Gene A. Getz

King David was a deeply flawed man, yet he became one of the greatest leaders in history. His story reminds us that we are all imperfect and subject to tragic failure, but that God can still use us when we humbly and sincerely seek forgiveness.

Sharpening the focus of the Church seems to be a basic course book on Church. While the biblical principles do not change, there is new discussion about some topics. And of course if one does not share Getz's baptist/house church/plural elder views the book might be frustrating for him at points. Written in 80s - before postmodernism - I think our professor should renew his required biography. However, I'll be getting own copy of this book one day in my library.

The title should be a NT Theology of Material Things because the book primarily walks through the New Testament, book by book, examining any teaching related to material possessions. Getz attempts to identify both the immediate / local application of the teachings, as well as what he calls the supra cultural principles, those are the principles that can be applied to every age and culture, not just those living in the middle east in the 1st century. These principles are gather up show more thematically in Getz's book Real Prosperity. show less

This is such a touching book! Written by Gene Getz originally as a series of letters to his son then in Junior High this book explores the principles of 1 Timothy 4:12. After becoming a husband and father himself Kenton Getz has teamed up with his father to write this book based on those letters so that every one could benefit from the wisdom of a father to a son.

As I began reading this I could not help but think of David as he prayed for Solomon and as he laid out for Solomon biblical show more principles to live by. This is just that. A road map for young men to study and learn from.

Within the pages are 7 principles that have several sub topics that expound on the main principle. This would be great for a father to work through with the son. In fact to take such an approach would make this book and the things addressed more important to your son.

This is set up in a bible study format which makes it easy to break down into different sessions to work on. Also there are sections called "Special Assignment" and "Personal Application". After all the best truths are those that one knows how to use and feels are personally applicable to their life.

This is a must read for teen boys (even preteens) to offer hope, encouragement and a little direction in this tumultuous time.

Thank you Gospel Light for this review copy. show less