Becoming More Christlike

by Brent L. Top

Jesus Christ has commanded us to "Be perfect even as I, or your Father who is in heaven is perfect" (3 Nephi 12:48). This weighty call to emulate the attributes of the Savior can seem daunting, but in Becoming More Christlike , author and BYU dean of religious education Brent L. Top instructs readers on the day-to-day goals that can guide disciples of Christ on the road to perfection. Readers are reminded that change requires both diligence and patience—but above all, it requires time. The discussion outlined in this volume is divided into three primary personal life, relationships with others, and leadership. Each topic includes tips detailing incorporation into daily life and routine, as well as faith-affirming stories, verses of scripture, and prophetic counsel. Readers will find greater purpose in life as they heed the call to learn of Him, to follow Him, and, ultimately, to become as He is.

Genres: Religion

First published January 1, 2008

Reviews

[Adam · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved with Bro. Top wrote and all the different categories that he approached becoming better. I think this book shows its age a little bit and, while great, I think should get an update (maybe he has written an updated version under a new title). While the book is all about becoming more Christlike, I was surprised to find so little actually about Christ in it. The second chapter about purifying the heart is getting to it. And then the last chapter clearly shows the strength of it. But, I feel the truly powerful and lasting change comes from turning to Christ in our lacking, not just acting as He acted. Then we can become what we are meant to become, ie Christlike.

[James Biser · Rating 4 out of 5]

Brent Top gives excellent advice and shares some great experiences about how we can all work to become more like Jesus Christ. I was very impressed with tales about his work with members of his family and the insight he received while working as a Bishop with members of his ward. It is clear that Christ set up a plan where we can become more like Him, and the Holy Ghost will help and guide us as we work on the path.

[Melissa · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is an easy read and relatively short. There are some gems throughout and I did mark several pages to revisit. I particularly appreciated the part about the flock and the fold. I’m not sure if I was expecting a step by step plan for being more Christlike, but the book wasn’t quite what I was looking for. However, I’m definitely not sorry that I read it, and fully intend on revisiting those pages before I put the book on the shelf.

[Catherine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brent Top shares some wonderful food for thought in this book about becoming more Christlike. He shares personal stories of how he has handled things in life - some good, and some not so good. It made me think more deeply about how I speak about people, and how I handle frustrating situations. We so often just need to take a deep breath and ask ourselves what Christ would do. This book is very inspiring and helpful. I would recommend it highly.

[Tafta Watson]

Brent L Top discusses ways to be more Christlike. I liked the way he suggests small ways through stories to be like Jesus Christ. For example, we need to be kind every day. Of course, that takes both diligence and practice. It also gets time.

I loved the idea that as we serve others, we not only bless them, we get blessed ourselves.

I recommend that book to others. Very good!

[Lydia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sometimes the goal to become more like Christ can be overwhelming. Brent presents a great, straight forward explanation of how to become such. He includes examples that will uplift and lighten you as well as will make your goals seem possible. A well recommended spiritual book.

[Melissa · Rating 3 out of 5]

I give 3.5 stars. The book took about half way to get good, but the good parts really were insightful and encouraging. I would recommend more as an audiobook than reading, to help the first few chapters. But there would be several parts in the book I would love to highlight .

[David Robbins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book. It is a god guide to become more like the Savior.

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved this! Very inspiring!

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing book about amazing doctrine. Brent L Top takes living a “Christ-like life” to a higher level. He covers the importance of guarding our actions, tongue, and thoughts. Wonderful counsel.

[Kathleen Anderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a good book. I should have read it with a marker in hand. Guess I’ll go through it again and make notes of the things I found most valuable.

[Timothy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just a wonderful book. Very personal and just inspiring.

[Tenille · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was really good. I thought it would be super deep and hard to follow, but it wasn't. Great stories that taught great principles, and great ways that I can be more Christlike everyday!

[Christine · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was very good for me to read. I know I need to do better in my life and there is no better teacher of love than Christ. It has motivated me to do well even in the times that seem hard for me. I've started making more spiritual goals than I ever have in my entire life. So, all in a nut shell, this book was very motivating and it didn't make me feel too guilty. The author made sure to include his own struggles and faults, which helped me to relate. Instead of pointing a finger and putting bombarding you with guilt, it helped you just to want to do as good as you can.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book.