Andy Stanley can do a lot of things REALLY well (lead groups of people, preach, write, etc.). One thing he cannot do is navigate a vehicle with a keen sense of direction. He uses his directional disorientation–and several entertaining examples of it–to demonstrate the power of The Principle of the Path, which is defined as: “Direction–not intention–determines destination.” As a principle, it is true for every person in every place in every time. Stanley acknowledges that he is merely verbalizing and illustrating the principle’s power.
I am highly impressed by the message of the book. Though most who read the book will likely agree with Stanley’s Christian perspective and his appeal to the Bible, the principle itself applies to those who don’t share the same perspective. As one who teaches the Bible to young people on a regular basis, one of the greatest compliments I can give the book is the degree at which I’ve been incorporating its material into my lessons. From lessons about purity, friendships, and finances, I’ve been able to effectively apply the truth about the principle.
As a piece of literature, The Principle of the Path may not be as well-written as Communicating for a Change or Visioneering. Though I do recommend both of those titles for church leaders/ministers, I give a higher recommendation to Principle of the Path because of its universal and paradigm-shifting message. Stanley also offers the material in a series of audio sermons (entitled “Destinations”) from North Point Community Church outside Atlanta.
Reviewed as part of Thomas Nelson’s Book Review Blogger program.
Side Note: I was delighted to see Julie Faires listed as the cover designer for the book; we were members of the same social club in college. Great job, Julie!
