I've read this one. This was quoted and promoted at our church (which we have officially left now finally). I remember one of the first red flags picking up the book was a statement of something like this - That the book is not intended for those who sit on their ivory tower of exegesis. This statement right here told me the guy must not think too highly of theology. As I progressed I realized that this was true - that those people will quickly realize (like me) that this isn't from God (and I certainly do not sit on any tower of exegesis, I've simply know my Bible!). What I remember that bothered me too is the lack of holiness portrayed in the book. He basically is saying that you can have your cake and eat it too. Sin and repentance seem to take a back seat.
And then to find the connections with contemplative prayer and some of the people he quotes (I think he might quote Thomas Merton too - I know Richard Foster does).


Well without reading criticisms until later, the book just didn't sit right with me from the get go. That's what I remember. The criticisms just cleared the air for me. Made me wonder about the discernment of those who endorse it too.

From someone who's been there it's sad to see this stuff in churches promoted as for our good. I am grateful to the Lord and discipleship and teaching of the true gospel from my Mother that I am able to see this stuff for what it is.

There was an associate pastor who we had a few years ago who quoted Manning and Yaconelli and promoted Richard Foster's Renovaire conferences. I didn't know at that time the error of these authors, but what I did know is that I did not like the associate pastor. I did not feel he was from the Lord - and his sermons were not. So interestingly my discernment was kicking in right there. Then after I started reading the authors I then remembered all the times he had quoted from them and I was bothered even more. By that time though, he was not at our church any more, but the authors were still promoted by the other pastors.
I have learned that reading and evaluating books and materials is very important, and to check out who the pastor is quoting!!!

I think it's easy for someone to just "trust" the leadership and what is put out for them to read or listen to. That's exactly what has happened at our prior church. The stuff just kind of crept in over time.