The cover very clearly tells you the book contains “the 10 crucial questions that will help you clarify your purpose, live intentionally and make the most of the rest of your life.” The foreword also underscores the merits of learning and understanding through questions–“It is in wrestling with questions, and not giving the answers, that we grow and change.” And with these expectations from the book, I set out on a Socratic journey of self discovery with the aid of Addington.
Every chapter focuses on one question and its answer, and ends with a few more reflective questions that can be used in group discussions. I liked that the questions are relevant and applicable to Christian growth and lifestyle. I also liked that Addington directs the reader to the Bible for answers. For example, the reader is pointed to Ephesians 2:10 to find the answer to the question “Why am I here?”
I would have liked Addington to take the questioning approach farther and use a more purer form of Socratic strategy. Questions are not as effective when they are followed by the answer and illustrative examples. Lessons are better understood and remembered when the questions arouse interest and curiosity while leading the learner to discover the answer and relish the gain of new, fresh insights. I felt the book did not meet the expectation set forth in the foreword.
Yet, despise that one small prejudice I have about the book’s teaching strategy, I feel the substance of the book and the logic of Addington’s treatment of the topic are worth the attention of any Christian committed to a lifestyle focused on God’s calling.
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(I received this book free from NavPress. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.)
Says Fyl 