God without Religion: Can It Really Be This Simple? [Hardcover]

Andrew Farley (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: June 1, 2011

Andrew Farley's experience as a Christian was first characterized by self-effort as he tried to please God at any cost. His ruthless religion resulted in spiritual burnout and disillusionment with church. Only then did he discover what relaxing in Jesus means and how enjoying God's intimate presence can transform everyday life.

Using a unique story-driven format, God without Religion dismantles common religious misconceptions, revealing

the true meaning of being filled with the Spirit
the facts about judgment, rewards, and God's discipline
the simple truth behind predestination and the divisions it causes
the problem with the popular challenge to "live radical"

Pulling no punches, Farley shows how the truth about these controversial issues can liberate and unify believers as we discover how to rest in the unconditional love of God.

Editorial Reviews

Review

"Andrew Farley is one of the best young writers yet most mature thinkers in the church today. Read God without Religion to hear the voice of a 21st century Bonhoeffer who shows how to ring in the good times when Jesus (not religion) is the cantus firmus, the enduring melody, of our lives."--Leonard Sweet, bestselling author and professor at Drew University and George Fox University

"Never have I encountered a book that so clearly and biblically explains new covenant Christianity. If you want to dump the religious burden and live in the true freedom and joy of Christ, God without Religion is for you."--David Gregory, bestselling author of Dinner with a Perfect Stranger and The Rest of the Gospel

"God without Religion is brave, genius, and full of the best kind of hope. Andrew Farley offers us a clear, more joy-filled, and peaceful route to God, without religion! And we need that now more than ever."--Matthew Paul Turner, bestselling author of Churched and Hear No Evil

"This is a book that every Christian simply must read before going one more step in their walk with Christ. Don't waste another day living under religious bondage. Stop everything you're doing and read this book now."--Darin Hufford, bestselling author of The Misunderstood God

From the Inside Flap

Andrew Farley's experience as a Christian was first characterized by self-effort as he tried to please God at any cost. His ruthless religion resulted in spiritual fatigue and disillusionment with church. Only then did he discover what relaxing in Jesus means and how enjoying God's intimate presence can transform everyday life. Using a unique story-driven format, God without Religion dismantles common religious misconceptions, revealing

a hopeful approach to what unites us rather than what divides us
the true meaning of walking by the Spirit
the facts about judgment, rewards, and God's discipline
the problem with the popular challenge to "die to self"

Pulling no punches, Farley shows how the truth about these controversial issues can liberate and unify believers as we discover how to rest in the unconditional love of God.

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Hardcover: 272 pages
• Publisher: Baker Books (June 1, 2011)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0801013992
• ISBN-13: 978-0801013997
• Product Dimensions: 5.3 x 0.9 x 8.3 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 4.5 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (57 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #221,630 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

ANDREW FARLEY is quietly helping thousands of people discover the beauty of their new identity in Jesus Christ and how to live from God's grace like never before. Andrew is lead pastor of Ecclesia: Church Without Religion, a non-denominational church that resides on the high plains of west Texas. Andrew is a bestselling author of several Christian books including "The Naked Gospel", "God Without Religion", and "Heaven is Now." Andrew's writings have been featured in national news and media outlets including PBS, CBS, and FOX. You can hear "Andrew Farley LIVE", a nationwide call-in program, every Sunday afternoon at 2pm Eastern on Sirius XM, Channel 131.

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

29 of 34 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars GOD without Religion May 23, 2011

By Rick McDonald

Format:Hardcover

I just read Andrews book, GOD without Religion, I literally read it in three sittings, about 4 hours. I have to say that next to GODS Word this is without any doubt the best, most informative book I have "ever" read. Every single True Christian beliver simply must read this book. It has set me free in ways I could have never imagined. There is absolutely no doubt GODS hand was in this book. Thank You Andrew for your life changing insights.
Rick McDonald

11 of 12 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars A message of freedom and grace...Read it. July 1, 2011

By Bradley L Newton

Format:Hardcover

What a freeing message in Andrew Farley's new book! A great reminder that it's not about rules and regulations that end up bogging us down. Instead, Farley explains with great clarity the New Covenant message, discusses how God loves, and even likes us (what a thought!), gives colorful examples from his own life experience, and paints a practical picture of what everyday life can look like for a Christ follower. This book shook up many views I was taught growing up with in church, and reminds me to keep it simple with two commands: "Loving the Lord God with all your heart, and loving your neighbor as yourself." Before you dismiss this book because of the title or preconceived notions on what the book is about, I encourage you to read it with an open mind, and I think you will be pleasantly surprised, Highly recommend this book!

13 of 16 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars Return to freedom May 22, 2011

By Dwayna Bailey

Format:Hardcover|Amazon Verified Purchase

There is nothing better than to find out those misgivings you have had about cultural institutions are there for a reason. That is what I get out of the book God Without Religion. The root of the word religion is explained right off the bat and that alone was enough to make me want to read the rest. There is a much needed new (Biblical) look at the traditions of the mainly Americanized Christian religion woven in this book. Tithing, the Lord's Supper, baptism and forgiveness just to name a few. Don't get me wrong, the author Andrew Farley isn't anti-church ( he's a pastor) but again he has drawn some lines in the religious sand that are worth studying, praying and deciding about. There is plenty of scripture and some great quotes from historical Christians who dared go against the cultural tide and cling to the only thing that really matters, Jesus Christ Himself.