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living in the presence of God. Burke explains that success in the Christian life does not come from trying harder but from abiding in the presence of the Spirit.
Burke begins by describing the varying strategies people adhere to, consciously or unconsciously, to find fulfillment. Borrowing theology from Lewis, he proposes that God revealed in Jesus is the source of satisfaction. He calls the reader to embrace the task of living in consistent, faithful union with God and experience the joy and transformation that naturally results. Exploring the image of the fruit-bearing vine of John 15, Burke explains that fruit is not something that we produce but rather,
something which flows from our connection with God. From this foundation, he proposes the strategy
outlined and discussed through the core of the book, the 60-60 experiment. In this experiment, Burke challenges the reader to connect with God every 60 minutes of their waking life over the course of 60 days.
As the reader embarks on this journey, Burke explains how he begins to be more in tune with
God and the leading of the Spirit on a moment by moment basis. At the outset of the journey, Burke
that the 60-60 itself is not goal but strategy. He encourages the reader to “fall forward,” rather than
becoming discouraged when they fail at the discipline, to jump back in as quickly as possible. Through the following chapters, Burke charts how the a life of connectedness results in taking steps of faith, abounding love towards others, and deep, honest relationships in community. As Burke fleshes this community out, he reveals that a community of God dependant people can begin to live out ideals of loving correction, reconciliation, and forgiveness that lives up to the Christian ideal. Burke encourages the reader to adopt spiritual running partners, identify specific areas on which to focus, and apply intentional practices to cultivate one’s spirit. In the final chapters, Burke imagines the impact of a life lived in connection with God. He explores the implications of living as Christ’s body, encouraging the reader to surrender themselves fully to God as expressed in witness, acts of service, and material generosity. Imagining the impact of Spirit-filled church, Burke closes with an impassioned plea to the reader to take up the 60-60 experiment for a lifetime. He explains that a life of connection with God should be the norm for the Christian, and urges the reader to make a concrete, renewable commitment to continue implementing the lessons learned in the experiment.
Soul revolution is a simple book with a powerful message. It has atrocious cover art and at times
drags as Burke chases rabbit trails. But Burke’s ability as a story-teller and vision caster is evident from cover to cover. John Burke clearly captures a profound truth; it’s all about grace. Moreover, he gives the reader a practical strategy which emphasizes God-dependence rather than individual activity.
Every ‘strategy’ can be misused, but Burke’s was very helpful to me. Soul Revolution reinvigorated me to live in constant communion with God and provided a helpful plan for maintaining the connection. The stories of success and transformation were encouraging, and the straightforward, pastoral exhortations were appreciated. This book is simple. But at least for me, it was needed and valued.