What does it mean to be a Christian? For most people, what comes to mind is a list of rules. Don't do this. Don't do that. Try harder. Do better. Many people feel hopeless and have given up on this kind of religion for good reason-it does not work. We do not feel close to God. We do not change like we believe we should. We seem powerless to impact culture.
In Redefined, pastor Allen Holmes brings a powerful message to a weary world-this kind of religion is nothing like the blessed life Jesus has in mind for you. The good news is that a blessed and transformed life is closer than you imagined.
What if God redefined your understanding of what it means to follow Him? What if you discovered that most of what you have believed is wrong? What if God is more interested in a relationship with you than your performance for Him?
That kind of discovery would change everything! It would mean that the change, growth, and breakthrough you have been looking for is found in your weakness, not your strength. Jesus came to offer more than you can imagine-a blessing that reunites you with the Father, transforms your relationships, and empowers you to engage with culture.
It's time to Redefine what it means to follow Jesus.
Mind blows had already begun on page 2 where Dr. Allen Holmes writes, " We begin to grasp a new understanding of what it means to be spiritually mature as we redefine our faith by going deeper in our relationship with God.". The author goes through the famous sermon on the mount in the book of Matthew. I encountered Jesus in a very personal way throughout this book. My day-to-day life where I struggled with laziness and getting to the next activity was convicted. I not only allowed God to further shape my life but I began completing things with more fulfillment. This was not done out of duty but of seeking opportunity. This book showed me how to identify the root of the issues with biblical context. And it did not stop there. I have been able to see God cultivate growth in me as I am being with Jesus so I can become more like Jesus so I can do what Jesus did. God has placed many opportunities throughout my week to, like the author mentioned on page 181, "Resisting temptation is not a test of my willpower but of my relationship." these opportunities have been more rewarding when I look forward to cultivating my relationship with Christ. I end my days in rest, thanking God that He walked with me as I chose to accept the challenge and do better and be better. This all starts with the beatitudes that Dr. Allen Holmes so clearly outlines for us. I can read this a thousand times again and apply it to my life differently every time as I continue grow closer to our Lord and grow more into my full God given potential.
What if you could throw out all the rules? If this is what keeps you from seeking God or attending church - the fear of being bound to rules that you do not want or could not follow - this is the book for you. Pastor Allen shares the story of his life in a passionate and authentic way, his struggle to develop a close relationship with God, while desiring to live a blessed and holy life. An inspiring and enjoyable read. Even though he often criticizes established religion, it is for all the right reasons. For the believer and non-believer, this book is a must read.
This book has the ability to change the way you define your relationship with Jesus. It is filled with grace, hope, and redemption. It helps you move from religious practices to a true and authentic relationship with Jesus. Dr. Allen Holmes shows the reader that there is a different way to live if we truly understand Jesus' invitation to be with Him.
Redefined is a life changer! It helps new and old believers redefine what it really means to walk with Jesus. The book gives you permission to be free from the rules of religion and practical steps to take to cultivate a relationship with Jesus.
Fantastic. To follow Jesus means a life of freedom. Not rules. Not performance. Redefined is a perfect title for a book that flips cultures views of what it means to live a life in harmony with a relationship and NOT fighting against it. This book is refreshing and empowering.
When you change the way you think you will change the way you live!! Allen’s book, redefined, clearly challenges and motivates you to rethink your relationship with Jesus!! The result, a “redefined” life in HIM! The life HE meant for us to have!! An awesome read!! Life Changing!