Greater: Dream Bigger. Start Smaller. Ignite God’s Vision for Your Life

The death of Apple founder Steve Jobs prompted megachurch pastor and author Furtick (Sun Stand Still) to read a saying of Jesus Christ about doing great things. Jesus claimed ambitiously that disciples will not only do things they see him do but “will do greater things.” Furtick weaves stories of his own life with that of the prophet Elisha, the lesser known successor of Elijah. The spiritual fodder that Furtick squeezes from his story and that of Elisha is impressive. Furtick is self-deprecating and unguarded as he relates stories of his “lesser loser life” and shows how to move from “good enough” or even “greatness” to “greater,” which is a way of living that exceeds human effort through the power of God. Like many sermons turned book chapters, the book is full of personal and Bible stories, but seems patched together. Still, Furtick’s laugh-out-loud turn of phrase, enthusiasm, and faith pops even in print. A chapter-by-chapter discussion guide with questions for church groups or individual study and a short piece of advice on how to start small round out the book. (Sept.)