Not a Fan: Becoming a Completely Committed Follower of Jesus

"When it comes to Jesus, I am not a fan." That is the attention-snagging message megachurch pastor Idle-man hopes readers are repeating by the end of this book. Addressing all Christians%E2%80%94including himself, Idleman writes that "the biggest threat to the church today is fans" who admire Jesus but aren't fully committed to being followers. Using Biblical examples and 11 startlingly honest testimonials from present-day followers, the author shows that being a Christian requires sacrifice and an all-consuming commitment to Jesus. Though his message is a direct challenge to the reader, Idleman offers humor and conversation instead of guilt and condemnation. He takes old themes (e.g., take up your cross, suffer for a greater purpose) and repackages them with natural wit and 21st century relevance. The meat of this succinct message could be lost if the titular catchphrase becomes yet another T-shirt slogan. But if readers latch onto the deeper meaning, they could find themselves reevaluating everything from their careers to their relationships. A refreshing read to recharge apathetic churchgoers. (June)