Average Rating: 
Rating:  - Overall, the book is OK.
It appears to be focused toward the new/young Christian. Very simple and practical. Sometimes too simplistic, leaving out essentials for fuller understanding. I didn't like how he quotes scripture with "the Bible says: . . . " instead of just quoting the bible and giving the reference. You have to look for the biblical references at the back of the book. His use of translations seems to fit the verse to his premise. Example: on page 31 is says "The Bible says, 'A pretentious, showy life is an empty life; a plain and simple life is a full life.'" The scripture verse is Proverbs 13:7, when translated from Hebrew says "One pretends to be rich, yet has nothing; another pretends to be poor, yet has great wealth." (See English Standard Version or "Tahakh: the New JPS translation according to the Traditional Hebrew Text") The verse is about pretense, but the author uses the Message version to illustrate how Christians should live a simple lifestyle. I don't argue with the premise, but with the use of the verse which does not teach that. (A bad translation of a verse should not be used for quality teaching. There were many other verses that could have been used.) Overall, an OK book for highschool/junior high students, new Christians who don't real a lot. I would recommend another book for adults: "Knowing God" by J.I. Packer. Richer, fuller, and shorter. Both of these books encourage the reading of the Bible. I would suggest a good translation such as the English Standard Version.
Rating:  - Life changing book
This book will change your entire outlook of life. It is based upon the truth that God created each of us individually, and that he established a purpose for each of us, long before we were conceived. The book explains how much God loves each of his creations and what he has done for us. There are 40 chapters and it is highly recommended to read one chapter per day for 40 days in a row, meditating on the chapter thoughts of the day. Scripture backs up all that is said. It is an easy to read and understand book, which gives the truth about God. Our church is studying this book as a congregation and discussing it in smaller groups. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who needs to know God loves and cares about them and anyone who is interested in getting their life on track with God's purpose for them.
Rating:  - Poises Age-Old Question With Biblical Poignancy
Focused on Scripture, Rick Warren's "Purpose-Driven Life" is not unlike Richard Bolles' spiritual goals' section of "What Color Is Your Parachute," except that Bolles wants to help the reader find a fulfilling job, and Warren wants the reader to find meaning in their life.Unlike Tolle, Zukav, Myss and other popular self-help writers, Rick Warren unapologetically confirms he believes that Jesus Christ is God, and that, fundamentally, we are here to serve and worship him. This clarity of belief counters some of these modern writers' assertions that God is whomever you decides he or she shall be. In fact, as you read, it is imperative to have your Bible next to you, and a notepad next to that. Don't be surprised if through reading you have a lot of "Aha!" moments, as you connect with things you may have long forgotten. Fans of John Maxwell will find kinship in Warren's mission of practicality and approach. Learn what are the basics of purposes before God, and what this means to the everyday Christian. In the current surge of openness among Americans to consider their own Christian upbringing, Warren presents that Jesus Christ alone can provide the security and structure of a fulfilled life, that Christ should be the purpose. He is careful not to sound monkish, and is clear as he describes that we live in this world. He covers:
* Worship
* Fellowship
* Discipleship
* Ministry
* Mission Unfortunately, the book is limited by its workshop tone. Like so many other self-help books, it seems as if the writer is promoting his seminars and brand name. In fact, the book is widely available for use in post-seminar small groups. This distraction, however, needs to be set aside as the reader asks the question, "Do I know who I am, do I know why I am here today, and do I know where I'm going?" Warren helps sort through the muck, and guide the reader toward discovering both the need for a purpose, and the purpose itself. This stuff matters, and this book can help get you there. I fully recommend "Purpose-Driven Life" by Rick Warren. Anthony Trendl
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