Book Review-Forgotten God

I started reading Forgotten God by Francis Chan this morning. Last year, Crazy Love by Chan was one of the best books I read. I recommended it to many people. Although I didn't think he could match his first book, Chan's sophomore offering is similarly worthwhile. Readers familiar with Chan's intensity will not be disappointed by this book, which is focused on the Holy Spirit, the third member of the trinity (or as Chan calls Him, "forgotten God").

Chan introduces the topic of the Holy Spirit by noting that many churches downplay the role of the Holy Spirit, while others seem to overemphasize Him. He calls for orthodox, Biblically grounded faith, but also a sensitivity to the power of the Spirit. He rightly points out that many believers today "do not expect the Spirit to act" (p. 31). In fact, he later points out that we often ask for less because we don't expect the spirit to act powerfully. I know that has been true in my life, but the events of the past several months have increasingly convinced me that He is real and powerful in my life. Make no mistake, however, this is no call to the prosperity gospel (thankfully).

I know that I have downplayed the role of the Holy Spirit in my life. This book has helped me to re-examine that. Chan's concluding chapter contains this phrase:

• As for me, I am tired of talking about what we are going to do. I am sick of talking about helping people, of brainstorming and conferencing about ways we can be radical and make sacrifices. I don't want to merely talk anymore. Life is too short. I don't want to speak about Jesus; I want to know Jesus. I want to be Jesus to people. I don't want to just write about the Holy Spirit; I want to experience His presence in my life in a profound way.

This book is well worth your time to read.