Book in Review: "When We Say Father"


When We Say Father is a short booklet where author Adrian Rodgers walks through the Lord's Prayer in a topical, almost devotional style. Each section is broken up and expounded on in simple layman's terms. Personal examples and short stories abound. Rodgers does not go into the exegetical, left brained particulars of the Lord's Prayer; quite the contrary, this is a quick and easy read that is directed towards the heart. A book any literate Christian can read!

While there may be certain particulars that I may not agree with: for instance, Rodgers' insistence that God is a respecter of the human will, and will not draw anyone unless they freely choose him--the main thrust of this book is something I truly celebrate. Chapter 4 entitled "The Freedom of Forgiveness" was a great refresher of what it means to be forgiven from our own debt; and a stern warning against the epidemic of bitterness (often reflected in the church!). Chapter 5 was a quick topical look at the devil, and a reminder of the severity of the fight we are in. Rodgers' overarching call for us to forsake ourselves, and to "seek first His Kingdom" is a necessary reminder.

Above all, what I appreciated in this book was Adrian Rodgers' sincere love of prayer. He shares personal stories of times he asked God for: wisdom in various situations, his car to be fixed, and even seemingly menial things like finding a hubcap! All this reinforces the reality that God is indeed a loving Father who enjoys to answer the prayers of His children. He does not ignore us, He does not remain aloof. No, God is a real person who can be known personally in time--and who will answer us when we ask, seek, and knock! Rodgers even records a powerful story of his High School self, falling prostrate on an empty football field, asking for God to use Him! Such simplicity and realism displayed in a relationship with God is indeed refreshing.

This is an enjoyable little book, written in an almost "grandfatherly" style. May it draw others to seek the face of our Heavenly Father more desperately and more persistently than before.

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