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Integration is the key concept in this informative, practical book. Steven Manskar in Accountable Discipleship: Living in God's Household integrates the history of John Wesley's personal faith journey, the directive from Scripture, and the importance of Accountable Discipleship for today's congregation and global community. Each section is a teaching chapter that includes a Reflection and Discussion Summary and bibliography. We are invited to engage with Accountable Discipleship throughout the book. Such phrases as ". . . discipleship is the way of life in God's household" (p. 18) remind us that Accountable Discipleship is not just a study or an interesting idea; it will transform individuals and global life. However, it must be taken seriously and lived daily. We find depth of research and prayer in the reading of this book. For example, after reading the history and meaning of covenant in the Christian faith, we read that Jesus "recapitulates the covenant in terms of love. Jesus is the covenant come to life in flesh and blood" (p. 21). The book is a reminder of the living nature of daily faithfulness in God's household by tending to the covenantal relationship between God and humankind. "Accountability is how we make sure our discipleship happens" (p. 23). The General Rule of Discipleship section is particularly helpful as it integrates Wesley's historical General Rules and the present-day General Rule of Discipleship. "Accountable Discipleship is how disciples of Jesus live in God's household" (p. 29). Manskar reminds us that the Bible is the foundation of discipleship (p. 31) and that theology is the framework (p. 53). He includes the importance of salvation, grace, justification, and repentance as the tributaries feeding the river of Accountable Discipleship. His careful wording and research into the tradition of his words give solid substance to the book. A supportive Manskar reminds us that class leaders have formed the backbone of the Methodist movement for 150 years. "Class Leaders: Stewards of Sanctification" is an excellent title for the fifth chapter, putting the framework around the significance of these leaders to transform the church. The final chapter, "Accountable Discipleship, Now What?" puts the gas in the engine of the book. We are reminded that the practical living of the faith is the heart of Wesleyan theology. I recommend this book for all who want to integrate living faithfully with the history, theology, Scripture, and genius of John Wesley, which is of great import for today. Accountable Discipleship: Living in God's Household is available from Discipleship Resources, 1-800-972-0433. Dr. Phyllis Tyler is pastor of Sage Granada Park United Methodist Church, Alhambra, CA, and one of the early members of Covenant Discipleship. |
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