inbox seems to become crowded with requests it seems) but for some reason I happened to stumble here and the title grabbed my attention. I couldn't pass it by (That's a really long way of me saying "you're title is GREAT!"). I'm not a big fan of self help books, and even more skeptical of faith based theme's-- probably stemming from some past experience that i've yet to come to terms with-- but that's not the point; the point is that you've dashed my stereotype and exceeded my expectations in a wonderfully enlightening way!

From a writing view, it's very sound. You're writing comes off easy and personal, more like a conversation than a lechture. I think it's this conversational tone that opens your readers up to the message at heart instead of taking it as judgment. You have a strong and passionate writing voice and everything is backed up in verse and personal revelation. I like the hook especially. I never thought of it from that point of view-- we consider ourselves children of God, and growing up in him and through him is an important process. Not only creative, but honest too. Oh! And Ginger! I don't know her but I admire her for her work and how open and loving she seems.

There were a few personal thoughts that I had about the... wording perhaps but, like i said-- personal: such as proper prayer and a "Deal" with God. I guess if you're already familiar with Him, it's easy to understand, but someone just getting to know God might be turned off by term "proper" thinking there's a incorrect way to talk to Him or mistake that when we act in God's Will we should expect something back...from my perspective proper wouldn't be the word-- maybe "honest" prayer? And I truely believe that when following God's word, it should be done without expectation of a reward though we know, it'll probably come. My mom used to ask me "would you still Love God, if he never did anything for you again? Would you Love him just for being who He is?" I would like to think I would...BUT! As said: personal opinion.

But anyway, aside from my personal ramblings I loved this. It was honest and brings something new to mull over and pray about and to use! These words are too powerful to just be read, I honestly think you've written something that is meant to be put into action! Wonderful write!

Neicy

Can't wait to read the entire thing! I have placed you on my W/L and will get to it as soon as I can. I hope that you will take the time to check out my novel "Ana Grace - A Heart's Journey". It is a Christian based Historical Romance. It takes you on Ana's journey to the man that God has meant for her and most importantly back to a faith that she thought she had left behind. Thank you in advance!

Happily backing,

Jim

“Grow Up! Are you a Child of God or a Man of God?” is one of best self-help type religious titles that I’ve come across. I like how author Jeremy Willis tells us upfront that he is not a pastor or a divine scholar, and that his book is really only for Christians who are confused about various aspects of their faith, not someone who is just interested in being a Christian. Being upfront with readers like that will help this book find its targeted audience.

One thing that Jeremy Willis is however, is a good writer. His style is easy-going, never preachy, and reminded me a lot of the rousing discussions I attended in my confirmation classes many years ago.

The problem that he is addressing is actually one of the biggest in the church, regardless of a person’s individual religion. Too many people get frustrated because they don’t think God is speaking to them, so they become like spiritual children. They put on their Sunday best once a week and know bible verses, but they don’t really have true faith. They are babies in a way, and if they don’t get spoon-fed their religion, they don’t grow up because they are not eating. Amy Grant even wrote a song about this called Fat Baby many years ago, and the problem has not gotten any better.

Kudos to the author for trying to tackle this problem in a very non-confrontational and even humorous way. I see no reason why this book could not be published right now by a Christian publisher. In fact, given the state of the world today, I would say that a book like this NEEDS to be published.

John Breeden II
Old Number Seven

Hi Jeremy,
Loving your book. Loved your synopsis. I'm a Christian, too...and find your work very refreshing. On WL for the moment.

Jim

Dear Jeremy,
You and I have a lot in common, we are blessed and we KNOW it. I am definitely a woman of God, I have been since i was eight years old when i discovered God may have been the only hope i had. I was not disppointed, He carried me through some pretty hofficic times.
Jesus is my beloved and dearest friend and for HIm, i would offer my life. Thanks for writing this book Jeremy, i haven't read the whole thing, but i'm sure it'll be insoirational. I have given your work six stars, for the glory of God.
Bless you.
p. s. I love your first cover. It's so Angelic and innocent. Just my opinion :)
Maria
Dar of the Moon

I have to say...I almost put the book down, Not because of the writing...it's good..Really good actually. I grew up Catholic, switched to Anglican, and them jumped around to different Christian churches until I found one with a great band...the Pastor played base....But I'm struggling with faith and your foreward questioned mine before I ever got a chance to get into the book...that's the reason I've left most churches and probabaly the most glowing reason why I question my faith..it's the "if your're not ready" or "if you don't believe than...there's the door:: It's always about judgements...isn't it?

That said, I gave your book a chance and read on. I like you style and your straight forwwatd personal approach...I would just kill judgement in the foreward and maybe, just maybe, more people will be open to learn.

Cheers,
Dwayne
A Killer's Kind

No judgment in the Foreword. I simply say who the book is written for. Someone on a diet would not want to pick up a cookbook with lots of butter in every recipe. If a book talked about a personal relationship with a space alien, and it was nonfiction, I would definitely not read it. Not every book is for everybody, and that has nothing to do with being judgmental. I'm glad you kept reading, and enjoyed the writing.

I have to say...I almost put the book down, Not because of the writing...it's good..Really good actually. I grew up Catholic, switched to Anglican, and them jumped around to different Christian churches until I found one with a great band...the Pastor played base....But I'm struggling with faith and your foreward questioned mine before I ever got a chance to get into the book...that's the reason I've left most churches and probabaly the most glowing reason why I question my faith..it's the "if your're not ready" or "if you don't believe than...there's the door:: It's always about judgements...isn't it?

That said, I gave your book a chance and read on. I like you style and your straight forwwatd personal approach...I would just kill judgement in the foreward and maybe, just maybe, more people will be open to learn.

Cheers,
Dwayne
A Killer's Kind

Jeremy,
I found Grow Up! Are you a Child of God or a Man of God? to be very easy reading and it feels like you are speaking to the reader who can greatly benefit from your Christian perspective. It was a pleasure to review.

Walden Carrington
Titanic: Rose Dawson's Story

Greetings Jeremy,

After reading several chapters of your book, I'm convinced that it will appeal to a wide audience, as you have offered a solution to one of the world's greatest mysteries: What is God's purpose? The question is personified in Job: Why does God punish a good believer? Or in the story of Abraham and Isaac: Why does He command Abraham to sacrifice his son? The usual answer to both is that He was testing their faith. This may satisfy some, but it raises many questions. Is God loving or selfish? On a deeper level, why would He question the motivation of a creature He himself created? I, for one, would buy your book to see how you might respond to such questions--questions that theologians have pondered through the ages.

In my novel "The Doctor of Summitville," the doctor raises similar questions as he endures the loss of his father. I'd be interested in your opinion of how I handled his dilemmas. Are they in character? Do they open the reader's mind?

Your book is well written and should therefore interest serious readers as well as true believers and confused doubters. Best of luck, Bill

First off I really liked your Forward. It tells a person what to expect and what not to expect from the book. Your language is clear and concise making it and authoritative (at least that was the impression I had reading it ... maybe the better word to use is confident but it also was imbued with a sense of surety that -- to me -- sounded more like authority). The clarification you make that God speaks Truths through ordinary individuals is certainly true.

Recognizing small miracles: This is something that many of us forget to do. I always try to remember all the blessings I've received when I feel dread or neglect over things that I have not received. Actually in the last ten years my life has dramatically improved as I decided to allow God to show me the way. It removes so much anxiety. Like for instance, when I go for an interview I am not anxious about messing it up or do not really care to make an impression that will compel them to hire me. In those instances I simply remember to be me and then say if it is God's will then it will be. I've found that when you know that He is watching out for you that you don't take on that additional burden. In essence you feel free. So I really like that you remind people to be grateful for small things. So many of us have "health" ... and we don't realize that is one of the most important things to have. To wake up and see the sun shine. To hear the birds sing. To breathe the cool air. So many gifts! :o)

A wonderful start to the book. And now I look forward to reading the most important chapter in the book. That of Prayer. For sure, constant communication with God is necessary for growth.
Thanks for sharing this. My best to you! Kari

As a Christian, I’m very critical of Christian books, especially those offering advice on my spiritual walk. There are already many books similar to this out there, but fortunately for you, the market is never dry, and you provide a fresh spin on it. There’s always someone willing to purchase a book like this. On occasion, I’ll come across one of these self-help books that moves me and encourages me, but more often I’m left feeling disappointed due to a number of causes (i.e. poor writing, inconsistent advice, lack of scripture, etc.)

With that said, I think your book has several really important strengths and a few things that need additional work. First, I love that you have based your ideas purely on scripture. Often I come across opinionated Christian literature that relies too heavily on the author’s personal beliefs and too little on Biblical truths. Good job avoiding that!

You also write in a way that is easy to pick up and enjoy. Though I think your voice needs a bit more flare and this can get dry at times, the conversational approach you take is effective. You rarely come off as speaking down to your reader, which is something a writer of Christian literature must avoid. Another plus.

The overall concept is excellent and necessary. There is a need for this book, which is part of the reason why I’ve written such a long critique. I want to see a book like this come out. Bravo on taking up the task of writing it. I’m impressed.

Now onto what I think needs additional work. One of the main issues I saw was the lack of hook. Beginning with your acceptance of Christ and the story of Ginger just didn’t hook me. I hear stories like this every month at church. How is this different? Though it does a good job of showing baby Christians, even those in leadership positions at your church, readers are going to want something that grabs their attention. This didn’t for me. This may simply be in presentation. For example, you might start your book off with: “My Christian faith began with ‘The Deal.’” This may not be the best example, but right away you’ll have your target audience thinking, “What is ‘The Deal’ and why haven’t I heard of it?” It’s also tightly written and cuts right to the chase. Think of some of your favorite Christian literature. How do those books hook their readers? Is it an exciting opening? A unique perspective? A distinctly powerful voice? It needs something to separate it from what is already out there.

Like all authors, your book needs a good edit. Already, in the first sentence of chapter 1, you have a typo. You’re missing a word. You also have a tendency to use words that indicate a lack of confidence. For example, “I think I can honestly say…” The “I think” eliminates the strength of “honestly” in that sentence. It tells me to disregard what you just said because you only think it. You don’t know it. Be definitive. Your sentence “I asked the current pastor to be baptized” needs to be restructured. I’m pretty sure the new pastor was already baptized. I think you mean you asked the new pastor if he would baptize you. Other than that, simply combing through and trimming unnecessary words to tighten your prose would benefit your manuscript.

You want to be careful with phrases such as “Everyone knows Romans 8:28, right?” If your target audience is truly baby Christians, then you just alienated your target audience. Honestly, many of those who are likely to pick up your book won’t know Romans 8:28.

Finally, I’m not sure you need chapter 1. If you think some of that information is necessary, then put it in the foreword. I’ve read the foreword and chapter 1, and so far, it’s all about you. Assuming I’m a reader looking for spiritual advice for myself, I’m going to be disappointed when I find out this book isn’t about me and my walk, but about you and your walk. In chapter 2, you finally start referencing your reader’s walk, but my fear is it takes too long for you to get to your first point. By the time I reached it, I’d already lost interest.

As I mentioned above, once you get to the point and begin writing and proving your general thesis, you have some really strong ideas and supports. This is also a very marketable idea. I agree there are many Christians who aren’t striving to fulfill God’s purpose and need to “grow up,” and a book like this is a good wake-up call. I hope my advice doesn’t sound harsh and that it is at least mildly helpful. I wish you the best with this.

The reason I added the things about me was to let the reader know about my personal testimony, which is usually necessary when speaking about being a Christian. As for the remark about Romans 8:28, it was meant as more irony than anything else, as many people who think they know it don't really. As for the supposed typo/missing word, there is none. The sentence is complete, and the way I wanted it worded in the first sentence of Chapter One. Thanks for the open minded comments and the review.

As a Christian, I’m very critical of Christian books, especially those offering advice on my spiritual walk. There are already many books similar to this out there, but fortunately for you, the market is never dry, and you provide a fresh spin on it. There’s always someone willing to purchase a book like this. On occasion, I’ll come across one of these self-help books that moves me and encourages me, but more often I’m left feeling disappointed due to a number of causes (i.e. poor writing, inconsistent advice, lack of scripture, etc.)

With that said, I think your book has several really important strengths and a few things that need additional work. First, I love that you have based your ideas purely on scripture. Often I come across opinionated Christian literature that relies too heavily on the author’s personal beliefs and too little on Biblical truths. Good job avoiding that!

You also write in a way that is easy to pick up and enjoy. Though I think your voice needs a bit more flare and this can get dry at times, the conversational approach you take is effective. You rarely come off as speaking down to your reader, which is something a writer of Christian literature must avoid. Another plus.

The overall concept is excellent and necessary. There is a need for this book, which is part of the reason why I’ve written such a long critique. I want to see a book like this come out. Bravo on taking up the task of writing it. I’m impressed.

Now onto what I think needs additional work. One of the main issues I saw was the lack of hook. Beginning with your acceptance of Christ and the story of Ginger just didn’t hook me. I hear stories like this every month at church. How is this different? Though it does a good job of showing baby Christians, even those in leadership positions at your church, readers are going to want something that grabs their attention. This didn’t for me. This may simply be in presentation. For example, you might start your book off with: “My Christian faith began with ‘The Deal.’” This may not be the best example, but right away you’ll have your target audience thinking, “What is ‘The Deal’ and why haven’t I heard of it?” It’s also tightly written and cuts right to the chase. Think of some of your favorite Christian literature. How do those books hook their readers? Is it an exciting opening? A unique perspective? A distinctly powerful voice? It needs something to separate it from what is already out there.

Like all authors, your book needs a good edit. Already, in the first sentence of chapter 1, you have a typo. You’re missing a word. You also have a tendency to use words that indicate a lack of confidence. For example, “I think I can honestly say…” The “I think” eliminates the strength of “honestly” in that sentence. It tells me to disregard what you just said because you only think it. You don’t know it. Be definitive. Your sentence “I asked the current pastor to be baptized” needs to be restructured. I’m pretty sure the new pastor was already baptized. I think you mean you asked the new pastor if he would baptize you. Other than that, simply combing through and trimming unnecessary words to tighten your prose would benefit your manuscript.

You want to be careful with phrases such as “Everyone knows Romans 8:28, right?” If your target audience is truly baby Christians, then you just alienated your target audience. Honestly, many of those who are likely to pick up your book won’t know Romans 8:28.

Finally, I’m not sure you need chapter 1. If you think some of that information is necessary, then put it in the foreword. I’ve read the foreword and chapter 1, and so far, it’s all about you. Assuming I’m a reader looking for spiritual advice for myself, I’m going to be disappointed when I find out this book isn’t about me and my walk, but about you and your walk. In chapter 2, you finally start referencing your reader’s walk, but my fear is it takes too long for you to get to your first point. By the time I reached it, I’d already lost interest.

As I mentioned above, once you get to the point and begin writing and proving your general thesis, you have some really strong ideas and supports. This is also a very marketable idea. I agree there are many Christians who aren’t striving to fulfill God’s purpose and need to “grow up,” and a book like this is a good wake-up call. I hope my advice doesn’t sound harsh and that it is at least mildly helpful. I wish you the best with this.

Hi Jeremy! I'm pleased to be here, reading your work. I will comment as I read through it.
I am familiar with christian writing, having written a christian book myself (many years ago), and being involved in the church/christian websites/ christian articles, etc...
I like the opening, where you say that the book is not only for christians and your open manner. You are very good at putting the reader at ease!!
Awesome story in chap 2. I can hear your passion!!!
Very nice chapter 3. You speak about salvation in a way that is not threatening, and is easy to understand, with nice scripture thown in. I would suggest one thing: Please use a more modern bible translation, such as the NIV. If you feel you need to use other versions to illustrate a particular point, then you can use more than one version.
I don't have time to read on past chapter 3. But I was impressed, and will rate your work accordingly. I wish you ever success!!!
I did flick through the other chapters... And gee! It's only 15,000 words in entirety? I think you could expand more fully, and make the book a full book length.
Good luck with your writing. :) Thank you for sharing this important message. It is something that people are concerned about... everyone wants to grow in their spiritual maturity (I hope!!)... :)

Hi Jeremy,

I just spotted your book, so I popped over for read and a comment. :)

I'll comment as I read since I find that the easiest way to keep track

(Sorry in advance for any typos, but my keyboard’s a bit knackered :()

Foreword: Good concise disclaimer. Don't worry, I'm not bothered that you're not a pastor. I don't think only authorised people have a monopoly on the words of God. I'm happy to read on and see what thoughts you offer. :)

Chapter 1: I'm surprised you were saved at such a young age. I'd have thought most people would only have such revelations when more mature. I can't wait to see how this came about...

Ah it seems Ginger was the 1 who led you on this path. I'm astonished by her financial generosity. And her salvation plan on the trip must have been v well put to have convinced you so readily. I'm impressed.

As you grew to 16, I’m glad you started asking questions. I think that's a natural and good thing to do with regards to faith. It helps a person better understand and use their faith, instead of just blindly following it. Good for you. I'm sure you learned more from reading the bible and thinking than you ever did from church services. :)

Your determination to obey God's word at such an early age was unusual, I think. Especially since you really did mean it, as opposed to just saying the words as most people would. Such dedication and sincerity is rare at any age, let alone for a teenager!

Your headaches sounded awful. I sympathise there, as I have a medical condition that is painful and degenerative. I dread to think how many pills you must have taken. It really was miraculous your prayers stopped such headaches as easily as flicking off a light switch. I wonder what would have happened if you hadn't had such faith.

Hmmm I'm not surprised you struggled to hear God. It must be difficult for anybody to clear their mind of distractions well enough to hear Him. I sense this was a v frustrating time for you, knowing that he was there just out of reach. Good idea to pray to hear him better.

Interesting that such a simple thing as thanking Jesus for a beautiful day seems to have triggered a change in your spirit. Ah it seems you'd been going using the wrong approach earlier. I'm astonished since then God has been so close to you and easy to hear. I've never heard of anybody benefiting so quickly. Congratulations! :)

I agree with what you seem to be saying about the way the bible is generally taught. I think it's too dogmatic. Misconceptions/misunderstandings would easily be passed on in such a manner. I think you're probably right people should study it more on their own terms and think about it.

I don't think what you seem to be proposing so far is confrontational. So worry not on that front :). I think you're open and honest in your writing, and just want to help others to reach the understanding you have. :)

Chapter 2: I think it's a fair point people have to work at their faith, instead of just "going" to church and not really learning. After all, there's no other activity/skill it's really possible to learn by just turning up, is there?

It seems you're saying communication with God is the most important thing of all. I guess I can agree with that too. That would trump words said by any earthly pastor. Good point too, made with reference to Matthew 6, that pastors won't tell their congregations certain things as they have an agenda. Of course they need people to continue coming to their churches, so they can't realistically offend them.

Hmmm interesting that praying aloud isn't really done in the bible. I didn't know that. Do you think it's that "noise" that drowns out God's voice when people are listening? Maybe. Wow when you raised the topic of silent prayer after the prayer meeting, things really kicked off, didn't they? I wonder why they were all so angry? Couldn't they just have talked to you calmly? I hate the closed-mindedness they showed when they basically told you that you didn't know what you were talking about. That would have really annoyed me if I was in you situation. :(

Interesting thoughts on how prayer should be carried out. I think you're saying it should be more spontaneous and from the heart. Less structured and for an audience. I like the easy way you build up a method for praying, step by step. It's understandable even to people like myself who haven't read the bible in far too long. Your order of prayer certainly sounds less like the blatant begging messages to God that many prayers come over as.

I can see asking forgiveness is important, also. After all, why should God help anybody who shows no contrition for ill deeds?

At the end, the prayer comes full circle, back to praising God. Neatly done. And you reaffirm just how important it is to pray properly to open dialogue with God at the end of the chapter

OK I think I should probably stop commenting as this comment is getting far longer than I intended it to be. I think I went overboard because I found your words and approach interesting and refreshing. :)

I like that your writing style on this subject is so open and honest, and think your approach isn’t as offensive as you worry it might be. I can see your thoughts being very useful and inspirational to many Christians struggling with their faith. :)

I'm giving your book 6 stars, as I think it should be rated far higher than it is. I wish you the best of luck getting published so that you can spread your message far and wide. :)

Pete

Well written! It is such an easy read. May God bless you and this work. If only more people were to have your heart, simply reading your words you can move mountains!
God bless you. I have backed and rated you! Great JOB!

Jeremy,
Good work with your writing, i'm enjoying it :)
My life is a miracle because the Lord Chose to bless me. Your book makes me feel reassured that God listens, and altough sometimes His answer may be negative,He's our father, and He knows best. I have never felt alone. God bless,
Maria

Your chpt 8 was most telling, with which I fully agree. I've taken the liberty to quote you as to 'false teaching.' Credit given also. Thru the Word we get to know God. It is how he shows us who he is. I was a Christian all my life, then not really, until I read the entire Bible. What a revelation? I wrote about it (published) - Wake Up! Wake Up! The Testimony of a Layman (not a sales pitch) and each day gain more insight, see Him even more brilliantly, as I re-read. Collegiate studies are as the 'commentaries and other texts' to which you also refer, often finding parallels in myths to Biblical writing. Liberal academia has distilled the Bible to a text, intentionally or not, reflective of the Enlightenment. Yet what is overlooked, or not said, is even if this were so - what is in the Bible is inspired by God and used for his purposes - of which we become the beneficiaries. Blessing to you and may your work find a wide audience.
Tom Balderston, The Wonder of Terra

A great slap in the face for all Christians. Backed
Tom Balderston
The Wonder of Terra

Your open, conversational and truthful tone is a pelasure to read. From a fellow Army vet I enjoyed your candid writing method.

Joe Luna,
Time for God

Can't give much feedback from a church goers POV, but I think my Mother would love a novel like this! Good overall message here.
xBeccaX
The Forever Girl

Jeremy, thanks for sharing your wisdom and experience. I've sometimes asked myself why He doesn't answer my prayers. Nothing to fault in your book.

Happy to back your work.

Joffrey (The Silver Spoon Effect)

Dear Jeremy,
I adore the themes that weave their lasting impressions on Grow up! Are you a Child of God or a Man of God? I think it is very clever and being a Christina myself, I'm impressed. Your novel is quite original and I'm very certain it will do well amongst those that love God. I have backed it on the strength of your pitch and look forward to reading and returning with further comments. Much success your way and God bless.
Backed with utmost pleasure
Helen
The Last Dream