Sometimes in the Christian life we get stuck. Something seems off, and we don't know why. We may not even notice it at first. But we feel like God is far from our daily lives, or we lose hope for the future, or we don't treat others in loving ways. What can we do? Sam Van Eman has found that our spiritual lives need disruptive experiences, which can jolt and reorient us for greater spiritual maturity. Out-of-the-ordinary activities such as a wilderness adventure or an international service trip can challenge our assumptions and give us space to consider new perspectives. And when we intentionally choose to pursue designed experiences, we stretch our faith in new and unexpected ways. Filled with concrete examples of how ordinary people are shaped by disruptive experiences, this book provides a path to deeper faith on purpose. Jesus disrupted his disciples with invitations to get out of their boats, leave their nets, and follow him. Have courage, and discover what those kinds of disruptions might look like for you.
"The world feels increasingly complex and filled with uncertainty, volatility, and ambiguity. A new type of adaptive, faithful leader is needed. Through great storytelling and practical examples, Sam Van Eman's Disruptive Discipleship shows us how we might welcome-and even pursue-the disruptions of life as a means to growing deeper in our faith, hope, and love."
Chris Cooke, executive director, PULSE
"In a culture where the extremes of chasing the next high or staying in our comfort zone tend to pervade, Sam Van Eman offers a brilliant alternative: purposeful risk-taking that produces spiritual maturity. Packed with wisdom, wit, and personal stories, this guidebook inspires real risk that leads to real faith. Sam invites us into the unknown, but he doesn't leave us there. His honest and hopeful voice calls us forward. If you're feeling stuck, lost, or simply want to challenge the status quo, the adventure of Disruptive Discipleship awaits!"
Erica Young Reitz, director, Senior EXIT, CCO, author of After College
"I've always viewed disruptions as the annoying experiences that rearrange my schedule and mess with my plans. Until now. Sam Van Eman disrupted my way of thinking, jolting me to see how disruptions actually move us toward spiritual maturity. With his trademark storytelling and wisdom, Sam leads us all down a path of purposeful growth. This hope-filled book helps us figure out where we're stuck, then offers practical approaches to move us into new seasons of growth."
Jennifer Dukes Lee, author of The Happiness Dare and Love Idol
