The Purple Book: Biblical Foundations for Building Strong Disciples

I remember first going through an early edition of this book about ten years ago as a young college student. Because I had been "in church" for most of my life I thought I would already know most of what was in it, but at the urging of a mentor I went through this resource with him and it really helped to orient me more toward a Biblical understanding of some issues and helped to solidify a "Biblical foundation". Though called a book, in reality it is actually more of a workbook filled with questions and scripture references that force the reader to go and look up the answers for themselves in the Bible and then write them down. The aim is to get the reader into the text of the Bible for themselves, but guided and directed to passages that refer to some of the major themes of the scriptures. Here is a breakdown of the chapters: 1. Sin & Salvation 2. Lordship & Obedience 3. Repentance & Baptism 4. The Holy Spirit & Spiritual Gifts 5. Spiritual Hunger & God's Word 6. Discipleship & Leadership 7. Spiritual Family & Church Life 8. Prayer & Worship 9. Faith & Hope 10. Biblical Prosperity & Generosity 11. Evangelism & World Missions 12. Resurrection & Judgement The authors, Rice Broocks and Steve Murrell are both extremely fruitful and experienced pastors and the extent of their practical ministry experience shows from the usefulness of this resource. My church uses this as content for our class preparing people for church membership. Both new Christian and those who have been in the church for years will likely get some benefit from this helpful resource!

We use this book with new Christians to help them become established in their faith. It is very simple yet is deep. I would recommend this book to anyone who is new in the faith and needs a good, solid, Biblical foundation.