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Called to Create: A Biblical Invitation to Create, Innovate, and Risk Kindle Edition
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- Is my work as a creative really as God-honoring as that of a pastor or missionary?
- What does it look like to create not to make a name for myself but to glorify God and serve others?
- How can I use my work to fulfill Jesus's command to create disciples?
- Will what I make today matter in eternity?
To answer these questions, Raynor shares compelling stories from an eclectic group of 40+ Christian entrepreneurs, including the founders of TOMS Shoes, Charity: Water, Chick-fil-A, In-N-Out Burger, Guinness, HTC, and Sevenly, as well as nontraditional entrepreneurs such as C. S. Lewis, Johann Sebastian Bach, and J. R. R. Tolkien. Raynor's "show" rather than "tell," story-driven style makes you feel as if you are sitting at the feet of some of the godliest and most successful entrepreneurs of all time.
Perfectly poised to reach today's growing creative class, this unique work restores God's position as the first entrepreneur, helping readers see the eternal value in the work they do today.
- LanguageEnglish
- PublisherBaker Books
- Publication dateNovember 7, 2017
- File size8290 KB
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Editorial Reviews
Review
Creating a purpose-driven business or a nonprofit can be one of the significant ways to live out the gospel and serve others around you. This book will inspire and challenge you to action and change.
-- "Scott Harrison, founder and CEO of Charity: Water"I'm so thankful Jordan wrote this book to challenge the church to embrace creativity and entrepreneurship as a means of glorifying God and loving others!
-- "Mark Batterson, New York Times bestselling author"From the Back Cover
We were created by an infinitely creative God to reflect his love and character to the world. One way we do that is by continuing his creative work. In this energizing book, serial entrepreneur and bestselling author Jordan Raynor helps artists, entrepreneurs, writers, and other creatives reimagine our work as service to God and others, addressing such penetrating questions as
· Is my work as a creative really as important as that of a pastor or missionary?
· What does it look like to create not to make a name for myself but to glorify God and serve others?
· How can I use my work to fulfill Jesus's command to create disciples?
· Will what I make today matter in eternity?
Includes compelling stories from an eclectic group of 40+ Christian entrepreneurs, including the founders of TOMS Shoes, Charity: Water, Chick-fil-A, In-N-Out Burger, Guinness, HTC, and Sevenly as well as nontraditional entrepreneurs such as C. S. Lewis, Johann Sebastian Bach, and J. R. R. Tolkien.
"Creating a purpose-driven business or a nonprofit can be one of the significant ways to live out the gospel and serve others around you. This book will inspire and challenge you to action and change."--Scott Harrison, founder and CEO of Charity: Water
"Creativity is the natural and supernatural byproduct of a Spirit-filled life. I'm so thankful Jordan wrote this book to challenge the church to embrace creativity and entrepreneurship as a means of glorifying God and loving others!"--Mark Batterson, New York Times bestselling author of The Circle Maker and lead pastor of National Community Church
Jordan Raynor is a serial entrepreneur and bestselling author who currently serves as the CEO of the venture-backed tech startup Threshold 360. He is also a cofounder of Citizinvestor, the world's largest crowdfunding platform for government projects. Author of Startup Stories, Jordan has twice been selected as a Google Fellow and served in the Bush White House in 2006. He lives in Tampa, Florida, with his wife and their two young daughters.
About the Author
Jim Denison is an audiobook narrator and voice actor with over thirty years experience in professional public speaking, including five years as a radio personality.
Jordan Raynor is a serial entrepreneur and bestselling author who leads a growing community of Christians following God's call to create. He currently serves as the CEO of the venture-backed tech startup Threshold 360. He is also a cofounder of Citizinvestor, the world's largest crowdfunding platform for government projects.
Product details
- ASIN : B06XC723HL
- Publisher : Baker Books (November 7, 2017)
- Publication date : November 7, 2017
- Language : English
- File size : 8290 KB
- Text-to-Speech : Enabled
- Screen Reader : Supported
- Enhanced typesetting : Enabled
- X-Ray : Enabled
- Word Wise : Enabled
- Print length : 242 pages
- Best Sellers Rank: #63,262 in Kindle Store (See Top 100 in Kindle Store)
- #5 in Christian Professional Growth
- #34 in Startups
- #54 in Christian Business & Professional Growth
- Customer Reviews:
About the author
Jordan Raynor is a leading voice of the faith and work movement. Through his bestselling books (The Sacredness of Secular Work, Redeeming Your Time, The Creator in You, etc.), keynote speeches, podcasts, and devotionals, Jordan has helped millions of Christians in every country on earth connect the gospel to their work.
In addition to his writing and speaking, Jordan serves as the Executive Chairman of Threshold 360, a venture-backed tech startup which Jordan previously ran as CEO following a string of successful ventures of his own.
Jordan has twice been selected as a Google Fellow and served in The White House under President George W. Bush. A sixth-generation Floridian, Jordan lives in Tampa with his wife and their three young daughters. The Raynors are proud members of The Church at Odessa.
Customer reviews
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Learn more how customers reviews work on AmazonCustomers say
Customers find the book inspiring and thought-provoking. They describe it as an enjoyable, engaging read that keeps their attention throughout. The writing style is well-written and praised as creative. Readers appreciate the author's emphasis on creativity and being like the Creator. They find the book helpful in identifying one's purpose and providing useful products or services to help others. The practical steps provided are also appreciated.
AI-generated from the text of customer reviews
Customers find the book inspiring and helpful for their journey to be a blessing. They say it validates their purpose in God, gives new insights, and makes them think about their values. The powerful statements in the book make them underline what they want.
"...Raynor presents the Biblical case for finding and fulfilling your purpose in the marketplace. It's an exceptional read!" Read more
"...Jordan really captures that idea and shows how Scripture bears out that same message. Great read, and a great introduction for me to his writing...." Read more
"...Everything he says is backed up by Scripture. This book will completely change the way you view the work you do!!" Read more
"...If you are a Christian and do feel a spiritual connection with God and faith--this book has the potential to drastically improve your outlook on..." Read more
Customers find the book engaging and enjoyable. They say the choppy sections provide good nuggets and keep their attention throughout.
"...It's an exceptional read!" Read more
"...Great read, and a great introduction for me to his writing. He’s a good follow, too (LinkedIn, etc.)." Read more
"...This is among my top favorite books I've read, and I will definitely read it again...." Read more
"Whether you are a Christian or not, Called to Create is an excellent book in which you will find positive, enriching motivation for your work and..." Read more
Customers find the book motivating and engaging. They say it reassures their convictions and answers questions. They also mention it's an interesting topic that draws people into the Kingdom.
"...that Jordan talked about and interviewed were so moving and encouraging. But if I had to choose, the example of In-n-out was the best...." Read more
"...or not, Called to Create is an excellent book in which you will find positive, enriching motivation for your work and your life’s calling...." Read more
"...This is the quickest book I've read because it kept me engaged, so much so that I wanted to keep reading...." Read more
"...help you in your journey to be a blessing to others and find peace in what you are doing. A must read book!" Read more
Customers find the book well-written and easy to read. They say it's a great introduction to the author's writing style. The book is concise and full of tips, suggestions, and encouragement for writers and entrepreneurs of all ages.
"...Great read, and a great introduction for me to his writing. He’s a good follow, too (LinkedIn, etc.)." Read more
"...Called to Create is organized very well and expertly written...." Read more
"Easy read loaded with biblical references and Christian entrepreneurial stories. Lots of opportunities for reflection throughout all sections...." Read more
"...Jordan Raynor is a great author and I have plans to purchase his other titles." Read more
Customers find the book helpful for fostering creativity. It explains why we create and for whom we create. Readers appreciate the parallels between creating and being like the Creator. The book provides practical challenges to create for God and His glory using gifts and talents. They find the insights inspiring and challenging.
"...Feeling a call to a higher purpose is soothing, inspiring, and respectable...and it can make us all better at what we do...." Read more
"...From a logistical perspective, the overall approach of the book is solid. The thought progression is cogent and he develops his argument thoroughly...." Read more
"...Jordan highlight this especially well by looking at the role community played in the lives and work of two of the greatest writers in history, CS..." Read more
"...Creativity is for everyone!!!" Read more
Customers find the book helpful and insightful. It helps them identify their purpose and identify themselves as a co-creator. They say it helps set new foundational principles in how they do business. The book provides useful products and services to help others. It is easy to read and relevant, with lots to chew on. Readers appreciate the motivation and results worth considering.
"...if your worldview or faith walk is different, the motivation and results are worth considering. Well done Jordan Raynor." Read more
"...that want to make business for the glory of God, serve to the people with an eternal purpose." Read more
"...It was instrumental in understanding and fulfilling my purpose in God. I won't let it go for anyone!..." Read more
"...practical wisdom about work, including the purpose of work, how we should view work, how we should use our work to serve and love others, and how we..." Read more
Customers find the book easy to use and providing practical steps to glorify God. They appreciate the simple yet effective explanations of basic principles and how to integrate faith and honor into work. The chapters are concise and push the concepts far enough for readers to understand them.
"...In every chapter, there are so many practical steps you can take to glorify God, love others, and show His Character...." Read more
"...Called to Create is organized very well and expertly written...." Read more
"This is eye-opening and an amazing guide on how to grow my business aligned to biblical values." Read more
"...The chapters are succinct and push the concepts far enough to make the reader see the picture he is conveying and begin to think further about it on..." Read more
Customers find the stories compelling and heartfelt. They say the book provides biblical insights, personal experiences, and journeys of others. Readers also mention it's a great guide to real living in the world with Biblical insight, testimonies, arguments, and encouragement.
"...Through scripture, personal experience, and stories from other entrepreneurs and business owners both big and small...Mr. Raynor shows us how we can..." Read more
"...The stories within this book are inspiring and it was a great read and I am so happy to have stumbled upon Jordan Raynor...." Read more
"...was the one-year anniversary of the release of this great guide to real living in the world, I had to give my recommendation to everyone to read..." Read more
"...I Love the weaving of scriptures and the journeys of others in this well written book...." Read more
Reviews with images
Very Eye-opening & Confirming
Top reviews from the United States
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- Reviewed in the United States on November 11, 2024Jordan Raynor presents the Biblical case for finding and fulfilling your purpose in the marketplace. It's an exceptional read!
- Reviewed in the United States on July 8, 2024Growing up as a minister’s kid, there was a time where I saw professional ministry as a more noble pursuit. Having spent my career in IT has reminded me that God is working everywhere and professional ministers can only reach so far into society. Others must use their work, whatever it is, to also bring Him glory. Jordan really captures that idea and shows how Scripture bears out that same message. Great read, and a great introduction for me to his writing. He’s a good follow, too (LinkedIn, etc.).
- Reviewed in the United States on April 12, 2018I wish I could give more than five stars! It was hard not to highlight every sentence I read! I always knew in the back of my mind that God has called us to be creative and that everything should be done for Him, but I was confused as to how to do that. "I love planning events, so do I have to plan only church events?" "I love to write, so this means I should be writing about God specifically in all of my blog posts". These were all thoughts that ran through my head as I tried to figure out what exactly God wants me to do. This book was an answer to those worries. In every chapter, there are so many practical steps you can take to glorify God, love others, and show His Character. Each entrepreneur Jordan wrote about - from Goldman Sachs executives to bestselling authors to restaurant managers - shared about how their ventures and products were used to glorify God and serve others. It's so encouraging and eye-opening. I can't even pick my favorite example because all of the companies and entrepreneurs/creatives that Jordan talked about and interviewed were so moving and encouraging. But if I had to choose, the example of In-n-out was the best. It inspired me to focus on revealing God's character through my love for people and hard work, instead of simply posting Bible verses on my social media.
This is among my top favorite books I've read, and I will definitely read it again. It doesn't matter what journey you are on, whether you're a college student with an undeclared major, a stay-at-home mom with a creative passion, or a CEO of a huge company, you NEED to read this book (preferably more than once because it's that good). Jordan truly has Christ at the center of his life and it shows in this book. Everything he says is backed up by Scripture. This book will completely change the way you view the work you do!!
- Reviewed in the United States on April 26, 2019Whether you are a Christian or not, Called to Create is an excellent book in which you will find positive, enriching motivation for your work and your life’s calling. If you are a Christian and do feel a spiritual connection with God and faith--this book has the potential to drastically improve your outlook on work and what you’re meant to do in life. Through scripture, personal experience, and stories from other entrepreneurs and business owners both big and small...Mr. Raynor shows us how we can model ourselves after God whom the author cleverly considers to be the first entrepreneur, or original creator of product and work. Raynor also gives us examples from the life of Jesus and the lives of the apostles to show how what we do as workers, producers, and creators can have a meaningful impact on those around us. IF, that is, we keep our focus on the correct things, keep our thoughts righteous, and point our minds, souls, and hearts in the right direction.
Called to Create is organized very well and expertly written. The author has divided his information into sections: Calling, Creating, Challenges, and Charge. Throughout his writing, he revisits important lessons and phrases from previous sections, continually reinforcing his points, and showing how all we’ve learned through his book is connected and guided by a firm faith in God.
I highly recommend this book for anyone who works, volunteers, creates art, basically to anyone who does any kind of activity in this world. Feeling a call to a higher purpose is soothing, inspiring, and respectable...and it can make us all better at what we do. Trust in God and give this book a try, I think its words will open new opportunities for you and make you see your own actions much differently.
Happy Reading!
- Reviewed in the United States on November 2, 2024This is eye-opening and an amazing guide on how to grow my business aligned to biblical values.
- Reviewed in the United States on August 22, 2024Easy read loaded with biblical references and Christian entrepreneurial stories. Lots of opportunities for reflection throughout all sections. Definitely recommended for new or experienced Christian creators.
Top reviews from other countries
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Thiago Santa MarthaReviewed in Brazil on September 28, 2023
5.0 out of 5 stars Que livro!!
A princípio pensei que o livro falaria sobre o processo criativo, mas fiquei surpreso e muito feliz com o desenvolvimento da leitura, pois mostra um perspectiva eterna sobre o trabalho que engrandece o nome de Deus.
Li esse livro em 9 meses e foi meu primeiro livro lido em inglês. Um dia antes de terminar a leitura, tive o prazer de anunciar que inicio uma jornada como empreendedor. Sou feliz por ter germinado em mim essa semente da criatividade que glorifica a Deus e ama a outros.
Foi uma ótima leitura que recomendo para todos à minha volta desde os primeiros capítulos.
- GabiReviewed in the Netherlands on September 19, 2024
5.0 out of 5 stars Thank you, Jordan
For sure your book will be in the library of heaven. Thank you for giving inspiration in a world where work and enterprises lost its real calling.
- Amazon CustomerReviewed in the United Kingdom on January 14, 2024
5.0 out of 5 stars excellent book for Christian entrepreneurs and artisans
This is a great book for putting into perspective why we create and who we create for. All glory should go to our Heavenly Father because with his blessing it is all pointless.
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MawieReviewed in France on April 23, 2023
5.0 out of 5 stars Un livre édifiant
Ce livre m'a été recommandé.
Permet de définir le rôle d'entrepreneur et les enjeux derrières
Je le recommande à mon tour
- Amazon KundeReviewed in Germany on January 8, 2021
5.0 out of 5 stars Amazing book for all the creative and even non creative people
How I enjoyed reading thins book! I felt like I was discovering the will of God for my life and the reason why He gave me so much creative skills as I went through each and every chapter. Thanks so much Jordan Raynor for leading so much people closer to what God want for their lifes and allowing us to think differently about how to view creativity inside of church. I am so grateful I found this book!