What's So Amazing About Grace?

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View books by Philip Yancey, Brenda Quinn.

OK study guide for excellent book - Rated
I agree that the book "What's so amazing about Grace?" is one that everyone should read. However I have a few comments about the study guide, having used it in a group setting.

Each study usefully begins with a precis of the relevant chapter(s) of the book, which is good if not everyone in the group has it, or has read it prior to the study. Often there is a fair amount of preparatory reading for each study, sometimes up to three chapters, which may be too much for some group members.

Each study begins with a somewhat-irrelevant "icebreaker" question, but the remaining questions provoke a lot of discussion, or even controversy. However, perhaps inevitably for a series based on a single theme, there is a lot of overlap between the different studies and discussions seemed to often cover the same ground week after week. There is also a rather American bias, particularly around issues relating to the political role of the church.

The material is thorough though, with suggestions for prayer and music for the group sessions, as well as relevant Bible readings for during the week and ideas for practical application.

All in all a good series for a weekly small group, and it is not necessary for all members to purchase the book in addition to the study guide, although they may want to since the book is excellent.

Engagingly written exploration of a hugely important topic - Rated
At a time when, at an individual level, we are told that we can get what we want by our own hard work and, at a national level, warring nations practice "an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth" this splendid book turns all that on its head.

Using many poignant, true stories to illustrate his points, Yancey takes the reader on a fascinating journey which shows how revolutionary grace really is. He explains how, without grace, conflict and "ungrace" are destined to escalate. He illustrates this with stories demonstrating the tragic and destructive effects of "ungrace", and how these are passed on from generation to generation. Grace alone can break this chain.

As Yancey spins his thread around God's supreme grace, as the defining example, he wrestles with difficult questions and shares his own experience. In this way, he manages to avoid over-simplistic arguments or dogmatic overtones. He shows that the notion of grace is counter-intuitive (even "unfair") and therefore very difficult for most people. Even if we accept the concept of grace, we struggle to live it out.

According to The Sunday Times, Bono of U2 recently sent a copy to Noel Gallagher of Oasis after a conversation they had about religion.
If it's good enough for him. . .

EXCELLENT READING - Rated
Pure excellence!! One not to overlook!!!

Excellent! Must read! - Rated
I was given this book by a friend and it is the best book I have read about Christians today. Philip Yancey tells it like it is and does not sugarcoat the problem of judgemental Christians. I live in an area where what church you go to is all important in determining your "worth".Where many Christians change churches often to find one that agrees with them; and where prejudice among other Christians runs deep. I was so happy to read Yancey's opinions on grace and feel that EVERYONE who considers themselves Christians should read this book.Those of other faiths would also get an understanding from it as well.I plan to recommend to everyone I know. (hardcover edition)

The best book (apart from the Bible!) I have read. - Rated
As a school administrator, a parent and a pastoral assistant in my church, I am constantly dealing with complex human problems and the ever changing dynamic of relationships. Interwoven with all this is my own internal struggles with faith and life issues. This book has encouraged me greatly to see beyond the immediate to the "big picture" - and it's a breath-taking vista of grace, goodness and God Himself.

I have gained great joy from giving away lots nad lots of copies of this wonderful book to good friends.

I cannot recommend this book highly enough.