Reviews of the profound, funny, encouraging, down-to-earth book, How to Be a Christian Without Being Annoying
Hugh Hewitt, Blog Royalty, Talk Show Host, Law Professor and Best Selling Author says:
“Bette Dowdell’s passion for the unchurched is extraordinary, as is her advice to the new, or the about-to-be believers. Give her book to a friend who is looking for the answers.”
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Lute Olson, Basketball Hall of Fame coach at the University of Arizona said:
“Bette Dowdell has done a superb job of simplifying what Christianity is about. I would recommend it for the Christian or anyone wanting to know more about Christianity.”
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Diana Pederson, Christian Book Reviewer for BellaOnline
Christians often have difficulty witnessing to others about God and His Son, Jesus. We often miss the essential items: all we have to do is point someone to the Scriptures and let the Holy Spirit do His job. We try to answer all their questions without letting the Scriptures themselves do the answering.
Bette Dowdell, author of How to be a Christian without Being Annoying, created a 75 chapter book, with each chapter being just two pages. First, she presents a simple Christian truth, followed by a suggested scripture and a bit of information on when that scripture was written, by whom, and for whom. A short discussion follows.
Here is an example of her writing style on the topic, hearing God’s voice:
“ … Here’s how it works. God now lives in us, is part of us. His Spirit unites with ours to teach and guide us. Through this union, God speaks to us.
“We already have an idea of how this works from experiencing pangs of conscience when our own spirit speaks to us. In a similar way, God’s Spirit speaks to us. We have ideas that are not ours, and they feel right. We know things we have no way of knowing. We recognize God’s hand in creating coincidences. Sometimes a thought won’t let us go. And so on. …”
I like her ability with words. How many times have you or I tried to explain a basic Christian truth without using fancy theological terms? Have you watched others shrug their shoulders when listening to you because they didn’t have a clue about what you were talking about? This book shows you how to explain those same truths in terms that anyone can understand.
Who Needs This Book
Every Christian needs How to be a Christian without Being Annoying. Do you have a coworker you just can’t seem to reach for the Lord? Read through the 75 topics covered here and see if you could create just a 1 or 2 minute presentation that even the most resistant person might listen to! Do you ride public transportation to work or shopping? Be prepared with one or two of these topics. Perhaps you could ask your seatmate a simple question and then follow up with the information from this book.
This book will serve today’s busy families well too. Many of us spend little time eating together before mom and dad go to their offices to finish the days work, your children go to a room to do homework, or they leave to visit with friends. These 75 chapters could be used as short devotionals that will help teach essential Christian truths even for those with relatively short attention spans.
Recommendation
I feel this book is an essential addition to your Christian book shelf. You’ll find yourself picking it up for a short devotional, or just to enjoy Dowdell’s humorous writing style. It can be bought at your local bookstore, or at amazon.com.
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Cheryl Reese of SpiritRestoration.org writes:
This book is a must read book. Whether you a new Christian or have been one all your life you can get a closer meaning of what God has and the love he has for us.
Have you ever wondered am I the only one to ever feel this way? Am I alone? What does God expect of me? Reading this book, I have found my own answers to the question and many more.
Being a Christian can be hard and sometimes you can feel annoyed with yourself because you just feel like you just don’t get it, reading this book I know that I am not alone in this and God doesn’t want us to feel this way.
This book is great as you can read starting from the beginning, middle or the end.
Having brief excerpts from the different versions of the Bible was a great idea in this book. The author Bette Dowdell has put in this book in each page something that you can ponder, and the way she wrote this with each page is great. I found I could understand my own thoughts of being annoyed with my feelings. I discovered I also have a purpose here on this earth to fill while I am waiting for eternal life with God.
The way this book is written you can glance through and if there is a subject or a question you have been dealing with it is most likely in this book and you can read this and understand how the Bible meant for this to be,
I think how the author has written this book on the clarity of being a Christian and how the Bible says to be a Christian is done very well. In these times of so many religions and teachings about the ways of other peoples, you can still understand the meaning that God has for us and that no one is a mistake. God made us to be good, and he wants good for all of us. God never leaves us, even if we leave him at times.
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Kevin Farnham, Publisher/reviewer says:
Calming Lessons
How to be a Christian Without Being Annoying is an ideal book for busy people leading hectic lives. With all the pressures of the day, we don’t have time for lengthy study sessions, but we feel the need to take a few minutes each day for meditative reading to receive both spiritual and emotional refreshment.
The title fits the book’s content. The book is about enhancing the reader’s personal spiritual life, rather than evangelizing Christianity to others. The idea is to walk it out, not talk it out.
The book has seventy-five sets of two-page readings. The left page has a Biblical quote and brief discussion of its origin, the author and, if necessary, pronunciation guidance.. The right page discusses a topic related to modern everyday life that is relevant to the Biblical reference.
The writing is straightforward and easy to understand. At the same time, the pieces are like little meditations. You will think about them and reread them. Many of the pieces surprised me, re-awakening me to things I ‘knew’ but had temporarily forgotten in the daily rush of long work hours and trying to be a good parent. Reading the passages often helped me to put things back into perspective, to slow down and be calm and still, at least for a few minutes.
I very much recommend How to be a Christian Without Being Annoying to people who are Christian but who have limited time for moments of quiet. This book can help refresh your weary spirit if you take just a few moments, which is all it takes to read two pages and think about their message.
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Richard R. Blake of San Leandro, CA wrote in Midwest Book Review:
“. . . Dowdell is true to the basic tenets of the Christian faith. Each individual reading provides inspiration and encouragement, whether read randomly or in sequence. However the material is logically presented. Each new truth builds on earlier instruction. Either way each individual reading is designed to result in tackling personal soul searching questions. Helpful indexes of subjects and scriptures are provided after the closing chapter of the book.
“Bette Dowdell is a natural communicator. Her descriptive phrases and word pictures make her simple illustrations come to life and cause the reader to experience and participate in the adventure. This is an amazing gift (talent).
“This is a book for the mature Christian or the new believer. Dowdell has carefully crafted a work that is non threatening to a “seeker” or “new believer. This is a book you can pass along to a friend or family member without being “annoying.” It is designed to pull the reader in, page by page, chapter by chapter.
“I appreciated the texture and quality of the cover and fine binding of this book. For this reason alone it makes an exceptional gift book. However, more importantly, I thoroughly enjoyed my reading experience and plan to recommend this book often when concerned friends ask for suggestions to give their non Christian family members and friends. This is an excellent evangelistic tool that will be non offensive to the reader, a book that will be read by the recipient.
“Refreshing!”
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Jessie A. Moser (www.livinglearningblogging.com) of Wescosville Pa writes:
“I’m sitting next to a woman on the bleachers in a barn where we both wait for our daughters to finish a riding lesson. The woman asks me, “What are you reading?”
“I raise the book jacket in her direction and she reads aloud, “How to be a Christian without Being Annoying.” She pauses and says, “Gee, is that possible?”
“I hope so. For me, the title worked; it’s smart. Before I finish the book, I’m already thinking of a number of possible sequels I’d want to read, like, “How to be a Republican in the Workplace without being Annoying”, followed by “How to be a Democrat in the Workplace without being Annoying.” For my daughter I’d want to buy, “How to be a Teenager without being Annoying,” and for me, “How to be a Parent of a Teenager without being Annoying.” But I’m a Christian, and I would like to be one without being annoying. So I read on.
“Somebody once told me, “To tell the difference between a counterfeit twenty dollar bill and a real twenty dollar bill, you have to spend time with the real thing. In “How to Be a Christian without Being Annoying,” Bette Dowdell attempts to explain the simple fact that sin separates us from God. Jesus died to be a sacrifice for the sins of all mankind. The gift is held out for everyone; a Christian is simply someone who accepts the gift. Annoying Christians are people who adopt a do-it-yourself, feel-superior method. She says that a Christian is more apt to live like one than simply talk like one. Christianity is all about relationships and loving God and others. I can draw a few lessons from that.
“Dowdell’s book is an easy read and the kind of book that you can pick up and start at any point and read backwards and forwards. Every two pages is a new topic and includes a key verse from the Bible with a phonetically spelled reference; for instance, Ephesians (ee Fee zhunz) is where one will find, “I do not cease to give thanks for you as I remember you in my prayers.” Being grateful doesn’t sound too annoying.
“As for me, I’m not ceasing to thank Bette Dowdell for writing this helpful book. It’s helping me explain and understand the basics of my faith. I discovered something else when I read bits of the book aloud to my teenage daughter: How to be a Christian without Being Annoying is written in a voice that speaks well to teens. After falling down on our family devotions for years, my husband and I are using the book to talk to our daughter about things that are important.
“A Sufi proverb says, “There wouldn’t be such a thing as counterfeit gold if there were no real gold somewhere.” Counterfeit Christians appear to be the problem. And Jesus is the gold standard for the real thing. Here’s hoping I can be like him. Jesus may be annoying to some, but He teaches us how to love and be real.”
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Midwest Book Review (www.midwestbookreview.com) stated:
” . . . a highly informative, easy-to-use, self-help oriented reference to the general fundamentals of a Christian practitioner, How To Be A Christian Without Being Annoying features information enlightening the reader on how to find meaning and purpose, take on life with energy and enthusiasm, doing what is necessary to achieve excellence, experiencing the freedom to love God and self, and the power to envelope one’s self in the unconditional love of God. How To Be A Christian Without Being Annoying is highly recommended . . .”
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And Jane Trotter of Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, says:
“Gotta love that title! Who hasn’t been annoyed by someone spouting off their beliefs as if they were the only one with the answers?
“Bette Dowdell’s, back-to-the-basics, one-page articles inform without preaching. Informative and often humorous, backed up by Biblical quotations, her book lays out the beliefs common to Christians of all stripes and colours.
“If you are a Christian her thought-provoking articles will help you grow in your relationship with God and answer questions from your friends. If you are non-Christian, you will understand exactly what Christians believe and why.
“If you are undecided, or searching, this is the book that clearly and simply presents Christian beliefs and the historic manuscripts on which they are based, complete with a how-to section if you decide this belief system fits your life.
“Always thought the Bible was too hard to read? Bette offers samples from eight different translations, from traditional to modern. Take your pick!
“Bette’s lighthearted writing style makes this a quick, enjoyable read, but its serious message will linger in your heart and mind for a long time.”
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And here’s what John Counsell, host of “Late Night Counsell” AM/580 CFRA, Ottawa Canada and Director of Ourreach for Bethel Pentecostal Church, Ottawa Canada (www.johncounsell.com, www.bethel.ca, www.cfra.com) says:
“If you’re interested in “same old same old” you won’t be interested in Bette. If you grieve at the way Christians often are bad examples, or if you’ve ever found yourself trying to undo damage that has been done by indiscriminate people of faith, if you want to be a follower of Christ, without being “religious” you’ll love Bette.
“She disarms the “holier than thous” with warm, fresh humor, shows us how to cope and not fall into the traps of phariseeism and empty religiosity.”
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And here’s what Barbara Brabec, internationally known homebased business guru and best-selling author of such books as Homemade Money and Creative Cash and guiding light to new authors (www.BarbaraBrabec.com) had to say:
“Bette Dowdell gives new meaning to the phrase “short and sweet.” Her writing style is down-to-earth, light-hearted, and pleasing to the ear. Never preachy, but merely practical, she explains the Gospel in short bites—one topic per page—and makes Christianity understandable to everyone without offending anyone. By relating God to ordinary life happenings—(“Life is lumpy,” she says)—Bette shows us what God can do for us if we simply invite Him into our lives.”
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Here’s what Sean McFarlin, Christian, husband, father of three and labor attorney in Marshalltown IA says::
“In a world of televangelists and door to door bible beaters, many people are discouraged and even turned off by the thought of evangelism. Even as so many have a desire and a need for basic Bible teaching, we are often too shy to even begin discussing the roadmap of Christianity, the Holy Bible. After all, religion is one of two subjects we are told to never discuss in polite conversation. It’s into this environment that just the right guidebook comes along to truly fill a need, How to Be a Christian Without Being Annoying, by Bette Dowdell.
“In an easy-to-read devotional format, Dowdell uses biblical references to start a discussion that leads to an understanding of what each excerpt means. Each segment begins with a Bible verse, with a concise definition of words and phrases as well as pronunciation of some of the more challenging words. Dowdell quotes from several Bible versions, both old and new, allowing readers to experience different translations to identify which is best suited to them.
“On the second page of each segment, Dowdell includes a short discussion of what the verse is saying, and how it is pertinent to us today. Much more than a simple explanation, these devotionals are an affirmation of biblical truths through the use of modern language, stories and parables. Her words are a perfect jumping off point for new believers and a wonderful introduction to the Bible for doubters, agnostics and non-believers. Dowdell uses her humor, wit and understanding of people to complete the connection between the Old Testament, New Testament and Today.
“This book is ideal for group study, a daily devotional, an individual study or a bedside reader. Dowdell proves to have a deep understanding of the Bible, and speaks in a voice that clearly communicates to the reader. How to Be a Christian Without Being Annoying is a must have for both men and women in any stage of life.
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Here’s what Jerry D. Simmons, Author and former Vice President-Director Field Sales with The Time Warner Book Group (www.writersreaders.com, nothingbinding.com) wrote:
“Publishers are always searching for books that have what it takes to cross the great marketing divide, writings that will appeal to a cross section of readers in more than one category and more than one market. When they find these gems, they know the books have a better than average chance at being successful in the retail bookseller marketplace. Books with this quality find their way into the hearts of readers and make lasting impressions. Such a book is being published in January 2006 entitled How to be a Christian Without Being Annoying by Bette Dowdell.
“This book is a wonderful read for anyone regardless of whether a Christian or somebody who practices religion on an irregular basis. Its appeal will cross the boundaries between the Christian and mainstream reader and bookseller. For anyone who has a belief in God and a desire to learn more about his teachings, this book is a terrific guide and daily companion. Written in an easy-to-understand format that gives you the lesson, the word of God and the verse, it will be a great benefit to anyone with a desire to better understand their world and their place in it.
“This book covers a wide range of topics and gives the reader a practical message about Christian life and how to practice that message on a daily basis. One of the hardest parts about being a Christian for some of us is learning to live according to the word of God. This book is written in a such a way that it can become your daily lesson and, read in conjunction with the Bible, be your daily companion, making that struggle a little easier.
“We all go about our daily routine with work and family, managing as best we can to fulfill our obligations. We divide our time between jobs and family as best as possible, and at the end of the day, we retire to our homes to prepare for the next day. It is easy to forget what is really important in life. Some of us need that constant reminder that God is part of our lives, and we need to practice what we know is right. This book will help everyone who makes the decision to take a small portion of each day to read the lessons in this book and the word of God and then do our very best to keep those thoughts in our heads as we venture out each day.
“Take the responsibility of becoming a better Christian and live your life according to the word of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Read this book, and then reread each chapter one day at a time. Let this book be a guide for you in your quest to a better, more fulfilling Christian life. You will become a better person, and you will be rewarded for having read How to be a Christian Without Being Annoying by Bette Dowdell.”
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