Customer Reviews

Following the Light of Christ Into His Presence

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How does one review a life-changing experience? I was skeptical at first, but knew in less than a chapter that I would owe more to John Pontius by the end of his book than I know how to convey. Its message is simple and powerful, its presentation straightforward and engaging. This book belongs to a very small and select group: Texts that I feel honored to have read.

When Family members first told me about this book, I admit I was a bit skeptical. The title sounded like a book about near-death experiences. But I'm glad I overcame that obstacle and read it anyway.

While Pontius humbly acknowledges that this is his own work, and not a declaration of Church doctrine, I think he has has done an increadible job of clarifying the role of the Holy Spirit and it communicates with us on an individual basis. He makes a few statements that are certainly opinion, and not scripturally justifiable, (I.e. "[The spirit] nearly always prompts contrary to where we are headed."), but, on the whole, it is doctrinally sound and extremely enlightening.

I see only three main drawbacks to this book, and they are superficial: 1) The cover art is unattractive, 2) There are numerous typos, and 3) The title may scare some away

If these three things could be changed (and they easily could be), then this book could and should certainly be recognized as one of the great classics of LDS literature.

I turned 50 in 1987 and decided I wanted to learn more about making my calling and election sure. So I entered into an intense study of this subject over the next several years. And then in 1997 I discovered Pontius' book on "Following The Light Of Christ Into His Presence". It had all the answers I had been looking for and I have since faithfully followed the precepts I learned with amazing results. For anyone who wants to make a spiritual advance in their eternal progression I highly recommend this book.

Pontius take us through the things we must do (which we already know but are not doing) in order to have the Holy Ghost as our constant companion. As you study the gospel further and more deeply, you will find it so logical and simple to understand. Pontius' book is a good addition to the religious library for that person seeking for a deeper understanding of having your calling and election made sure as well as becoming the type of person you know you can be.

A must read for one and all.

John Pontius is a very gifted writer, but even more gifted in understanding of the fundamental precepts of gospel truth.

Pontius' book cogently addresses spiritual advancement rooted in Christ. It is both scriptural and real-life sensible. He has a grasp of gospel understanding that is far surpassing and rare, addressing both the early motions of faith as well as the advanced levels of growth and the challenges faced along the way.

The prose of this book is often meek and sometimes powerful. There is an honest, earnest quality in it which persuades me that Brother Pontius is not interested in setting himself up as a teacher or leader, but is sincere in his aim to help as many others as possible enjoy greater blessings than we presently do. I just finished reading the book this morning, after plodding through it for 6 months. I'm glad to have read it this way, because there is much in it that could be called redundancy. However, the redundancy is necessary and helpful.

I am interested in the comments of a few who say they have "followed the steps and seen great results." I am not one who has enjoyed much success in making a list of what to do and then doing it with a certain result. Thankfully, it seems Brother Pontius speaks to both kinds. For me the great message is to let go, to cast the burden on the Lord, and let Him redeem us. I've been living for 50 years and unable to do it myself, unsuccessful at the checklist approach to life. These teachings give me hope that my greatest problems can be solved, and greatest desires can be fulfilled--problems and desires struggled with since my youth--and not just in the next life, but in this one. This is something I had nearly given up trying to expect.

Thank you, Brother John, for listening and writing as prompted.

The stories that were told at the beginning of the book were beautiful--the one of the man who was prompted to prepare to give a blessing, and the one of the man who worked with drill bits. I would love a volume of more stories like those, to help inspire and illustrate the possibilities.

This book took a lot of Scriptures that I had read and studied and gave them greater meaning. My eyes were opened and I understood how many of my life experiences were working to improve me.

Although its a cliche this book is a must read for all sincere and striving Christians.

When you look at my copy, almost every page has large portions covered in highlighter. If I had to make a list of 10 lifechanging books, this would be in it. It gives simple (but not easy) explanations on how to bring the Spirit into your life by obedience, and goes trough the path you might expect as you do so. Almost every page has incredibly profound wisdom in it. Trust me, it will take you a lifetime to fully live up to the knoledge this book brings.

This book teaches us how to use the Gift of the Holy Ghost among other things.
Explains how the light of Christ is in us all, is amplified by baptism and the Gift of the Holy Ghost until we are baptized with Fire!

Excellent read.

This book has been very helpful for me, my family, and the many that I have referred to the book. I would recommend that book to anyone who would like to know more about following their inner promptings for a better life. I owe much gratitude to Mr. Pontius. Thank you.