Let Me Tell You A Story Life Lessons From Unexpected Places And Unlikely People

by Tony Campolo

Vivid. Passionate. Witty. Poignant. No one tells a story like Tony Campolo. Why stories? Stories have the power to sneak up on us, catch us unaware, and in the process draw us closer to our fellow human beings . . . and to God. And when Tony Campolo tells a story, we are captivated and entertained by the amazing characters and situations he describes. These are stories of hope, doubt, faith, failure, and triumph. Of people standing up for justice, showing mercy, and living for God. But don't just expect to be entertained by Tony Campolo-though you will be. He just might change your heart and your life's priorities. Listen well. You might overhear God talking to you.

Genres: Christian, Christianity, Nonfiction, Christian Living, Religion, Faith, Christian Non Fiction

240 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2000

About the author

Anthony Campolo was an American sociologist, Baptist pastor, author, public speaker, and spiritual advisor to U.S. President Bill Clinton. Campolo was known as one of the most influential leaders in the evangelical left and was a major proponent of progressive thought and reform within the evangelical community. He also became a leader of the Red-Letter Christian movement, which aims to put emphasis on the teachings of Jesus. Campolo was a popular commentator on religious, political, and social issues, and had been a guest on programs such as The Colbert Report, The Charlie Rose Show, Larry King Live, Nightline, Crossfire, Politically Incorrect and The Hour.

Reviews

[Jeremy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Basically a book of really cool, thought-provoking stories from Campolo's life and the lives of others, as well as a few modern parables used to illustrate truths. I definitely plan on reading more of Campolo's stuff because it is both challenging (philosophically/spiritually)and poignant.

Favorites among the 43 quotes I underlined:

"I am expressing my disapproval of a church that fails to love people that God will never stop loving."

"Somewhere and someplace God spoke to you and gave you visions and dreams."

"...there are times we must be ready to forfeit our happiness in order to do the good that is required of us."

Quoting someone else: "If you mean by 'Christian' what the Sermon on the Mount says about being Christian, then in any given time in history, there might be four or five such persons who would have the right to call themselves Christian."

"If every day two or three people get mugged on the road between Jerusalem and Jericho, there comes a point at which we must realize that being Good Samaritans is not enough."

On the world we live in: "Don't tell me that such a world does not have to be changed."

"Your value is established not because you are a great achiever, but because you have intrinsic worth."

Great read from a guy who realizes that the life we're called to is more than just waiting for the end.

[Stephen · Rating 3 out of 5]

I found this book to be a bit hit-or-miss at times, largely because of theological differences between myself and the author's more "evangelical" perspectives. With that said, I wish I could have given this book a 3.5 out of 5. Most of the stories are petty dang good, some of which make good sermon illustrations. Definitely worth giving a quick read through.

[Bob · Rating 3 out of 5]

Started reading this book a long time ago and have finally given up. Many, many, many stories that can be used as part of sermons or teachings, but very difficult to just sit down and read.

[Celea · Rating 4 out of 5]

You know it's good writing when a practicing witch and pagan can enjoy a book such as this; chock full of American-Baptist values and conclusions drawn from short stories. Pastor Campolo is a delightfully refreshing Christian author. He is candid about his failures as a person and as a Christian. While some of his biases (homophobia, anti-communist to name a couple) had me rolling my eyes, I nevertheless found Pastor Campolo charming in his humility and impressive in his gumption for a kinder, better world. I'd back him up in a street fight.

[Wesley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've been reading Campolo books for decades, and many of his stories are repeats that I've read before. They are good, just needs some new material.

[Kim Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved the stories in this book - Campolo makes us think of commonly held beliefs from
a different angle, with a different spin.

[Dara-Agnes Attah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Phenomenal

Great book, beautifully written! The stories just draw you in, you can see the characters come to life! Highly recommended

[Kelly Ward · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another Home Run

Campolo hit another HomeRun with this book. He masterfully shows the gospel and living for and with Christ is not complicated. Love God, Love people.

[Erin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I saw Campolo speak in person, and he uses a lot of the same stories in his sermons/speeches, but they're so entertaining in person that I can tell why. A lot of good stories in here that are used as a parable for why (and how) you should be a better Christian and to pay more attention to God in your life.

[Brittany · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book with many illustrations and stories that I'll use for years to come. It made me think about my own ideas about the various topics. The book ends with one of my favorite Tony Campolo stories, one that always brings tears to my eyes and conviction to my heart.

[Jeni · Rating 2 out of 5]

A book full of sermon illustrations, analogies and true stories that support various themes and topics. Started to feel pretty scripted after trying to read it straight thru, but as a reference it would be okay.

[Chris · Rating 5 out of 5]

EVERYONE should read this book atleast once.

[Elizabeth]

Beautiful!

[Keith]

Great book of short stories and life illustrations from Tony's life and those he knows. Nothing communicates as well as a story.

[Karen]

I also have this one if you want to borrow it.

[Matt · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book has no plot or storyline, just a collection of anecdotes and stories that help people understand God's character. I laughed, I cried, it moved me Bob.

[Jt]

some great illustrations for teaching/preaching