The Barbarian Way
“-a call to revolution against ‘civilized’ Christianity.” -Marketplace
Erwin Raphael McManus wasn’t raised in the Christian faith, so when he came to Christ as a college student, he didn’t know the rules of the “religious club.” All he knew was that something had been set on fire deep within his soul, a passion that longed to be unleashed. Since that day, he has not followed the road most traveled by many contemporary churchgoers. He has chosen the other-the less civilized one-following the path of Jesus in a passionate journey full of mystery, danger, and untamed faith.
In The Barbarian Way, McManus calls you to return to the ancient,primal, and dangerous faith of Jesus and His early disciples. Let go of a sanitized Christianity and get back to the powerful, raw and ancient faith that chooses revolution over compromise, peril over safety, and passion over lukewarm and watered-down religion.
Christ’s passion drove Him to the cross; the cross of Christ drives you to His passion. Take up the challenge of the “barbarian way,” and your life will never be the same.
Get a copy now at the Awaken Resources website.
“A world without God cannot wait for us to choose the safe path…If Jesus would not avoid the place of the skull, then we should not be surprised where He might lead us.” So cries McManus’ voice in the wilderness of a Christianity he says has become far too civilized, calling us to repent of our pharisaical religion and be as revolutionary as the early disciples were.
Taking John the Baptist as the poster child for radical Christianity, the author says, “Discipleship has become the mechanism for uniformity rather than uniqueness. Yet if we learn anything about God through John, it is that God has no problem with spiritual eccentrics…his intent is never to domesticate us, but to liberate us.” He says we as Christians are called to be passionate risk-takers, a far cry from the polite pew-sitters that populate most churches.
Filled not with rebellious ramblings but with the deepest love and respect for God, his Word, his Church, and those who are fully committed to following Him, McManus’s book is none the less a call to revolution against “civilized” Christianity and a quiet but sincere manifesto for a Spirit-led uprising of radical Christ-followership. Read it, and let the revolution begin.
- Gary Hassig
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September 16th, 2005 at 6:35 am
Loved this book. It was great. Very challenging…
September 19th, 2005 at 6:44 pm
Erwin had the guts to say publicly what so many of us pastors have been feeling privately. It is cool to be a Barbarian!
September 22nd, 2005 at 3:32 pm
I was called by the Lord into the ministry last November. This is the first book I read after hearing the Lord. What an awesome book. I will always be a Barbarian!
September 22nd, 2005 at 8:31 pm
Erwin it was a privilege and an inspiration to spend some time with you.
September 26th, 2005 at 3:56 pm
This book has become one of the must read for all our leadership, thanks Erwin for writing this book we needed this message.
September 29th, 2005 at 3:01 am
About time! The world needs to read this book. We have become far to secularized and normal following Jesus! Thanks Erwin.
Martin Walker, London, U.K
September 30th, 2005 at 11:36 am
bravo!
this book has a lot of similarities to a book by Leonard Sweet entitled ‘Jesus Drives Me Crazy’
i can’t wait until my daughter wants to jump off the roof!
September 30th, 2005 at 5:17 pm
Erwin,
What a life changing message for me, my husband and others. I recently started a book club based on this book with a few other women in our community. The things they have been inspired to do from tis book is unbelievable. Thanks for reminding us what the heart of God is about!
Krys
October 1st, 2005 at 4:49 pm
what a wonderful book! my dad borrowed it and read in 1 day and loved it! it peaked my brothers to attend mosaic a few times!
October 2nd, 2005 at 11:04 pm
Dangerous for Christ, The Barbarian/Warrior Tribe is building at a forcfull and rapid rate, the question is are you the one. Pick this book up, it will change the REST OF YOUR LIFE, time to start livin and quit exhistin, Pick up your sword and follow me. Let’s GO.. TETELESTAI
October 3rd, 2005 at 9:14 am
Erwin picks up and puts into words and prespective where Eldridge left off in “Wild at Heart”. The “call” to the Kingdom has never been so clear to me since reading this book. Too many times in the past I was told that I was being too radical about the Kingdom and needed to tone it down because I was making others uncomfortable………that’s the way of the Barbarian! Freedom through Christ the King!
October 5th, 2005 at 5:55 am
This book expresses what has been on my heart a long time… I have probably given away around 16 copies. Every time I think I’m going to keep one for myself, I end up giving it away!
October 7th, 2005 at 3:56 pm
This book has truly changed my life. I have recently become a teacher at Weslean Christian School in OK. I have incorporated it into my high school bible class. My students love it and are growing emencly. Several of their parents have seen them reading it and have read it too. Their comments are positive and uplifting. Some have admitted that their toes were stepped on and their hearts were convicted to live as they should for Christ. My husband introduced it to me. He loved it so much and took it heart, he had the barbarin tiger tattooed on his arm,as a reminder.
October 9th, 2005 at 11:01 am
Just came back from Catalyst Leadership Conference in Atlanta. What an EMOTIONAL experience!! To top it all off….Erwin’s POWERFUL way of reaching down to the CORE of me with the TRUTH! WOW! I immediately picked up this book and read it in the car all the way home. Tear after Tear after Tear ran down my face. This book has done something in me that I can’t even begin to explain! All I can say is THANK YOU!! This PASSION I feel is soooooo overwhelming. I WANT to and WILL be a BARBARIAN the rest of my LIFE!!
October 10th, 2005 at 9:06 am
Excellent book!! My mother gave it to me and said you have got to read this book! It is what we talk about all the time. You see I’ll told you we were crazy!maybe a little insane just the way God wants us! After read this book I am so on fire I’m bored out of my head in my stale going nowhere church. God help us to see clearly and risk the jump!
October 10th, 2005 at 12:17 pm
Great book, I look forward to reading more from McManus, but more importantly, putting the ideas in the book into practice in my daily life.
October 10th, 2005 at 12:24 pm
I don’t even want to call this a book. Erwin grasps the spirit, plan, and fulfillment of God’s purpose for the early church and propels it into the future (hopefully your hands and heart-literally and metaphorically). Read it, pray it, and live it or we don’t belong in the Book of Life. We are encouraging everyone in our church to charge at 30 mph, horns pointed heavenward, not caring what’s at 31 feet! Praise God for Erwin’s scriptural, holy spirit-inspired wisdom that connects with the spirit growing in all of God’s people!
October 18th, 2005 at 10:56 am
I am 21 and I am called to full time foreign missions. I have known that for years. The Barbarian way put my feelings into words. I have always been afraid to tell people, even those who are believers around me, what my desires are for other cultures. I always said the good answers when really I know that the places he has called me to may require my very life. I realize now that my life is not worth living unless it is fully devoted to the rawness and realness of following Jesus Christ passionatly. I will step out and do exactly what God has called me to with no regret, no fear and no apologies. In many ways I feel like this book gave me permission to finally do what my heart has always known it is called to.
October 21st, 2005 at 8:44 am
Erwin I just wanted to let you know that your book the barbarian way changed my life IN the weirdest way, a friend that atends your church gave me the book,Im 15 years old the book didnt interest me very much since ive never been into christian books before,but one day I just decided to read it and im real glad I did,all those words sounded so majestic in away they got me thinking about christianty in away that has never crosed my mind.All ive ever wanted to do is serve but when I read your book I felt within me the ability to do more,I guess this sounds prety crazy a young person like me especialy like me doing more than serve I felt prety folish but for some reason that fealing is still alive within me.I want to thak you for writing this book I dont know what god has instore for me,and im going to admit im more scared than ive ever been before but your words gave me some kind of courage.Im thinking on geting babtise im alittle scared because my father is a spiritist and im not sure what he wiil think of me if I do.Im the only person in my family that has accepted christ and im very proud but my family isnt, my father is a spiritist my sister is a witch one of my brothers is a crazy punk rocker and my mom was catholic so im basicli diferent from them in away and its frigthning, accepting christ has brougt me a bit of trouble with my unbeleaving family and I almost thought that I should give up and become a spiritist like my father and then I was given your book and that gave me courage to keep going after all ill be 18 soon and when that happens ill be able to serve others as much as I want with out my father telling me its foolish to serve others without them ever saying thank you.to my dad that might seem foolish but to me serving others is the only way for me to become closer to god.I feel so small at mosaic when every one sais what theyve done and what they will do because I have this burning passion to do so much and I can only do so little.But never mind me I must have bord you what I ment to say was thank you for your words that were so inspiring to an insignificant person like me thank you for taking the time to read this and thank you once more for giving this lost girl her path and the courage to keep going when she was just about to give up thank you again YESICA ARAGON.
October 24th, 2005 at 1:52 am
My heart, once again, was awaken, challenged. God made us to be what we were meant to be in the beggining of creation. Barbarians, who love to live and live to love, as McManus said in this book. Never read a book so challenging and revolutionary.
October 24th, 2005 at 3:19 am
it would be good to order these books off the website when the preses take you to that point but i cant find a link to purchase
November 2nd, 2005 at 4:18 am
I was able you to hear a message at 722 and Friday October 7th at Catalyst in Atlanta. With the videos and the word I’ve never heard a more moving presentaion of the gospel. Thank you Erwin for your unselfish desire to travel around the world and share your talents and gifts God has given you.
November 3rd, 2005 at 10:19 am
For the past 19 years since my conversion I’ve always wondered why I wasnt normal. I’ve prayed for a normal job, normal kids, normal life …. to no avail. I once told my mother “I just want a normal life.” She looked at me and said “No you dont. Look at your cousins, they strive all week to stress all weekend.” I realized that I’m not normal, I’ve never been normal, and I will never be normal. After reading the Barbarian Way, I realzed why. Rock On !
November 3rd, 2005 at 6:51 pm
I am not typically a reader, I don’t normally enjoy reading I am the type of guy that says ‘Is it on video.’ My boss gave me this book to read and I couldn’t put it down, it took me about 4 or 5 hours to read and is proabably one of the most inspiring, well written and spot on books I have ever read. This book has given me the courage to practice what I have belived since I became a Christian. Nice one Erwin!!!!
November 8th, 2005 at 7:03 pm
So far I’ve consumed the Barbarian Way and unStoppable force - both have stretched and challenged me BIG TIME. Thanks for addressing the sensitive issues that most people won’t address in the church. I’m working on the next step … applying it to my life and ministry. Keep going Erwin.
November 16th, 2005 at 8:08 am
I am going to get the book. I just heard you speak on Huntley Street in Canada this morning…..Here we GO!
November 22nd, 2005 at 12:48 pm
I remembered that state I was in when I first came to Christ and I am so thankful that your book called me to return to that. I thought I was weird for having a faith that could literally move mountains. Now I know that I am weird and I am going to embrace it, rather than subdue it.
Your barbarian brother in Christ,
Julius Maeva
November 25th, 2005 at 9:58 pm
I really enjoyed the book. I gave a copy to “anonymous” above. She liked it so much that see wants to get copies for her friends. Keep up the great and insightful work.
November 27th, 2005 at 4:51 pm
McManus,
you helped uncover the chains in my heart holding back my fierce and barbaric nature that I have been feeling for quite some time now. WE ALL owe you a huge debt. You obviously have an amazing talent for writing. I thoroughly enjoyed this book more than anything I’ve read in awhile. I really hope to fly out to Los Angeles and attend your church someday.
Your fellow tribesman
David
November 27th, 2005 at 9:34 pm
Praise God for doing his work in you,We are currently using your book in a high school boys bible study.It is really something to see 15 and 16 year old kids unleash their uncivilized spirit and put it into action.they have opened up in their home and school lives.It is great to see the youth taking charge in todays world we live in. Thank You for your insperation
November 28th, 2005 at 10:26 pm
I have purchased to date 10 copies of your book and have been passing them out like candy.
One suggestion - - You need to write a book with information on how the parents of a Barbarian deal with it when their Barbarian grows up and goes off to conquer!! How did Elizabeth handle knowing her son was eating locusts and wild honey, wearing animal skins? I know the only answer is to trust God and lean not on my own understanding - - but it sure is hard.
My daughter is a Barbarian and is leaving for LA as soon as she graduates. Her heart (and calling) is for the Hollywood community and conquering it for Christ. She is so young, so full of faith, so walking with the Lord, and so excited to see how the Lord is going to use her. I am sure she will connect with Mosaic (which is an answer to our prayers). I am just fighting as a parent to not pack up my bags and come with her to battle in LA. She has yet to become disheartened by the “Christians” who have tried to discourge her from the Barbarian way and call her into the “civilized” world! Be on the lookout for her. With the Lord as her King, she is going to conquer!!!
November 30th, 2005 at 10:26 am
Thank you for reminding me of where I came from, for showing me that there are others out there, and reminding me that being crazy is ok - even required!
December 3rd, 2005 at 5:00 pm
http://www.drurywriting.com/keith/barbarian.way.htm
December 6th, 2005 at 8:42 am
When you came to Bracknell Family Church in December 2005 Morning and Evening. I was so much challenged that I am looking at life totally through the EYES OF FAITH. Thank you so much for speaking the truth in love.
May GOD bless you richly in all you do and say.
David Mecklenburgh
P.S can I be put on your mailing list if you have a weely or monthly magazine.
December 6th, 2005 at 10:03 am
Oh man ! I just finished the CD series on the Barbarian way. I have to tell you I can not remain the same. To be honest I am a bit terrifed at what God is going to do with me because I’ve been domesticated for so long but God will prepare me for the CRASH! I’m going full steam ahead and if I crash so be it. Pray that God will bring me to the place where I can bear the weight of great things for His glory in order to bring Him to his feet!!!!!!!!!!
December 7th, 2005 at 5:31 am
Thank you Erwin for the boldness to write on reckless abandonment to Christ. As a Christian Life Coach, I thrive on seeing others connect with God in such a way that radically changes their every thought and action. This book has affirmed and encouraged my wife and I in our desire to connect deeply with the living God…and appear foolish in the process.
December 8th, 2005 at 5:55 am
I listened to Erwin McManus at Bracknell Family Church in Berkshire England on 4.12.2005. Erwin is a man with great vision and changed my way of thinking. People have said at times that I was Barbaric but now after hearing him talk there is certainly going to be more changes in my life and way of letting non christians know of my faith, albeit only a follower of Christ for 18 months I have now become a complete “Barbarian for Jesus”. Thank you Erwin and Ben Davies our pastor for having the courage to invite him.
December 19th, 2005 at 10:10 pm
Loved the book. It really spoke to what I have been feeling in my heart. Whats with the rhino symbols at the end of the chapters?
December 21st, 2005 at 11:00 am
I loved Barbarian Way - It is having a great impact in our Church. What really excited me was the vision of a maturing Body of Christ Erwin presents in the latter chapters. All too often as Leaders and Pastors our vision is way too limited for those entrusted to us by God. By default, we often create perpetual dependency and therefore permanent babyhood among those we lead. But, God wants a community of world-changers - bound together by ligaments of love and maturing interdependent relationships. I think this is what Paul had in mind in the single word ‘until’ he used in Ephesians 4:13. The implication for those who have leadership responsibility in the Body of Christ is clear - we have a task - a brief window of opportunity - to challenge, to equip, to empower and release God’s army into His service. I pray that this clear prophetic voice will raise up ‘youth (troops) who will vomunteer freely in the day of God’s power’(Ps 110:3). We took about 25 or so - mostly young people to hear Erwin in Bracknell, UK recently. I wanted them to be exposed to the Barbarian virus - and never be the same again. Thanks Erwin.
January 2nd, 2006 at 8:17 pm
I read the book last year and wrote about it here http://rodneyolsen.blogspot.com/2005/07/good-reading.html
As I said on my blog, if the Christian faith isn’t calling people to radical transformation through dangerous acts of love then it’s just a moral code and that doesn’t wash for me. The challenge for me is not to just point the finger but to realise that I need to be living out that kind of faith.
January 4th, 2006 at 1:39 pm
Recently one of my friends lent me “The Barbarian Way.” I’ve already read it 3 times in the course of 5 days. In those readings, I had to take double-take after double-take because, what is written mirrors very much of my life. I can say that my life has been… interesting and I am so grateful for what I’ve been through: Growing up in a abusive home, put into the foster care system, losing everything I know and love- all my family and friends, ending up in a home where two wonderful people love me as their son, and on top of that, I’m at Mercer University on a full ride. Throughout the course of the turmoil I’ve been through, the only thing that kept me going was that one still voice saying ‘It will be alright, I have a plan for you.’
Just Recently, On December 30th, I got mugged in Valdosta, GA while talking with one of my friends about God’s will for his life. A shotgun aimed at the back of my head doesn’t even come close to scaring me like being alone in God’s presence. My friend and I got away unharmed on what we later found out is the most dangerous part of Valdosta.
Reading your book has been a great reassurance that what I’m doing isn’t insane- though sometimes it seems crazy to others.
January 10th, 2006 at 10:55 am
I just finished reading “The Barbarian Way”. WOW! Thank-you for being open to God to write this.
I want to use this as a study book for the small group that I’m in. Many of us are involved with a camp ministry that God is in the process of changing. This will help us understand the “rino walking on water” concepts involved. Have you published any leader-notes for it?
January 10th, 2006 at 12:25 pm
I loved this book. I have been a christian (follower of Jesus, really) and am so glad that there are people out there who are so committed to followng Jesus, no matter what conventional “modern” church goers think. Awesome and so inspiring.
January 12th, 2006 at 10:18 am
I read this book and choose to take the path that is not traveled much. I loved this book and it open my eyes to what God wants for our lives. This book is what every church needs to follow. I am a sneior in High School and this book has change my life and challenged my life. I plan to follow the Barbarians way no matter what. Thanks Erwin for taking a stand for the cause of Christ.
January 12th, 2006 at 12:04 pm
Greetings Mike,
Thanks so much for you post about Barbarian Way. Erwin is very encouraged by these! Also, currently we don’t have any small group materials or leaders notes for the book. We do have an 8 or 9 week series that Erwin preached on Barbarian Way available on DVD. You can get that if you’d like through our Resources dept. Their email is resources@mosaic.org. Or you can contact them at 562.908.2200 x125. Let me know if I can help with anything else. Thanks again and God bless!!
January 17th, 2006 at 1:21 pm
Erwin, Bravo!! Way to go brother.This book is the most powerful book I have read in my life next to the Bible. The words that God inspired you to write are what we needed to hear today. I can’t stop talking abouth your book and urging every man to pick up a copy please tell me your working on a work book for it because I want to be the first to buy it.I read the book in two days time I could not put it down. I am proud to say I am a BARBARIAN tribesman for life!
January 17th, 2006 at 8:08 pm
[…] I started reading this weekend the book “The Barbarian Way” by Erwin McManus. I’ve always been attracted to books written that challenge me - books that cause me to look at life and faith in a new, different and inspiring perspective. Books such as John Eldredge’s “Wild at Heart” (one of my favorites of all-time). […]
January 19th, 2006 at 8:06 am
I can´t wait to read the book! I am so ready to be a barbarian!!
January 26th, 2006 at 6:06 am
Every now and then a book comes along that you don’t read, it reads you! I consumed this book in one day. I was consumed by this book immediately, my soul crying out, “Yes! Yes!” I have been recommending it to all the believers I come in contact with. The essence of this book did remind me of “Wild at Heartâ€?. We may very well be sharing this in our men’s group. We have an active men’s group – a bunch of barbarians! Our Church isn’t large, but we are charging forward into the purposes of God!
Than you Erwin for a well written tome of truth.
In His Service
Pastor Gary
January 28th, 2006 at 2:38 pm
We use this book as part of the curriculum at my high school! It has changed my high school forever! There is a barbarian revolt happening there. Praise God!
January 30th, 2006 at 6:56 pm
Is Barbarian Way published in Spanish as well?
January 30th, 2006 at 8:53 pm
It isn’t very often that I’m moved the way I am right now. After reading “The Barbarian Way” I must admit that I have been shaken off my foundation and to the core. Mr. McManus, you have exposed for me, my “Civilized Christianity” and I am so challenged at the moment I don’t know where to even begin. I think I just need to re-read the book, write an outline and set upon a master plan to become uncivilized. Yes, my inner Barbarian… my spirit is needing to be set free from my mundane ritualistic “religious” participation. I need to live… I need to become brave and only “fear God” as you put so well in the book. Thank you for this book.. .thank you for this truth.
January 31st, 2006 at 5:21 am
Thanks a lot, Erwin!
Your books have catalyzed a “churchspring” in Oslo, Norway. We`re more than blessed - we are blessed, AND we have drawn the sword!!
Hope to see you in Oslo!
February 1st, 2006 at 12:02 pm
This book has changed the view I have had all of my Christ Life. It will be the catalyst for where Christ will lead me. Thanks Erwin for being brave enough to share the Truth. - Marc
February 3rd, 2006 at 11:09 am
I thank my pastor Ed Young for enviting Erwin to speek at at our C3 conf. It was a great exprience. I will never been the same. Nothing is going to stop me from telling people about Jesus. I now have some tools to use in my every day life to build-up those around me. Praise God.
February 3rd, 2006 at 11:44 am
“Barbarian Puts into Words” what the HS is plucking at heart cords everywhere. I love your call to living authentically as a true member of the tribe of Judah with no apologies. It’s fierce love for our king and our tribe that brings unity. It’s what the world longs for. Thanks…please keep leading the charge.
February 8th, 2006 at 7:19 pm
Nothing is by accident. Yet this past Sunday evening, the Lord Ordained I sit next to a dear brother on a flight from Houston, Texas to San Diego, California. Conversation began and before long this gentleman reached into his back pack and handed me The Barbarian Way. My theology went tilt, and the remainder of the flight I was in tears. Thank you for your great insight, revelation and stirring me on. Would love to meet you sometime when you find your travels in San Diego. Blessings.Pastor Plilar
February 21st, 2006 at 1:43 pm
I bought the book months ago. I read it mid December on a flight to London. Barbarian Way resonants so deeply with me that I have been handing them out like candy. On another flight to Uganda, I had a divine appointment. I met a gal who is a director and producer of documentaries. She’s has never considered the claims of Christ because of bad experience with a religion called Christianity. Talking long into the night, we discussed the difference between Christianity and a vital relationship with someone who would love you to death. After our discussion, she asked where she could get two things–a copy of The Message and The Barbarian Way. She’s hungry to be a part of the tribe. In addition, she asked me, “Why don’t people like you do films?…People like you guys, could change the world!”
February 23rd, 2006 at 10:22 am
This is the message we all need to hear. This is the message that my Sunday School class MUST hear. It is time to get off our God given tails & get something done for the Lord. I have choosen & will continue to choose the “Dangerous road” as I fight for My King.
February 25th, 2006 at 2:02 pm
I actually haven’t been able to purchase the book yet, but I can’t wait. It sounds like a great book. My youth pastor has based a two month long Bible study on The Barbarian Way. I must say that even without reading the book, I have come closer to God through your book. I have been a Christian for over 5 years now and I have been able to persevere through some trying times. I went through a drought of faith recently… but now I am experiencing a river… and I can’t wait until the flood! The Bible study based on your book as really helped me renew my faith and become more barbaric for God.
“…in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.” ~ Romans 8:37
February 27th, 2006 at 11:01 am
This book has been an inspiring to say the least. I believe that God is stirring up generation of people who want to do more than simply exist. This book put into words the thoughts and prayers of my heart and mind.
I have personally handed out between 20-30 copies.
Thanks
David
March 1st, 2006 at 3:03 pm
Me preguntaba si usted hablaba mas espanol que ” si m’hijo” o “El Salvador”. Hace dos domingos le escuche mas de dos palabras en espanol con una persona despues que termino su sermon.
La primera vez que llegue a Mosaic ustedes comenzaban con este tema “the barbarian way”. I came last year to LA to do a school about missions. Last september I came back to LA to work for an international missionary organization and the messages I heard from you made me went back to Mosaic.
El saber que usted es latino y ver todo lo que Dios ha hecho en su vida y a traves de ella, es de gran animo para mi. Me alienta a seguir adelante y creyendo que Dios cumplira su proposito en mi vida en este lugar.
Ahora estoy apoyando el ministerio de los jovenes de 5th y 6th grado en Mosaic Pasadena.Es un gran privilegio ser parte de esta comunidad en este pais.
Ila
PS por cierto, soy mexicana
March 1st, 2006 at 8:17 pm
Just wondering if anyone knows if Erwin Raphael McManus is living like a barbarian, and how he is doing so.
March 4th, 2006 at 1:52 pm
New Barbarian here. My relationship with God and how I portray Him to the world has changed. It’s now, “Join the battle, we already know who has won.” My new goal is to spread the news and enlist more believers to join me in doing so. I’ve seen Erwin preach once on a video. I pray he is blessed and challenged every day of his life. May God grant awesome peace and wisdom to his children as well. “Thanks Pastor Erwin for following God’s purpose for you and being such a powerful influence on hungry barbarians as myself. God Bless You!”
March 7th, 2006 at 9:45 am
This book has changed our entire staff. Reading this book has changed the way I see myself as a follower of Jesus. I have told everyone I know to read this book and let it open their eyes to the true call of Jesus, to rise up and prepare to fight for the souls of those who do not know the One that we are so in love with. My prayer is that we as followers of Jesus begin to infect or communities with this eye openning message so that others can understand that we must answer this call of the “Barbarian Way.”
March 9th, 2006 at 9:46 am
Make this e-commerce friendly!
March 11th, 2006 at 10:09 pm
“Dear friend, I paray that you may enjoy health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well” 3 John 2
March 14th, 2006 at 12:24 pm
[…] How can I possibly find leadership lessons for followers of Christ in such a sordid example? Hmmmmm. To start with, I suppose that I find it somewhat ironic that the Kindgom espoused by Jesus Christ and the spiritual revolution, alternative community, and order we are invited into as a result of his sacrifice on behalf of mankind seems to have been so institutionalized, civilized and recontextualized so as to better fit in polite society. Before I digress too much into this rant, let me redirect to The Barbarian Way by Erwin McManus.) (Really worth reading! Not that Erwin would try to find inspriration in Johnny Rotten, he might, but at any rate, he wrote a great book.) […]
March 20th, 2006 at 9:38 pm
Don’t read this book if you are happy with your Christian walk. Because it will take everything you think you know about your relationship with Jesus, with your fellow human beings, and with yourself and turn it on it’s head.
This book changes lives. Period.
March 21st, 2006 at 8:10 am
I had a “crisis of faith” last summer…my husband thought I was having a manic episode, but after reading The Barbarian Way- I realized that the untamed faith within me was fighting to be unleashed. My sister asked me if I was giving up on God- I said “no, God’s not the problem, the church is….and I’m not playing any more”! You have articulated what others saw as dissatisfaction, craziness, and even bordering on blasphemy, as “Barbarian”…I didn’t want a god that resembled santa claus- I NEEDED the ONE who I could die for!
March 22nd, 2006 at 2:26 pm
Hey,
Thanks for the link guys! Love you Erwin. Keep it up!
B
March 30th, 2006 at 2:49 pm
great book! The Barbarian!
April 13th, 2006 at 5:22 pm
I was given this book this week ask I left for spring break. The week isn’t over but I just finished it last night. It inspired me to think and to go back to scriptures to look at what it did look like when people were passionate about God and were unashamed to go where that led them. I grew up in the buckle of the Bible belt and God brought me back here this year after 6 years away at college. I want to think and live biblically. This book has given me more than enough food for though. Like getting a drink from a fire hydrant. I want to live like Christ and by faith in His Spirit the barbarian way!
April 28th, 2006 at 11:04 pm
This is an amazing book! Thank you for writing it. I have been challeged by God to be a barbarian in the church ever since I became a Christian 3 years ago which is not usually met with many smiles. Thanks for putting into words how I have been feeling.. It is a great joy to hear that others are as crazy for Christ as I am.
May 1st, 2006 at 9:19 am
Great work. I was raised to be civilized and trained to be the same at Southern Seminary. I am so thankful for Pastors such as yourself. I love you in Christ.
May 1st, 2006 at 11:14 pm
Wow! I’m constantly inspired by your way of thinking. You are the first speaker who was ever on my wavelength. I cried the whole sermon for joy that someone else ‘gets it’. I’ve given away your ‘Barbarian Way’ book to many of my friends. Hopefully they one day will ‘get it’ too.
I’ll be in Melbourne the whole time you are in Sydney!! (where I live) Bummer.
. Stir ‘em up bro. Get some fire down here downunder!!
Keep the podcasts and audio books cookin’. God bless ya bro!
May 3rd, 2006 at 3:42 pm
Thank- you Erwin for writting an amazing book.. I live in Australia and love it the calling to a dangerous christian walk to walk as JESUS did loving people yet so powerful as well.. Keep writing . Thank- you for doing what God called you to do………….
May 9th, 2006 at 1:07 pm
I hope you are serious because I’m taking this message to the street. The word is God has a BIG story made up of little people and it doesn’t get anywhere if we live it like a bookmark. I’m eating it! Kakhonak, Alaska here we come, just me, my heart, and Jesus.
May 11th, 2006 at 8:30 pm
Wow! A book that explains the feeling of being out of step at church. Thanks, it’s wrecked who I thought I was supposed to be and rescued who I am.
Now what’s the next step? I’m prayerfully seeking it and as much as I understand now, it’s still confusing.
FORWARD for the heart of our King!
Peace and love,
Kishore
June 5th, 2006 at 1:31 pm
Wow! Haven’t read the book yet, but our Pastor mentioned last week in his sermon that he was being inspired by Erwin McManus - and now I’ve read all this and more! Must get hold of the book and find out if Erwin can come to Dorset, England!
I am soooo excited as to the work I witness God and his Holy Spirit doing - it makes all the persecution from “civilised christians” worthwhile! I’ve always been confused why some of those who have been born again seem to have missed the point!
June 9th, 2006 at 4:27 pm
This is one of the greatest books I’ve read it makes you stogly dislike the words “civilized” and “normal” INCREDIBLE!
June 12th, 2006 at 2:59 pm
I have tried so hard to fit in with my christian friends, trying to be civilized in a radical way, it just will not work and now I understand that to be a follower of christ I must obey Jesus over Man. I will continue to grow in loving Man and serving Man, but I must obey the call on my life. I know the sciptures tell us this but you brought the revelation to me. God’s will is NOT the safest place and I choose God’s will! Thank you for all the revelation this book brings, this book also creates hunger for JESUS! I could go on and on…..great book, I tell all my christian and non christian friends about this book, gave this book to a non christian friend and he totally got it.
June 13th, 2006 at 10:12 am
Amazing read!! Erwin McManus is a 21st century prophet. This is a must read book.
June 13th, 2006 at 1:23 pm
I was going to read this book until I noticed someone compared it to John Eldredge, and then I completely lost interest. Is it that bad? Because Eldredge’s stuff is a joke. Don’t know what I am talking about? Read some of the reviews on Amazon. Whether or not you think he has anything new to say (he doesn’t), it is also written very poorly. Is this book part of that wave of pop christian writing telling us to be more wild? (but of course very short on specifics) Please people, do not just accept everything because some writer is popular. There is nothing new under the sun. (from the wisest man to ever live)
June 13th, 2006 at 11:04 pm
Joe,
I encourage you to actually read the book before you make such uninformed judgements on Erwin’s writings. I can tell you that this book is very substantive. It’s not telling us to be wild but to be fearless. I think there’s a huge difference between the two. I think Erwin would agree with the point of a bad analogy that we’re called to be big guns instead of loose cannons.
Your post left me with concerns that you have anger that is being vented for the sake of venting and I’ll be praying for that.
Peace and love,
Kishore
June 23rd, 2006 at 1:36 pm
Dear Mr. McManus,
I am a 25 year old female from the Bahamas. Around the earlier part of this year I had a vision from above, where the Spirit of the Lord directed me to find a Barbarian Bible. That was the first time I have ever heard the word Barbarian. I am now even noticing it for the first time in the Holy Bible. Nobody in the Bahamas is knowledgeable of this move at all, infact they have never heard anything about it either. When I first heard the messenger from God, I thought I was in the path of error, because I was taught to only focus on the King James Version, so I did not tell anyone about the vision. Later I did a research on the internet only to see countless information on the word Barbarian.
Unfortunately I got distracted from the assignment, and forgot all about it, until two days ago when the Spirit of the Lord reminded me. I need a copy of your books, along with a Barbarian study bible, and the dictionary. Can you PLEASE call or email me at the given information.
For you guys who think you are crazy, remember you are not the only ones on the ship! For our Lord Jesus Christ takes the foolish things of this world, to confound the wise!
July 4th, 2006 at 1:12 am
Thanks for the spiritual challenge in the TBW. It is one of the most concise, in-my-face books I’ve ever read–and I’ve read a few. I probably underlined a quarter of the book! The concepts and insights have captivated my imagination and are fueling my journey. Thanks for a an outstanding resource.
July 11th, 2006 at 5:46 am
i heard of your book from a friend who have read it. he said it was good. trying to get hold of a copy here in manila but cant find one. do you have book audio or e-book version.
want to share this to some friends in australia also. keep the faith.
August 5th, 2006 at 12:46 pm
Oh my… ouch … and above all… yay!! I have never really heard it put more plainly than this book. Pray for me and guide me more and more everyday, God, to be the “barbarian” my world needs!
October 27th, 2006 at 11:52 am
I am Loredana Cozmiuc from Arad, Romania. A very good friend of mine from US gave me your book,Barbarian Way.God has spoken to me trough your book and shaped me. I have more passion for God since I read it. I wish I could translate it into Romanian. I wish I had all your books.I listen to your sermons on podcasts.I am a barbarian too.Loredana
November 25th, 2006 at 12:46 am
i read the “barbarian way” and was extremely inspired
i’m now reading “uprising”. the mind of pastor mcmanus is very influential. creative and innovative. what i received from reading “the barbarian way” is to be a risk-taker…to LOVE your neighbor, for the word of God even says that to love is to lay your life for your brother just as Jesus layed His life that we, sinners, may have life.
i agree with kishore’s reply to joe. mcmanus is not urging us to be maniacs and menaces, but inspiring us to LIVE…to desperately have compassion for the dying world who needs to hear about Jesus NOW! every moment counts for we don’t know when someone’s last will come; therefore, because we don’t have the knowledge of when someone will die it causes us to be prepared, almost barbarically, and to seize the opportunity to tell people people about Jesus!!!
it should be, without saying, that everyone seeks a strong spirit of discernment. don’t be gullable to everything you hear and read and see. everyday, every moment we are influenced by men, by the minds of our brethren…but be lead only by God Himself!
December 16th, 2006 at 1:53 pm
Erwin-thank you. I am glad I am not the only “Wiliam Wallace” crying “FREEDOM!!!” from the mundane, religious, evangelical organized religion that I have endured the past 37 years of my life. I now know what I need to wear in this Barbaric Jesus Believing life that I have chosen to walk. I am on the lookout for some Camel road kill to make myself an outfit-maybe some old fish nets to weave into a belt. I think I will call this new fashion outer wear company, “DONTCIVILIZEME & Fish”. Forward……
January 3rd, 2007 at 9:09 am
I am from Lebanon. I am still reading the book and am surprised at the huge change that i have already experienced. It is one of the few books that have changed my life totally. I have already started to race back to the barbarian way that i have drifted away from few years ago for the sake of civilized Christianity (that’s when i joined a “domesticated” church for the first time). i am thankful for letting me know that i was not messing up when i was going crazy for Jesus (and when everyone else told me that i should reason more). I was especially challenged by the thought that we are not supposed to become a spiritual zoo where people can watch God behind bars. THANK U.
January 3rd, 2007 at 2:57 pm
Erwin — I just LOVE your “out-of-the-box” writing! So refreshing! Thank you so much! (I’ve only read “Barbarian Way”, so far, but just got a copy of “Chasing Daylight”, and am seriously looking forward to reading it!) :o)
January 10th, 2007 at 10:12 pm
Does anyone know of a good supplimentary bible study guide to accompany this book? My small group is hoping to start this study soon and we’d love to have some discussion questions. Thanks for any help you can provide!
January 16th, 2007 at 1:41 pm
I do not believe there is a supplementary bible study guide at the moment for the Barbarian Way. At least, there is not one available through the Awaken Resources page (http://awaken.org/resources).
January 23rd, 2007 at 9:54 pm
[…] I was reading The Barbarian Way and was amused by the names for various groups of animals. […]
January 29th, 2007 at 12:09 am
It was inspiring. I have needed something like this for all of my life. And I can finally see what kept people in my family to keep going, because you can only fill the hole in your heart with God. I was slowly waning with my relationship with God, but after just reading this, I can find the strength to go on. Erwin, you have the MOST amazing gift I have ever seen in a book. I don’t know how many times I read this book, but it is amazing and clear each time I do. I am handing away my copy to a friend, and hope to buy a copy for another friend. Sir, because of your book and my youth pastor’s teachings, I have been able to get a dream: I want to convert my whole school to Christ, and I want them to have the life a Barbarian. Thank You.
February 6th, 2007 at 9:12 pm
It has been driving me crazy trying to label what I feel. Chained barbarian covers it I think. Thanks for the great presentation of the way true believers should be. I always knew it, but you nailed the description on the head. Thanks again and God bless you brother!
February 8th, 2007 at 9:16 am
WHAT A BOOK!!! The raw and untamed faith is the faith i want. the story that hit me from this book was the one between you and your daughter. I could relate to this story so much. My heart is pulled to the nations so strongly, i have had very simular conversations with some friends. when i pray about elimnating poverty they just laugh at me and tell me to calm down. But with gods strength i am going to do all i can to help however big or small. Thank you for expressing the need for the untamed faith.
I am truely grateful to you for that.
February 17th, 2007 at 3:49 pm
I’m going to school wearing nothing but war paint next tuesday! Wish me luck!
March 5th, 2007 at 4:05 am
Erwin McManus, I dont know if you read all these messages as there is just so many but I have been reading through them and it brings me to tears! Thank you for setting so many hearts on fire…for setting my heart on fire and reminding me that my King has called me to so much more than what I seem to allow for myself. The words of the Barbarian Way are spot on and I believe straight from God’s heart. Imagine if every believer could be transformed by this book…we would have the most incredible, unstoppable army! Erwin, Please continue to follow His leading…You have blessed many in your obedience. Once again, thank you
March 6th, 2007 at 11:35 am
Pastor Erwin, Your book has answered the reason for my frustrations. Since I first came to Christ I was crazy for Him. I have found myself lacking the zeal that I once had. I realized that my frustration was that I was trying to be civilized. There was something inside of me that wanted to be released, but I have been holding it back because i am supposed to be practical, structural, programmable, etc,. I have realized that I am a barbarian at heart. Taming is not for me. I am beginning to feel that freedom that I first had when I came to Christ. Totally raw and untamed. If God said it. I believed it. Praise God!
March 12th, 2007 at 2:03 pm
IS there a community like Mosaic that you may be aware of in the Seattle Tacoma Washington area?? Thx.
March 16th, 2007 at 11:07 am
One of Christianity’s greatest books. If Christians start applying it and getting out of their pews, we will take back America.
April 3rd, 2007 at 6:23 pm
What an awesome book. I thought there were only a few barbarians like me out there. A barbarian friend gave me the book, and once I started reading it, I couldn’t put it down. I finished it in one day and went looking for others. We can start, or should I say finish a revolution if we rise up and join together. We should all take the giant jump from the roof so we can help Christ change the world. There are only a handful of barbarians in my own church who have the same flame burning in them, one barbarian can easily spot another and they always are drawn towards each other. I can only imagine what an entire tribe could do. Keep up the great work. My own flame has grown larger by the fanning of this book.
April 20th, 2007 at 1:35 am
It can happen in Asia, USA and in Romania too….
I was truly challenged and changed by this book.and many friends of mine decided to become “barbarian” after reading it.
God changed Erwin’s mind and heart and He decided to touch us through him….what an honor.
Thank you and….btw, why don’t you come to Romania too? We have many people who are way too civilized and need a fresh, barbarian spirit!
Laura-Romania
April 27th, 2007 at 12:36 pm
Truly one of the most important books I have read. I am in the process of creating a church plant, The Barbarian Way will be required reading for my entire team. Our training sessions will be called “The Barbarian Boot Camp”
Thanks,
Jon S.
July 5th, 2007 at 7:16 pm
Wow! What a refreshing cool drink of spiritual water. I enjoyed the book and will give it to my Barbarian friends.
July 7th, 2007 at 2:43 am
Of the few, and I do mean a few, religious books that I have read, I must say that I was completely inspired to be a Barbarian. I think that this book should be given to every newly confirmed Christian.
July 25th, 2007 at 12:56 pm
This book was very helpful to me. For a long time I’ve felt like a majority of the people in my church really seem to have falling into that stagnant state, were they have become comfortable with dressed up in the Sunday best and settle in for their 2 hours a week. I can’t do that, and I feel I was in danger of falling into the same routine. I haven’t been a follower of Christ for very long, and that was what I knew. That was what I was told it was to be a Christian. I thank you for this book, as it really made me re-evaluate my walk with Jesus. I could go on and on, but I think you get the idea. I’ve been enjoying your podcasts on Mosaic and I look forward to reading some more of your books.
Thanks, again. In Christ - Matt
July 30th, 2007 at 12:36 pm
[…] started reading The Barbarian Way by Erwin McManus last night. I’m also reading It Came From Within by Andy Stanley. Amazing […]
August 1st, 2007 at 3:25 am
Inspiring, passionate, life changing!
leah
August 7th, 2007 at 2:01 pm
I saw Erwin on TV a couple of weeks ago talking about Soul Cravings and ordered it. A visiting pastor at Newspring, the church I attend, mentioned Barbarian Way in his sermon and I got it very soon. I have read it once and will have to read it several more times. It has opened my eyes to a better way to serve Christ.
August 15th, 2007 at 1:45 pm
[…] Sites Chase The Lion Evan Almighty The Barbarian Way Interact Topics: Deep Thoughts […]
August 21st, 2007 at 5:26 pm
Looking forward to get a copy!
ali
http://toomuchchristianity.org
September 6th, 2007 at 4:42 pm
As I work to begin a new ministry in my area reaching out to those with no interest to church, one of the local youth ministers committed to the effort recommended “The Barbarian Way”. I was intrigued and picked it up. God works in wonderful ways, as McManus’s words speak of the very things my heart couldn’t put into words. At the same time, I listened to serveral messages from Ravi Zacharius. McManus’s written message and Ravi’s spoken message were put before me by the Spirit, emboldening me as I prepare this new ministry.
October 27th, 2007 at 2:06 pm
I love all of your writing, Erwin. I read this book over a year ago and am in the process of reviewing it. I just blogged about it as well: http://willis.blogs.com/williswired/2007/10/the-barbarian-w.html
Thanks for your leadership in the body of Christ!
November 21st, 2007 at 9:57 am
[…] a story in USA Today about Jon Kitna, the quarterback of the Detroit Lions, Erwin’s book Barbarian Way is mentioned! If you don’t know Erwin, he is our lead pastor at Mosaic and a great friend. […]
January 16th, 2008 at 8:08 am
Erwin, thanks for this awesome book! I have been carrying it with me everywhere I go and have been telling all my friends to read it. Thanks for reminding the body of Christ what the Tribe of Christ followers is all about. Jesus didn’t come to save us from a physical death, he came to save us from a meaningless life. Very inspiring and true.
April 5th, 2008 at 5:52 pm
Erwin, I want to thank you for writting this book. It absolutely changed my life. I was on the run from the law and the Lord the first time I read it. I had realized the call on my life but did not respond. Shortly after I read your book the spirit lead me to turn myself in and I went to prison fo almost a year. In prison I became a disciple of Christ now I am part of this Barbarian way. I REFUSE TO BECOME CIVILIZED I WILL GO OUT INTO ALL THE WORLD AND SPREAD THE GOOD NEWS THAT HE LIVES!
April 13th, 2008 at 9:16 pm
I praise our Lord for gifting you to write this book. I have marked many pages for quick refrence. I am reading it a second time and may read it a third time. I now begin to understand by what you discuss, as my desire to grow into more of a “Barbarian” leading me to have a more intimate relationship with my Creator. To be discerning to be an “experiencer” as well as Believer and ask for wisdom not get too institutionalized and sanitized from being in the trenches where Christ wants us planting the seed for His increase. You write, illustrate and describe the very type of spirituallity that makes me feel very full and alive in glorifying an undilluted almight God and my access to Him in Jesus the ultimate “Barbarain”. John the Baptist was awesome in God’s plan to minister before hand to sinners and set the stage for Jesus. I can keep going on…I also relate strongly to your dedication to Mariah and your experiences with her in adventure and allowing her faith to grow. Many times i have squashed dreams in my 12 and 15 year old daughters and will try to keep my mouth closed and ears open to listen to their dreams as their faith is unleashed…I loved this book as you hear in my comments and will get a few copies and provide to some of my Brothers in Christ…I thought about perhaps starting a bible study on this book. Erwin; continue to keep it real and true as you discern the Holy Spirit’s insights for many of us to read from your writing gift. To our Lord’s Glory! Thank you for your ministry as you glorify our God so that we may gain many valuable insights…
April 22nd, 2008 at 3:28 pm
This book has completely changed my life. I now know the purpose for my birth. I know now why I was born in N.Y.C. and why I am the way I am. Revelation is always powerful. I preach this book everywhere I go. I am the poster child for this book. I’ve been in ministry for almost twenty years and this is the awaken I and the body needs to hear and experience. I do a question about two pictures if you would please contact me I would greatly appreciate it. Thanks for keeping it real.
April 28th, 2008 at 11:04 am
This book brings up some good points, but I don’t think that tradition is all bad and I don’t believe that we should be uncivilized just to be counter-cultural. John the Baptist was uncivilized but Jesus was not he had money he had friends he was most definitely not rich but he wasn’t poor either. He did not go out of his way to be uncivilized it was the Pharisees who became uncivilized in their attempts to stop Jesus. Their are some people who are called to be radicals, but just because some are called that does not mean every christian is. I think that what is the most important thing about serving Christ is preaching the gospel no matter what the cost even if it is small, we should not be afraid of persecution, but we don’t have to run toward it.
May 3rd, 2008 at 10:01 pm
I havent readt he book but saw you on the tv on a day were i really needed a lift.I followed your name onto the website and realised that i am meant to follow your guidance.I do not follow a particular path and work with all people from all walks of life.Thank you for being someone who i want to believe in after all these years of just feeling aimless and lost .I now feel like i can relate to someone who is on the level i feel i have reached and who will take me with support and mentoring to the next experience.You look kind and real and someone i feel i can believe in .You are the first person i have really took the time to follow up on.I look forward to reading your book as soon as i can find it.