Charles Stanley's Handbook for Christian Living: Biblical Answers to Life's Tough Questions

The table of contents quickly reveals that this is a thorough and concentrated resource for facing the challenging questions of contemporary christian life. The wealth of information is like an encyclopedia. It's my favorite reference for personal study as well as Bible study group discussions when we get caught on topics beyond our understanding. As a Christian counselor I know how tough topics are often avoided in our culture. Dr. Stanley tackles them with forthrightness and practicality. I especially appreciate how he treats the difficult topic of suicide, offering compassionate and clinically sound tips for those feeling so desperate and for those who love them. For those of us who appreciate Charles Stanley for his straight talk, Biblically sound, informative teachings with a conversational practicality, he does not disappoint. And yes, he keeps to his style of inviting us to grow. He shares personal anecdotes to enhance his commentary. I'm a lifelong Lutheran and I believe that this book has so much to offer that it transcends theological differences. On the practical side, I like that the scriptural reference is fully provided for each topic. As one with a penchant for note taking, the wide margins are generous. The paper has a strong feel and holds up to my heavier handwriting. The new graphics (compared to the HC 1995 version) offer a more eye friendly contemporary feel. There's a thorough index, thankfully with generous margins for personal additions. I can find something quick and not try the patience of the group members as I search for that perfect passage that "I know is in here somewhere." Considering the "weight" of the material presented I like that it's light enough to carry to Bible study. Your library won't be complete without this book.

Fantastic book for any Christian! It is the best book I own (other than the Bible). I have learned more about every facet of Christianity from this book than all my other books put together. I simply cannot say enough about this book.

I have gone back to this book several times when seeking guidance on various situations. This is a book every Christian should read. It is a blessing to those who are working on their relationship with God. I have learned more from this book than I have in 20 years of listening to Sunday sermons. What I love about Dr. Stanley's teaching is that it is always scripturally-based. I've heard Dr. Stanley say many times that if he could not back up what he was saying with scripture, he wouldn't say it all. This book is written with the same kind of message.

I am expressing surprise, not because I expected less of Charles Stanley, who is a great teacher, but because this book is an exhaustive reference work that will help those who serve in ministry. It must have taken a great deal of work on the part of the team at In Touch Ministries. This book is carefuly divided into sections that reach almost all areas of the Christian life, from salvation to tongues to the Lord's Supper. In each section, Stanley shows his extensive knowledge of Scripture and his ability to teach the Word in a simple manner. He also sprinkles in many quotes and Scripture references for additional study. I'm a writer and I often use this book just to look up quotes on a particular subject not often found in traditional quote books. If you're in ministry, this is a small, but worthy investment. Any passage you might have a question on will be answered in great detail. If you're a fundamentalist, you'll find it especially gratifying that Charles Stanley doesn't compromise on issues like speaking in tongues, the real meaning of repentance (one of the hi-lights of the book), and the security of our salvation. I highly recommend this book. It will really compliment your study library.

Charles Stanley blew me away with this one. This book is so packed with great info, and the one word i would use to describe it is "practical". He gives down to earth, realistic, christian life principles, that actually apply to living in today's crazy world. This book is hip and relevant. It also deals with some of the tough gray areas that christians encounter daily. This book is a keeper and a great place to go to when a question comes up in your christian faith...