What do you think?
Rate this book
Greater: Dream Bigger. Start Smaller. Ignite God's Vision for Your Life.
Bestseller del New York Times
El pastor Steven Furtick se basa en la historia b�blica de Eliseo para darle la confianza de saber que nada es imposible con Dios, la claridad para ver el siguiente paso que �l le est� llamando a dar, y el valor para hacer cualquier cosa que �l le diga que haga.
La mayor�a de nosotros no corremos el peligro de arruinar nuestras vidas, pero s� de desperdiciarlas. Todos tenemos momentos honestos en los que nos agarra el deseo de sentir que lo que hacemos importa m�s. Que lo que somos importa m�s. Y seg�n Juan 14:12, Jes�s quiere lo mismo para cada uno de nosotros: En verdad os digo que todo el que crea en m� har� las obras que yo he hecho, y har� cosas a�n mayores que �stas, porque yo voy al Padre.
Esa sola promesa - cosas a�n mayores que �stas- deber�a bastar para hacer a�icos nuestra aceptaci�n de la mediocridad espiritual. Desgraciadamente, la mayor�a de los creyentes s�lo lo han intentado y han renunciado a vagas nociones de grandeza... y luego se han conformado con una vida que s�lo es suficientemente buena.
Pero Dios tiene una visi�n para tu vida que es m�s grande. Dios est� listo para lograr una grandeza en tu vida que est� completamente fuera del alcance humano - m�s all� de cualquier cosa que veas en ti mismo en tu mejor d�a, pero exactamente lo que Dios ha visto en ti todo el tiempo.
En Cosas Mayores , el pastor Steven Furtick se basa en la historia b�blica de Eliseo para capacitarte en lo siguiente:
Llevar un sue�o dado por Dios de la idea a la realidad Ampliar sus limitados recursos y habilidades de una manera que nunca crey� posible Reemplazar las im�genes de ti mismo que te mantienen atrapado en el pasado Crear un impacto significativo con tu vida empezando hoy, en lugar de hacer planes interminables para el ma�ana que nunca llegas a hacer
Si est�s cansado de ser ordinario, es hora de so�ar en grande. Si te sientes abrumado por saber por d�nde empezar, es hora de empezar en peque�o. Es hora de activar la gran visi�n de Dios para tu vida.
New York Times bestseller Pastor Steven Furtick draws on the biblical story of Elisha to give you the confidence to know that nothing is impossible with God, the clarity to see the next step He's calling you to take, and the courage to do anything He tells you to do.
Most of us aren't in danger of ruining our lives, but we are in danger of wasting them. We all have honest moments when we're gripped by a desire to feel that what we're doing matters more. That who we are matters more. And according to John 14:12, Jesus wants the very same thing for every one of us: "Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father."
That single promise--"even greater things than these"--should be enough to shatter our acceptance of spiritual mediocrity. Unfortunately, most believers have only tried and given up on vague notions of greatness...then settled into a life that's just good enough.
But God has a vision for your life that is Greater. God is ready to accomplish a greatness in your life that is entirely out of human reach--beyond anything you see in yourself on your best day, but exactly what God has seen in you all along.
In Greater , Pastor Steven Furtick draws on the biblical story of Elisha to empower you to:
Take a God-given dream from idea to reality Stretch your limited resources and abilities in ways you never thought possible Replace the images of yourself that keep you feeling stuck in the past Make a significant impact with your life starting today, rather than making endless plans for tomorrow that you never get around to
If you're tired of being ordinary, it's time to dream bigger. If you're feeling overwhelmed about where to begin, it's time to start smaller. It's time to ignite God's Greater vision for your life.
El pastor Steven Furtick se basa en la historia b�blica de Eliseo para darle la confianza de saber que nada es imposible con Dios, la claridad para ver el siguiente paso que �l le est� llamando a dar, y el valor para hacer cualquier cosa que �l le diga que haga.
La mayor�a de nosotros no corremos el peligro de arruinar nuestras vidas, pero s� de desperdiciarlas. Todos tenemos momentos honestos en los que nos agarra el deseo de sentir que lo que hacemos importa m�s. Que lo que somos importa m�s. Y seg�n Juan 14:12, Jes�s quiere lo mismo para cada uno de nosotros: En verdad os digo que todo el que crea en m� har� las obras que yo he hecho, y har� cosas a�n mayores que �stas, porque yo voy al Padre.
Esa sola promesa - cosas a�n mayores que �stas- deber�a bastar para hacer a�icos nuestra aceptaci�n de la mediocridad espiritual. Desgraciadamente, la mayor�a de los creyentes s�lo lo han intentado y han renunciado a vagas nociones de grandeza... y luego se han conformado con una vida que s�lo es suficientemente buena.
Pero Dios tiene una visi�n para tu vida que es m�s grande. Dios est� listo para lograr una grandeza en tu vida que est� completamente fuera del alcance humano - m�s all� de cualquier cosa que veas en ti mismo en tu mejor d�a, pero exactamente lo que Dios ha visto en ti todo el tiempo.
En Cosas Mayores , el pastor Steven Furtick se basa en la historia b�blica de Eliseo para capacitarte en lo siguiente:
Llevar un sue�o dado por Dios de la idea a la realidad Ampliar sus limitados recursos y habilidades de una manera que nunca crey� posible Reemplazar las im�genes de ti mismo que te mantienen atrapado en el pasado Crear un impacto significativo con tu vida empezando hoy, en lugar de hacer planes interminables para el ma�ana que nunca llegas a hacer
Si est�s cansado de ser ordinario, es hora de so�ar en grande. Si te sientes abrumado por saber por d�nde empezar, es hora de empezar en peque�o. Es hora de activar la gran visi�n de Dios para tu vida.
New York Times bestseller Pastor Steven Furtick draws on the biblical story of Elisha to give you the confidence to know that nothing is impossible with God, the clarity to see the next step He's calling you to take, and the courage to do anything He tells you to do.
Most of us aren't in danger of ruining our lives, but we are in danger of wasting them. We all have honest moments when we're gripped by a desire to feel that what we're doing matters more. That who we are matters more. And according to John 14:12, Jesus wants the very same thing for every one of us: "Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father."
That single promise--"even greater things than these"--should be enough to shatter our acceptance of spiritual mediocrity. Unfortunately, most believers have only tried and given up on vague notions of greatness...then settled into a life that's just good enough.
But God has a vision for your life that is Greater. God is ready to accomplish a greatness in your life that is entirely out of human reach--beyond anything you see in yourself on your best day, but exactly what God has seen in you all along.
In Greater , Pastor Steven Furtick draws on the biblical story of Elisha to empower you to:
Take a God-given dream from idea to reality Stretch your limited resources and abilities in ways you never thought possible Replace the images of yourself that keep you feeling stuck in the past Make a significant impact with your life starting today, rather than making endless plans for tomorrow that you never get around to
If you're tired of being ordinary, it's time to dream bigger. If you're feeling overwhelmed about where to begin, it's time to start smaller. It's time to ignite God's Greater vision for your life.
224 pages, Hardcover
First published September 4, 2012
353 people are currently reading
2,573 people want to read
About the author
Steven Furtick
29books726followersSteven Furtick is the founder and lead pastor of Elevation Church in Charlotte, North Carolina, named by Outreach magazine as one of the top 10 fastest growing churches in the nation. In four years, Elevation has grown to more than 6,000 people in regular attendance in three locations. Steven holds a degree in communication from North Greenville University, and a Master of Divinity degree from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He and his wife, Holly, have two young sons—Elijah and Graham—and make their home in the Charlotte area.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 192 reviews
October 13, 2012
2 out of 5 Stars
Author: Steven Furtick
Publisher: Multnomah
Reading Level: Leisure
I haven’t read Furtick’s other book but everything I heard was either unbridled praise or scorn. I don’t know if Greater deserves either of those extremes. I found some portions of the book helpful but most of it was self-help knitted into the story of Elisha--which is weird. He seems self-aware that his message is primarily one of self-empowerment while rejecting “self-help� as a title. For instance Furtick says,
I’d understand if you were tempted to write me off as just another self-help hype man, wheeling and dealing promises about a better you that won’t hold up in reality. . . .
I’d be suspicious about someone who said those kinds of things.
But I haven’t said, and don’t plan to say, any of those things in this book.
Instead I want to walk you straight into the gap between the greater things God has promised in His Word and the results we see in our lives. (pp. 12-13; see also p. 37)
Later he says, “I’ve built my whole ministry by motivating people� (p. 74). There’s a tension and I’m not sure it’s a healthy one. The gospel isn’t about motivating people.
Back to my biggest critique. Furtick displaces the story of Elisha from its context and works the idea of his book into it. I don’t think it works primarily because the idea of dreaming bigger, starting smaller, and igniting God’s vision for your life isn’t present.
The Old Testament is filled with instructive stories but they are notoriously hard to preach and teach from. Furtick is over his head here. For example, let’s take the first two steps he gives to greater living. Step one becoming more acutely aware of God’s presence in your life (p. 29). But it’s not only or even primarily the objective word of God or the freedom we have in Christ to obey him in a thousand different ways rather it’s paying “attention to the spiritual vibrations around you� (p. 34).
The next step is “burning the plows� by leaving good behind and seeking greater (pp. 46-50). But again it’s all subjective which ties back into my point: Where are these points in Elisha’s story? First, even it were, Elisha’s story isn’t normative. His experience is supernatural but it’s not subjective. He wasn’t waiting for spiritual vibrations. Elijah, God’s spokesman on earth, came and directly revealed God’s will for Elisha’s life life. We have the Bible but it doesn’t directly tell us to work here or do that but that’s the beauty of our freedom in Christ.
Finally and probably the most atrocious example is found in Furtick’s use of the story of the lost axe head as a parallel for losing your “edge� (pun intended by Furtick) in the Christian life. The advice itself isn’t so bad (crying out to God and relying on him to do the stuff we can’t do) but I’m not sure the story of 2 Kings 6 is the right story for that.
He ends by asking, “Is going after a greater life even biblical? . . . Over the next few chapters I’ll address [this question] head on. Not always with tidy answers. But from a Biblical perspective� (p. 91). But he failed to carry through on his promise. He did provide an answer but it wasn’t rooted in faithful exposition of Scripture. He tells the story of the Shunammite woman’s dying son and then follows up by saying,
Sometimes people hear from God, or think they hear from God, and they burn their plows. Or they dig their ditches. Or they pour the one jar of oil. And instead of being given beauty for ashes, they are given ashes for ashes. (p. 98)
It’s seems greater faith is equated with subjectiveness and risky living. If there’s some truth and value in taking risks it’s lost in the over emphasis. Compare this pulled punch with the first quotation in my review. Or with this:
Elijah passed on his mantle to Elisha. Through your surrender to God’s Spirit, the mantle of Elisha has been passed on to you. Think of the scriptures you’ve encountered in this book as your cloak. Bound up in God’s Word is the impartation you need to leave your life of good enough behind and step into the greater life God has had in mind for you all along. You’re about to make your crossing. Your divine destiny waits for you on the other side. (p. 184)
The story of Elisha is so integral to the message of Greater that it’s nearly impossible to separate the bad interpretation of the story from the message Furtick is telling.
A free copy of this book was provided by Multnomah.
Author: Steven Furtick
Publisher: Multnomah
Reading Level: Leisure
I haven’t read Furtick’s other book but everything I heard was either unbridled praise or scorn. I don’t know if Greater deserves either of those extremes. I found some portions of the book helpful but most of it was self-help knitted into the story of Elisha--which is weird. He seems self-aware that his message is primarily one of self-empowerment while rejecting “self-help� as a title. For instance Furtick says,
I’d understand if you were tempted to write me off as just another self-help hype man, wheeling and dealing promises about a better you that won’t hold up in reality. . . .
I’d be suspicious about someone who said those kinds of things.
But I haven’t said, and don’t plan to say, any of those things in this book.
Instead I want to walk you straight into the gap between the greater things God has promised in His Word and the results we see in our lives. (pp. 12-13; see also p. 37)
Later he says, “I’ve built my whole ministry by motivating people� (p. 74). There’s a tension and I’m not sure it’s a healthy one. The gospel isn’t about motivating people.
Back to my biggest critique. Furtick displaces the story of Elisha from its context and works the idea of his book into it. I don’t think it works primarily because the idea of dreaming bigger, starting smaller, and igniting God’s vision for your life isn’t present.
The Old Testament is filled with instructive stories but they are notoriously hard to preach and teach from. Furtick is over his head here. For example, let’s take the first two steps he gives to greater living. Step one becoming more acutely aware of God’s presence in your life (p. 29). But it’s not only or even primarily the objective word of God or the freedom we have in Christ to obey him in a thousand different ways rather it’s paying “attention to the spiritual vibrations around you� (p. 34).
The next step is “burning the plows� by leaving good behind and seeking greater (pp. 46-50). But again it’s all subjective which ties back into my point: Where are these points in Elisha’s story? First, even it were, Elisha’s story isn’t normative. His experience is supernatural but it’s not subjective. He wasn’t waiting for spiritual vibrations. Elijah, God’s spokesman on earth, came and directly revealed God’s will for Elisha’s life life. We have the Bible but it doesn’t directly tell us to work here or do that but that’s the beauty of our freedom in Christ.
Finally and probably the most atrocious example is found in Furtick’s use of the story of the lost axe head as a parallel for losing your “edge� (pun intended by Furtick) in the Christian life. The advice itself isn’t so bad (crying out to God and relying on him to do the stuff we can’t do) but I’m not sure the story of 2 Kings 6 is the right story for that.
He ends by asking, “Is going after a greater life even biblical? . . . Over the next few chapters I’ll address [this question] head on. Not always with tidy answers. But from a Biblical perspective� (p. 91). But he failed to carry through on his promise. He did provide an answer but it wasn’t rooted in faithful exposition of Scripture. He tells the story of the Shunammite woman’s dying son and then follows up by saying,
Sometimes people hear from God, or think they hear from God, and they burn their plows. Or they dig their ditches. Or they pour the one jar of oil. And instead of being given beauty for ashes, they are given ashes for ashes. (p. 98)
It’s seems greater faith is equated with subjectiveness and risky living. If there’s some truth and value in taking risks it’s lost in the over emphasis. Compare this pulled punch with the first quotation in my review. Or with this:
Elijah passed on his mantle to Elisha. Through your surrender to God’s Spirit, the mantle of Elisha has been passed on to you. Think of the scriptures you’ve encountered in this book as your cloak. Bound up in God’s Word is the impartation you need to leave your life of good enough behind and step into the greater life God has had in mind for you all along. You’re about to make your crossing. Your divine destiny waits for you on the other side. (p. 184)
The story of Elisha is so integral to the message of Greater that it’s nearly impossible to separate the bad interpretation of the story from the message Furtick is telling.
A free copy of this book was provided by Multnomah.
June 4, 2022
This is my first time reading a book from this Author, but I must say...I was very impressed! This is an absolute must-read! The story focuses on Elisha and what we can learn from this great Prophet. Steven talked about giving up the good for something greater, letting go of the things that are holding you back and diving head-first into your God-given Calling. Steven uses personal examples from his own life (and others' lives) and his "voice" and style of writing is entertaining and easy to understand. I also enjoyed finding out more about Elisha (and his Mentor, Elijah) as his miracles were explored in great level in this book. Steven encourages the reader to use what you have, to start small and trust God for more. There is a chapter called "Wasted Faith" which I appreciated - a chapter where Steven talks about how sometimes you do not get the miracle you were hoping for and not seeing your prayers answered the way you wanted. . It was nice that Steven addressed this and how God can work even through closed doors as He redefines disappointment. Steven shares prayers at the end and the Epilogue is also encouraging - as Steven talks about how... even Elisha's bones can bring a man back from the dead. My book had discussion questions in the back. I will definitely be reading more from this Author!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 18, 2012
This book, for me, was about a 4 star rating.
I really liked what Furtick had to say. And it helps a lot that he's a pretty funny guy.
It makes a lot of sense, what Furtick had to say about God's plans for our lives. We are destined for greater things than we could ever imagine through Christ. But we aren't just going to wake up one day in height of our lives. We've got to start small, take it one step at a time, because that's how faith works -- putting one foot in front of the other with both eyes on God.
I loved digging around in the life of Elisha. Most people overlook this guy for Elijah, but Elisha's life is full of epic moments. He was incredible! And his faith should be an inspiration to us all. We should all desire to have faith like Elisha.
Run to God while burning your bridges so that you have nothing to run back to. Don't take the chance of letting yourself turn away. Give yourself no other choice but straight ahead.
And when times get hard, just remember that God is with you.
He always was.
I really liked what Furtick had to say. And it helps a lot that he's a pretty funny guy.
It makes a lot of sense, what Furtick had to say about God's plans for our lives. We are destined for greater things than we could ever imagine through Christ. But we aren't just going to wake up one day in height of our lives. We've got to start small, take it one step at a time, because that's how faith works -- putting one foot in front of the other with both eyes on God.
I loved digging around in the life of Elisha. Most people overlook this guy for Elijah, but Elisha's life is full of epic moments. He was incredible! And his faith should be an inspiration to us all. We should all desire to have faith like Elisha.
Run to God while burning your bridges so that you have nothing to run back to. Don't take the chance of letting yourself turn away. Give yourself no other choice but straight ahead.
And when times get hard, just remember that God is with you.
He always was.
August 10, 2012
In Greater, Steven Furtick provided clarity on believing that Christians will do greater things for God’s kingdom through the power of Jesus. God wants us to be willing to assist the wounded and the hurting. Steven Furtick encouraged readers to not settle for mediocrity living but to achieve and go after the greater lifestyle. He articulated his point by describing how the Prophet Elijah was told by God to employ Elisha as the next prophet after him. Elisha was a common man plowing a field with his oxen and living a boring mediocre life. His job wasn’t fulfilling him and he never believed that he would ever leave his current circumstances. He thought he would die where he was currently at. But God had a different plan for Elisha. Elijah arrived and took off his own cloak and put it on Elisha. This signified that Elisha would become the next prophet of the land and he had the blessings of God on him. Then Elisha stopped working and he proceeded to go burn his plows and he butchered the oxen and fed his community. He left everything behind to move forward into the purpose God has ordained for him. Many times before we travel to the next destination in life we have to leave things behind that would hinder our next level in life. Surrendering our ideas can be challenging and difficult but it leads us to the greater life in store for us once we finally truly let go. Waiting on God to tell us how it will happen and work out in the end leaves us waiting forever. Burning our plows that are holding us back is the first vital step to attaining our destiny.
I especially related and connected to the personally story that Steven Furtick demonstrated by speaking life giving words into his three children lives. He informs and reminds them daily all much he loves his children and how special, awesome, handsome, beautiful, and other life enhancing words that truly are. He always tells them, “My daddy says I am�. He does this in hope that it will instill confidence when a bully or someone else tells his children who they are. I personally see the greater impact it will have on his children self-esteem. Numerous fathers and mothers could change and shape the direction of their children lives if they would initiate in the importance of doing this. Another aspect to remember is to not assume that your children already know how much you love them and what you think of them! You need to speak out positive words over your children lives and don’t leave it to the world to portray the valve of your children and what their future holds. I have already decided that I will be captivating this parenting method when I have children. I now realized that the greater husbands, fathers, and friends aren’t afraid to share their emotional side by revealing to their children the truth they desperately need to hear.
I would recommend this astonishing book to anyone who desires to live the greater life and they are sick of just barely surviving and going through the motions of every day living. Steven Furtick has shown me the impact of removing and destroying our plows that are holding us back from chasing after our dreams. When we leave things behind we tend to deem we might be seen as a failure. But the payoff of believing John 14:12 that we can do greater things than Jesus is worth trying and knowing, we won’t have to live with regret of what could have been if we would have tried! Apart from Jesus we aren’t able to finish and complete greater works but with his loving hand we can. This book will open your eyes to distinguishing what the greater visions, dreams, relationships, careers, and works that God has that he wants to see you carry out for His glory. Reading this book has increased my expectations of everything God will be able to accomplish through me! And the greater life isn’t just for me God wants to use you too! Let’s burn our plows and go after everything God has for us!
“I received this ARC copy for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review�.
I especially related and connected to the personally story that Steven Furtick demonstrated by speaking life giving words into his three children lives. He informs and reminds them daily all much he loves his children and how special, awesome, handsome, beautiful, and other life enhancing words that truly are. He always tells them, “My daddy says I am�. He does this in hope that it will instill confidence when a bully or someone else tells his children who they are. I personally see the greater impact it will have on his children self-esteem. Numerous fathers and mothers could change and shape the direction of their children lives if they would initiate in the importance of doing this. Another aspect to remember is to not assume that your children already know how much you love them and what you think of them! You need to speak out positive words over your children lives and don’t leave it to the world to portray the valve of your children and what their future holds. I have already decided that I will be captivating this parenting method when I have children. I now realized that the greater husbands, fathers, and friends aren’t afraid to share their emotional side by revealing to their children the truth they desperately need to hear.
I would recommend this astonishing book to anyone who desires to live the greater life and they are sick of just barely surviving and going through the motions of every day living. Steven Furtick has shown me the impact of removing and destroying our plows that are holding us back from chasing after our dreams. When we leave things behind we tend to deem we might be seen as a failure. But the payoff of believing John 14:12 that we can do greater things than Jesus is worth trying and knowing, we won’t have to live with regret of what could have been if we would have tried! Apart from Jesus we aren’t able to finish and complete greater works but with his loving hand we can. This book will open your eyes to distinguishing what the greater visions, dreams, relationships, careers, and works that God has that he wants to see you carry out for His glory. Reading this book has increased my expectations of everything God will be able to accomplish through me! And the greater life isn’t just for me God wants to use you too! Let’s burn our plows and go after everything God has for us!
“I received this ARC copy for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review�.
September 20, 2016
This is the perfect book when you want to reflect on your life and go bigger. I recommend that you use the questions at the end of each chapter and journal your reflections. This book will help you move confidently in the direction of
God's plan for your life.
God's plan for your life.
February 10, 2013
This book is about how God wants us to pursue the Greater life and God-given dreams He has called us to. Through the story of the Old Testament prophet Elisha, Pastor Furtick explores how Elisha’s faith in God enabled him to not only fulfill the work that God wanted him to do but also created the man God wanted Elisha to be. Through the story of Elisha it is illustrated how God can do so much with us despite that we may not believe so. Pastor Furtick also speaks of the moments on the journey where we can lose our momentum and passion and how God is concerned with every detail of our lives and wants to give our momentum back to us. I thought this served as such a poignant reminder that He is always with us on the Greater journey He has for us.
This book is an encouraging and recommended read. Pastor Furtick brings a message that is well-written and relevant. Elisha’s story really illustrates how God can work in our lives to make us greater for His kingdom and reveals who we are in Him. Another bonus is the discussion questions in the back, which allow for reflection and discussion with others.
This book is an encouraging and recommended read. Pastor Furtick brings a message that is well-written and relevant. Elisha’s story really illustrates how God can work in our lives to make us greater for His kingdom and reveals who we are in Him. Another bonus is the discussion questions in the back, which allow for reflection and discussion with others.
July 5, 2020
I really enjoyed this book. I like how Furtick used the story of Elisha through out the book as an example of the greater life God has for His people. Toward the end of this book, I felt sad. Now that I’m done with the book, I feel even more hopeful about the greater life God has for me.
November 17, 2020
Great message about doing something bigger and greater in your life. I really enjoy listening to Steven Furtick read his books in audio format. I feel like he is giving me a pep talk that I need daily. Looking forward to reading another one of his!
March 15, 2013
In his most recent book, Greater, Steven Furtick draws from both modern illustrations and the biblical story of Elisha to encourage believers against wasting their lives on lesser things. By placing their faith in God, he argues, they will achieve things beyond “good enough,� beyond the “vague and unrealistic aspirations� of “greatness (9).� “When you live this way—the greater way…� he continues, “God’s greatness will not just be working around you—it will start working through you (14).�
A Strong Start
I was encouraged by Furtick’s initial chapters as he laid out his vision for a “greater� Christianity� where believers focus on “what Christ has already done and what He desires to do through us (21).� Reading this statement, one would suspect, as I did, that Furtick would point those looking for greater things to the greatest work already accomplished. Yet as the book progressed, the greater life seemed to be less and less about Christ’s finished work, and more and more personal achievement. Due to somewhat vague, motivational language, by the end of the book, I knew little about the steps towards the greater life, let alone Elisha’s place in redemptive history.
Pointing to God’s Greatness
Furtick paints a picture of the greater life by pointing to story after inspirational story of God’s great work in the lives of countless people. As I was thinking over the string of inspirational stories in Greater, I came across a review by John Starke of Furtick’s previous book, Sun Stand Still. The review put into words how I felt as I read:
There’s…a good lesson here for gospel-centered, young Reformed types-like me. We need to remember that our faith is not just in a message, but in the power of a great God who has accomplished the work of the gospel through his Son, Jesus Christ. That is what’s behind, under, and in the message of the gospel. Furtick is right to point to God’s great power and let that inform our prayers and expectations.
I was inspired by these stories and rejoiced in God’s great work, but as Starke said of Sun Stand Still, ”I need to be critical in a few spots.�
A Few Concerns
While God can, and does, work miracles in our lives today, Furtick seems to miss the point of these inspirational moments. By pointing only to miraculous feats of faith, he leaves no room for God’s great work in the seemingly mundane. In this way, readers are left to beg the question, what happens when we trust in God, wholeheartedly leaning on him, and yet we don’t accomplish great things. What happens when suffering still comes?
This is where the logic of “greater� Christianity begins to unravel. It’s not about making our lives “greater� in the sense that Furtick points to, it’s about living our lives in such a way that Christ is shown to be great-est. Furtick gets close to this distinction a few times, even going so far as to say “…it’s not about our greatness (133).� But he fails to drive it home when he points to Christ as a motivational example rather than the divine savior.
Instead, if we are living our lives in response to Christ’s finished work on the cross, Christ will be enough, whether God ordains “great things� for us or not. Don’t get me wrong, Godly ambition is good, but that’s just it—it’s Godly. And if it’s Godly, then bringing glory to God will be the highest goal, and it will be largely accomplished by the God himself (in the form of the Holy Spirit).
Conclusion
This brings me to my last concern and conclusion. While the goal of a “greater� Christianity is alluring, the concerns aired above paired with the following statements are problematic in that they position us as God’s teammates:
“God is so much greater than we’re allowing him to be through us (9).�
“…human action prepares the way for supernatural favor (63).�
Whether it’s Furtick’s intention or not, his language seems to imply that God is up in heaven waiting for us to pray the right prayer, or take the right step before he enacts his plan. The problem with this is, God already has enacted and accomplished his plan, in the sending of his son. The greatest life is one that is lived in light of this fact. In this way, I don’t want to negate Furtick’s call to take action, but instead suggest it be founded on the completed work of Christ.
Furtick spends the whole book pointing out how we can be greater and do greater things for God, but in the end fails to point in any significant way to the greatest thing, that is Jesus Christ and him crucified (cf. Luke 1:32, 1 Corinthians 2:2, Galatians 6:14 ESV).
I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah for this review.
A Strong Start
I was encouraged by Furtick’s initial chapters as he laid out his vision for a “greater� Christianity� where believers focus on “what Christ has already done and what He desires to do through us (21).� Reading this statement, one would suspect, as I did, that Furtick would point those looking for greater things to the greatest work already accomplished. Yet as the book progressed, the greater life seemed to be less and less about Christ’s finished work, and more and more personal achievement. Due to somewhat vague, motivational language, by the end of the book, I knew little about the steps towards the greater life, let alone Elisha’s place in redemptive history.
Pointing to God’s Greatness
Furtick paints a picture of the greater life by pointing to story after inspirational story of God’s great work in the lives of countless people. As I was thinking over the string of inspirational stories in Greater, I came across a review by John Starke of Furtick’s previous book, Sun Stand Still. The review put into words how I felt as I read:
There’s…a good lesson here for gospel-centered, young Reformed types-like me. We need to remember that our faith is not just in a message, but in the power of a great God who has accomplished the work of the gospel through his Son, Jesus Christ. That is what’s behind, under, and in the message of the gospel. Furtick is right to point to God’s great power and let that inform our prayers and expectations.
I was inspired by these stories and rejoiced in God’s great work, but as Starke said of Sun Stand Still, ”I need to be critical in a few spots.�
A Few Concerns
While God can, and does, work miracles in our lives today, Furtick seems to miss the point of these inspirational moments. By pointing only to miraculous feats of faith, he leaves no room for God’s great work in the seemingly mundane. In this way, readers are left to beg the question, what happens when we trust in God, wholeheartedly leaning on him, and yet we don’t accomplish great things. What happens when suffering still comes?
This is where the logic of “greater� Christianity begins to unravel. It’s not about making our lives “greater� in the sense that Furtick points to, it’s about living our lives in such a way that Christ is shown to be great-est. Furtick gets close to this distinction a few times, even going so far as to say “…it’s not about our greatness (133).� But he fails to drive it home when he points to Christ as a motivational example rather than the divine savior.
Instead, if we are living our lives in response to Christ’s finished work on the cross, Christ will be enough, whether God ordains “great things� for us or not. Don’t get me wrong, Godly ambition is good, but that’s just it—it’s Godly. And if it’s Godly, then bringing glory to God will be the highest goal, and it will be largely accomplished by the God himself (in the form of the Holy Spirit).
Conclusion
This brings me to my last concern and conclusion. While the goal of a “greater� Christianity is alluring, the concerns aired above paired with the following statements are problematic in that they position us as God’s teammates:
“God is so much greater than we’re allowing him to be through us (9).�
“…human action prepares the way for supernatural favor (63).�
Whether it’s Furtick’s intention or not, his language seems to imply that God is up in heaven waiting for us to pray the right prayer, or take the right step before he enacts his plan. The problem with this is, God already has enacted and accomplished his plan, in the sending of his son. The greatest life is one that is lived in light of this fact. In this way, I don’t want to negate Furtick’s call to take action, but instead suggest it be founded on the completed work of Christ.
Furtick spends the whole book pointing out how we can be greater and do greater things for God, but in the end fails to point in any significant way to the greatest thing, that is Jesus Christ and him crucified (cf. Luke 1:32, 1 Corinthians 2:2, Galatians 6:14 ESV).
I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah for this review.
August 9, 2019
Saya dulu ingin melakukan hal-hal besar bagi Tuhan. Itu sebelum saya menemukan sesuatu yang lebih besar. (hal. 17)
Dalam Lebih Besar, Steven Furtick, gembala Gereja Elevation, mengajak pembacanya untuk melihat apakah yang dimaksudkan dengan hidup yang lebih besar itu. Lewat interpretasinya akan kehidupan Nabi Elisa, Steven Furtick menunjukkan tentang panggilan untuk hidup lebih bagi Allah.
Membaca buku ini rasanya seperti membaca gabungan antara buku motivasi, teologi, dan juga semi-autobiografi. Dalam setiap babnya, Furtick mengajak pembaca untuk tidak puas dengan hidup yang biasa-biasa saja, keluar dari hidup yang mediokre itu, hingga "membakar bajak" untuk mengikuti panggilan yang lebih besar itu. Kalau di buku/pembicaraan motivasi, mungkin ini sama dengan istilah "keluar dari zona nyaman". Di tiap babnya juga, Furtick menceritakan tentang kisah hidup Elisa, seorang pemuda peternak biasa yang kemudian hidup mengikuti panggilan Allah.
Saya rasa buku ini cukup berimbang dalam membahas "panggilan yang lebih besar" itu. Furtick tidak memberikan janji yang muluk-muluk. Dia realistis dan mengingatkan bahwa mengikuti panggilan Tuhan bukanlah hal yang mudah. Ada banyak yang harus dikorbankan. Dia juga mengingatkan bahwa tidak semua panggilan itu berasal dari Tuhan. Bagaimana seseorang mendengarkan panggilannya dan menanggapinya dengan hati-hati adalah sesuatu yang penting.
Satu bagian yang saya suka adalah ketika Furtick menceritakan bagaimana dia mengunjungi konselor secara rutin dan secara terbuka memberitahukan hal ini kepada jemaatnya. Saya rasa sangat penting untuk tidak lagi mencampuradukkan stigma kesehatan mental dengan masalah "iman yang lemah". Furtick yang merupakan pastor di salah satu gereja besar, dengan berani menyatakan bahwa dia membutuhkan bantuan konselor untuk menjaga ketajamannya dalam menjalankan visi-misinya.
Bagaimana kalau seseorang melihat saya di kantor konselor? Mereka akan berpikir gembala mereka gila.
Tapi tahukah Anda? Saya memutuskan untuk melakukannya. Terlalu banyak yang dipertaruhkan untuk saya mengkhawatirkan apa yang mungkin orang-orang pikirkan. Saya harus menjaga ketajaman saya, tidak peduli apapun yang dibutuhkan. Dan ketajaman rohani bukanlah sesuatu yang bisa saya palsukan. (hal. 198)
Secara keseluruhan, Lebih Besar adalah buku tentang panggilan hidup yang baik. Pembahasannya seimbang dan tidak ada "janji-janji manis" tentang panggilan hidup ini. Pembahasan tentang kehidupan Elisa adalah sentuhan yang menarik. Saya juga suka dengan pengakuan Furtick dalam hal kesehatan mental.
Bermimpilah lebih besar. Mulailah lebih kecil. Kobarkanlah visi Allah bagi hidup Anda. (hal. 233)
January 17, 2019
Great follow up to his book, Sun Stand Still. Gods will is a tricky subject. However, Furtick navigates through it with ease. Super encouraging.
October 6, 2021
I've started reading a series of "you can do it" books, both from bigmegaJesusfolk and secular selfhelpers, mostly as background for a writing project. This one happened to be at the top of my stack, so it came first.
Honestly? Not terrible. Can-do encouragement really seems to be something that the dying denominations struggle with. We're great at lament and critique and making demands of power, but instilling confidence and giving a sense of life's purpose seems to be a "growing edge." *cough* But Furtick? Furtick's got that schtick down. Honestly, it works, because it's what most human beings want. GREATer reads like a bumped out sermon series, which mostly focuses on texts around the prophet Elisha. Reading it, Furtick's success as a church planter and evangelist makes sense. He's self deprecating, clued in to culture, and...having heard him preach...an effective, dynamic presence on the stage.
Is it a perfect book? Well, no. Not by a long shot. It starts with a paean to Steve Jobs as the model for greatness, which is a pretty dismal beginning. Did Jobs have influence? Sure. Did he change the world? Sure. Is the world *better* because of his influence? O Sweet Lord Baby Jesus No. He's an exemplar of power, not an exemplar of Christian moral virtue.
Who else represents the pinnacle of human achievement? Donald J. Trump. The book was written in 2011, so that had a different ring back then. Explains a lot, honestly.
Interesting stuff.
Honestly? Not terrible. Can-do encouragement really seems to be something that the dying denominations struggle with. We're great at lament and critique and making demands of power, but instilling confidence and giving a sense of life's purpose seems to be a "growing edge." *cough* But Furtick? Furtick's got that schtick down. Honestly, it works, because it's what most human beings want. GREATer reads like a bumped out sermon series, which mostly focuses on texts around the prophet Elisha. Reading it, Furtick's success as a church planter and evangelist makes sense. He's self deprecating, clued in to culture, and...having heard him preach...an effective, dynamic presence on the stage.
Is it a perfect book? Well, no. Not by a long shot. It starts with a paean to Steve Jobs as the model for greatness, which is a pretty dismal beginning. Did Jobs have influence? Sure. Did he change the world? Sure. Is the world *better* because of his influence? O Sweet Lord Baby Jesus No. He's an exemplar of power, not an exemplar of Christian moral virtue.
Who else represents the pinnacle of human achievement? Donald J. Trump. The book was written in 2011, so that had a different ring back then. Explains a lot, honestly.
Interesting stuff.
December 27, 2022
3.5 ⭐️’s
“Faith isn’t a state of mind-it’s a course of action.�
Steven Furtick walks us through how Gods version of greater for our lives is a story we can play a part in when we start with small steps to create big God-centered change. This change happens when we become more aware of who he is and his presence in our lives. When we are aware of his presence we can better understand his purpose. The story of Elisha is used throughout the book to illustrate how he was an example of God calling him and us to greater.
“Your greatest limitation is God’s greatest opportunity�
“Faith isn’t a state of mind-it’s a course of action.�
Steven Furtick walks us through how Gods version of greater for our lives is a story we can play a part in when we start with small steps to create big God-centered change. This change happens when we become more aware of who he is and his presence in our lives. When we are aware of his presence we can better understand his purpose. The story of Elisha is used throughout the book to illustrate how he was an example of God calling him and us to greater.
“Your greatest limitation is God’s greatest opportunity�
December 16, 2014
I requested this book and when I got it I was extremely excited...my first review! a North Carolina author! and many of my colleagues had talked about this book. Then I took my academic approach and childhood, as well as college, memories of bible studies and checked the back of the book. It showed me that this was not just a christian book, but an "immersive experience." There was a CD that was suggested to go along with the book so that the reader could get the most of the experience.
Well I did not want to purchase an unknown cd or band, so I was conflicted. Did I read the book without the CD? Did I purchase a CD I knew nothing about? and then..yes then...I went to my friend Youtube and all the songs are available on Elevation's Youtube channel.
Once I had started reading the book though and listening to the song selected to go with each chapter I was enthralled. Steven Furtick writes in a way where you will feel as though you are having a conversation with a friend. Each chapter brings in a biblical passage (which I admit I had not read or heard of, but now love) and he then relates that passage to a story from his own experience, his families' experience or a friend/fellow pastor, etc. Some of the stories made me laugh, some made me weep, but they all made me connect to the story, this book and the biblical passage. It turned stories and words in the biblical form which can be hard to understand and relate with, to experiences that have happened to us or that we can see occurring in our family and friends. I do not want to give spoilers in my reviews, but oh there are two true life stories he shared about friends that just spoke to my heart.
The song choices for the most part do enhance the chapter and stories told. There were a few chapters where at the end I just was like yes, yes this clicks! However, there were three chapters, especially the first two, where I did not see the connection in the song and was really wondering what the point of the CD was. Then when I got to chapter four and listened to I Have Decided, it spoke to me and the lyrics and chapter just synced perfectly. For best usage of the songs relating to the chapters I found that I just hit repeat on the song the entire time I read it and then listened again after the chapter. It really turned the reading experience from reading a book/novel to an educational voyage into the biblical book of Elisha.
After reading this book and enjoying the concept and entirety of an "immersive experience" I want to read his other two best-selling books.
Memorable Quotations:
"God, use what I have. Take what little I have and make it overflow."
"Without grace, we'd all be nothing."
"If you're looking to be greater than Jesus, put down your crack pipe, my friend. That's not happening."
"God is too faithful to waste your faith. He is too wise to make a mistake. He is too loving to disregard your heart. And He is overseeing every prayer you pray, making good on every promise He has made."
Apparently Naaman is the Meat Loaf of the Old Testament--he will do anything for healing, but he won't do that."
"His act might have offended PETA but not necessarily his neighbors."
"And when God is silent, the power of His presence is most profound in how He grieves with us."
"What we can say for certain is that faith is never wasted. What we can say for certain is that even when the worst thing happens and I conceivable hope is left, God still surprises. No promise from God is ever completely dead."
"You're not alone. Never have been. Never will be."
full review @
Well I did not want to purchase an unknown cd or band, so I was conflicted. Did I read the book without the CD? Did I purchase a CD I knew nothing about? and then..yes then...I went to my friend Youtube and all the songs are available on Elevation's Youtube channel.
Once I had started reading the book though and listening to the song selected to go with each chapter I was enthralled. Steven Furtick writes in a way where you will feel as though you are having a conversation with a friend. Each chapter brings in a biblical passage (which I admit I had not read or heard of, but now love) and he then relates that passage to a story from his own experience, his families' experience or a friend/fellow pastor, etc. Some of the stories made me laugh, some made me weep, but they all made me connect to the story, this book and the biblical passage. It turned stories and words in the biblical form which can be hard to understand and relate with, to experiences that have happened to us or that we can see occurring in our family and friends. I do not want to give spoilers in my reviews, but oh there are two true life stories he shared about friends that just spoke to my heart.
The song choices for the most part do enhance the chapter and stories told. There were a few chapters where at the end I just was like yes, yes this clicks! However, there were three chapters, especially the first two, where I did not see the connection in the song and was really wondering what the point of the CD was. Then when I got to chapter four and listened to I Have Decided, it spoke to me and the lyrics and chapter just synced perfectly. For best usage of the songs relating to the chapters I found that I just hit repeat on the song the entire time I read it and then listened again after the chapter. It really turned the reading experience from reading a book/novel to an educational voyage into the biblical book of Elisha.
After reading this book and enjoying the concept and entirety of an "immersive experience" I want to read his other two best-selling books.
Memorable Quotations:
"God, use what I have. Take what little I have and make it overflow."
"Without grace, we'd all be nothing."
"If you're looking to be greater than Jesus, put down your crack pipe, my friend. That's not happening."
"God is too faithful to waste your faith. He is too wise to make a mistake. He is too loving to disregard your heart. And He is overseeing every prayer you pray, making good on every promise He has made."
Apparently Naaman is the Meat Loaf of the Old Testament--he will do anything for healing, but he won't do that."
"His act might have offended PETA but not necessarily his neighbors."
"And when God is silent, the power of His presence is most profound in how He grieves with us."
"What we can say for certain is that faith is never wasted. What we can say for certain is that even when the worst thing happens and I conceivable hope is left, God still surprises. No promise from God is ever completely dead."
"You're not alone. Never have been. Never will be."
full review @
October 16, 2017
I posted this review on my blog, . If you like this and would like to see more like it, check it out!
I received a copy of this book from Random House Publishers for an honest review.
I did a book study on Furtick's book "Crash the Chatterbox" and was immediately intrigued by this fairly young pastor writing such a compelling and optimistic, loving view of God in his books. I'd heard rave reviews about "Sun Stand Still" which within 20 minutes of reading it became one of my favorites. While "Greater" is still amazing, truly, Furtick is one of the only Christian non-fiction authors I really seem to enjoy reading and relate to, this one falls short of "Sun Stand Still".
"Greater" felt like a take off of "Sun Stand Still", that it was an extension of the ideas, without using the same terminology. Sure one talks about audacious faith, and this one is using the catch phrase "greater", but they both said essentially the same thing. Maybe that's because the message does boil down to the same thing, to trust God with his plan for you, and when you do that, things all seem to fall into place.
It's still amazing, and half of it is underlined, so don't get me wrong, I absolutely loved and enjoyed this book as much as his others, but I felt like I was getting the same message over and over again. Maybe I needed to get this message over and over, honestly. It could be that God needed me to hear it, and it's good then, that it's being ingrained in my life. I also feel slightly biased because recently I did discover what I feel God called me to do, so "discovering" it, doesn't really apply to me anymore.
Furtick is always spot on with theology in my opinion. I honestly value what he has to say, and usually take it to heart and I will take this book to heart as well as recommend it to a friend (as I always do with his book), and I have to say that even my friend who is well versed in the Bible hadn't really read the story of Elisha so that was an amazing eye opening experience. I enjoyed his writing style, mostly because when he writes I always feel like it's just so obvious that what he's saying is true. I've experienced so much of it.
I love Furtick's books, and I am so happy I got a copy of this one to review, he is one of my favorite authors of all time who continuously puts out books that enlighten and make me feel inspired to live a better Christian life.
I received a copy of this book from Random House Publishers for an honest review.
I did a book study on Furtick's book "Crash the Chatterbox" and was immediately intrigued by this fairly young pastor writing such a compelling and optimistic, loving view of God in his books. I'd heard rave reviews about "Sun Stand Still" which within 20 minutes of reading it became one of my favorites. While "Greater" is still amazing, truly, Furtick is one of the only Christian non-fiction authors I really seem to enjoy reading and relate to, this one falls short of "Sun Stand Still".
"Greater" felt like a take off of "Sun Stand Still", that it was an extension of the ideas, without using the same terminology. Sure one talks about audacious faith, and this one is using the catch phrase "greater", but they both said essentially the same thing. Maybe that's because the message does boil down to the same thing, to trust God with his plan for you, and when you do that, things all seem to fall into place.
It's still amazing, and half of it is underlined, so don't get me wrong, I absolutely loved and enjoyed this book as much as his others, but I felt like I was getting the same message over and over again. Maybe I needed to get this message over and over, honestly. It could be that God needed me to hear it, and it's good then, that it's being ingrained in my life. I also feel slightly biased because recently I did discover what I feel God called me to do, so "discovering" it, doesn't really apply to me anymore.
Furtick is always spot on with theology in my opinion. I honestly value what he has to say, and usually take it to heart and I will take this book to heart as well as recommend it to a friend (as I always do with his book), and I have to say that even my friend who is well versed in the Bible hadn't really read the story of Elisha so that was an amazing eye opening experience. I enjoyed his writing style, mostly because when he writes I always feel like it's just so obvious that what he's saying is true. I've experienced so much of it.
I love Furtick's books, and I am so happy I got a copy of this one to review, he is one of my favorite authors of all time who continuously puts out books that enlighten and make me feel inspired to live a better Christian life.
April 15, 2020
Greater is a book about not settling for the everyday average mediocrity, but striving for something Greater.
To be honest this book didn't really hook me, the book seemed to meander around the point a bit too much for my personal taste. While this book did have a good premise, I felt that the points could have been stronger, and there were multiple times when I felt like he had it all set up, but didn't drive it home.
Mr. Furtick did a great job of illustrating his topic with stories that gently told his tale. The book had a tone to it that felt like I could hear what he was saying from the pulpit and could imagine him preaching these exact words to his congregation.
Overall, this book wasn't really a book that moved me personally, I could see his point, and thought it was great, but I think it was more of the style it was presented in that I wasn't into. There were also parts I felt needed more clarification. So in conclusion, this was a nice book about fearlessly cutting our ties to this world and picking up our crosses to follow God.
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you.
To be honest this book didn't really hook me, the book seemed to meander around the point a bit too much for my personal taste. While this book did have a good premise, I felt that the points could have been stronger, and there were multiple times when I felt like he had it all set up, but didn't drive it home.
Mr. Furtick did a great job of illustrating his topic with stories that gently told his tale. The book had a tone to it that felt like I could hear what he was saying from the pulpit and could imagine him preaching these exact words to his congregation.
Overall, this book wasn't really a book that moved me personally, I could see his point, and thought it was great, but I think it was more of the style it was presented in that I wasn't into. There were also parts I felt needed more clarification. So in conclusion, this was a nice book about fearlessly cutting our ties to this world and picking up our crosses to follow God.
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you.
October 3, 2012
Greater � Steven Furtick
This has been a difficult book to read. Not having read his previous book, and not really knowing who Steven Furtick is (pastor of a church is all I initially knew) I decided to do some research into the author.
As with many of this type of book, it starts off slow and picks up from there. There are many points that are made which are valid and helpful as there are some that I found falling flat.
I guess my biggest issue with the book is that I find it hard to reconcile with the authors pasturing style and actions.
I may have a shallow view on greater theological discussions, but Pastor Furtick’s disregard for the opinions of others, his disdain for those wishing to delve deeper into the Word, and how he treats others have left me uninterested in his views or opinions.
I am sure that there a readers who will take a delighted view in this book, but I can’t really recommend it .
This book was provided to me by Waterbrook/Multnomah Publishing in return for an honest review.
This has been a difficult book to read. Not having read his previous book, and not really knowing who Steven Furtick is (pastor of a church is all I initially knew) I decided to do some research into the author.
As with many of this type of book, it starts off slow and picks up from there. There are many points that are made which are valid and helpful as there are some that I found falling flat.
I guess my biggest issue with the book is that I find it hard to reconcile with the authors pasturing style and actions.
I may have a shallow view on greater theological discussions, but Pastor Furtick’s disregard for the opinions of others, his disdain for those wishing to delve deeper into the Word, and how he treats others have left me uninterested in his views or opinions.
I am sure that there a readers who will take a delighted view in this book, but I can’t really recommend it .
This book was provided to me by Waterbrook/Multnomah Publishing in return for an honest review.
December 31, 2020
FROM THE THOUGHTS OF A HIGH PROFILE PASTOR IN NEARBY CHARLOTTE. I HAVE NEVER LISTENED TO HIS SERMONS OR READ HIS OTHER BOOK(S). I THINK I WILL VENTURE IN AND DO MORE LISTENING TO HIM. DEFINETLY A CHALLENGE TO LIVE MORE AND DO MORE FOR GOD (LESSER LOSER LIFE - NEED TO GET PAST THAT KIND OF THINKING). I LIKE THAT HE TOOK THE STORY OF ELISHA FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT TO DRAW SOME ANALOGIES AND PRINCIPLES TO LIVE BY. GO BACK AND BURN THE PLOWS - I HAVE ALREADY USED THAT ANALOGY WITH A FRIEND. PROBABLY WOULD BE A GOOD BOOK TO DO IN A SMALL GROUP. THERE ARE DISCUSSION QUESTIONS AT THE END THAT SEEM TO BE PRETTY GOOD. HIS OVERALL APPROACH IS FRESH AND POSITIVE. HE APPEARS TO BE TRANSPARENT IN THE BOOK WITH THE STRUGGLES HE HAS GONE THROUGH.
September 29, 2017
Stellar
Should be a classic. Vision-inducing and full of faith. Takes you from mediocrity to excellence. This one will get you moving!
Should be a classic. Vision-inducing and full of faith. Takes you from mediocrity to excellence. This one will get you moving!
June 20, 2024
Rated one star because you can't rate it zero. Steven Furtick's name, unfortunately, is synonymous with John MacArthur's assessment of him: unqualified. He writes an entire book about how to do greater things in life than one is currently doing and yet fails to help the reader assess their goals in life in light of Scripture. He fails to share the Gospel or to differentiate between the goals of a believer and unbeliever. How can a pastor not share the Gospel? How can a pastor not tell all his readers that every one of them is already condemned to Hell without Christ? How can a pastor not tell his readers that the ONLY way to be saved is by trusting in the great work that Christ accomplished on the cross to pay for their sins? Instead, Furtick assumes all who read his book are saved and have ideas to serve God in greater ways - well, not necessarily serve God - that is mentioned along with great businesses, great wealth and health, great families, great marriages, great education, great homes, etc. Unfortunately, Furtick's book, like all his books and sermons is #forhereticalresearchonly .
February 22, 2025
"Greater" is a self-help book written by Steven Furtick, The book focuses on helping readers overcome obstacles, build confidence, and achieve their goals.
# Key Concepts
1. *Embracing Your Greater Purpose*
2. *Overcoming Fear and Doubt*
3. *Building Confidence and Courage*
4. *Embracing Your Uniqueness*
# Key Takeaways
1. *You are capable of more than you think*
2. *Your past does not define your future*
3. *Faith and positivity can overcome obstacles*
4. *You are not alone*
# Target Audience
"Greater" is a motivational and inspiring book that is suitable for anyone looking to improve their life, overcome obstacles, and achieve their goals. The book is particularly relevant to:
- Christians looking for inspiration and guidance
- Anyone struggling with self-doubt, fear, or negativity
- Individuals looking to build confidence and courage
- Those seeking to discover their purpose and passion.
# Key Concepts
1. *Embracing Your Greater Purpose*
2. *Overcoming Fear and Doubt*
3. *Building Confidence and Courage*
4. *Embracing Your Uniqueness*
# Key Takeaways
1. *You are capable of more than you think*
2. *Your past does not define your future*
3. *Faith and positivity can overcome obstacles*
4. *You are not alone*
# Target Audience
"Greater" is a motivational and inspiring book that is suitable for anyone looking to improve their life, overcome obstacles, and achieve their goals. The book is particularly relevant to:
- Christians looking for inspiration and guidance
- Anyone struggling with self-doubt, fear, or negativity
- Individuals looking to build confidence and courage
- Those seeking to discover their purpose and passion.
February 22, 2019
I thoroughly enjoyed this audiobook and how he was able to dissect and put the spotlight on Elisha in the Bible, pointing out life lessons in order to aspire to be greater. Elijah is the one that is popularly spoken and preached about, it was refreshing to listen and learn from this revelation of Elisha. Elisha was the case study for this book.
One thing that stood out for me in this book was the writer’s transparency. I particularly enjoyed how he does not make Christianity seem like a chore or a bunch of religiosity that has to be in a specific way. I liked how open he was about his story and when he mentioned seeing a professional christian counselor when his church experienced it first growth spurt.
I highly recommend this book especially for those who need direction, those who want to understand the meaning of ‘greater� from a different perspective.
One thing that stood out for me in this book was the writer’s transparency. I particularly enjoyed how he does not make Christianity seem like a chore or a bunch of religiosity that has to be in a specific way. I liked how open he was about his story and when he mentioned seeing a professional christian counselor when his church experienced it first growth spurt.
I highly recommend this book especially for those who need direction, those who want to understand the meaning of ‘greater� from a different perspective.
July 30, 2018
This is the second book I’ve read this year based on the life of Elisha and his story continues to challenge and inspire me in so many ways. Steven is a gifted communicator and the lessons he pulls from the life of prophet really do have the power to change everything about your life if you have the courage to start living them out in your day to day life. It is by no means easy and it only gets harder, but if you truly want to live the life God created you for, what other choice do you have? If you want something more from your life and are willing to pay the price to get it, this book is a great place to start!
Favorite Quote: “Immediate obedience is the gateway to the greater life that few find.�
Favorite Quote: “Immediate obedience is the gateway to the greater life that few find.�
January 27, 2021
So, this book is a few years old but totally worth the read! It spoke to me on so many levels because it's about not settling for what the world throws at you. When I was married, I suppressed my goal driven drive that was in me because I didn't want to rock the boat. I was suffocating until after our divorce I was awakened and realized I was settling and not putting into motion what God had in store for me. This book will help you see that you were created to be GREATER! Not superficial or greedy, but just learning not to limit God. You have a purpose and wishing and thinking about your dreams isn't going to get you anywhere. Definitely a must read!!
July 11, 2021
Started as a very typical Pastor book with a lot of "trying to be funny" and extra fill material around the main topic, but that lessened a bit after a while. I was first thinking that this could be a good book about the Prophet Elisha if not because of the preacher style, and that is still true after finishing - it is too preacher style, but it does bring a good message and a good reading experience over all. The book gives us a good reminder that God has called us to be greater, and in going through the life of Elisha in the bible Furtick explains how this should affect our life and how we view our calling and dreams.
August 12, 2018
I enjoyed this book and the truths it contains, especially the part about 'burning the plows' of removing the ties to your old life and way of living, in order to pursue the new life without the ability/temptation to turn back. I also enjoyed the concept of starting small and being obedient and a good steward of what God is calling you to right now and also dreaming big. Steven Furtick is not my favorite author, but the truths this book contains are powerful and transcend the mediocre writing style.
February 10, 2021
3 stars because Furtick is an excellent communicator. Honestly whether you agree or disagree with what he says, he IS one of the best communicators of present time. He is able to use Bible stories in a way that isn’t just a rehashing of how you’ve heard it and applied it before.
But only 3 stars because none of the principles of this book are new. We have all heard these principles of igniting God’s vision in your life. So you probably don’t need the book. You probably have already heard this message.
But only 3 stars because none of the principles of this book are new. We have all heard these principles of igniting God’s vision in your life. So you probably don’t need the book. You probably have already heard this message.
December 2, 2017
Inspiring
This book far exceeded my expectations in what I learned, and how I felt at it’s conclusion.
I have seen the Pastor’s ministry on tv, and for me, the passionate (aka yelling) sermons are hard to endure - this book is nothing like that. Only the Pastor’s heart for Jesus comes through in a well written and thought provoking journey with Elijah and Elisha. I loved it. I pondered, considered, studied, and cried my way to the end. Highly recommend.
This book far exceeded my expectations in what I learned, and how I felt at it’s conclusion.
I have seen the Pastor’s ministry on tv, and for me, the passionate (aka yelling) sermons are hard to endure - this book is nothing like that. Only the Pastor’s heart for Jesus comes through in a well written and thought provoking journey with Elijah and Elisha. I loved it. I pondered, considered, studied, and cried my way to the end. Highly recommend.
January 25, 2020
This Book is Definitely a Wake Up Call!!!
God got a hold of me 13 months ago. Life was all but ol over. The Lord knows! But, He has been building me from the ground up. This is one a several books hand picked by the Lord Himself, I believe.
If you are desiring for Greater in Jesus, I suggest this is one of the books you read!
Thank you, Pastor Steven, for being God's conduit. God bless you!!!!!!!
God got a hold of me 13 months ago. Life was all but ol over. The Lord knows! But, He has been building me from the ground up. This is one a several books hand picked by the Lord Himself, I believe.
If you are desiring for Greater in Jesus, I suggest this is one of the books you read!
Thank you, Pastor Steven, for being God's conduit. God bless you!!!!!!!
April 17, 2018
This one challenges us to go after things that are worthy of a great God. If your dreams don’t need a prayer to come true, then you may not be thinking great enough. I enjoyed this book immensely and would highly recommend it to any Christian seeking either to do greater things for God or to become greater according to the word of God.
“We can either choose to ignore God, turn away from Him, and wonder why our lives are miserable or, we can burn the plows within our lives and open ourselves up to God and His map for us. In burning our plows, as Elisha did, we can let go of the things that have held us from our fullest potential. It is not fine to just settle for the melancholy of modern life. We live in a world of disenchantment where we do not notice the person sitting right next to us and accept this as normal. As we move away from God, and accept this mediocrity, we allow ourselves to submit to complacency� p.27
The book is an easy read that is both engaging and insightful. If you feel like you were born for more, that God is calling you for more, then this book is for you.
Dream bigger. Start smaller. Ignite God's vision for your life.
“We can either choose to ignore God, turn away from Him, and wonder why our lives are miserable or, we can burn the plows within our lives and open ourselves up to God and His map for us. In burning our plows, as Elisha did, we can let go of the things that have held us from our fullest potential. It is not fine to just settle for the melancholy of modern life. We live in a world of disenchantment where we do not notice the person sitting right next to us and accept this as normal. As we move away from God, and accept this mediocrity, we allow ourselves to submit to complacency� p.27
The book is an easy read that is both engaging and insightful. If you feel like you were born for more, that God is calling you for more, then this book is for you.
Dream bigger. Start smaller. Ignite God's vision for your life.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 192 reviews
Can't find what you're looking for?
Get help and learn more about the design.