I found the book about three weeks ago on cpcoaches.com and read it in 2 days. I am changed. I have never read a book like this in my life. It is not about the church stuff but how you feel Jesus is speaking right to you. Everyone around me has noticed a great change in the way I look at life and ministry.  I am living in the Mediterranean working with YWAM. I immediately started sharing with coworkers about the book and have been getting the same response from them as I had. They are sharing the book also. I heard some pastors from the southern side of the Island are reading it now. Don't be surprised if you start hearing from people around here. How did you do it?

Scotty in the Mediteranean (January 30, 2006)

I have been anxious for this type of life in Christ for a long time now and have grown frustrated that it is not happening for me. This dialogue has helped me to patiently wait for the Savior to “organize” his Body in His time. This message is certainly freeing for those of us who have lived lives trying to meet the standards of the leadership or being reprimanded for not “giving yourself to the vision of the church”. Just knowing there are people out there who are truly living under grace w/ one another gives me hope.

Lee Anne (January 28, 2006)

Thank you for this story. God led me to it seemingly out of the blue...but I know nothing's out of the blue, really. This is exactly what I need to hear, at exactly the time I need to hear it. Through this story, God is speaking into mine—and I'm captivated by each and every brushstroke. What a powerful, personal story this is.

Matthew, 19, college student in Missouri (January 18, 2006)

I'm one of those people who doesn't want to go to church anymore. I've felt this way for a while...I've been looking for a house church here in my city (there don't seem to be many). That's how I stumbled upon your site. I feel as though we are in a desert and want to find like-minded people. It's hard to be strong when you feel alone. I've read up to chapter three of your story. I've found it refreshing. I don't know whether or not I believe you met with The John the Apostle, but I certainly believe this man was/ is a modern day prophet...But, like I said, I'm only to chapter three and just found your website today. Still, I am grateful for what I read and don't feel so alone or "condemned." I pray I can continue to press into these things. I love Jesus and have experienced his life, but seldom in the institutional "church." I know God still has a lot to teach me about himself, about courage, and also has some healing to do in me. Anyway, I thought I'd share... I'm thankful I ran into this today because I've been pretty weary. I will continue to read and pray for you...

Manuela in Missouri (January 2, 2006)

I've just come across your work in progress. What a great piece of writting, such a breath of the fresh air of the Holy Spirit!  Having sampled some of your chapters, I'm powerfully reminded of Paul's passionate words,

Great stuff my brother(s)

David (January 2, 2006)

On December 24th I have downloaded the book "So you don't want to go to church anymore". First I printed some pages, then I printed some more, then I printed still more and finally I printed the rest of about 70 to 80 pages. Yesterday I finished reading this book. Well, it doesn't happen so often that I print books from the internet and only the good books I read in so short a time. Well, Wayne, I really want to thank you and Dave for this wonderful book. Many many of the experiences of this book are so well known to me. And many of the issues hinted to are known as well. Many of the thoughts in it are shared by me for many many years. And believe me or not, but my wife and me we could add one or two very interesting chapters to it.

I left the system of organized christianity 18 years ago already. Very often during this time I felt very alone. ...(Then) I discoverd Jake Colsen. And little by little I began to realize there are many many more on this planet whom God has led through the same kind of experience. Often during reading your book I thought, oh, if only this book was in German so I could give it to so and so and they would understand much better what exactly I am thinking. I cannot express myself as well as you do in this book. Well, it took you four years, if I understood the right way. Well, I am pondering since if I will start to translate the book into German, my mothertongue. So I could distribute it to others. But, I first thought to contact you and ask what you think about it.

Patrick from Germany (January 1, 2006)

I've spent the last week reading your book. I don't not have the words to express how much I have been touched by this story. I have been on a journey this past year with "the church". It has been painful and rewarding at the same time. I'm glad to know that I'm not going crazy or being disloyal to feel as I do. I want a deeper relationship with Jesus. Reading your book has helped free me by reminding me that my loyalty is to Jesus and my Father. Thank you.
 
Beth in Tennessee

I stumbled upon Jake's website tonight and began reading the book.  I am only up to chapter 3, but already I know that finding this site was a God thing.  I have been disillusioned by "seeing" and "hearing" too much in my church and in others.  I was better off in the pew - "leadership" really gave me more information that I wanted or needed.  Anyway, I am seeking God about the path he wants me to travel, and I came upon the book. I will continue reading, learning, being encouraged - as I already have been.

Suzanne in New York (December 28, 2005)

PERFECT ending. It's so cool that this is true life stories pieced together. Again, I would love to hear what of this has been your journey, what has been the other author's journey, and what if anything was added. Sometime, perhaps. But it was just a cool picture of the go and make disciples thing. No classes. No programs. No schedules. But Jake ends up right where he started so long ago. He is now John for someone else. Through life shared, we pass along the wisdom we have gained from Father, so that those he puts around us (for seasons) can then do the same for the people he connects them with. It really is a very cool plan he has!

Greg in New York (Decemer 25, 2005)

Thank-you so much for the journey you have  taken me on, thru your wonderful book... "SO YOU DON'T WANT TO GO TO CHURCH ANYMORE?" It is a wonderful book, chuck full of information on how we should be walking on this journey with Him our precious Saviour. I left the organized "church" system going on six years ago, your book has helped me in many ways. I have learned much thru it. If only more people could see. i am anxious for your book to be printed, so that I may purchase copies for others along with myself. What a wonderful, down to earth book, filled with life experiences with Him!

Jean (December 25, 2005)

I just was reminded that some friends of ours back east are going through your book. God led them to leave the church where he was associate pastor. It was very to leave even with God's leading because the Senior Pastor and his wife were their best friends. When our friends met with the pastor to share that they were leaving and why, the pastor said he understood and gave them his blessing. After they left, however, the pastor turned on them and told the congregation that they were in sin for leaving. I told them about the book and it has been a real blessing to tham. All of the people who come to their home for a weekly gathering started reading and discussing the book. All are getting answers to questions they had been pondering. Thank you again for being obedient to the call God gave you to write this book.

Michael in Arizona (December 22, 2005)

Thank you for showing Who MY Father is! People can build all the boxes in the world and call them "churches", but the truth is that Christ is building His Church - and it reaches far beyond what people think -- or can build themselves! He places us where He wants us if we will just open ourselves to Him! Some of the most wonder-filled worship services I've attended have been in grocery stores and restaurants and they weren't even on Sunday mornings! The joy is tremendous! He cares about us individually! So we can walk with Him!

Michele (December 16, 2005)

I am so excited, and I have not even read your book yet. Let me just tell you abit about where I am coming from, I have been a christian 13 years and working in a church setting in leadership for
approximately 5 years. I have in the past year had a career change and work in a secular setting. This has been the hardest most deperate year for me spiritually. I have struggled with the feeling of "not wanting to go to church" and not understanding why. The best way I could describe it is to say "I just can not do that anymore!" Just the other day I cried out to God saying "all I want is YOU!" Today I just typed in the words I felt" Why don't I want to go to church anymore?' on a wed search and up popped your website....I could not believe what I was seeing, I have downloaded the book and with tears I am hoping that this year of much pain will not be in vain, but that I will walk through this know GOD the Father and His will for church life better. Thanks for putting this out, It is the cry of many hearts I am sure.

Anna in Canda (Decemer 5, 2005)

I can assure you, John's do exist outside this story, I am privileged to have one as a friend and thank Jesus for him each day.

Joseph (November 30, 2005)

Little did I know that this book so far would be the catalyst to finally lay it all down.  I am currently doing a Leadership Institute and the outcome has been very discouraging to me.  There was something inside of me that seemed to rebel against it.  I love my church family but I really wonder if this is the way God wants to do it.   I am so curious to see what God is going to do with me...but it is like an excited bride waiting for her husband!!!!   At first I thought this was going to be an anti church book and I found out that it is SO PRO CHURCH!!   I have to really laugh hard because I can see God in so much of my movement in HIS journey with me.  HOW COULD I NOT SEE IT BEFORE!! God bless you...and will you PLEASE hurry it up with chapter 12 and 13...

                                   Patricia in Massachusetts (November 29, 2005)

Thanks for the Jake Colsen book. What a great read! As you probably hear many times, this book really speaks to some issues that I have been struggling with over the past few years. I have worked as a denominational church planting strategist, so I know the weaknesses of the IC from a vantage point that few people have (or would want to) experience. Now, I am an American working as an independent missionary in Wales (UK) trying to get alongside people who need Jesus, but don’t know it. It’s a process and sometimes takes a long time to gain people’s trust and a platform to share the gospel with them.

Bill ( November 28, 2005)

I recommended this on-line book to a friend, as one of the best writings I have seen on practical Christian thinking.  She wrote back to me that she could not stop reading it once she began, and afterwards she felt that she had been born again--AGAIN!  Very high commendations from two serious believers of 30+ years each. Thank you--we love your heart!

Paul (November 26, 2005)

If only you knew how you've honed in on our experience this year, a loss of trust, primarily. Policy and institution are more highly valued than relationship & body life, and this ragged bit of the body is hurting as a result.

My husband and I have been married almost 40 years (we don't look that old!!!) so up until now I didn't know first hand the pain of what a divorce feels like... but right now I'm beginning the "separation" stage with my church (of 39 years) and feel this numbing sense of loss.

Jan (November 25, 2005)

Don’t we all wish we could have a John from God in our lives? Such a treat to read a book that conveys much of what the Spirit is saying to the church right now. Anyone who has an ear will hear what the Spirit is saying… Anyone who does not have an ear isn’t listening!

Sara (November 20, 2005)

I am the Treasurer of my church and have been convinced that they have gotten completely away from what church is about "restoring our relationship with the Father and the need for personalministry into one another to help achieve that" This frustration has recently spilled over into a mess just like in Jake's book with bad feeling and me worrying about whther I should just leave and all those people I think I will be deserting or letting down by doing so I take a number of ladies every Sunday to church and feel they depend on me. (Sound familiar) I am not getting much from church on Sunday morning but loving my home group and all that it does in a small very personal and loving way that helps us all progress in worship, prayer and spiritual gifting it seems you can't have one (home group) without the other (church) or so the leadership tells me. Your book comes as a breath of fresh air and after only six chapters feel I am getting back into relationship with the Father. I am at more peace than for a long while and look forward to where this journey will take me.

David in England (November 13, 2005)

Regarding chapter 11 Won to Trust: Truly a remarkable chapter – extremely moving!! It’s a true paradigm shift conveyed through simple conversation-style—narrative genius. Honestly, every time I read a new chapter of yours it moves me in such a way as to seek out (i.e. cry out) a life lived in reality with Jesus as the true source. I can honestly say that I struggle with this daily but I am reminded through your book that life in Him is a true journey. My heart is lifted up when I read through your story of freedom from shame, condemnation, and guilt leads others to embrace the Father more. I can genuinely say that I have struggled with condemnation, guilt, and shame all my life—as others have as well—now I know that I am not alone. You have helped me realize that such a life of freedom is possible. Thank You!!

Kristopher in Texas (November 9, 2005)

And thank you, a lot is finally starting to add up....after sharing some of it with you over a year ago.This chapter has just been confirming, that I am more on track, than in my 'God chasing years'...though I still  wish I understood more 'intellectualy'. I haven't really found 'like minded people' yet, but I am more true to my inner leadings, than I was when I was radical for Jesus  (or rather Obnoxious really), and I am sure the real connections will come soon. I am so thankful for Jake's journey being shared. I think I would have behaved rebelliously, because of being labelled rebellious by my former circle.  Instead, I really believe this is all leading me somewhere closer to the Father.... Thank you for saying it's O.K. not to settle and to want more.....I had hoped it was true! A fellow journey's ( wo)man, (albeit closer to the starting than the finish line!

Jennie (October 17, 2005)

I read the new chapter last weekend - you keep hitting the mark. The funny thing is that Jakes' barbeque is the sort of fellowship my wife and I started out in before we got into a church for 13 years that ended up going cultish. When we left that organisation people cut us off because we had "left the fellowship" - many people get this treatment and end up in a lot of confusion and condemnation. That's why I think it's important to get the message to people that the fellowship we are in (and have with each other) is the "fellowship of the Son". 1Cor 1:9. If someone tells us "we have left the fellowship" I think we are quite justified to ask, even if only to ourselves, what fellowship that person is in. I think that when people have a genuine Christian salvation then as a new believer we instinctively know what the gospel is, what the church is, and what open-hearted fellowship is. The trouble is that we don't yet know what those things aren't, ie we don't know what the gospel isn't etc. Therefore we get led astray by those who seem mature and wise and we end up under a yoke of bondage serving idols of success. Unfortunately it seems that mostly we only come to find deliverance through the trials of fire, suffering and betrayal. I think Paul and James had a few things to say about  that so I guess it's the Lord's way of bringing his sons to glory Heb 2:10; Heb 12:3-11; Rom 5:3-5.

David in Australia (October 13, 2005)

Just finished reading Chapter 11.  It's awesome and enlightening!!  I would like to say that this manuscript is blessing my walk with God!!  I have learned so very much; He is so awesome to behold!!  God has been moving quickly in my life!!  I want to thank you very much for writing!!! And that I am eagerly looking forward to seeing Chapter 12!!!

Mel from Illinois (October 12, 2005)

You are a gifted writer.  Thanks for sharing this story.  It's been great to read along and see things God has taught me over recent years, and read things I have not yet understood.  "The church thrives where people are focused on Jesus, not where they are focused on church." What a great line!  I think this is cool because sometimes I despise anything done through the form of an structured "church" with the show and programs... but I have forgotten that good stuff has happened in such settings, as a group of people really were focused on Jesus more than on our church.  Problem is, it seems that setting almost always ends up nutruting the church more than healthy relationships with Father.  From my experience at least.

Greg in New York (October 11, 2005)

I do so very much treasure your eye opening and Spirit led journey.  I have reached the point in my life where the organized, institutional, demoninational church system has left me doubting so much.  CHRIST'S life and way is so simple and HIS called out Church so very different from what is called church today. Religion is one of the worse things to happen to the cause of out LORD and has caused more pain than anything I can think of in the history of mankind.

A couple of quotes I recently found by C. F. and J. C. Blumhardt really points out the condition found in most man-centered churches today and say much more than I could ever say.

• "Don't be tempted to believe some man of GOD can help you; that a pastor or priest, an institution or an organization can save your soul.  Each of us must tackle the riddle of salvation for himself; each must battle his own nature, each one must abandon himself if he is to grasp spiritual things."
• "Therefore take courage; do not lose heart, and rejoice that you have felt the Spirit of GOD at work.  As long as we keep yearning, begging, seeking and knocking, the Spirit will go on teaching and making everthing clearer."

Rick in Alabama (October 9, 2005)

This has come at just the right time for me.  I have been in religion since i was in diapers.  I have been growing increasingly distant from my brother and sisters at the Sunday religion installment.   I was also asked by the Pastor to read a book on leadership, which by the way would be great for someone trying to excell in manipulation and agenda accomplishment through gentle coersive practices.  I just didnt feel right about it being something for what I now know as body life.  I have shared this book with my parents and others.  I hope I havent tried to do His work for him.  Anyway thanks a bunch.  

Andy in Texas (October 8, 2005)

I've been out of town so I am just now reading this installment.  As always, I am blessed in knowing there is someone willing to explore and present what real 'church' is/might be.  

Saleta (October 8, 2005)

Thank you so much for writing this book.  While my family and I do attend church on a regular basis, we have found ourselves wanting more—wanting to live a life of friendship with Jesus, versus just “serving” him on Sunday mornings in a building, wanting to know Him on a level that can only be attained through an actual relationship with Him, knowing that when we pass from this side of heaven to the next that we will be greeted warmly and with exuberance and know that we are home.  I appreciate that this book is not “church bashing”, but that it is Christ exalting.  Thank you for giving words to feelings that I have had for so long, yet have not been able to express. Your book has truly been a blessing to me & my family.  

Sarah in Arizona (October 7, 2005)

Well, the book journey is nearly over!  I can’t tell you how much God has shown Himself to me since I first encountered your book.  It’s not always easy and sometimes I get so discouraged, but God always brings the right person, sunrise, autumn leaf, spring flower, phone call, e-mail, song, phrase or whatever for the occasion and shows me that He is ALWAYS with me.  He has taken so much bitterness and pain over the past three years or so and all I can do is say, "Thank you Father".

So thank you for your part in His body, for following His leading through the hard times as well as the good.  Thank you particularly for your part in showing me that His body is not one congregation, denomination or group of people, but that those He calls His own can be anyone, anywhere.

God has taken so much bitterness and pain and taught me SO much about Himself and His people through this book.  It got me hooked right from the start but because I was only able to read it bit by bit, I found that God drew me closer to Him and brought healing using this book in conjunction with the rest of my life.  "Thank you Father!" 

Michelle in Australia (October 7, 2005)

My wife and I were excited to read the story, because the Lord has been moving us in this direction for some time now.  We have also been inspired by the writings of George MacDonald (mid to late 19th century) and see great similarities in John's responses.  Truly the Spirit is working.  Looking forward to hearing more from you.

SJ in Tennessee (October 2, 2005)

This is not your typical Christian Living book.  I have never read anything like it before, but I certainly hope to again. Every chapter of this book is a new liberation for Jake and others as John is used by God to ask key questions and repeatedly point people to Jesus for answers. It is refreshingly filled with life! (When John said),  "The church thrives where people are focused on Jesus, not where they are focused on church."I encourage you to read the book for yourself.  Let me know what you think.  I know that I am moving ever closer to the Jake in chapter 11.  What chapter do you find Jake most like where you are at?  Do you find the whole story to be so far out there it is unbeleivable?  If you do I'd love to chat about it.  I find it
That one is all to close to home for me.  I certainly had my focus in the wrong place for along time.

Cory (October 2, 2005)

I just finished reading the first two chapters of your book. I went to bed last night weary over our journey of lifelessness in our Christian walk.  I believe that this encounter and message is your ministry to lift the dreary church-goers out of our weary walk.  These writings are more than a book, they are a living two-edge sword, God revealing himself is the midst of hungry souls that have attended church, only to find ourselves very needy and empty.  Yes, we love the Lord, but something is wrong in our lives.  I believe that you are putting down in words what we are all dying of - emptiness. Congratulations for having the courage to follow the call on your life.  

Joyce (October 6, 2005)

Just a note to says thanks for you revealing your heart and the heart of many of us. As one reads Jake's journey they often get a look at their own. I know I have. My Father has been so good to me that at times I bust out in tears when thinking about it. There is no shame or guilt because I have often failed. Getting back to Jesus is so great there isn't enough words to describe it. I still deal with myself at times and find it quite strange that I am able to share His Love and Grace with others but at times have a diffcult time accepting it for myself. Much better now than what it was a year ago. He gave me a new life after I had wrecked (totaled) the first one He gave me. I often find it strange that I can thank Him for allowing me to have lived through those years. But I guess I wouldn't know what I know if I hadn't gone through what I did. It's my journey and I can cry if I want to but I find being thankful much better. I am discovering that I don't have to pay a  price for my freedom. He already has.

Jim in Illinois (October 3, 2005)

I (just finished) Chapter 11 (the best so far). How grateful I am for the confirmation your book has brought in my life. I have felt I stand alone (at least where I've been sent) in this understanding of church.  I do have one family who has an internet ministry who has been for some time now, my "church."  We have heard prophecies that this isolation is to change, and after this morning, I believe it!

Sue (September 30, 2005)

I have just spent the past few hours reading your 'on-line' book, having had it forwarded me by a friend. I am forwarding the web to some of my friends at my church & other churches in the area.

John in the UK (September 29, 2005)

I am spellbound!  I've quit going to church, over 10 years ago, with no plans to ever go back.  But, I still pray and have a relationship with God.  It's been my "pet Peeve" now for a while that most preachers and pastors have it all backward,  They expect the people of God SERVE THEM, instead of serving the people as God said it was to be.  In my words, they have set themselves up as little Demi Gods and the people find themselves struggling to please the preacher.  To me, that's wrong, wrong, wrong, because the preacher is taking God's place in people's lives.  And I'm well aware that lots of people promote and foster that situation by heaping praise and "respect" upon the minister.  And that too is wrong when taken too far.   It is so gratifying to know that someone else out there thinks like I do, and shares some of the same feelings.  I have been labeled as a heretic, a reprobate, and other ugly names.  But, I know where I stand with my God, so I do not let it bother me anymore.

Judy (September 27, 2005)

This book gave me hope that God cannot be contained in a building or by our human dominance to regulate and apply  ' laws' to our relationship with Him. He is here, in our hearts, wherever we go. ' Church' is not our God, God is. Thanks for writing this book.

Phil and Julie in Australia (September 22, 2005)

Things are going well since the last time we communicated. I keep popping back to Jake Colsen and Lifestream regularly to look at new material. In my everyday life I get some good opportunities to meet other other Christians and of course the age-old question of "where do you go" comes up (particularly when I run into someone from the old church). I've been giving a lot of thought and prayer as to how to answer these questions. My concern is to minister lovingly and faithfully - to challenge people's thinking and sow good seed in the hope God will give an increase. One verse that has come to my attention lately is 1Cor 1:9 - God has called us into the fellowship of His son, Jesus Christ. This lifts the concept of fellowship in a specific group or organisation back to the context where it rightly belongs - in Jesus. Another answer that I've been giving some thought to is "the same place the apostles did" which as we know was "house to house, with fellowship, prayers and breaking of bread..."

David in the UK (September 19, 2005)

God is good ... all the time!  We are the ones who screw up all the time!  Thankfully He is so forgiving and patient!  THANK YOU for obediently putting this story into print.  It sums up what we have been seeing but not quite understanding within the churches over the last couple of years.  Living for Christ and walking with Him is a 24/7 opportunity, not a once-a-week commitment.  We have distributed several copies to friends and family, with many coming back saying "WOW!"  We look forward to "the rest of the story".

Mark and Linda in Michigan (August 4, 2005)

I have cried, I have laughed, I have screamed, I have hummed, I have sung, and I have said that's me and cried some more. This  story has changed my life ! If this book is not anoited by GOD someone  has playing a cruel joke on me. This is wondefful and breathtaking all in one. Thank  you for the truth! This is why I love GOD  for people like you.

Lywana (August 3, 2005)

The story  you have written  is the journey I have been on. Different characters and different scenerios, but  the journey  and the discovery has lead me to the same place. Learning to trust God, and not letting the disapproving others stiffle the relationship I have with Father. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and the truth of Father through this inspirational story, I wait for the next chapter.  

Dorothy (July 31, 2005)

Not only have I really appreciated the story, and the places and people and situations that are similar to things I have either experienced or witnessed, I am amazed at the number of responses to the story – the number of people that I have more fellowship with than I have ever experienced before, and I have never met them!  And, of course, I am humbled – and ashamed that I trusted in Jesus and His promises so little in my ostracism from the religious communities I have been part of.  “No eye has seen…..” comes to mind, as I wait with eagerness and even trepidation for the things to come… The next chapter(s), so to speak…

Sue (July 28, 2005)

Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.Thank you.

Linda (July 15, 2005)

I recently read your online book.  To say I enjoyed it and was encouraged would be an understatement.  I am looking forward to the final chapters.  For the past 2-3 years Father God has been realigning my thinking / understanding with church.  It has been an interesting journey, and I know it is far from over.  Some of the issues I am pondering now is how to meet (how do out of the box thinkers meet as the Body of Christ).  I see your South African trip is coming up.  There is a slight possibility that I may get to meet you on this trip, but that is in Fathers hands.  I have said to you before that it is refreshing to read your articles and to know there are other people (as see through the comments on your blog etc) who are also on journeys of discovery.  

Blessings Brett from South Africa (July 13, 2005)

Aaargh! Hear my screams of pain? I got to the end and felt the drop from the pain of having to wait!

Michele  (June 20, 2005)

I just wanted to say thank you! A friend suggested that I read the chapters of your book. At long last I feel that somebody understands how I am feeling. I KNOW that Jesus loves me as I am, but I just cant seem to fit in at church, the Bev shaped hole that I have been given doesn't quite fit and it is much to uncomfortable. It is a long story but having just read the first four chapters of your book I feel sane again. Maybe I am not the alien or the leper that I was beginning to think that I was. Once again thank you.

Bev by email (June 9, 2005)

I am a real estate agent in Kansas City and received your book from a dear friend on Saturday.  I couldn't put it down! I didn't go to work until I finished it today! When I left my home I felt so relieved.   Something grand was lifted from me.  Something I have been carrying around for 50 years. And I am only 53!  Your book confirmed so many things I have discovered and seems to be giving me direction for the day I am in and a definite hope for my future.  I truly feel like a newness of life is resident and wanted to say "Good Job"!! You are a delight to the Lord and a truth bearer to his precious children!  I want everyone I know to read your book!!

Jo-Anne in Kansas City (May 16, 2005)

Loved the book!  My husband is a pastor and it really spoke to us both.

Kim by email (May 16, 2005)

Thank you so much for your honesty and your courage.   Your book is every conversation, thought, emotion, desire, and dream I have had for the past year.  I have related so  much to each chapter.   I believe God really wants to wake up His church.

Carole from the UK  (My 16, 2005)

What?? This is just too much… blurbs from ordinary people??? Keep up the good work.  You guys are great!   Simply revolutionary!

Dawn by email  (May 12, 2005)

Thank you and our LORD for your book.  I would like to obtain several copies for friends but took the time to run off all 10 completed chapters. You express so clearly my concern and hope for CHRIST'S church today. Oh, for the joy of real worship without being just a member of the audience, programs, and organized denominationalism.  Praise GOD for your courage and your book.

Richard from Alabama (May 11, 2005)

I have been feeling like I'm at a crisis point in my faith, and the last few days have been particularly angst filled for me.  I'm just weary of "churchy" stuff.   I went to Google and typed in "I don't want to go to church" and your site was the first one that popped up.  I sat and read all 10 chapters in one sitting (thank you to my wonderful husband who gave me a three hour break from our children as my Mothers' Day gift!), and wow, did it hit the spot!   I feel a sense of relief, refreshment, and just a desire to continue on in the faith, and a desire to renew my relationship with Jesus.   I have been reccommending it to everyone I can think of on-line!  Thank you so much for taking the time to write and express all the wisdom and love and grace God has filled you both with!   I feel like I personally had a visit with "John" today!  

Jill (May 8, 2005)

I just read all 10 chapters of this wonderful book. I want you to know how God has used it to make a difference. It was like the final piece of a puzzle clicking into place... a puzzle that has been frustrating me for about a decade. I knew the difference between living by grace vs. legalism, at least in theory. I've known about it for years. But I never could figure out how to get there. The Holy Spirit has been working this out in me all along, gathering momentum in the past few years. Now, in recent months, I've been experiencing the Father's love in a new way. And other sisters & brothers are playing their part... but this book was the clincher. I finally "got it" in a way I haven't before. So when God showed me He's never ashamed of me, or my children, I was able to believe, deep down. That gave me the faith to take my kids out in public (something I'd come to dread). Sure enough, a few of them melted down, and got terribly loud, but -- Glory to God!!!-- I was not embarassed! Nor angry... It's never happened that way before. I walked out of there free, joyful, and full of tender affection for my dear little ones, despite the scene we'd just had. So THIS is the power I'd always heard about... And I credit the chapter on "playing the game" in particular for helping me to get to this place. Four little kids will be having a different kind of childhood now because of what our Father is doing. Thank you for taking the time to play a part in that. I'm looking forward to your next chapters.

Robin in Texas (May 6, 2005)

I have spent  a lot of time pouring over the pages in your book, and for the first time I have found a vocabulary for things that have been stirring in my heart for a long, long time. For this I can only offer a humble word of thanks.  

Stephen (April 18, 2005)

Cathey (April 17, 2005)

Wendy  (April 17 2005)

Bob  from Oregon  (April 16, 2005)

 Jeff (April 16, 2005)

TAM  (April 16, 2005)

Celestino (April 15, 2005)

Jonathan (April 14, 2005)

Mark (April 13, 2005)

Joanne (April 13, 2005)

We found your website this week....Thank You Thank You!!! (2 couples...left our church...trying to outreach..the unchurched...build our kids....receiving so much dissention and destruction....we said FAGETABOUTIT!... THAT VERY DAY WE FOUND THIS SITE.!  RELATIONSHIPS!!! THATS WHAT ITS ALL ABOUT!!!  I pray thanksgivings for finding this ...the story...the truth..the "oh Yeah!" ..THIS IS WHAT I'VE BEEN TALKIN ABOUT!"  feelings of Jesus showing the way thru this discussion. THANK YOU.  Looking forward to the rest of the story.....

Betsy from Pennsylvania (April 2, 2005

I began reading this book online on Monday of this week, March 28, 2005, and was so compelled that I had to read through to the end or at least your last chapter, which I just did……March 30th. I am absolutely speechless, also so excited at the same time.  I know I need to know Jesus in the "Body Life", and not in an "organization".  I have always had so many questions, wondering if the people who attend the same worship service that I do, if they have these questions, or am I the only "strange one" (Ha! Ha!) Now I know for sure. I just want to know and experience more of the Father's love in my life and for my husband, children and grand kids to also know and experience the reality of the Father's love for us. THANK YOU, THANK YOU.

Laura (March 30, 2005)

Great book! God led me to your website at a time in my life when I needed it the most! It is speaking to me in a very deep and personal way. Wow.

Steve (March 20, 2005)

I am enjoying your book. I realize the book is sort of a novel but has a realistic agenda about my relationship with Jesus. The book is a tool that expands my spiritual growth, in that I am thinking of my own behavior as "John" so cleverly makes me ponder various aspects of "Christianity".

Tony (March 19, 2005)

We have just come out of an abusive church.  Really horrible.  We were there for fifteen years. When I first read the first chapter of your e-book this time last year, it ministered to me like nothing else has since I first became a christian at the age of 13, 28 years ago.  It was like meeting Jesus for the first time all over again, and it made me cry, and it made me want to meet him and walk with him all over again.  It was just so amazing.  It was the complete antithesis of what my husband and I had experienced at our abusive, and I have to say it, cult church.  What we do to each other in the name of Jesus is diaboloical.  However, I have since done alot of surfing the net and found much to my excitement that there seems to be a move now across the world where many are searching for the true identity of both Jesus and themselves as christians. Keep up your good work in the encouragement and edification of the body.

Anita in Australia (March 15, 2005)

Thanks so much for the story so far....  so many things confirmed and many truths learned. I've been blessed in that I never had that experience in the three 'churches' I 'belonged' to, even though in the second, I was  a deacon, then 'elder' (I don't think any of us were really elders at that time, not even our very lovely leader) and finally I was a 'pastor'.

The Father did send me to a 'faith church' to show me the ultimate in control and able to show me the anomalies of teachings with grace and law mixed in, I was only in that 'church' for eighteen months and didn't know what I was learning until He took me out of it and I was able to look back by His grace and see what was been done to His Church in the institutional controlled environment.

In 1988 we came out of institutional churchianity, and that's another story, we love it.

Lysle from England (March 7, 2005)

I have been so greatly moved by this book, that right now, I have no words to convey what Father is weaving in my heart. Please pray for me, as I will for you and the others who travel the pages of this message from God, that we will all the more, reach to Him and let Him reach the further distance to delight Himself in how He ministers Himself to us, His Bride moment by moment, from now until forever. Love you in Him,

Pam (February 19, 2005)

I went to my friends' place today for our Friday morning prayer get-to-gether. I saw a printed web page sitting on their kitchen bench which happened to be chapter 9 of your book. The wife said I might like to read it, someone had given it to them. I read it on the train on the way to work and all I can say is "Wow", and "Praise the Lord" and "thank you Jesus and thank you my brothers" (I'm not normally a gushy emotive type). For too long I had felt like a man with 4 talents - 2 were well used but due of the restrictive nature of the religous system the other 2 were buried in the ground. I said to the Lord and to Laurie my wife that never again will I allow my self to be restricted so that I can not use to the fullest what the Lord has given me for the benefit of others.

I have felt strongly to get back to how we started, with the freedom of fellowshiping in the home where a religous structure does not stop us from ministering God's love to others. This week I asked 2 other families to join with us next sunday for a time of fellowship, praise and prayer. Fortunately both families declined because there I was with another religous meeting in the making. Praise be to  Jesus that he arranged for the chapter of your book to arrive in my hands this morning and it has just spoken so much to me - some things that I already knew, some things that were in my heart but had hadn't yet got up to my head and  some things that are new and enlightening. Now I'm not even bugged by my friends refusal to meet on Sunday. The Lord has shown me just to relax and trust and let him lead the way. So once again thank you for sharing your book and puting your selves on the line to do so. I really look forward to reading the whole book and maybe adding something to the discussion on your web site.

I realise this is a rather long letter - probably too long to publish on your site - but I just wanted to share my testimony with you to put in context the timely way the Lord has delivered your book into my hands and the tremendous blessing it has been after just one day.

David from Australia (February 13, 2005)

I have just completed reading every chapter you have written so far.  What you said has been in my heart and mouth and it touched me very deeply to read it.  I have been in church for many years and have recently left church but I have not left God and He has not left me.   The wisdom with which John spoke is as if God would speak it Himself and draws me closer to God and less to organization and religion.

In the past I have seen my relationship with God as a means to get my prayers answered and as
One who must move if I am confessing His Word correctly.  But my walk has changed so much over the last 6 years leaving a "word faith" church where appearance was everything only to go to another one (with a holiness expression and be hurt even more by accusations.  I have come to the conclusion that my walk with God depends on God not on the external things I do or don't do and I do no need to seek others' approval.  And certainly others don't need my approval, they need my love.  My walk with God is a life - long journey not a destination where I arrive.  I hope to spend my whole life getting to know my Lord more and more and allowing Him to conform me to His image. I have recommended your book to several people - I look forward to the next chapter.

Ronda (February 11, 2005)

I find this quickening exhiliarating. En theos ,enthusiasm, energy , wonderment. Thank you for sharing ,some day I hope to meet,both of you.

Rebekah Yglesias (February 7, 2005)

This has been such an amazing journey, I feel myself getting goose bumps as I grow closer to God and listen to your story.  I am firm believer in God defining my tomorrows and my forever and think you've hit the nail on the head.   Thank you for sharing your amazing story I look forward to your future chapters. 

Wendy from Oregon (February 2, 2005)

Thank you for your story. I have enjoyed it so far and am eagerly awaiting the next chapter.  I left the main church system almost 3 years ago because I did not find what I was looking for. I was bored with the same old routine and man's way of doing things. Everything mapped out and no room for the Lord to act. It grieved my spirit. I wanted something more, which I did not find at church.  I always believed that we should be meeting often and have more interaction with one another - not just a Sunday thing.  One gets tired of all the show and pretence of it all. It must be real. Jesus said that we must die to self and it’s not easy.  Please, please give us the next chapter.....

Chrystal (February 1, 2005)

Thank you so much for sharing what God has placed on your heart. 

Janet (January 29, 2005)

My husband and I really enjoyed your article. I believe that the name of the article could be troubling to some people. We stopped attending the tax-exempt meetings about 15 years ago and now meet with other believers for fellowship and teaching once a week.  We have many friends and family that still go to the building and we are sensitive that they may not want to read that article because they think we want them to stop going to their meetings.  But your article actually was not about that, it was more about relationships with our Father and other believers.  So I am afraid to email them the link believing that  the title will scare off those who could benefit from it in the belief that you are just a divisive believer trying to stir up trouble.  Which I think is far from the truth and your insights are quite helpful.  I was also very happy that you did not portray the "house church" as  the way to do this Christianity thing.  In this experience of so less than perfect believers attempting to fellowship with each other, it is a breath of fresh air to not set ourselves up for another "NOW we got it figured out!" scenario.

Renice from Arizona (January 11, 2005)

I just have begun reading the Jake's story yesterday. But it already catches me. I say that not because I'm more happy or something like that, but on the contrary it makes me 'wrestle' inside. I've been asking God the last two weeks how to get more profoundly in touch with him only to get more frustrated inside. Reading about Jake's frustration makes me think that I'm on a good road. But anyhow, I just wanted to say Hi and say that in a way( I don't know if it is good nor bad) I am attracted to your teachings. I hope to 'get a clue' on God reading enough of your website and looking for God in the Bible and prayer. I hope to write one of these days to say that I now Know God's love more, and love God more.

Daniella (January 7, 2005)

"Happened" to run across your website and read all your book in one short setting.  Can't begin to tell you what your website, book, etc have done for me.  Ex-associate pastor and founder/director of a youth center, burnt out on religion, etc. and deeply in love with my Savior.  Want you to know what a tremendous source of encouragement you have been to me over the last several months.  To say more adequately would take me many pages.  

Roger (December 23, 2004)

This is the best story with resounding truths that I have ever read. Thank you for sharing your experiences. It has truly provided me with a paradigm shift in how I view Jesus personally, outside of religious obligation. It is as if a huge weight has been lifted off my shoulders to know that what I feel is okay and the God is big enough to handle my broken empty circumstances/feelings. Even in the most trying times; Jesus is big enough to offer his grace and peace. I can’t ever thank you enough for sharing this story!

Kristopher from Texas (December 21, 2004)

Just recently a friend sent me your website and suggested I might like to read your book. Great read.  I started reading it Friday night and finished up to chapter 9 on Sunday. Your friend John is full of wisdom and what I liked most about him was his ability to speak truth with love. Very few people can do this.   What wisdom and insight. There has been much confusion in the body and this man John spoke with a clearity that allowed one to see.  My husband and I left the church system over 4 years ago, and ever since then have really grown. At first we did feel lost, misplaced but as time went on we started to study the word together.  This is what God spoke to our hearts: We had lined ourselves up with man and not His word. That we had been taught by the church system to seek to have our circumstance changed (outward) but God is now teaching us to have a heart change.  What strength comes from within.  Our eyes have been opened and our need to be approved by man is now in the past.

What a great journey.  The biggest lesson we are learning is to "Wait Upon the Lord".  We did not run out looking for a "home church" when we left the system ... but let God deal with our hearts and He still is.  The relationship is growing. What touched me the most about your book was John's character.   It has been the cry of my heart to love the body, and speak truth that can bring change in a person's life.  John's words does this exactly ... they point you to Jesus.

Nancy from Canada (December 14, 2004)

I have read 5 chapters and I loveeeeeeeee it and hate it too. But I mostly loveeeee it. God really prepared me for it. God does a lot of work in me when I am reading it. Praise God for your candour and honesty.

Leah from Australia (December 9, 2004)\

I am so enjoying reading this story.  It is exactly what I have needed and so encouraging to know that there are many in the Body of Christ looking for answers to feelings they don't really know how to explain.  Thanks so much.  

June (December 1, 2004)

I just referred your site to a number of people.  For what it’s worth, I had a friend who is a lot like ‘John’ in the story. He is a Sudanese Evangelist who is here in Melbourne doing studies. We first met when he came on my bus with an African lady of Islamic persuasion and he very naturally shared about Christ with her in a very non-threatening but inviting way.  I forget how he came to know I was a Christian but even though his travel habits constantly change and I drive different routes and different times, we continually cross each other’s paths at times I have come to some kind of impasse when following the Holy Spirit’s leading since we closed the church I pastored and of necessity resigned my denominational positions.  We don’t talk so much about church but about Christ, and then I find my following Jesus takes on a new spurt of life. There are a large number of us in Melbourne who believe God is up to something really good, and the best evidence of His presence is often found in the larger community.  So our aim is to support and encourage one another but be found where God is active.

Bruce from Australia (November 28, 2004)

I read Chapter 9 last night and thanked my Jesus for confirming what has been in my heart for so long! I do have a small home church in my home on Thursday nights and we can so relate to your story. Thank-you for writing your story - I enjoy your writing also! It's all about HIM!!!

Olivia (November 28, 2004)

This is an inspired story that must continue.  My heart has been filled by your words, and I long to know the rest.  Praise Him for touching your life and revealing His truth to us!  I pray for "John" to enter into my life. But maybe he already has...  

Melissa from Ohio (November 25, 2004)

I guess the best thing that I've realized while reading this is just how absolutely wonderful and gracious God has been to me since leaving the IC about 5 years ago now. For the longest time I felt guilty for not being a part of the IC but Father has relieved me of those feelings and although I'm still "looking" for others of like mind, I know now without a shadow of a doubt that He is, has always been, and will always be leading me where He wants me. Believe it or not, I've met some pretty neat people that are not considered believers but have such wonderful spirits in helping other human beings that I can't help but wonder how and where He will manifest to them that He is the source of all that is good and right. I hope and pray that I will be granted the honor of seeing that veil lifted from their eyes. God's best to you all and I hope that your journey is as exciting as mine is at times.

Art (November 24, 2004)

This last chapter is just what we have needed to hear. It feels like we have known in our hearts all along that we are not seeing the reality of what it means to be God's children; the truth is we are not been centered on Jesus but the right way to do things; not to anyway excuse us, but we are a product of decades of doing things by the pattern. It is exciting to think of what God can do if we let Him and at the same time humbling to think it has taken this long for us to let go and let Him build His church. Thank you so much for making it so plain.

Jimmie from Virginia (November 20, 2004)

I had been asked by a sister to read the story of Jake. I loved it...so liberating. I can really see now why my heart and mind have been distracted by being part of the institution. I have written down many key thoughts and will continue to mull them over.

Candy from New England (November 8, 2004)

WOW.. the latest chapter.. what is going on? Do you have eyes in our camp? Are we all so much the same we have the same struggles? I am beginning to think so. Then again God knows what we need so this is just one more way God is speaking to us. I really am being stretched out on this journey. God is always so good. For us as a small grope of people meeting together this chapter has really come at just the right time. Next Sunday we will read this chapter and talk about what God is saying to us through it. Thank you,

Charles from Canada (November 8, 2004)

I have just finished reading Chapter 9. It is just awesome the way God is leading you to write. I witness and agree to everything I have read in the 9 chapters and look forward to the rest of the book. However, I will be sorry to have it end. Unless of course you have another in mind. Thanks, Jake for all of the excellent teachings in this book. Please keep me on your list to be notified when you complete more.

Jean (November 8, 2004)

Chapter 9 is intereting... a lot to think about. And since I'm assuming that's what you're goign for, great job! ;-) Thanks for a great read!

Mark (November 8, 2004)

Your website is a brilliant idea and beautifully written.  Its heartening to me because I've run out of Sunday meeting places. I've done my best in Church of England, Pentecostal, House Church,
Salvation Army and two independent churches, giving each over seven years of my life so I'm no spring chicken either! God is wonderful but does He have a day off on Sunday? I'm on my own now, spiritually speaking.  My only hope is that the quality of my life and my straightforward witness to Christ will say
something to the people I meet day to day. Yes! I know I can't make him love me more, but I would like to bring him something.

Alan from the UK (November 2, 2004)

It has been a long, long time since I have read something that strikes such a chord in my life.   "So You Don't Want To Go To Church Anymore" is a healing balm and in a short time I will be able to share more with you on what needed to be healed and how. I just wanted you to know my husband and I (39 years together) read your ministering words this morning and I know the Father sent it to my husband who in turn told me about it.  We each have computers in the same room and while he was on chapter 4, I began reading chapter 1.  Neither one of us could quit reading until we read it all and the Lord orchestrated our days so neither one was disturbed until we finished reading all the chapters.    So much wonderful truth here and so simply stated.  Very powerful!  Thank you for your honesty, your love of our Father and for being instruments of his Divine Being.

Margie from Washington State (October 30, 2004)

Something within me finally just broke and I could no longer continue to do what I had been doing for the last year and a half.  Very active in church ministry, (over my Young Adult Department, in the choir, Praise and Worship Leader for Women's Fellowship, and participant in church program upon church program) I have found myself no longer desiring to be within the House of the Lord.  Out of church for two weeks, I can not tell you the guilt that I have been faced with from feeling as if I had let my church members down.  For the past two weeks, I have also been talking with God and asking him to lead me.  And like the man below, I also did a search engine.  Mine was "frustrated with church" and after reading only two chapters my heart rejoiced and I felt such release.  Thank you so much!  

Camisha (October 7, 204)

What am I learning? God is confirming what I've been thinking about "church" for a long time. When I was born again, it was all so clear, then I started going to "church" and everything got all messed up. I'm not sure where all of this is leading, but it is refreshing.

Suzanne  (September 28, 2004)

Yes, I meant to tell you how much I have enjoyed the story.  It seems so much like my journey - of slowly realizing what institutional religion is all about, then disillusionment and anger.  Then thinking that house church is "the answer."  The only answer is a real relationship with God, based on freedom and love.  Then I will be able to carry that relationship to others.  I think it just takes some time and a lot of prayer to get deprogrammed.  

Jennie (September 24, 2004)

What a blessing it has been to read this wonderful story of your travels with John. I truly believe that coming across your web site was just another gift the Lord wanted me to experience. It is amazing how your story connects the dots to numerous thoughts and insights the Lord has revealed to me in the past year. He has been walking with me through a similar journey and I will never see things the same again. I have shared your site with some of my friends and they too have been tremendously blessed and changed by it. Please notify me when you release another chapter. Go with God, live free...

Tammy (September 16, 2004)

Hello there! Well! I found it difficult to pull myself away from reading your chapters, and I have to admit I cheated to see who was behind these lovely words.  I am looking forward to getting more, until then I shall continue to read Wayne's news thing. The way you talk about the Father is exactly how the person who told me about God and His lovely son talked. It made me hunger for more, and that is hard to find in a church. The church I ended up going to is quite small (250 at most) but still I come across people trying to fit me into a mold, I guess their mold. Anyway the person who first talked this way doesn't go to church and the pastors etc. are quite dismayed by this. I've been told that he is being disobedient to God, and he must have been hurt by his last church and that he just needs to come out to get back on "track".Of course being a new believer I believed them and tried to manipulate him into going either to my church or finding one of his own. No way,,, wasn't happening! But he continued to speak of the Father in this loving manner, and how my relationship was mine and his was his. That I should be concerned with my walk not anybody elses.

Then I came across an article by Wayne Jacobsen and I knew my friend wasn't trying to steer me wrong and he wasn't the only person in the world to think like you. Thanks for setting me straight, I guess I'm too old and cynical to believe the first person and have to have a back up. Silly eh? Looking forward to reading more of Jake and Co.

Mary from Canada (September 7, 2004)

Thanks! I'm more than enjoying the story; it's reinforcing a lot conclusions I've drawn about the religious system. By the way, I love the story format as story is the language of the heart.

Jeff (August 17, 2004)

One day, in total frustration with church as I had come to know it, I did a Google search on the phrase "don't want to go to church". As a result I discovered Jake and his story. I believe it was my Lord's leading. I was later to find Wayne's site on the Internet. I ordered one of his books and
later was privileged to have the opportunity to spend some time with him. While praying the Lord began to show me that I needed only to "follow Him". My introduction to Jake & Wayne made me realize that we don't have to do it the world's way in fact we don't always have to do it the churches way but we should earnestly desire to do it the Lord's way which, though it may often ruffle the feathers of some leaders, always bears a lot more fruit. Wayne's authentic love of the Lord and His people has helped to change my heart. My whole family has been touched by his love, which is the Lord's love through an obedient SERVANT. My family and I now fellowship together, in the Spirit, in our home (the place doesn't matter). Sometimes others join us. Sometimes they don't but that is OK cause He has to build us and He has to connect us. While not all of us are at the same growth level, all are very much loved. The Lord will take care of the growth as only He can.

I spent many years trying to force my family to "submit" to something that they had no heart for. But I have found that hurt hearts are no problem for our Physician, as long as we, His body, simply permit Him to live His love in us and through us. Love is indeed the greatest medicine.

Wayne is the closest to a "John" for me. Maybe someday another chapter will take place and Father will grant me the privilege of spending some more time with him. But even if that doesn't happen he has left a deposit of true friendship in my heart that has changed my life. In the meantime I have
been introduced to other dear friends on this marvelous journey in Christ. The body is being assembled and the joints come together… and dry bones are coming to life again.

Steve from West Virginia (July 23, 2004)

Laura from California (July 11, 2004)

Thank you, from an almost ready to give up 'being' a Christian because nothing seems to make much sense anymore and there is no life in my supposed 'life' in Christ.

Colleen (June 24, 2004)

Excellent!  Can't wait for the rest.  There are always lots of good nuggets in there and this time was a great reminder for us to not worry about the future.  We've been trying to sell our house for over a month and getting nowhere.  We had everything planned to be moved by the middle of June.  "We" were doing the planning.  We're going to try harder to listen and let God take care of it.  There is so much wisdom in this book that I want everyone to read it.  I keep sending the new info to friends but I don't know if they're taking the time to read it or not.  I want the finished book so I can highlight stuff I don't want to forget.  I'm glad to know who you guys are finally.Keep up the good work.

Cathey  (June 22, 2004)

it was great to read Jake's new chapter today, in between files here at work, and it was both very inspiring and very depressing reading :-)  I just read what this John guy says in response to Jake, and the wisdom and understanding of 'true' reality comes from him without any hindrance from the world view and attitudes we live in and are influenced by.  Everything is so simple to him, and he truly lives above this world.  I feel so far from that, and really need more of God's presence in my life, which usually due to laziness, I put off so much.

Jennifer from Ireland, June 23, 2004

It has been a great honor, to be able to read such great writings. Please let me know when you write more. It is interesting how God works. I've got so many examples throughout my life. One example is, that I've grown up within the church but always found it troubling that I couldn't understand the Bible. You can't imagine how many times I've tried to make it through Genesis. It just never made sense to me. I figured that just didn't have the required knowledge to understand such a book. Finally, after 42 years of life, I am finally at a point in life, that the Bible makes sense to me. My daughter presented a NIV of the Bible when I had mentioned that I wanted one. I won't lie, some parts are still difficult to understand. But, with the good Lord's help, I'll understand, when the time is right. I thought being baptized meant that I was saved. I also thought that the Bible was written like all books. A beginning, through the end. I've read  the new testament and, am currently reading the old testament. About 6 months ago, I was saved. God truly does work in mysterious ways. He's really blessed me. One blessing, has been to find your online book. Thank you! God bless you and Dave for all your endurances and teachings! You don't know how much it has helped. I thank God for having found you and Dave.

Jonathan  (June 22, 2004)

Excellent!  Can't wait for the rest. There are always lots of good nuggets in there and this time was a great reminder for us to not worry about the future.  We've been trying to sell our house for over a month and getting nowhere.  We had everything planned to be moved by the middle of June.  "We" were doing the planning.  We're going to try harder to listen and let God take care of it.

There is so much wisdom in this book that I want everyone to read it.  I keep sending the new info to friends but I don't know if they're taking the time to read it or not.  I want the finished book so I can highlight stuff I don't want to forget.  I'm glad to know who you guys are finally. Keep up the good work.

Cathey (June 22, 2004

Thanks for your book and this very stimulating site. Thanks for the journey that you have traveled and that you can now share your experience. I have walked a similar journey and took a fellowship with me, not knowing whether we could turn such a big ship. It did turn during the last 4 years since the Lord started the process in a supernatural way. It happened slowly and we did lose a lot of people, but those who remained are growing at pace. We formed a network with no name to form a support base and get together once a month to share our stories.  We had no idea that it was happening in other places as well and in His grace He showed us glimpses of His worldwide work at times, just as we lost hope.

This is an incredible story, especially for someone like me who no longer fits well within the institutional church. Thank you for the truth it speaks. I can't wait to know when the next piece is up on the website. God's richest blessings!

Stephan from South Africa (June 14, 2004)

This site is INCREDIBLE.  It is so mysteriously real that it scares me.  Please add me to the list, and PLEASE TELL US THE REST OF THE STORY!!!!

Shane from Chicago (March 9, 2004)

Hi, I want to just to say how much what you have written speaks to me.  Thank you for using the gift God gave you to touch people like me.  

Linda (March 7, 2004)

More please! It is a life changing experience reading this that is in some ways is running along side my journey with many similarities. God bless and lead you for Jesus sake.

Jim (March 6, 2004)

I have read what has been written on the web site and for the love of our Lord continue and put it into book format. I can guarantee you I will buy at least one copy if God continues providing funds. There is a restlessness and a breath of change that is challenging hearts around the world. What you are writing rings true of the experience many of us are walking out in our lives. Knowing the truth that others and walking a similar path makes all the difference when courage and faith grow small.

Charles from Nova Scotia  (March 4, 2004)

Hi.  I'm a 20 year old college student that has been desperately in need of an intimate relationship with the Lord.  I just want to thank you for writing this because it has made so much since to me and I really feel that the Lord has directed me to this site.  If I knew who you were, i would give you a big hug.   The eyes of my heart are being opened and i'm enjoying a more intimate relationship with God.  

Kyle  (February 15, 2004)

When I started reading your (His) story I had more questions about you than you'll ever know. However because of the interesting storyline I found it impossible to put down. I no longer have the questions, but I do have a statement "Thank you for sharing Christ with us". He is moving and since we are in Him and He is in us, His body, we too are on the move. You are an unhidden portion of Him that is moving visibly. This story and those who write to you (both) are great reminders that we are One body and He is everywhere without time restrictions. We are leaving the organizations and stepping into His kingdom. I am so grateful to be in a portion of believers that are dropping all denominational barriers and are living in and for Christ alone. Of course it is really just Him in us living, isn't it.

Annette in Texas (February 14, 2004)

Last year my wife and I started reading the first chapters. An this year we read the last chapters. We now live almost three years outside the institutional chruch. In the first year there always were douts "Is this the right way?" But now we enjoy living this way. We have still much to learn. We are very thankful for the story of Jake. The story touches our heart and a longing for the love of the father is growing. The whole story is one great encouragement for us and meets a great response in our hearts.

Guido from Germany (February 9, 2004)

Please notify me when the next chapter appears.  I have a love/hate relationship with the questions you are raising!

Lynne (February 29, 2004)

I Just thought I would let you know how things are going since first coming to your story. Since coming to your story in Oct. or Nov. of last year things have really opened up for me and I am seeing a lot clearer now not only about our Father's love for us but also some things about myself. The stigmatism is leaving. The great thing about seeing things about myself is that I do not fee