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Stolen Jesus: An Unconventional Search for the Real Savior
“ Stolen Jesus does not shy away from the hurts inflicted by messed-up religion, yet this is the funniest Christian book I have read. Thank God for honest authors like Jami Amerine who are brave enough to write about life as it is.” Paul Ellis, author of Stuff Jesus Never Said and Letters from Jesus
Candid, vulnerable, and raw, popular blogger Jami Amerine delivers a hilarious memoir of her search for an authentic relationship with Jesus in a sea of impersonators.
Raised in the Mormon church, Jami Amerine was excommunicated for apostasy before she was even old enough to be baptized. This experience left her curious about all things religious and set her on a path that would introduce her to many apparitions of Jesus over the years.
It wasn’t until Jami stole a portrait of Jesus from a local YMCA storage closet and gave Him a home on her mantel that she began to ponder why the bad stuff of religion tends to stick the hardest. In Stolen Jesus Jami sets out to strip all her preconceived notions of Jesus to discover His genuine character. In doing so she discovers the real Jesus when she stops trying to fit Him in a box and allows Him to be her all-in-all.
Jami’s frank, tell-it-like-it-is writing style is full of the kinds of self-deprecating anecdotes that will have you laughing and crying all at the same time.
Candid, vulnerable, and raw, popular blogger Jami Amerine delivers a hilarious memoir of her search for an authentic relationship with Jesus in a sea of impersonators.
Raised in the Mormon church, Jami Amerine was excommunicated for apostasy before she was even old enough to be baptized. This experience left her curious about all things religious and set her on a path that would introduce her to many apparitions of Jesus over the years.
It wasn’t until Jami stole a portrait of Jesus from a local YMCA storage closet and gave Him a home on her mantel that she began to ponder why the bad stuff of religion tends to stick the hardest. In Stolen Jesus Jami sets out to strip all her preconceived notions of Jesus to discover His genuine character. In doing so she discovers the real Jesus when she stops trying to fit Him in a box and allows Him to be her all-in-all.
Jami’s frank, tell-it-like-it-is writing style is full of the kinds of self-deprecating anecdotes that will have you laughing and crying all at the same time.
208 pages, Paperback
Published October 1, 2017
28 people are currently reading
362 people want to read
About the author
Jami Amerine
25 books109 followersI am a wife to Justin, and mother to Maggie, John, Luke, Sophie, Sam, and Charlie. We are on a reprieve from foster care as we recover from the removal of a long-term placement. My husband Justin and I have a ranch near our home and we love to travel and “just be.” However, we recently relocated to the North Houston.
I have a Master’s Degree in Education, Counseling, and Human Development, but don’t let that fool you, I am not sure how I pulled that off. I also have an undergraduate degree in Family and Consumer Sciences (yeah, Home Ec.). I can cook anything, but don’t ask me to sew.
I love sharing the stories that take place in these halls where I fully embrace the Lord’s presence… He wanders around, stepping in juice puddles and stepping over laundry. I love Him, but more, I like Him. I also believe the GOOD NEWS is just Jesus. I am not here to explain Him to you. He wants to know you – but that is between you and Him. I tell tales of my adventures with Him, as He is mine.
I have a Master’s Degree in Education, Counseling, and Human Development, but don’t let that fool you, I am not sure how I pulled that off. I also have an undergraduate degree in Family and Consumer Sciences (yeah, Home Ec.). I can cook anything, but don’t ask me to sew.
I love sharing the stories that take place in these halls where I fully embrace the Lord’s presence… He wanders around, stepping in juice puddles and stepping over laundry. I love Him, but more, I like Him. I also believe the GOOD NEWS is just Jesus. I am not here to explain Him to you. He wants to know you – but that is between you and Him. I tell tales of my adventures with Him, as He is mine.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
June 4, 2017
Stolen Jesus is a book I’ll read again and again, absorbing a different layer of wisdom with each pass. Jami Amerine has helped free me from a longtime struggle with faith-versus-works by reminding me to follow the real Jesus and not merely an impression of Him. This book is a life-changer.
August 30, 2017
This is one of my favorite books. I don't say that lightly. This book made me laugh and cry. It entertained me while teaching me about faith, grace, and the human spirit. Now that's talent! I wish I could buy everyone I know a copy of this gem. It's that good. Say hello to the Real Jesus and never be the same again. *I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher.
August 29, 2017
Oh my, this is book is so funny, so relatable, and so convicting. You know those days when nothing goes right? Going through it you’re pretty sure that it would be better if you could take up life in a hole on another planet, but once through it, you know you have the perfect material for a book or two. Well, Jamie Amerine lived through it and wrote that book. But it’s not just a book of hilarious and heartbreaking incidents. It’s a desperate search for Christ. Where was He? Why did He let this happen? Is He punishing me? Why? Why am I not good enough? What can I do? Well read it and find out.
Jamie tells us of both her brokenness and His victories. She opens up her heart and shows us how we let things, people, hurts, and fears hide Jesus and His love for us. We insert so many things between our Savior and ourselves. She pulls back the layers of lies and shows us a wonderful offer of freedom.
It’s not chronological. Rather, it’s a grab bag of memories that either influenced or illustrate her faith. Nor is it a book of biblical exposition. It’s just her personal experiences with both lies and truth.
I had never heard of Jamie Amerine before I read this book. I’d never read her blog. I still don’t know where she stands on a lot of Biblical doctrines, but I do know that she loves the Lord and wishes to be wholly surrendered to Him. Some things were mentioned that I was unsure of what she meant. For example, she mentions journaling, was she writing in her journal or getting private messages from Christ? It wasn’t explained or described so I’m not sure. There were several little things like that. It’s probably clearer if you're familiar with her other works.
Pet-peeve: I think every verse quoted was from a different translation. Well maybe not every verse, but there were so many translations used including the ‘Message’. I wish authors would stick to one translation through a book.
I received this book as a free ARC through NetGalley and Harvest House Publishers. A favorable review was not required. These are my honest opinions.
Jamie tells us of both her brokenness and His victories. She opens up her heart and shows us how we let things, people, hurts, and fears hide Jesus and His love for us. We insert so many things between our Savior and ourselves. She pulls back the layers of lies and shows us a wonderful offer of freedom.
It’s not chronological. Rather, it’s a grab bag of memories that either influenced or illustrate her faith. Nor is it a book of biblical exposition. It’s just her personal experiences with both lies and truth.
I had never heard of Jamie Amerine before I read this book. I’d never read her blog. I still don’t know where she stands on a lot of Biblical doctrines, but I do know that she loves the Lord and wishes to be wholly surrendered to Him. Some things were mentioned that I was unsure of what she meant. For example, she mentions journaling, was she writing in her journal or getting private messages from Christ? It wasn’t explained or described so I’m not sure. There were several little things like that. It’s probably clearer if you're familiar with her other works.
Pet-peeve: I think every verse quoted was from a different translation. Well maybe not every verse, but there were so many translations used including the ‘Message’. I wish authors would stick to one translation through a book.
I received this book as a free ARC through NetGalley and Harvest House Publishers. A favorable review was not required. These are my honest opinions.
September 5, 2017
Jami Amerine's writing is smart, funny, and real. Stolen Jesus will steal your heart and compel you to keep turning the pages. If you feel as though you are on shaky ground in your walk with Jesus, this book will leave you standing on solid ground.
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher.
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher.
August 30, 2017
Jami Amerine maps out her journey to Jesus with beautiful and at times heart-wrenching word pictures of the Jesus' she encountered in her pursuit of the real Jesus - thank God she found him! With a natural humor and gritty, honest pen she writes about coming into relationship with our sweet Lord in the fullness of grace. At times I found myself laughing hysterically and others I was jumping up and down in agreement. Love, love, love this new author!
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher.
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher.
August 30, 2017
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher. Oh. my.goodness. I couldn't put this down. I have followed Jami's blog and her words always resonate in such a brilliantly simple way. When I started reading, I thought, of course. The REAL Jesus. Oh I have had many fake ones in my life, some the same and some different than she describes (church camp Jesus...uggh.) The REAL Jesus = REAL peace. I am sure that I am not alone in needing this message.
August 30, 2017
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher. The author laid bare her entire heart and soul in the writing of this book. It is a risk that certainly pays off. I was unable to stop reading as my heart both broke and sang simultaneously!
August 6, 2018
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher. And...I'm done. Read entire masterpiece to the last period in 3 hours. That's how much I craved each word. Jami is a beautiful person inside and out, and portrays our loving Father and faithful Friend in a down-to earth, yet magical way. Amazing. God will stir hearts and move mountains with her words.
The timing of her message couldn't be better. This world is in serious need of the Real Jesus. A Gospel revolution of cosmic proportions. We should all thank Jami for being a part of getting this runaway train back on track! He's ALWAYS been 'the Way'... we just need a grand unlearning to a humble remembering. Stolen Jesus starts the process.
The timing of her message couldn't be better. This world is in serious need of the Real Jesus. A Gospel revolution of cosmic proportions. We should all thank Jami for being a part of getting this runaway train back on track! He's ALWAYS been 'the Way'... we just need a grand unlearning to a humble remembering. Stolen Jesus starts the process.
August 31, 2017
This book. It is thought provoking without making your head hurt. As Jami tackles the different 'Jesus' figures she's created over her life, I was left pondering if I've done something similar in my own life. Her storytelling will draw you into her comical life. I honestly feel as if I've gained a best friend after reading this book. This bestie doesn't preach at you. Instead she encourages you to dig deeper into the love of the Real Jesus. I laughed until I cried. And then I just cried because the love of Real Jesus is just that great. I will definitely have this book on my shelf and purchase as a gift for others. I was given an ARC to read in anticipation of a review.
August 31, 2017
I received an advance reader copy of this book, and let me just tell you - it was nearly impossible to put down. I cried all the way through - from laughing til tears streamed down my face, relating to the brokenness, and realizing how free I truly am. Never have I read something that freed my soul to just rest in Jesus like this book has. Great read for believer and unbeliever alike. Believer -your heart will soar as you realize the truth. Unbeliever - you just might decide you want to meet this Jesus after all.
August 30, 2017
I have never before read a book that rocked my concept of Jesus like Stolen Jesus did. A truly riveting read. Loved "meeting" all of Jami's Jesuses. Laughter (uproarious-I'm sure my housemate thought I'd gone 'round the bend), tears, amazement, and any other emotion you choose to name. A must read.
*I received an advanced reader copy from the publisher.
*I received an advanced reader copy from the publisher.
August 30, 2017
Stolen Jesus was excellent. I loved every sentence! I laughed hard OUT LOUD and cried a bit too. I could not put this book down. Highly recommend! I received an advanced reader copy of this book from the publisher.
September 11, 2017
Words still escape me as I try to put words to the experience of reading this book. I laughed, I felt seen and known, and I sobbed. There were moments where I thought, I don't need this book. And then, two chapters from the end, it was like the words jumped off the page and knocked me over. This is a book for all people. It will shake your belief about Jesus and help you see the real Jesus of the Bible. Not the Jesus that the world tells us to believe. But the one in the pages of scripture. That we get to know when we dig into the nitty gritty of life with him.
Jami Amerine shares her heart and soul in this book. And I'm grateful I got to read it.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. This review is my own, honest opinion.
Jami Amerine shares her heart and soul in this book. And I'm grateful I got to read it.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. This review is my own, honest opinion.
September 9, 2017
Jami was written an incredible, honest, and vulnerable account of her journey to reclaim Jesus. Drawing from personal stories (that are sometimes funny, sometimes sad, always real), Jami talks about how she moved from viewing Jesus as a habit to having a relationship with him. Her writing is captivating and easily pulls you in. She is a great storyteller, a great momma, a great friend, and a great follower of Jesus. Read and be blessed.
(Note: I received an Advance Copy from the publisher.)
(Note: I received an Advance Copy from the publisher.)
September 3, 2017
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher, but already bought a copy and will definitely be buying more! I LOVE the way Amerine writes- true authenticity at its best. I laughed, I cried, I believed in the long hard road it took her to find the REAL Jesus. If anyone needs an entertaining read that will also rock you to your core in discovering the profound gift of the Christian faith- THIS is the book for you! This message is SO needed in today's Christian culture, but also, if there are people who are curious about Christianity, this book will give you a powerful and deep understanding of Salvation and True Grace.
September 5, 2017
Stolen Jesus is a book I will read over and over again. Jami Amerine is a masterful story-teller who had me laughing, crying, and pondering, all within the same chapter. Stolen Jesus will cause you to examine your own heart and assumptions a little more closely as you discover the beauty and grace of the Real Savior.
*I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher.
*I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher.
September 5, 2017
Stolen Jesus is absolutely amazing. Jami Amerine connected straight from her heart to mine on every level, every page. I love her transparency and honesty. So many beautiful thoughts that we all need to be reminded of. #justjesus
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher.
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher.
September 16, 2017
Are you looking for a book that will give you 10 easy steps to be more pious and Christ-like in your own life? Put this book down and read something else. If you want to go along with Jami Amerine as she shares her own faults, failures, and hilarious missteps on her journey to ultimately knowing the Real Jesus then you have exactly the right book and you should read it immediately. I was propelled through the pages, from chapter to chapter, and never wanted to put it down. You could easily convince me that Jami and I were sitting at a Starbucks chatting about life as she shared her story. I laughed and cried with her all the way through the book and even found myself wishing I had my own Stolen Jesus to talk to (I'm pretty sure there is a YMCA just down the road). This is the kind of book you can read over and over and each time come away with a new nugget of wisdom. Jami speaks fluent snark and I loved every scrunched hair vs. shopping cart, vandals in dirty socks, and half-naked in Walmart story. She is a vulnerable, flawed, yet effortlessly beautiful beacon for the rest of us who are trying and miserably failing in our efforts to be perfect. Jami, we definitely need to meet at a Starbucks - you won't even need your wallet. Oh, pancakes are good, let's have pancakes; bring the vandals.
I received this book as an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher and asked to provide my honest opinion and here you have it, the book is wonderful!
I received this book as an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher and asked to provide my honest opinion and here you have it, the book is wonderful!
July 3, 2017
Stolen Jesus is a book I’ll read again and again, absorbing a different layer of wisdom with each pass. Jami Amerine has helped free me from a longtime struggle with faith-versus-works by reminding me to follow the real Jesus and not merely an impression of Him. This book is a life-changer.
September 15, 2017
I began reading Jami with her blog post about church potluck and the flu. I've been hooked ever since. My husband can testify that Jami is talked about like a friend in my household. So, you can imagine my excitement hearing there was a book coming out. But what else does she have to say I wondered as I have read her blog and listened to podcasts. Could there really be more or just rehashing things I already know?
Jami invited me into her life through this book in a new and fresh way. I felt like I was living her story with her even though mine has been completely different... it was relating on a whole new level. By the end of chapter 3 there were ugly tears that turned into beautiful weeping of joy as Jami found the real Jesus.
My story is different in that I met the real Jesus when I was pretty young and have been blessed knowing him. As I saw Him through someone else's eyes though it helped me to learn new things about my friend. And mostly, I am challenged to recognize that so many others haven't known the freedom He gives their whole lives. I can see more all the other Jesus' they see and even a few I've created of my own in spite of knowing the real one. I feel inspired to share the truth of who He is in a new and fresh way from reading this book.
No matter where you are in your understanding of Jesus, I believe Jami has something to say that will touch your heart and open your eyes anew. You will laugh and cry and end up in a song of worship for the great love we have all been given. You will feel the personal love for you. Give it a chance and let yourself spend some time with Stolen Jesus. You might be surprised.
*I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher.
Jami invited me into her life through this book in a new and fresh way. I felt like I was living her story with her even though mine has been completely different... it was relating on a whole new level. By the end of chapter 3 there were ugly tears that turned into beautiful weeping of joy as Jami found the real Jesus.
My story is different in that I met the real Jesus when I was pretty young and have been blessed knowing him. As I saw Him through someone else's eyes though it helped me to learn new things about my friend. And mostly, I am challenged to recognize that so many others haven't known the freedom He gives their whole lives. I can see more all the other Jesus' they see and even a few I've created of my own in spite of knowing the real one. I feel inspired to share the truth of who He is in a new and fresh way from reading this book.
No matter where you are in your understanding of Jesus, I believe Jami has something to say that will touch your heart and open your eyes anew. You will laugh and cry and end up in a song of worship for the great love we have all been given. You will feel the personal love for you. Give it a chance and let yourself spend some time with Stolen Jesus. You might be surprised.
*I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher.
September 14, 2017
OH my goodness did I love this book! So many things resonated with me. Jami is funny, thought provoking and genuine in her story of her finding the Real Jesus. She encounters many other man-made portrayals of Jesus throughout her life and still He found her. He was right there all the time. I could relate to the stories of not knowing where our faith truly lies, being hurt by those claiming to follow Jesus, and just being rejected by "His people." in various ways. This is a book you will cherish, laugh at, cry with and connect to. Jami is down to earth and open about things most Christians don't want to talk about, which I appreciated. Being at church every week doesn't make you a follower of Christ. Loving like Him does. Jami and her husband currently foster and have adopted from foster care, which is a topic I feel strongly about. She shares stories of her beloved "vandals" (a term of endearment Jami coined for her two rambunctious boys) and how they've been grafted into their family over time. If you want to be challenged, encouraged and reassured, Jami's book is for you. Beware--you may finish it in one night, like me. ;)
* Full disclosure: I was fortunate enough to receive an advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review. All opinions above are my own. I LOVED IT! *
* Full disclosure: I was fortunate enough to receive an advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review. All opinions above are my own. I LOVED IT! *
September 15, 2017
I was blessed to receive an advanced copy of Jami Amerine's Stolen Jesus for my honest review. And, honestly, I couldn't put it down! Jami has a beautiful way of telling stories that make you feel like you are right there laughing and crying alongside her. Instead, I laughed and cried in my own bedroom with this book propped up on my lap and a box of tissues sitting next to me.
Honestly, when I first saw the title, I was a little put-off. After reading, I get it and I can think of no better title for this book.
We all have "Jesus'" in our lives that need to go. Images of the one true God that we've made to fit our understanding of who He is and who we are. I'm grateful Jami so willing shares her struggles and victories. In doing so, she's helped me recognize and obliterate the "Jesus'" in my life that are false.
Thank you, Jami!
All thoughts, as well as the tears and laughter, are my own and I received no other compensation.
Honestly, when I first saw the title, I was a little put-off. After reading, I get it and I can think of no better title for this book.
We all have "Jesus'" in our lives that need to go. Images of the one true God that we've made to fit our understanding of who He is and who we are. I'm grateful Jami so willing shares her struggles and victories. In doing so, she's helped me recognize and obliterate the "Jesus'" in my life that are false.
Thank you, Jami!
All thoughts, as well as the tears and laughter, are my own and I received no other compensation.
September 15, 2017
This book was so good that I didn't want it to end. Jami has a way of bringing you into the stories that she is telling and make you feel like you are sitting with her having a cup of coffee. These stories were weaved in a way to truly relate her message of the importance of seeking and finding the "real Jesus". It was through this story telling that her message was made genuinely and with sincerity. I related to many of her stories of misguided and unsure faith, and that ultimately ''real Jesus'' is kind, approachable, loving, and giving of Grace. And regardless of the many man made Jesus in the world today we can all find Him.
I received this Advance Reader Copy from the publisher for my honest review. These opinions are my own.
I received this Advance Reader Copy from the publisher for my honest review. These opinions are my own.
September 12, 2017
I fell in love with Jami Amerine through her blog on Facebook. She connects with you in such a real and transparent way you almost feel as though you are hanging out on her couch with your feet on her coffee table. Her stories and insight have made me laugh, cry, reflect and hit my knees. That being said, it was truly such a pleasure to be able to read about journey that so many of us travel yet haven't had the words to pour out. With every chapter and with every Jesus illustrated, it seemed I had a moment of connection and validation. I now know I am not the only one who has sat and scratched my head in wonder. It made me think of all the Jesus' I could add to the list and how they have changed my messy walk. Santa Jesus, Mexican Jesus, Scary Catholic Jesus, Assemblies of God Jesus, etc. Such a beautiful way to explain this amazing relationship that we share. I'm going to read again because there are so many goodies in this book! "I received this Advance Reader Copy from the publisher."
September 15, 2017
Jami Amerine is delightful and her journey to find truth is real and honest. This isn't a how-to type of book but Jami's personal story, and it is so easy to relate to. This book needed to be written and I highly recommend it, wherever you are on your Jesus journey.
I received an advance reader copy of the book.
I received an advance reader copy of the book.
September 12, 2017
This book had me hooked from the title. It is both a fast read and a deep, contemplative, chew-on-it, wrestle-with-it book. I read it in just a few days, yet parts of it remained with me, and I am still pondering how it impacts my theology. I, too, have created some fictional Jesuses, as I believe we all have. Which ones is dependent on the lens through which we view the world. Goodbye Idol Jesus and Americanized Jesus. My prayer is to seek The Real Jesus and to be in relationship with Him! I received an ARC from the publisher.
September 11, 2017
This book grabbed me from the start! As I read it, I felt like I was sitting in Jami Amerine's living room, laughing and crying with her as she told me story after story of the various "Jesuses" in her past. Cleverly written, poignantly real, and hilariously touching, "Stolen Jesus" reached my soul.
(I received an advanced reader copy.)
(I received an advanced reader copy.)
September 12, 2017
The refreshingly honest account of Jami Amerine's spiritual journey through the years expresses the confusion that comes from seeing Jesus through the eyes of another. The contrast of frank humor and painful spiritual struggle left me laughing through tears. This book is beautiful!
September 1, 2017
"Stolen Jesus" is heartfelt and funny. Jami addresses so many of the thoughts I've had during a lifetime of hearing Christian-ese, misapplied Scripture, and rules/plans to add to my salvation. But more importantly -- she clarifies, over and over, God's viewpoint of us. She explains and emphasizes grace; she encourages and empathizes.
I'm going to have many quotes written down from this book scattered around my environment as reminders. I'm going to pass along copies of the book to friends, family, and counseling clients. And I'm going to eagerly await the publication of Jami's next book.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion. I reduced my opinion word-count considerably. (You're welcome!)
I'm going to have many quotes written down from this book scattered around my environment as reminders. I'm going to pass along copies of the book to friends, family, and counseling clients. And I'm going to eagerly await the publication of Jami's next book.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion. I reduced my opinion word-count considerably. (You're welcome!)
September 15, 2017
Jami invites you to leave your limited perceptions about Jesus behind and get to know him and a true, authentic way. As someone who was deeply hurt by the church at a young age, I have so much love and appreciation for this book. It is one I will recommend to those who are lost and searching for the Jesus who will set them free.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews