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In this inspiring collection, Austin gathers his educational, amusing, and often profound sermons to share with his readers. The subject matter is far-reaching and entertaining, all while focusing intently on God—whom Austin designates most often as "G"—and God's son, called "J." This unusual substitution has a deeper meaning than might be supposed, since Austin is addressing not only Christian congregations but also those who have not yet accepted the truths offered through the Holy Bible.
Through various themes, the author presents straightforward suggestions that can benefit readers at any level of spiritual exploration. Austin's words of wisdom and parables from scripture are melded with a continuing, enjoyable reference to folk wisdom, well-known jokes, and memorable stories about children. One of the latter concerns a boy intently creating a drawing, and when asked what it is, he states that it is a picture of God. When told that no one knows what God looks like, he responds that, "They will when I get through." Austin's human-scale examples include such easily grasped concepts as the distinctions between dogs and cats, which he asserts represent, in his view, innate human personality types. He often quotes noted pastor Chuck Swindoll, who has attracted a large following and instituted many church-based projects. One presentation to Austin's congregants opens with the author playing "Amazing Grace" on guitar, speculating that the performance could have caused some to cry, made others laugh, and put still others to sleep.
Creating a multifaceted example of the many ways that the gospel might be perceived, the author skillfully purveys biblical passages such as one incident described in the Book of John when observers had very different ideas about Jesus, even as J tells them portentously that, "I am the good shepherd who is willing to die for the sheep." Delving further into what constitutes sin and the hope of repentance and conversion, the author provides contemporary examples of noted newsmakers like Eric Rudolph, who bombed abortion clinics and gay nightclubs, using biblical wording to justify his actions. Austin, though not presuming to pass judgment on Rudolph, plainly states his understanding that a true Christian would love all neighbors "with no exclusions, exceptions or omissions." It is through such bold wisdom, underpinned by Christian teachings, that Austin's words will have the power to bring readers to a fresh acceptance of the works and the love of God and Jesus.
Reverend Austin has led six congregations and currently serves at the Bridgewater Baptist Church in Virginia. His pragmatic outreach will touch readers of like mind and those seeking a new pathway, helping them, as he advises, to stop rationalizing, apply a strategy, be realistic, be encouraged, and, most importantly, to "start today." Austin's lively sermons, resonating in varying ways throughout this treatise, can be utilized and enjoyed by anyone needing to "overcome giving in to temptations." Readers will quickly sense how his thoughts, expressed in easily grasped parlance, light-hearted humor, and a wealth of rational reference, have doubtless intrigued and inspired many listeners. Austin's encouraging and thought-provoking work is a must-read.
RECOMMENDED by the US Review