Reviews of The Good and Beautiful God
“I’m ranking this as one of the best books I read in 2009. I’m glad it was unavailable through the library system, as my copy is quite marked up. It’s a book I think I’ll refer to again, and would recommend to others without hesitation” — Dianne, review in "WordPress"
“Far from being your typical spiritual formation book on the market today that is more fluff than substance (as there are plenty of those), Friends University theology professor James Smith takes the reader on a journey of his own walk with God and invites you the reader to explore God not for who you think (or want) Him to be, but who He actually is. The book is set up in a very approachable and readable format where the reader finds substantive chapters discussing a particular theme. The Good and Beautiful God is a great step in that important direction of understanding the need for spiritual disciplines in one’s life; and not only that, but also the need for spiritual discipline’s within community and the Church” — Daniel Seatvet, Christianity in Culture Examiner
“I don’t normally do book reviews mainly because I’m usually reading either Star Wars or Dune and I don’t want my “spiritual” friends to judge me. But today is different because I’m proud to announce that I’ve not just been reading, but discussing in depth the contents of a great book by James Bryan Smith called The Good and Beautiful God. The book is easy to read and the author has a great style that keeps your attention. I have loved not only reading the book, but discussing it with my friends and I’m sure you will too” — Review from "3 Steps Left, 1 Step Right"
“The Good and Beautiful God is a wonderful resource, a holistic approach to challenging us to grow spiritually, thoughtfully and deeply. It’s a promising kickoff to the rest of the series” —Margaret Oines, professional reviewer
“In conclusion, I have described the book, but let me briefly describe its effect on me. Like many other Christians, I have mental narratives about God that don't jibe with the God and Father of Jesus Christ. This book patiently, biblically, theologically, and spiritually showed me once again that God is good and beautiful. It left me wanting to know that God better and to live more for him” — George Wood
“Be prepared for a spiritual workout when reading this book, and get ready to stretch, groan and work spiritual muscles that are weak” — Robin Jennings, Louisville Courier Journal
“Love the layout and the honesty that James brings to the table . . . I am actively calling your men and women to apprenticeship to Christ and this book has been a huge blessing in making that happen! I am a big fan of DW and James seems to be able to put things into simple terms for me to understand! Very good book and resource!” — Matthew Penland
“If the book only contained Smith’s theology without the soul training it would still be good. If it only contained the soul training but not the theology it remains worth the read. But the combination of the two empowers the reader to create space in their life for the work of the Spirit. It also leaves the reader sufficiently engaged to continue the process of spiritual growth. The Good and Beautiful God whets the appetite” — Paul Hill, review in Next Wave, Church and Culture
“James Bryan Smith has put together a wonderful book to help us learn and remember each day who we are in Christ. The narratives that run through our heads each day usually are based in untruths and lies the enemy would love for us to continue to believe. James Bryan Smith's theology is very grounded in the truth of Gods word” — Darnell Haskell
“Great book about the wonders of an amazing God. This is a must have if you really want to be transformed by Christ” — C. Carmichael
“The best balance between thoroughness and accessibility for thoughtful Christians. For those who struggle with Willard, this is Willard applied for the non-genius” — Richard Griffin
“This is the best all around 'curriculum' I have seen for spiritual growth. His approach of not only teaching core truths but incorporating the spiritual practices is a marriage that has long been needed in discipleship material. The gracious tone of the book is different from many 'legalistic feeling' workbooks” — P.J. Held
“If you are familiar with Dallas Willard and Richard Foster, this book has similar imprints of these writing, but Smith has his own distinct style. His style of writing draws you in, entices you to let down defenses, and shares his life experiences with you. The book is good, not only because of its content, but because it is utterly realistic. Buy the book and like me, you will be awaiting the next book of the series!” — Lemaro Thompson
“It is wise, easy to read, filled with depth, "thick" and so very enriching. It is one of the best books I've ever read that combines good theology and spiritual formation. Highly recommended” — W. Clay Knick
Reviews of The Good & Beautiful Life
“Smiths' gift is to translate the sometimes weighty work of Dallas Willard in practical ways without watering down the theological foundation. A needed bit of work and so far a great series” — Leonard Hjarmalson
“Personally, I think that substituting 'Personal Narratives' in this place that is usually occupied by 'Mind' is helpful. The rising generation connects with the 'story' idea and they live in a world that is constructivist in nature. The Good and Beautiful Life makes the sometimes ponderous work of Dallas Willard accessible, without compromising the rigid theological foundations." — Len, review in NextReformation
“Glad to hear this book is out. I felt his first book was the best I read in 09” — Mick, commenting on the review by Len in NextReformation
“Perhaps the distinctive of this book—besides being readable and practical and pastorally sensitive—is his emphasis on the false narratives that are shaping us and the summons to the Jesus narrative that can reshape us. So, for the opening chapter he brings up the ‘happiness comes from following the principles of the world’ narrative that is countered by the follow Jesus narrative. Each chapter is followed by a creative ‘soul training’ exercise—like writing a letter to God or something on play or on Sabbath or media fasting (ahem, ahem) or de-accumulation. I found each of these to be on target and useful. I heartily recommend Smith's books” — Review by Scott McKnight in Jesus Creed, his Beliefnet blog
“Scot,
I agree. We took a group of students through the first book, A Good and Beautiful God, last semester. It was well done and impactful. I recommend the series for small groups! I just received a copy of this book on Monday and am looking forward to working through it” — Joellen Mauer, response to McKnight’s review