Journible The 17:18 Series: ActsThis week the Cross Focused Reviewers are participating in a book review blog tour for Journible The 17:18 Series: Acts by Rob Wynalda. Excerpts and links to the reviews will appear below as they are available:

“So break out your pencil or pen, open the Book of Acts and start studying the abundance of information that can be gleaned from Acts by using the Acts 17:18 Journible. I am convinced it will do as advertised, namely assisting the believer to write God’s word on the tablet of our hearts.”
Reviewer: Michael Boling (intelmin.org)
Rating: 5 Stars

“One of the greatest needs for Christians today to learn is how to properly read, study and interpret the Bible, which is why I am happy to recommend this new resource by Reformation Heritage. Whether you are a new or mature Christian, this is a must have resource that will help you to read, study and interpret the Bible better.”
Reviewer: Dave Jenkins (servantsofgrace.org)
Rating: 5 Stars

“This series is a great tool for personal Bible Studies or personal devotions. I use this series for both. One thing I enjoy the most out of this series is just writing the Bible verses on the right side and answering questions on the left side without having to use a commentary. It’s just me and God’s word.”
Reviewer: Daniel Mac (fiveintelligiblewordsblog.blogspot.com)
Rating: 5 Stars

“I would suggest considering copying out the King James Bible, if for no other reason than to familiarize yourself with a translation that has gotten lost in the last forty years in most of evangelicalism.”
Reviewer: Benjamin Shaw (gptsrabbi.blogspot.com)
Rating: 5 Stars

“After using the Acts Journible, I came away enjoying the experience. It helps with retention and memory, and is a fun way to delve into the details because you have to write out each and every word. After looking at the price of journals in my local Christian bookstore, the price for each Journible is pretty good, especially since it is hard-backed and has thicker pages to prevent ink bleeding through”
Reviewer: Andrew Wencl (missionsoutlook.blogspot.com)
Rating: 5 Stars

“The greatest asset of the journible is that it is specifically designed to enhance the under-estimated and overlooked discipline of hand-writing the scriptures. One is not only reading the scriptures, but writing the scriptures therefore assuring a double dose of the word.”
Reviewer: Louis Zinc (louiszinc.tumblr.com)
Rating: 5 Stars

“there is something very unique about copying the Scriptures onto the page. Copying the Scriptures develops a bond of solidarity between the reader and the transformative Word of God. ”
Reviewer: Spencer Cummins (spencerdeancummins.blogspot.com)
Rating: 5 Stars

“I would highly recommend this book and format for personal use, group studies, and a wide variety of ages (probably ages 12 and up). This format could be a powerful tool for those wishing to study Scripture but also develop skills and aptitude in a foreign language. If you are trying to learn biblical Greek, it would be a valuable way to write out the Greek text and become immersed. Because I am seeking to improve my Spanish, I chose to do my Journible in that language.”
Reviewer: Kevin Halloran (kevinhalloran.net)
Rating: 5 Stars

“In all, I liked what I saw in the Acts Journible. Ann and I will probably take a stab at working through one of these when we finished our current devotional material. Basically, if you want to take a steady read through a Biblical section, this is a great tool to have on hand for it.”
Reviewer: Doug Hibbard (doughibbard.com)
Rating: 5 Stars

“I loved this book and look forward in the future to work on other books of the Bible. I found myself thinking as I write a chapter, “maybe one more page before I take a break.” It is a must buy for anyone who wants to learn or memorize the word.”
Reviewer: Roger Leonhardt (reformedreader.blogspot.com)
Rating: 5 Stars

“I have never journaled like this before, but it is a very profitable discipline.  I could see how this would be a great gift for a believer who may be used to reading through their Bible, but has never learned how to slow down and actually study their Bible.”
Reviewer: Joey Parker (parkerjreviews.blogspot.com)
Rating: 5 Stars

“The 17:18 series equips those of us who will take up the challenge to live out Joshua 1:8. I give this 5 stars!”
Reviewer: Vicki Tiede (vickitiede.com)
Rating: 5 Stars


Where to Buy:
Journible The 17:18 Series: Acts is available at any good  Christian bookstore. If you don’t have a Christian bookstore near you, you may want to consider purchasing a copy from one of the online book retailers listed below:

Journible The 17:18 Series: Acts Buy Now:

Radical Dating by Diane Montgomery, Gabrielle Pickle, & Sarah BubarThis week the Cross Focused Reviewers are participating in a book review blog tour for Radical Dating: When God Takes Over Your Love Life by Diane Montgomery, Gabrielle Pickle, and Sarah Bubar (Christian Focus, 2012). Excerpts and links to the reviews will appear below as they are available:

Radical Dating is a book I will have my own daughter read when the time comes and when the subject of dating rears its head. The truths contained in this book are timeless because they are rooted in the timeless truths of God’s word, the handbook for how we are to love God and love others.”
Reviewer: Michael Boling (intelmin.org)
Rating: 5 Stars

“I can promise you that reading reading books is not a guarantee of finding a boyfriend — TRUST ME, so until you hear otherwise, I’m single! What I came away from this book with is the need to work on my relationship with God and let him take control of the rest of it.”
Reviewer: Lauralin Innis (deeperlook05.blogspot.com)
Rating: 5 Stars

Radical Dating is a book every woman who considers herself a Christ follower should read. I’d recommend this book to other singles who are looking to include God in every area of their lives, including their love lives. It’s well written and engaging. It shows godly ways to live and love in a world that views love so drastically different than He does.”
Reviewer: Dana Duggar (littlelovelybooks.com)
Rating: 4 Stars

“Packed with biblical references and practical tips, the authors let their convictions in God guide all of their dating advice.”
Reviewer: Conrade Yap (booksaint.blogspot.com)
Rating: 4 Stars

“I thought this book is a good reminder to girls of the supreme importance of finding their foundation upon Christ and what he says about them… Overall, I hope this book is an encouragement to those girls wanting to serve Christ and understand how dating can be approached from a biblical lens.”
Reviewer: Spencer Cummins (spencerdeancummins.blogspot.com)
Rating: 4 Stars

“I recommend this book to young women in the dating arena because this will help change the way the purpose of dating and relationships is perceived. I also recommend this book for those counseling the young women who are struggling with relationship and dating issues.”
Reviewer: Beverly Terry (beverlylynnt.wordpress.com)
Rating: 5 Stars

“This book was very thorough and covered all aspects of dating through biblical principles. It is a great book that is ideal for all singles currently dating someone… I wish this book or a similar book would have been available to read back in my younger days when I first started experiencing the dating world and being single.”
Reviewer: Charolette Ragsdale (charoletteragsdale.wordpress.com)
Rating: 5 Stars

“[Radical Dating] would be excellent to work through in a group, read together as mother/daughter, or individually. It’s one I’ll definitely be sharing with my daughter as we navigate these waters over the next several years.”
Reviewer: Kara Haschke (homewithpurpose.net)
Rating: 4 Stars

Where to Buy:
Radical Dating is available at any good  Christian bookstore. If you don’t have a Christian bookstore near you, you may want to consider purchasing a copy from one of the online book retailers listed below:

Radical Dating: When God takes over your love life by Diane Montgomery, Gabrielle Pickle, & Sarah Bubar Buy Now:

The Sin of Forgiveness by Edward F. Mrkvicka, Jr.Today’s “forgiveness” does just the opposite of what forgiveness is meant to accomplish – put another way, secular forgiveness causes more harm than good. The one forgiving is never made whole again, while the sinner is left in the same wretched condition. But true Christian forgiveness brings a blessing to all. We are to forgive, but it must be according to the example and teachings of Christ. Anything less is a sin.

About the Author:
Edward Mrkvicka is a lay minister and counselor, and life-long Bible student. His religious writings have been awarded Best Christian Book of the Year, Best Christian Study of the Year, named a National Best Book Awards finalist, and a winner in the Christian Choice Book Awards. He has also been awarded the prestigious Faith Writers Seal of Approval.

Edward F. Mrkvicka, Jr.His efforts on behalf of families, understanding adultery, and the devastating effect of divorce on children have earned him a United States Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition.

Book Information:

    • Publisher: CrossLink Publishing (2013)
    • ISBN:  9781936746354
    • Page Count: 168

Blog Tour Details:

  • Tour Dates: May 27 to June 2, 2013
  • Available Formats: Paperback (Continental US Only)
  • We ask that reviewers post a review to their personal website/blog and Amazon.com.

Thank you for your interest in reviewing The Sin of Forgiveness by Edward F. Mrkvicka, Jr. This book review blog tour is now full. You can see our current list of available review books here: LINK.

Contentment, Prosperity, and God’s Glory by Jeremiah BurroughsThis week the Cross Focused Reviewers are participating in a book review blog tour for Contentment, Prosperity, & God’s Glory by Jeremiah Burroughs (Reformation Heritage Books, 2013). Excerpts and links to the reviews will appear below as they are available:

“A short yet vital book for our day and age, Contentment, Prosperity, and God’s Glory is a theologically sound and valuable handbook for how to deal with whatever time in life God has brought you so that you may live your life, whether that be a time of prosperity or adversity, to the glory of God.”
Reviewer: Michael Boling (intelmin.org)
Rating: 5 Stars

“This book is a worthwhile read to take an introspective looks at one’s views and actions concerning material fullness.”
Reviewer: Karen Chevalier (buildingherhouse.blogspot.com)
Rating: 5 Stars

“This book convicted me. It convicted me on needing to be more thankful when God provides the big needs and the little extras I don’t necessarily need. It reminded me that riches are a blessing, but yet if they aren’t used in the right way they can be a curse. I don’t want money and possessions to cloud my faith and Christian walk. If you dare to be convicted I recommend this little book. It’s a rich steak that’s flavor lingers in your mouth long after the last bite.”
Reviewer: Heather Dannewitz (brokenathisfeet.wordpress.com)
Rating: 4 Stars

“This book explains the idea of being full to the Glory of God. I think Rev. Burroughs would have been an amazing preacher to hear, and I am so glad that his books have been reissued for this generation. ”
Reviewer: Faith Farrell (foundachristianbyhisgrace.blogspot.com)
Rating: 5 Stars

“This book will help Christians to gain a biblical view of God which will in turn help them to understand the nature of contentment in good and bad times. If ever there was a book that spoke to a our times, it is this one, which is why I pray that every Christian will pick up Contentment, Prosperity and God’s Glory and learn from the godly Burroughs.”
Reviewer: Dave Jenkins (servantsofgrace.org)
Rating: 5 Stars

“This work was originally published as the appendix of Jeremiah’s most famous book, The Rare Jewel of Christian Contentment. Reformation Heritage Books has graciously published this work with updated language making it more accessible to modern readers. It is an excellent read, cutting to the heart of the matter. I can’t emphasize enough how powerful and important this message is. One I needed to hear myself.”
Reviewer: Brandon Lehr (my-livinghope.blogspot.com)
Rating: 4 Stars

“I highly recommend this book for those readers of ours who have much – money, possessions, status, and stuff.  This book will pry open your white-knuckled grip on the things of the world.  And it might hurt.  But it will show you the greatest treasure, Christ himself. He is far more valuable than all the things of this world which pass away.”
Reviewer: Shane Lems (reformedreader.wordpress.com)
Rating: 5 Stars

“Do not be intimidated by the fact that this was written many centuries ago, it is fresh and relevant as if it were written today. I enthusiastically recommend this book, regardless of where you are in your spiritual journey.”
Reviewer: Ryan Rickard (declinationblog.wordpress.com)
Rating: 5 Stars

“Burroughs argues that contentment is hardest found during times of prosperity rather than times of trial. He points his reader to Christ as our foundational joy, to Christ who can sustain us through prosperity and poverty.”
Reviewer: Matthew Sims (graceforsinners.com)
Rating: 5 Stars

“Never having known anything about him or his writings before picking up the book, I can say that it is every bit as valuable as the diamonds and pearls that grace its cover. I have a new appreciation for the many blessings God has brought into my life and a solemn awareness of my own need for grace as I seek to minister God’s provision for His glory.”
Reviewer: Andrew Wencl (missionsoutlook.blogspot.com)
Rating: 5 Stars

“Although written by a Puritan, this text is easy to read… I would add that it is not evil to have things, but it is evil for things to have you. This is the danger that hangs in the balance for people with many goods. We take the giver of good things for granted & enjoy those good things improperly.”
Reviewer: Louis Zinc (louiszinc.tumblr.com)
Rating: 5 Stars

“Burroughs issues a challenge to those of us living in relatively prosperous circumstances to avoid taking our prosperity for granted. Rather, we must be careful to ensure that we are not ensnared by our wealth and contentment and start following idols (as did both the Israelites and Solomon)… This is a message that ought to be heard today.”
Reviewer: Tim Campbell (tandk.dyndns.org)
Rating: 4 Stars

“This book may be small but packs a punch, especially in the area of contentment because Americans like to have more and want more of it.”
Reviewer: Chris Land (keepingthemainthing.blogspot.com)
Rating: 5 Stars

“This book needs to be read SLOW! – not because it is a hard read, but because it is so full of wisdom, you do not want to miss anything. The Puritans tend to write in a way that each paragraph is so full of information that the reader has to take time with each sentence to get the full impact. I highly recommend this book and give it 5 out of 5 stars.”
Reviewer: Roger Leonhardt (reformedreader.blogspot.com)
Rating: 5 Stars

“This book causes you to look inside yourself and really take note on what it means to be full and the lackness thereof. How to go about becoming content and therefore prosper from it. I really enjoyed it and can’t wait to read more from the series.”
Reviewer: Jalynn Patterson (asimplelifereally.blogspot.com)
Rating: 5 Stars

“This book is a must read for anyone in ministry or in a position of leadership, and Sunday school teachers within the church. My reason for saying this is; discontentment within the church is a huge issue that must be addressed. It is one of the major causes of disruption within the body of Christ and has caused more shame to the local church than any other sins or issues that the community knows about.”
Reviewer: Martin Pitcher (nauvoopastor.com)
Rating: 4 Stars

“I heartily recommend this little book for the wider public as it has both challenging and encouraging exhortation for the people of God, especially those facing the “burden” of prosperity.”
Reviewer: Brian Cosby (ServantsOfGrace.org)
Rating: 5 Stars

“Prosperity is a blessing from God, but it is also a trial. It is a test of where our true joy lies. Burroughs sees this reality and he wants us to see it to. I heartily commend this little book to you for your joy as you seek to glorify God in the trial of prosperity.”
Reviewer: James Pruch (jamespruch.wordpress.com)
Rating: 4 Stars

“If you have never read Puritan writings before, don’t be intimidated by the thought of a book that’s going on 400 years old. I think you’ll find this book to be as timely, inviting, yet challenging as I did.”
Reviewer: Sarah White (awonderfulprovidence.blogspot.com)
Rating: 5 Stars

“I was amazed at the profound nature of this little book. I can see this book being a source of encouragement and warning to people on all income levels and age levels… Much can be gained from a reading of this book and I hope others will find in it a treasure trove of wisdom.”
Reviewer: Spencer Cummins (spencerdeancummins.blogspot.com)
Rating: 4 Stars

“This book challenges and encourages us to be content in the situations God has placed us, whether high or low, because we have been blessed beyond measure with Christ Himself. As a result, contentment is not a grit-your-teeth duty but the fruit of God’s grace because… I highly recommend this book.”
Reviewer: Persis Lorenti (triedbyfire.blogspot.com)
Rating: 5 Stars

“I think everyone who reads this will hear Burroughs’ pastoral voice, urging them, pleading with them, exhorting, and yes, at times reproving them in order to see God get all the glory… I highly commend this book to you.”
Reviewer: Kevin Sorensen (aclutteredmind.org)
Rating: 5 Stars

“I liked this book. I do recommend it for anyone living in America or other country where we are considered rich. It will indeed help your heart work through what to do with all of this prosperity.”
Reviewer: Angela Parsley (refreshmysoulblog.blogspot.com)
Rating: 4 Stars

“An abundance of material goods, happy family members, good health, a safe community, the freedom to homeschool…these are some of the gifts God has given many of us. We must be careful to enjoy such gifts gratefully and use them wisely to God’s glory… This book has inspired me to rethink the way I live.”
Reviewer: Annie Katie Aarnoutse (anniekateshomeschoolreviews.com)
Rating: 4 Stars

“As you open this book like a chest, you are sure to find the treasure contained within to enrich not only today, but also your life and your walk as well. ”
Reviewer: Sarah Cobb (sarahjeancobb.blogspot.com)
Rating: 5 Stars

“Let the eyes of a man from an age of far less distraction help you to see what are jaded and desensitized eyes are prone to miss. Here’s to fruitful, biblical abounding!”
Reviewer: Paul Imbrone (paulregent.blogspot.com)
Rating: 5 Stars

“This is a very short book that is just 119 pages, but I have sticky notes on almost every page. I can’t write every word from those notes here for this review because if I did, then you would not need to read this book.”
Reviewer: Daniel Mac (fiveintelligiblewordsblog.blogspot.com)
Rating: 5 Stars

“Sometimes when reading a book such as this, you realize what a low bar we operate under. I am amazed and encouraged what contentment entails.”
Reviewer: Jeanie Schwagerman (goodreads.com)
Rating: 4 Stars

“Since most American Christians are rich, especially by Puritan standards, most would benefit from giving this book a careful read. And for those who are not rich, an understanding of the dangers of riches may help them to be more content in their poverty.”
Reviewer: Benjamin Shaw (gptsrabbi.blogspot.com)
Rating: 5 Stars

“The Puritans understood that they were strangers and aliens on this earth and they traveled light, content in times of adversity and prosperity. In this book Jeremiah Burroughs in a gentle and pastoral way challenges all of us to do the same. A must read!”
Reviewer: Alex Houston (reformed-at-last.blogspot.com)
Rating: 5 Stars

“I highly recommend this book. I think it would be especially wonderful to read through with your teenagers and I look forward to doing so in a few more years.”
Reviewer: Hollie Dermer (dermerfamily.blogspot.com)
Rating: 5 Stars

“I learned a lot from Burroughs and the updating done by the editors made it easier for me to read, but in no way did it change the important message he had for us… Everyone should find a copy of this book, read it, and then put the principles into action.”
Reviewer: Rani Grant (christsbridge.blogspot.com)
Rating: 5 Stars

“At approximately 115 pages and 10 chapters, Jeremiah Burroughs is the one source as a pastor I point people to apart from the Scriptures to show them the riches of His glorious grace when life seems grand according to worldly standards or the world around us is crumbling beneath our feet… whatever your circumstance, prosperity or adversity, I don’t merely recommend this book. I say you NEED this book.”
Reviewer: Marc Mullins (poreuomai.com)
Rating: 5 Stars

“I found this book a wonderfully enjoyable read and certainly one that leaves the reader thinking, “Am I content where God has me, and am I more concerned with His glory or my comfort?” This is a great introduction to the Puritans as it is pretty easy to read and very small. An excellent resource in our prosperous western world.”
Reviewer: Joey Parker (parkerjreviews.blogspot.com)
Rating: 5 Stars

“Bottom line: those who have learned divine contentment and had that quality deeply worked into their character will be steady and stable in their outlook on life, regardless of any extremity in their circumstances, and their attitude and use of such things will be a boon to themselves, others, and eminently to Christ’s glory. Recommended.”
Reviewer: Douglas Wallace (pilgrimsontheway.com)
Rating: 4 Stars

“I highly recommend this book to anyone seeking to look to Scripture for lessons on contentment and the dangers of prosperity. This work serves as a beautiful reminder that only God Himself can satisfy the needs of heart that riches only pretend to satisfy.”
Reviewer: Tyler Eason (tylerceason.blogspot.com)
Rating: 5 Stars

Where to Buy:
Contentment, Prosperity, & God’s Glory by Jeremiah Burroughs is available at your local Christian bookstore. If you don’t have a Christian bookstore near you, you may want to consider purchasing a copy from one of the online book retailers listed below:

Contentment, Prosperity, and God’s Glory by Jeremiah Burroughs  Buy Now:

Why the 17:18 series?:
In Deuteronomy 17, Moses is leaving final instructions concerning the future of Israel. As a prophet of God, Moses foretells of when Israel will place a king over the nation (v. 14). In verse 18, the king is commanded to not simply acquire a copy of the law (the entire book of Deuteronomy) from the “scroll publishing house,” but to hand write his own copy of the law. Thirty-four hundred years later, educators are “discovering” that students that physically write out their notes by hand have a much greater retention rate than simply hearing or visually reading the information. Apparently, God knew this to be true of the kings of Israel also. From such understanding came the conception of this series of books.

How to Use These Books:
Each book is organized so that you can write out your very own copy of Scripture. You will be writing the Bible text only on the right hand page of the book. This should make for easier writing and also allows ample space on the left page to write your own notes and comments. From time to time a question or word will be lightly printed on the left page; these questions are to aid in further study, but should not interfere with your own notes and comments.

Book Information:

  • Publisher: Reformation Heritage Books (2013)
  • ISBN: 9781601782427
  • Page Count: 328

Blog Tour Details:

  • Tour Dates: May 20-26, 2013
  • Available Formats: hardcover (continental US only)
  • We ask that reviewers post a review to their personal website/blog and Amazon.com.

Thank you for your interest in reviewing Journible The 17:18 Series: Acts by Rob Wynalda. This book review blog tour is now full. You can see our current list of available review books here: LINK.