Revive Us Again (a review)

While on a long flight last week, I took out Frank Viola's "Revive Us Again: Living From a Renewed Christian Script."

Viola explains in his introduction that "I expect that during the course of your reading, you will say in your heart, "But of course!"" and for much of the book that was the case. Things that were frequent observations, or accepted traditions, are examined with a fresh eye to the practical ways those thoughts or habits might play out in the church - for good or for bad.

For example, Viola looks at the notion of claiming "The Lord told me":

"What I'm addressing here is the tendency of many Christians to announce that God has told them something ... I've routinely watched God get credit for things that He never authored and blamed for things He never imagined."

With a blend of Scriptural examples and practical insight, Viola goes on to point out that in the New Testament, people don't talk like that. And neither should we. Or how often have we heard (or said) "I'll pray about it." What does it typically mean? Nothing. Viola specifically avoids judging people but does point out that we need to take responsibility for the statements we make. In each chapter, he goes on to address other key areas where similar traditions or habits might need a careful re-examination.

As suggested by the legal pad cover design, the writing is clear and, in spite of a couple strained analogies, straight forward and generally easy to follow. With a clear outline and plenty of Scripture to back up his observations, Viola takes a good look at the cliches of the Christian life and challenges us to walk (and talk) intentionally into the life God has for us as believers.

Highly recommend.

Review copies provided by The B&B Media Group.