Christian Basics: An Invitation to Discipleship [Paperback]

John Stott (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: October 2003

Christian Basics is a classic introduction to the Christian faith and a refresher course in Christianity's essentials. Respected author and speaker John Stott explains Christian beginnings, beliefs, and behavior, including: how Christianity revolves around the person of Jesus Christ and a relationship to him-not a creed or code of conduct; what Christians believe, structured around an affirmation of the three persons of the Trinity; how to build spiritual strength through a disciplined life in the Spirit. This accessible guide includes end-of-chapter discussion questions, group activities, and suggestions for further reading and Bible study.

Editorial Reviews

From the Back Cover

Christian Basics is a classic introduction to the Christian faith and a refresher course in Christianityís essentials. Respected author John Stott answers questions such as:

What is Christianity all about? The essence of the Christian faith is not a creed, a code of conduct, or a collection of worship services. Christian Basics explains how Christianity revolves around the person of Jesus Christ and our relationship to him.

What does a Christian believe? Christian Basics presents summaries of Christian beliefs, structured around an affirmation of the three Persons of the Trinity: God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit.

How do I live as a Christian in a complex world? Jesus summed up Godís moral law in terms of love-not sentimental or selfish, but strong and sacrificial. Christian Basics explains how to build up your spiritual strength through a disciplined life in the Spirit.

This accessible guide includes end-of-chapter discussion questions, group activities, and suggestions for further reading and Bible study.

Rev. Dr. John Stott has an international ministry as a gifted preacher and biblical scholar. He lives in London, England, and is the author of many books, including Understanding the Bible. Stott is one of the most highly respected Bible expositors of our time.

Product Details

• Paperback: 128 pages
• Publisher: Baker Books (October 2003)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0801064740
• ISBN-13: 978-0801064746
• Product Dimensions: 8.7 x 5.6 x 0.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 7.5 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 4.3 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (3 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #920,213 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

John R. W. Stott is known worldwide as a preacher, evangelist and communicator of Scripture. For many years he served as rector of All Souls Church in London, where he carried out an effective urban pastoral ministry. A leader among evangelicals in Britain, the United States and around the world, Stott was a principal framer of the landmark Lausanne Covenant (1974). His many books, including Why I Am a Christian and The Cross of Christ, have sold millions of copies around the world and in dozens of languages. Whether in the West or in the Two-Thirds World, a hallmark of Stott's ministry has been expository preaching that addresses the hearts and minds of contemporary men and women. Stott was honored by Time magazine in 2005 as one of the "100 Most Influential People in the World."

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

12 of 12 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars A helpful book..., November 4, 2003

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Huntress Reviews (United States) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Christian Basics: An Invitation to Discipleship (Paperback)

In essentials, Christians are to be unifed, according to the apostle, Paul. Within the Body of Christ, there are a wide range of beliefs, however. This has lead to many "tares" springing up amid the "wheat" of the church, ranging from outre beliefs that try to glue Christ onto abberant ideas to those who think all they must do to be Christian is show up once a week, toss coins in the plate, and recite rote prayers, if that much.

John Stott clears up exactly what is vital for Christians to believe and do to truly be Christian. He defines the Trinity, Person by Person, explains the basic sacraments, tells why prayer and Bible reading are important, etc. In the end, there is a section of prayers to get you started in making this basic habit a part of your life.

**** For both new and old believers, this book will be helpful. It could also be an evangelism tool to show the "lost" the true path in an easy to follow manner. ****

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A great biblical resource, November 17, 2006

By 

David A. Bradford "Elwood" (Van Wert, OH USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

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This review is from: Christian Basics: An Invitation to Discipleship (Paperback)

Many people attending churches today do not understand why. Why do we do it this way. Why do we believe this. In this book, John Stott gives us the answers to a lot of "why" questions. There is not a page in this book that is wasted on fluff or feel-good theology. It is packed tightly with good Biblically sound information. I read this my self, and then used it to teach an Adult Sunday School Class. This was a chance for many people to go back and review what they have learned, or learn what they should have been taught 20 years ago. For the new Christian it is a great overview of some of the basic beliefs and practices of the Christian Faith.

4.0 out of 5 stars Great Book, September 20, 2011

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MIchaelP - See all my reviews

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This review is from: Christian Basics: An Invitation to Discipleship (Paperback)

Break book to answer questions and point you to resources for developing a better understanding of the bible and it's place in the Christian way of life.

Using it right now as a basis for confirmation for my son and it is opening doors to education and information that I do not have the adeptness and depth to provide.