****** - Verified Buyer
4.5
Lucid brevity. That is what comes to mind when I think of Brad Bell's freshman release as an author. Although undoubtedly a great orator, it is never certain that somone who communicates well verbally will be equally as talented with the pen. Brad has proven otherwise."Walking With a Limp" takes its readers through the rugged journey of discipleship, through the eyes of a pastor. While many other books on the matter of discipleship tend to be a little less personal and practical, Brad conveys the fundamentals of discipleship as a disciple himself, sharing candidly with his readers his own struggles and successes. Furthermore, "Walking With a Limp" does a wonderful job at articulating doctrinal principals wihout the risk of confusing those who lack any formal biblical or theological training. For instance, in regards to the doctrinal debate of God's providence versus human responsibility, Brad does a superb job at illustrating the compatibility of the two, so as not to negate the importance of either. Brad writes: "When you hear God call, you must respond or you will not move. Likewise, if you exert effort but are not listening for the call, your effort will be fruitless." (Bell, p. 21)The practicality of "Walking With a Limp" is seen within the very principals by which it was inspired, that is, The Anatomy of a Disciple. The Anatomy of a Disiple is the framework that illustrates what a true disciple is made of, starting with the very core: Humbly Submitted. Brad notes that "as a disciple of Christ, you must have a heart that's Humbly Submitted to God and a mind that's Biblically Formed before life change can happen in areas of generosity, relationship and morality" (Bell, p. 33). Following humble submission, the Anatomy of a Disciple includes being Biblically Formed, Sacrificially Generous, Intentional Blessing, Morally Discerning, Culturally Engaged, Relationally Healthy, and Inclusive Community. There are chapters within the book that expoud upon each of these principles.Besides being concise, another great aspect of "Walking With a Limp" is the impact it has made in my own life. As a young and aspiring pastor, I often wrestle with my own impulsive desire to make things happen. I also wrestle with identity. Although often blinded by my own pride, I have begun to realize that there are some, as Brad puts it, "weeds" in my own life that have sprung up from my youth and have kept me from growing spiritually. In one simple sentance, "Walking With a Limp," drove me to prayer and motivation to uproot those weeds: "You want to matter, but while you're busy thinking of yourself and grasping to be seen, He can never increase." (Bell, p. 46)In short, I commend this book to all men and women who desire to draw nearer to, and become more like Jesus.Thank you Brad.- Troy
