The Power of Integrity: Building a Life Without Compromise

Compromise is often labeled "the language of the devil." In practice, we usually picture something as dramatic as an adulteress relationship as the epitome of compromise. But most compromises are less obvious and just as dangerous. How many of the decisions we make on a daily basis involve even a hint of pride or selfishness? If we were to make every decision with intent on reflecting Christ's holiness, how different would our lives be from what they are now? The call from the scriptures is to become like Christ, and integrity in every aspect of our lives is an important aspect of that. John MacArthur's The Power of Integrity provides an exploration of integrity what it looks like for the people of God to embody it. The first three chapters of the book deal with the definition and foundations of integrity. MacArthur argues that integrity of character is dependent upon union with Christ and integrity of doctrine, and that our "resources in this process are always God's Word and prayer. Through them you gain the mind of Christ (Col. 3:16)." (p21) The second part of the book (chapters 4-6) look to various examples of integrity demonstrated in the Bible and in the lives of Christians. MacArthur explores the actions of Daniel and his friends while captive in Babylon, missionary Hudson Taylor, preacher Charles Spurgeon, and the Apostle Paul. All of these provide a clearer picture of how God's people can practically live out the integrity they are called to. In the final chapters, MacArthur lays out the practice of integrity in the life of the believer. Instead of being passive or pietistic, we are to work with "fear and trembling" while utterly depending on God's work in our lives. We are to seek personal holiness in our through the various relationships in our lives and that leads to practical holiness that's displayed in love toward our Christian brethren as well as our enemies. At the end of the book is a helpful study guide for personal or group study and application. In general, there's nothing new or original about this book. And there shouldn't be. The call to live a life of holiness as Christ is holy is ancient and yet we still fail at it. MacArthur merely takes these teachings and focuses our attention on them in a manner that is biblical and effectively practical. Among the many reasons for us to pursue integrity, one is that we live before a watching world. John MacArthur challenges us to look different from the world by living lives devoted to God without compromise. As the church continues to blend in with the watching world, books such as The Power of Integrity are necessary reminders of our responsibility to be work out our sanctification in this life.

Dr. John MacArthur is simply not a preacher nor just a great teacher of the Word of God nor is he simply writing a book to make money. He actually lives what he writes. Few can honestly admit that today in the evangelical church as we watch so many pastors and teachers fall into sin. Dr. MacArthur will challenge you to holiness and give you a renewed hatred for sin in your own life.Integrity is not just a word. It is vital to leadership. We have seen the power of falling into immorality in the lives of preachers, Presidents, and other prominent men and women but for the Christian, integrity is much more than a word but it is our very life. Be holy (1 Peter 1:15-16; 2:12).

The Prince of Deceipt is having a field day with modern people, even those who think they stand firm on God's word. MacArthur challenges us to carefully find out what we believe about God from His Word, (confession of faith), then live this confession without compromise, something the church has problems with.Compromise translates into false confession and belief. MacArthur aids by first examinining the essentials to motivate one to find the true confession, then be a person of discernment, which is the true way to live without compromise.Great advice throughout this work, e.g. "Growing in deeper knowledge of Christ is a lifelong process that will not be complete until we see our Lord face to face," and "Unity of faith is impossible unless it is built on the foundation of commonly held truth."

This is an excellent book to develop character and integrity. As we use fire to temper steel, our Lord uses trials to temper our character. The wisdom in this scripturally-sound book helps me respond to challenges by displaying the integrity which honors our Lord.