Three Passions of the Soul: A Deep and Transforming Reorientation of the Soul

by Bruce K Terpstra

This book will challenge you to think deeper about how we are changed by the Gospel. What he uncovers for us is that very little discipleship is aimed at the soul. Drawing from Scripture and our rich church history, the author establishes an approach to discipleship that focuses on the three passions of the soul (so named by Ignatius of Loyola). You will discover that your own soul will be challenged to think differently about your walk with God and what drives your life. If you want to read a book that will challenge you to reorient your understanding of the Gospel, you need to read this book.

304 pages, Paperback

Published September 15, 2017

Reviews

[Sarah]

I loved this book. It helped me to see discipleship as a matter of the soul's orientation towards God rather than simply a change in behavior or a building of new habits. The framework of acceptance, significance, and security is so helpful.

[Christopher]

Soul doctor

Bruce Terpstra provides a biblical way to be better disciple makers. He suggests that we be alert to the orientation of a person's soul so that we may address the issues of the heart that keep them from finding their acceptance, security and significance in Jesus. The process may be long, but we are not in it alone for it is the work of the Holy Spirit. I appreciate this book as it lines up well with Instruments in the Hands of the Redeemed by Paul Tripp.

[Daniel Ammerman]

Deep, transforming and life-giving discipleship

Terpstra offers a comprehensive and practical approach to discipleship. Really knowing and loving Christ is the solution for our natural psychological need for acceptance, significance and security. The book is easy to read and very practical. Very helpful for anyone desiring to be transformed and to lead others as a "physician of the soul."

[Mark]

I’m unsure how directly some of the biblical examples lined up with the SDI categories of security, significance, and acceptance, and would like to have seen some aspects developed further, but generally speaking greatly appreciated the thrust of this book. I'm looking forward to the 2nd book, Soul Discipleship Primer: Cultivating Discipling Communities, fleshing out more application.