Jack Alexander - The God Impulse: The Power of Mercy in an Unmerciful World

Jack draws a straight line from the lack of teaching and under representation of biblical mercy in the church to the lack of love so many feel from the church. From the familiar Samaritan parable, he unpacks Gods pattern of love of see, go, do, and endure and gives a practical and helpful diagnostic. He reminds us that true healing, justice, and reconciliation begin with the impulse of mercy toward our neighbors and enemies. I heartily recommend this book.

Dr. Timothy Keller , pastor emeritus and founder, Redeemer Presbyterian Church; chairman, Redeemer City to City

Jack reminds us that while God is often portrayed in culture as a harsh and distant master, he is in fact a loving father who longs to grow closer to usand for us to show mercy to one another.

Andy Stanley , author, communicator, and founder of North Point Ministries

This book is worth reading! Its a revolutionary lens on life, the character of God, spiritual formation, and the church that will provoke the kind of deep reflection and evaluation that always precedes significant life change. It is by far the most insightful study and application of mercy Ive ever read. I highly recommend it.

Chip Ingram , teaching pastor, Living on the Edge; author of The Real God: How He Longs for You to See Him

The God Impulse takes us on a journey through the rich, wonderful, transforming power of mercy. Throughout the book, Jack reminds us that mercy is more than a sentiment or feeling. It is tied to truth and is a picture of the heart and nature of our great God. I love the way Jack describes the relationship between mercy and truth: mercy and truth are the core of religious ligaments that reconnect us. As you read this wonderful book you will find yourself celebrating the beauty and power of mercy.

Dr. Crawford W. Loritts Jr. , author, speaker, radio host, and senior pastor of Fellowship Bible Church

In The God impulse, Jack Alexander reminds us, and indeed challenges us, to understand the vital importance of mercy. Mercy moved God to save usand mercy sustains us. Anyone who claims to be a follower of Jesus is compelled to be an imitator of Jesus. I have been blessed and challenged by The God Impulse , and I know you will too.

Michael Youssef , president of Leading The Way Ministries

The God Impulse is both a refreshing breeze and a slap in the face. Jack Alexander makes the case that mercy is one of the defining characteristics of God and as such should be the same for those who follow him. Honestly, I was aggravated and convicted at times, but more so, I was encouraged and motivated to remember who Jesus calls us to be as Christians. I love a book that can convict and inspire me simultaneously. This one did. Oh, and the way the author unpacks the story of the Good Samaritan is enough to warrant a second reading.

Clayton King , president, Crossroads Summer Camps and Missions; teaching pastor, Newspring Church; author of Stronger and Overcome

A rare and exceptional book on mercyby a rare and exceptional man of mercy. Do yourself and others a favor by reading this book. And when you do, get ready to fall in love with the beauty of mercy.

Randy Pope , pastor, Perimeter Church

Powerful. Deep. The God Impulse is the best book I have ever read on the mercy attribute of God and its implications for living a godly life. Thank you, Jack, for your insights and for the incredible work you have invested. A true kingdom treasure.

Robert Lupton , founder and president, FCS Urban Ministries; author of Toxic Charity and Charity Detox

Jesus describes compassion and mercy in the language of the visceral. He intended for mercy and compassion to be something that we feel, not a subject we discuss. Sadly, too many Christians never see the circumstances that trap peoples souls long enough to feel anything. We choose to ignore it or finance the heroic work done by others when Jesus actually calls us to be the people of mercy ourselves. In The God Impulse , Jack Alexander causes us to feel again, to be both inspired and encouraged to action.

Dr. Charlie Dates , senior pastor, Progressive Baptist Church; affiliate professor, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School

There are so many things we want for ourselves that we do not offer to others. We want love, but we dont return it. We want money, but we dont give it. Deep down in our souls, knowing our sinful nature, we want mercy more than anything else. Yet we struggle to offer mercy to others. But as The God Impulse makes imminently clear, Gods merciful acts toward us convey his compelling request for us to show mercy to others. If only we would answer his call.

Cheryl Bachelder , author of Dare to Serv ; former CEO, Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, Inc.

The idea of this book might be the most attractive shape of my faith I could ever aspire to live. If more of us could live out the type of mercy discussed in The God Impulse , it would change the view of the Christian faith everywhere.

Jeff Shinabarger , founder, Plywood People; author of More or Less

Mercy is a word we can use today, particularly in the context of the current climate of our country and world. Jack introduces or reintroduces us to the concept of mercy. Not just the knowledge of it but the radical practice of it. It is important to be reminded of mercys role in saving us and in how we share it with our neighbor. Hopefully, this work will stir many to go from recipients of mercy to distributors of mercy, especially among those who might not look like us.