Ted Kluck - Dallas and the Spitfire: An Old Car, an Ex-Con, and an Unlikely Friendship

This book is different from anything Ive read on discipleship. Instead of systematically surveying biblical principles and offering practical advice (not that theres anything wrong with that!), this memoir follows Ted and Dallas as they form an unlikely friendship, fix up a car, and fight the fight of faith together. At the risk of embarrassing these nitty-gritty guys, this is ultimately a story about lovelearning to love God when life is hard, and to love each other as brothers. I could hardly put the book down and am very happy to recommend it.

Justin Taylor , blogger, Between Two Worlds, managing editor, The ESV Study Bible

Its not every day that you read a really good Christian book about sex, drugs, and rock and roll. But this is not your ordinary Christian book. Ted is a terrific writer, and Dallas has a tremendous story to share. Every page manages to be realistic and hopeful at the same time. This is a relentlessly honest book with a redemptive edge.

Kevin DeYoung , author, Just Do Something and coauthor, Why Im Not Emergent

Discipleship is first and foremost about relationship. Jesus called the twelve to come and be with Him. As they followed Him, they learned from Him and eventually came to be like Him. In this wonderful book, Ted provides a picture of what modern-day discipleship looks like. Its more than just passing on some informationthat normally takes place in the classroom. It is life on life in the midst of daily life. If you are serious about making disciples who make disciples who make disciples, I recommend this book highly.

Steve Sonderman , associate pastor Mens Ministry Elmbrook Church, founder, No Regrets Mens Ministry

With characteristic wit, humor, and insight, Ted Kluck tells a profoundly moving story of faith and discipleship. It may be a book about an unusual friendship and a pretty cool car, but Dallas and the Spitfire is ultimately a poignant and welcome reminder of the power of the gospel to change hearts and lives.

Tim Ellsworth , author, God in the Whirlwind and coauthor, Pujols: More Than the Game

This firsthand account of the lives of two very ordinary people invokes realistic insight into the struggles and joys that result from a commitment to the spiritual growth of others. It brings to life the stark reality that time commitment, accountability, and sincerely caring for others inevitability brings heartache and joy and can result in spiritual maturity for everyone.

Bryce D. Bartruff , PhD, Senior Director/COO, InFaith

Ted tells a timeless story of friendship, forgiveness, and redemption with the kind of honesty, humor, and heartbreak weve come to expect from him, which we need to hear now more than ever.

Ronnie Martin , author, speaker, co-host of The Reformatory

This terrific book reminds me of Colemans classic, The Master Plan of Evangelism especially his emphasis on Association or spending time with someone. Genuine discipleship is never too busy for relationship. As somewhat of an old fundie myself, I found these men to be totally honest and refreshing. We live in a busy and noisy culture that avoids vulnerable knowing. However, its never too late to become an idiot, have fun, and be real. As one who mentors professionally, I was frequently encouraged to make time for becoming and developing personally unsafe relationships.

Dr. Ron Soderquist , mentor with Campus Crusade for Christ

Dallas and the Spitfir e is not your Fathers Oldsmobile. It is unlike any other book on discipleship that I have ever read. It is the true story of an ordinary Christian discipling an ordinary new Christian in the ways of an extraordinary Savior. There are no soft edges or filters on this portrait. It is Good Will Hunting meets John Owen. Sin is on display, but so also is the killing of it. The result is a window into the ways of a gracious God who has come to seek, save, and sanctify sinners. This book is at once heart-breaking and hilarious. I could hardly put it down.

Denny Burk , associate professor of Biblical Studies, Boyce College,author, Articular Infinitives in the Greek of the New Testament

In Dallas and the Spitfire , the authors collaborate to give us a dual perspective, real-world view of discipleship. Its based on consistent presence, deep relationship, committed perseverance, and speaking the truth in love. Its incarnationalthe way Jesus did it.

Craig Glass , founder/president Peregrine Ministries

The legendary truth that mentoring one actually impacts two stands at the heart of this car-fixing, shoulder-to-shoulder romp through real life. Kluck delivers a fast-paced, laugh-out-loud look at the messy aspects of discipleship. But beware the humor as the hard realties of our broken world dart in and knock you sideways. The authors own dreams and disillusionment provide a perfect backdrop for advising a younger traveler through the stages of becoming more like Jesus. This book deliverstaking you to that hallowed place where divine transfer occurs.

Don Pearson , author, YOUthwork and Iparent