Beyond Radical by Gene Edwards (1999-06-01)

Beyond Radical is the sort of book which all Christians who feel that there must be more to church life need to read. Gene Edwards writing style is always straight to the point, although his use of sarcasm may be a bit much for some. Many truths are brought to light in this short book which all to often are swept under the carpet by others. Among them are the true functions of Apostles and Elders, the priesthood of all believers and the importance of reading the new testament in its proper chronological order. the only problem I had with the book is that it lacked references in the footnotes and so many will write off much of what the author has had to say because of it. My favourite thing is the list at the back of the book of the New testament epistles in their correct order and where they fit into the book of Acts.

As I walk through life seeking the truth, I find that the "churches" I have attended are not ever interested in that truth. They are only interested in building their own little kingdoms and supporting their little baal god that they have put in the pulpit to 'teach' them. This book shows us that we don't NEED the pastors and other self proclaimed "learders" of the Christian faith. As the Israelites of old voted to have a King over them as the other nations, we Israelites of today have done so all the way down to the "church" we attend. I have met more tyrants that preach from the pulpit with their watered down understanding of the scripture than I could ever count.However, I have found that if you do follow the original design of having Yahshua, (Jesus) over you, instead of a preacher or pastor, that the bonding that takes place and the understanding of the word that has been imparted to EACH PRIEST is able to be tapped into for a higher understanding of the truth as well as Yahshua (Jesus) himself. I believe that Gene Edwards has hit upon ONE of the reasons that the modern church is going to hell in a handbasket. Why, in my county, which is a small one near Harrison Arkansas, there are over 189 "churches" with their own little men "teaching" their watered down understanding of the word every week. Maybe the bride still is not ready to hear what sons have to say...

I can't even begin to describe the shake-up this book is causing and will continue to cause. It's a straight-up, stream-lined preach on what is (and why it's like that) the fundamentals of church life.If you're a believer who *knows* that what there is in 'church' is not all that it should be, or could be, then read this book. If you're a believer who senses the coming revolution and want some solid insight, read this book. If you want a bone-rattling read regarding your faith and its tenets - READ THIS BOOK. You'll not view your church (institution) life the same ever again.Can't recommend this title highly enough. Read the full body of Mr. Edwards' works; they're all gems.

'Beyond Radical' was a timely & refreshing view (for me) of some insights about the disciples in the 1st century, & their 'view' of church 'government'... Or as Edwards makes the case; the lack of church government, ie. pastors & elders as we would think of them today. He lays a quickie foundation of church history, & then travels chronologically through Acts while paralling that story with Paul's epistles, focusing on the terms & ideas expressed by the writers to bring home his points. He brings his points out 'rapid fire', and however, is sometimes heavy with what sounds like bitter sarcasm.As a 'layman', I've long been troubled by the fact that there doesn't exist one single example of a full time pastor in the New Testament; yet the local 'christian' church is built on that cornerstone. Edwards sheds light on this reality & other realitys like it, and although everyone won't agree with all his conclusions & what they imply, (myself included) I think everyone SHOULD consider his insights & arguments. B.A. Davis

Beyond Radical is precisely that! It asks the questions we always took for granted such as, why do we meet every Sunday at 11:00 am for church, why do churches have stained glass windows, pews, pulpits and yes even PASTORS! What! Aren't pastors scriptural? Well, after reading this book, much of modern day Christianity is left empty, naked and shallow w/ the Lord nowhere to be found. It will challenge everything you were taught about Christianity and "church". But do not fear, Gene also unfolds a beautiful alternative, namely church life the way it was meant to be experienced, New Testament style! If you are content w/ modern church life and all it's cliche formulas, then this book is not for you. However, if you are seeking a radical and exciting new way to live church life, than this book is for you! Gene will be your guide through history and scripture, revealing why we do all the things that are supposedly in the "clear teachings of God". After putting it down you will have to re-evaluate EVERYTHING you ever learned about church life and it's offices.