Friend of Sinners: Why Jesus Cares More About Relationships Than Perfection

This collection of musings from Wilkerson (Sandcastle Kings), the celebrity pastor of Miami’s Vous Church, challenges readers to be open to the possibility that they might not know Jesus as well as they think they do. Jesus isn’t a self-help guide, a makeover artist, or a demanding taskmaster, Wilkerson writes, though that is how many believers see him. Instead, he says, Jesus’s intent is to be a friend to believers, as well as to save those who have faith in his all-encompassing love. Wilkerson urges readers not to measure faith—or God’s approval—by cultural standards such as professional success, but rather by living the lessons of the Bible. Wilkerson retells Bible stories in colloquial language to challenge readers to view Jesus as a loving friend who gladly walks with them through the messes of life. Using personal experiences such as a family vacation where he underestimated a boy’s ability to swim, a flight with a seatmate who vocalized his dislike for pastors, and a middle school science project he procrastinated on, Wilkerson demonstrates how biblical teachings of humility and love (even toward those with whom one disagrees) are learned through mistakes and reflection. This upbeat book will please younger Christian readers looking for style along with scriptural substance. [em](Mar.) [/em]